Book Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – The Chronicles of Narnia – Book 2
- Jason Montero
- Aug 28
- 15 min read
Updated: Aug 29
Book summary by chapter of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Includes spoilers from the first wardrobe crossing to the end of the book. Narnia thaws from its cursed winter through a death that sings redemption, as Aslan offers his life for a traitor and ancient magic cracks like broken stone; from that fracture, triumph rises, crowning innocence and exiling darkness.
Introduction – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, written by C. S. Lewis, is the second book in the internal chronology of The Chronicles of Narnia and remains one of the most iconic gateways into its magical universe. This chapter-by-chapter book summary of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe takes you through every key moment of discovery in Narnia, from a mysterious wardrobe to a battle that changes everything. If you're reading this as part of the full experience, don’t miss the complete reading order of The Chronicles of Narnia ➤.
This story blends mythical conflict with personal transformation, balancing a land trapped in eternal winter under the White Witch with the spiritual awakening that comes with Aslan’s return. Every chapter —from Lucy’s first step into the snowy woods to the sacrifice on the Stone Table— holds emotional weight and symbolic depth, especially in Edmund’s journey from betrayal to redemption.
Curious what lies behind every door in Narnia? This breakdown reveals the layers of meaning hidden in each chapter of this unforgettable tale.
Want to see all the summaries from this series?
Click here to access the Complete Reading Order. 👇
Chapter Navigation
Chapter 1 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Lucy Explores the Wardrobe
During World War II, siblings Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are sent to a large countryside house where an eccentric professor lives. The day after their arrival, heavy rain keeps them from exploring outside, so they decide to investigate the mysterious house instead. They wander through rooms full of strange and ancient objects until they reach an almost empty one with a large wardrobe. While the other children move on, Lucy stays behind, intrigued by the wardrobe, and decides to step inside. As she moves through the coats, she discovers that instead of a wooden back, there are branches, snow, and a forest lit by a lamppost. Confused but fascinated, she walks to the lamppost and meets a creature that is half goat, half human: a Faun. Surprised by her presence, he drops his packages. Thus begins Lucy’s extraordinary adventure in the magical world of Narnia.
Chapter 2 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – What Lucy Found There
The Faun, who introduces himself as Mr. Tumnus, invites Lucy for tea in his cave. Despite her initial doubts, Lucy agrees. Inside, she finds a cozy, warm place filled with strange books and a charming atmosphere. As they enjoy toast, sardines, and cake, Tumnus tells her stories about the forest, magical creatures, and joyful times before the eternal winter. He then plays a magical flute that sends Lucy into a deep trance. When she awakens and wants to return home, the Faun, visibly distressed, bursts into tears. He confesses he was sent by the White Witch, the ruler of Narnia, to capture humans. He was supposed to hand Lucy over but has changed his mind after meeting her. He reveals the danger he faces if the Witch finds out but chooses to risk it and walks her back to the lamppost. Lucy runs to the wardrobe and returns safely to the real world.
Chapter 3 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Edmund and the Wardrobe
Lucy returns, excited, to tell her siblings, but none of them believe her story about Narnia. Edmund, sarcastic and mocking, constantly torments her over her supposed “fantasy.” Days later, when it rains again, they play hide and seek. Lucy uses the chance to return to the wardrobe, secretly followed by Edmund, who also enters and arrives in Narnia. While looking for Lucy, Edmund encounters a sleigh pulled by reindeer, driven by a dwarf and a majestic lady: the White Witch, who claims to be queen. Learning he is human, she questions him and offers him enchanted Turkish Delight, which becomes instantly addictive. Appealing to his vanity, she promises to make him a prince if he brings his siblings to her. Before leaving, she tells him how to find her castle. Edmund later reunites with Lucy, who is thrilled to see him. But still under the Witch’s spell, he begins hiding his true intentions.
Chapter 4 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Turkish Delight
Edmund is questioned by the White Witch, who, after discovering he is a Son of Adam, pretends to be kind and offers him hot chocolate and Turkish Delight. Under her spell, Edmund falls for her promises: if he returns with his siblings, he can live in her castle, become a prince, and enjoy endless sweets. The Witch shows him the way to her home between two hills and orders him to return with all four children, telling no one about her. Edmund agrees, even more eager for more sweets and power. Upon reuniting with Lucy, he pretends to be happy and supportive. She, unaware of his deceit, tells him about Mr. Tumnus and the evil witch, making Edmund uncomfortable about his alliance. Still, he says nothing. They return through the wardrobe together, and Lucy excitedly shares her experience, unaware that Edmund has already betrayed her trust.
Chapter 5 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Back on This Side of the Door
Lucy and Edmund return from Narnia, and she joyfully tells everything to her siblings. However, Edmund, hiding his motives, lies and says it was all made up. Heartbroken by his betrayal, Lucy runs off in tears. Peter and Susan grow concerned, thinking something is wrong with her, and consult the professor. To their surprise, he suggests Lucy is probably telling the truth. He reminds them that she has always been honest and is not crazy, concluding that logically, what she says could be real. The conversation shifts the older siblings’ perspective, though Edmund remains silent. Soon after, when tourists visit the house, the children try to avoid them by running through the halls. Without thinking, they end up hiding inside the wardrobe. This time, they are not fleeing from magic, but being pulled into it once more. In that moment, unintentionally, all of them cross back into Narnia, where a new and true adventure awaits.
