The Theme of Courage in the Face of Fear

The children learn to be brave despite fear, especially Peter and Edmund, and even the girls in their own ways.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Peter's First Fight

The Unwilling Hero The Fear Peter feels sick and afraid when he faces the wolf. He does not feel brave. The Action He acts anyway. He kills the wolf. Bravery is doing what is right despite fear. The Lesson Peter learns that courage is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it.

Lucy's Offer to Fight

The Brave Heart The Request Lucy asks to be in the battle. She says she could be brave enough. The Refusal Father Christmas says battles are ugly when women fight. He gives her a dagger for self-defense. The Different Kind of Courage Lucy shows courage in healing and loyalty. Courage takes many forms.

Edmund's Charge

The Redemptive Courage The Risk Edmund charges through three ogres to break the wand. He is wounded badly. The Motivation He is no longer selfish. He fights for his friends. His courage is a result of his redemption. The Victory His action turns the tide. Courage can change the outcome of a battle.

At the Stone Table

When receiving gifts from Father Christmas

During the final battle