Top Ten Favorite Scenes – BOOKS ONLY
Posted: Oct 17, 2009 9:53 am
Here’s another challenge. What are your top ten favorite scenes from the Narnia Books? BOOKS ONLY - no scene unique to the movies (i.e. no melting river or night raid ) It is no fair listing a whole book as your favorite scene. A scene should be no longer than a chapter. I will allow that you can list fourteen favorites if you must (that allows for two per book but you do not have to choose two per book to do fourteen). Also a scene should consist of more than just a couple lines of dialogue (I intend to start a thread for favorite quotes in the near future so mini dialogues can go there). Explain at least your favorite scene but explanations are always nice. You might also want to compare it to your list of favorite books. Here’s my list:
- Aslan’s Death and Resurrections – Although this includes parts of two chapters it is not longer than a chapter total so it is allowed under my rules. (I wouldn’t want anyone to think that I was breaking my own rules. ) I’m considering it from the part where the actual killing takes place to where Aslan roars. This is my favorite because it is what first made the Chronicles special to me because of its connection to Jesus’ death and resurrection.
- The chapter “Sorcery and Sudden Vengeance” This chapter has everything: conflict, loyalty, treachery, faith, comedy, humility. In case you can’t figure it out from my description, this is the chapter in PC where Nikabrik brings the Wer-wolf and hag to council. Trufflehunter is great in this chapter as is Caspian for refusing to have anything to do with the white witches side (a point the film makers missed ). There is a little bit of humor when Edmund sits on Trumpkin. Also, Peter shows his worth as High King by telling Caspian that he is not coming to take his place (humility). I also like it that Trufflehunter doesn’t take credit for his faith.
- The scene in HHB where Aslan comes to Shasta as cat and saves him from the beasts as a lion. I like that Aslan comforted Shasta when he needed it and also offered protection. There is something very comforting about having a cat at one’s back (or more often in my case in the crook of my knees as I am lying on my side). I think it is sort of funny when Aslan scratches him for throwing rocks at a stray.
- The scene in PC where all the creatures gather at the Dancing Lawn through to where they decide to go to Aslan’s How. It is so funny, and it has Pattertwig in it. I love all the creatures have ideas of what they should do based on their personalities (eating first, eating and talking, raiding the castle, throwing up entrenchments, etc.) I also like Caspian's devotion to Cornelius and the interaction between Cornelius and Reepicheep.
- The scene where Caspian overthrows Gumpus. I like the way Caspian deals with the “guards” and Gumpus. Gumpus is funny because of his bureaucratic ways.
- The scene in SC where Caspian, Eustace, and Jill punish the bullies and the head has hysterics. I like that the bullies get punished and think it is funny that they cry, “Murder! Fascists! Lions! It isn’t fair” I almost feel evil for liking it. Additionally, Lewis did a great job describing what happened when police came and afterward. It shows his opinions on the state of schools and government. Disclaimer: I am my no means suggesting that people who are bullied should find the nearest sword or riding crop and attack the offenders. I think things like bullies should be settled nonviolently. However, the way Lewis had it solved works well in the context of the time frame in which the book is set and Aslan wouldn’t have had them do it if it wasn’t right.
- The scene where the animals and creatures are lining up to join the battle and the other lion is pretending to be busy but really is reminding the other creatures that Aslan said “us lions.” I find it funny especially the part where Aslan loads him up with other creatures and it is a sheep dog that helps him most.
- The scene in the Tisroc’s place where Rabadash, the Tisroc, and the Vizier are discussing what should be done. There are so many undercurrents and a lot of fakeness about it that makes it enjoyable.
- The scene in SC where the Queen of the Underworld is trying to enchant Rilian, the children, and Puddleglum. Although they all have moments where they are partially or almost completely under, they fight bravely. Puddleglum really shines when he puts out the fire and tells the witch off.
- The scene in PC when Caspian wakes up in the cave and the others discuss what to do with him. It shows Caspian's respect and reverence for Old Narnia as well as the characters of Trufflehunter, Nikabrik, and Trufflehunter.