Chapter 6 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – In the Forest
The four siblings cross through the wardrobe and discover that Lucy was telling the truth. Surrounded by snow and trees, Peter apologizes to his sister for not believing her. To keep warm, they decide to wear the heavy coats hanging inside the wardrobe. They walk through the white forest, and Lucy leads them to Mr. Tumnus’s cave. However, upon arrival, they find the house destroyed, the door ripped off, and everything in ruins. A sign nailed to the carpet declares that the faun has been arrested for treason against Queen Jadis, accused of helping humans. The children are shocked, and Lucy feels guilty about what happened. Although Susan suggests going back, they all understand they must do something to help. Lucy mentions that Tumnus protected her from the White Witch, which is why he was captured. While they hesitate over what to do, a robin appears among the trees and seems to guide them. They begin to follow it, unaware of where it will lead.
Chapter 7 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – A Day with the Beavers
The robin disappears, but in its place a beaver appears and signals for silence. Though hesitant, they cautiously follow him to a hidden area among tight trees. The beaver shows them the handkerchief Lucy had given Tumnus as proof. He explains that the faun managed to warn him before being arrested and that now they must meet someone important. Whispering with great mystery, he mentions Aslan, and the name provokes different emotions in the children: courage, fear, beauty, hope. Edmund becomes uneasy and distrustful. The beaver tells them they must go with him because Aslan has returned. He leads them through a wooded path to a frozen dam, where he lives with Mrs. Beaver. There, the children are warmly welcomed and helped to prepare a hearty meal. The warmth of the house and the feast comfort them after the cold. But while they eat and rest, Edmund becomes obsessed with the idea of power and secretly plans to escape.
Chapter 8 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – What Happened After Dinner
As they enjoy the warmth and food, Lucy asks about Tumnus. Mr. Beaver explains that he was taken north, to the Witch’s house, and has likely been turned into a statue, like others before him. Peter insists they must do something to save him, but the beaver tells them that the only hope lies with Aslan. Upon hearing his name, everyone feels a powerful emotion, even Edmund, who tries to hide his fear. The beaver reveals that Aslan is in Narnia and plans to meet them at the Stone Table. He also tells them of a prophecy about two Sons of Adam and two Daughters of Eve who will sit on the thrones of Cair Paravel, bringing an end to the Witch’s reign. The children are shaken to learn they are part of this destiny. In the middle of this revelation, they discover that Edmund has disappeared. Alarmed, they search for him in the snow, but the beaver assures them it is too late: he has gone to the Witch.
Chapter 9 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – In the Witch’s House
Edmund leaves the Beavers’ house stealthily, convinced the White Witch will treat him like a king. He does not enjoy the food or the warmth, obsessed with Turkish Delight and the punishments he imagines for Peter. Snow, cold, and darkness make the journey to the castle difficult, but he presses on. When he arrives, the moon guides him through a rocky valley to the great icy castle. Inside, he finds statues of creatures turned to stone. Believing one to be Aslan turned into a stone lion, he mocks it by drawing on its face. The courtyard is filled with frozen figures, and the atmosphere overwhelms him. As he climbs the stairs, he is confronted by a living wolf: Fenris Ulf, head of the secret police. Edmund tells him that his siblings are at the Beavers’ house. The Witch receives him coldly, and upon learning of Aslan’s return, she becomes enraged. She immediately orders her sleigh prepared and sets off for the dam without bells.
Chapter 10 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – The Spell Begins to Break
Mr. Beaver orders them to flee, but Mrs. Beaver insists on preparing provisions before leaving. Though Susan urges them to leave at once, Mrs. Beaver assures them they won’t arrive before the Witch, but they can stay hidden. They pack bags with bread, tea, ham, and sugar. Once outside, they cross the dam and descend along the riverbank. Lucy walks exhausted and half-asleep when Mr. Beaver leads them to a hidden cave where they will spend the night. The shelter is uncomfortable and cold, but it’s safe. At dawn, the sound of bells awakens them. Fearful, Lucy believes the Witch has caught up, but Mr. Beaver confirms it is another visitor. They all climb to a clearing and find a large sleigh driven by Father Christmas. With solemnity, he gives them gifts: to Peter, a sword and shield; to Susan, a bow and a magical horn; to Lucy, a dagger and a healing potion. He wishes them a Merry Christmas and departs. The group returns to the cave for breakfast before continuing their journey.
