1. Despite Edmund's lies, cruelty, and willingness to assist evil, he ultimately becomes a king. Why is he not punished for his wrongdoings?

2. Although the old professor has never visited Narnia and seems too old to believe in fairy tales, he takes Lucy's initial story seriously and later believes the children's accounts of their adventures in Narnia. What makes him believe these stories?

3. In chapter 7, the children have different reactions when they first hear Aslan's name: "Edmund felt a sensation of mysterious horror. Peter felt brave and adventurous. Susan felt as if some delicious smell or delightful strain of music had just floated by her. And Lucy got the feeling you have when you wake up in the morning and realize that it is the beginning of summer." What do these reactions tell us about the children?

4. If Edmund "deep down inside him . . . really knew that the White Witch was bad and cruel," why does he continue to serve her?

5. What significance does the White Witch's ability to "make things look like they weren't" hold?

6. Aslan makes a significant sacrifice for Edmund and for Narnia, but Edmund is unaware of this sacrifice. Lucy believes he should be informed, while Susan thinks he should not. Whose perspective do you agree with and why?

7. Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy mature into wise, good, and happy adults in Narnia. Why should they return to the wardrobe and revert to childhood? Is this a satisfactory ending?

8. In writing The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Lewis could have had any of the children discover Narnia first, or all four could have discovered it together. Why do you think he chose Lucy to be the first to enter Narnia?

9. Aslan has the power to defeat evil and bring great joy to Narnia. Why doesn't he use this power constantly?

10. Critics have suggested that Edmund's vulnerability to temptation, deception, and the allure of power makes him a symbol for humanity. Do you think he accurately represents humankind? Why or why not?