The Inner Conflict of Edmund

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Examines Edmund's internal struggle between his selfish desires and his conscience, leading to repentance.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Edmund's TemptationEdmund's Temptation
The Lure of Power The Enchanted Turkish Delight The Witch's food is addictive. Edmund wants more and more. His desire for sweets and power overcomes his reason. The Promise of Kingship He is promised a crown. He imagines being greater than Peter. This feeds his resentment. The Suppression of Conscience He knows the Witch is dangerous, but he rationalizes. He convinces himself that the stories about her are lies. His inner conflict is already present, but he ignores it.
Edmund's RemorseEdmund's Remorse
The Realization of Error The Cold and Hunger Edmund is treated cruelly. He regrets his choice. He wishes he were with the others. The Sight of the Stone Squirrels When the Witch turns a happy party of animals to stone, Edmund feels pity for the first time. He begs her to stop, but she slaps him. The Growing Guilt Edmund begins to hate himself. He sees the Witch's true nature. He is trapped by his own actions.
Edmund's RepentanceEdmund's Repentance
The Apology The Conversation with Aslan Aslan talks privately with Edmund. The content is unknown, but Edmund is changed. He shakes hands with his siblings and says "I'm sorry." The Acceptance The others forgive him. He is no longer the outsider. His inner conflict is resolved through grace. The Heroic Act In the battle, he risks his life to break the wand. This is the outward proof of his inner change.
During his first meeting with the Witch
During the journey to the Witch's castle
After rescue, at the camp