A Homeric Narnia: Xenia, Oikos, and Nostos in the Chronicles of Narnia

There are numerous allegories present in Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia, both Christian and mythological. References to Homeric epic, however, have received less study. This thesis aims to examine the parallels between Homer’s Odyssey and the Chronicles of Narnia, specifically through the themes of xenia, oikos, and nostos. An understanding of the location and function of these themes within the Chronicles of Narnia will lead to a deeper interpretation of the structure, narrative, and characters of the seven books. Chapter one will explore Homeric xenia and its placement within The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Chapter two will then discuss Homeric oikos and nostos throughout LWW, The Horse and His Boy, and The Last Battle. Through these two chapters, I hope to encourage a greater appreciation for the close relationship between ancient epic and Lewis’ modern fiction.