Chapter 11 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Aslan Is Near
Edmund suffers through the journey with the White Witch, who, after offering him only a hard crust of bread and water, continues northward. The snow begins to melt and the sleigh becomes useless, forcing them to proceed on foot through the forest as winter slowly gives way to spring. The ice breaks, trees regain their color, and birds sing songs that herald the change. Exhausted, Edmund realizes the Witch’s magic is weakening. Along the way, they encounter creatures celebrating with food and joy; enraged to learn that Father Christmas has visited them, the Witch turns them to stone. Edmund begins to feel compassion for others and becomes aware of the horror surrounding him. As the sleigh gets stuck due to the thaw, the Witch orders the group to walk, cruelly whipping the reindeer and forcing Edmund to march with his hands tied.
Chapter 12 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Peter’s First Battle
While Edmund trudges on in misery, Peter, Susan, Lucy, and the Beavers arrive at the clearing where the ancient Stone Table stands. There, they meet Aslan, a majestic lion who inspires both awe and calm. All feel a mix of fear and relief in his presence. Peter is introduced as the eldest and destined to rule at Cair Paravel. Soon, peace is broken when Susan blows her horn, signaling danger. Peter rushes to find her hanging from a tree, threatened by a wolf. In an act of bravery, Peter fights the creature, defeats it, and receives the title of “Fenris-Bane” from Aslan. Without delay, Aslan sends centaurs and eagles after the other wolf, hoping to find the White Witch and rescue Edmund before it’s too late. War looms, and Peter begins to embrace his role as Narnia’s future leader.
Chapter 13 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Deep Magic from the Dawn of Time
Edmund, exhausted and imprisoned, overhears the Witch and the Dwarf planning to sacrifice him. Before they can carry it out, a group of creatures sent by Aslan bursts in and rescues him. Though weak, Edmund is safe and returns to his siblings. At dawn, Aslan receives him and speaks with him privately—words no one hears but that deeply change the boy. Soon after, a messenger from the Witch arrives, requesting an audience to negotiate. Aslan agrees, demanding she leave her magic wand behind. The Witch appears, proud and haughty, and claims Edmund’s life by the Deep Magic that states every traitor belongs to her. After a private conversation, Aslan announces that her claim has been withdrawn. Though everyone feels relieved, the Witch’s triumphant expression and Aslan’s sadness leave a sense of unease in the air. The lion’s fate remains uncertain.
Chapter 14 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – The Witch’s Triumph
After the mysterious agreement with the Witch, Aslan leads the camp toward the Fords of Beruna. Though all want to ask what he did to save Edmund, the stern look on his face keeps them silent. That night, Lucy and Susan, worried by Aslan’s sorrow, see him walking away and decide to follow him. The lion allows them to accompany him to a point, where he gently says goodbye. Hidden, the girls watch as Aslan reaches the Stone Table, where a crowd of hideous creatures awaits. In a heartbreaking act, Aslan offers no resistance as he is humiliated, shaved, and bound. Finally, the Witch stabs him with a magical knife, sacrificing him in Edmund’s place. The girls, horrified, cover their eyes and weep. The Witch’s laughter and her followers’ cheers mark her apparent victory. Darkness falls over the hill as all of Narnia seems to lose hope. Aslan has fallen without a fight.
Chapter 15 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – Deeper Magic from Before the Dawn of Time
After the Witch and her forces depart, Lucy and Susan weep beside Aslan’s body, kissing his lifeless face and removing his muzzle. Around them, little mice appear and gnaw at the ropes that bound him, as if they can still help. The night passes until dawn colors the sky, and suddenly a loud crack startles them. The Stone Table has split in two, and Aslan’s body is gone. Then, he appears before them, alive and radiant, his mane restored. Aslan explains that a magic older than the Witch’s decrees that if an innocent dies in a traitor’s place, death itself is undone. The girls embrace him with laughter and joy. Aslan then carries them swiftly on his back to the Witch’s castle. He leaps over the wall and enters the courtyard filled with petrified statues, where he will begin his plan to free Narnia from the spell.
Chapter 16 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – What Happened About the Statues
At the Witch’s castle, Aslan begins freeing the petrified creatures by breathing on them. First, he revives a stone lion, who slowly comes back to life, followed by a dwarf, a rabbit, and many others. Soon, the once-gloomy courtyard transforms into a lively and colorful scene, with beings of all sizes and shapes dancing around Aslan. Even a giant is awakened and, with a kind smile, offers his help to break down the castle wall, allowing everyone to leave. Lucy finds Tumnus restored to his faun form, and they joyfully reunite. Aslan organizes his new army, placing smaller creatures atop larger ones, and leads the march to join the battle. Following the signs of war, they arrive just in time to see Peter fighting the Witch. With a powerful roar, Aslan charges at her and defeats her, bringing victory to his army.
Chapter 17 Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – The Hunting of the White Stag
The battle ends when Aslan kills the Witch, and her troops flee or surrender. Peter praises Edmund’s bravery for breaking the Witch’s wand, a crucial move in their victory, though he was wounded in the process. Lucy heals him with her magical tonic. Aslan knights him, and though Lucy and Susan debate whether Edmund should know about Aslan’s sacrifice, they decide it's best left unsaid. The children are crowned in Cair Paravel with great ceremony and joy. They rule for years as wise, just, and beloved Kings and Queens. One day, while hunting the mythical White Stag, they enter the forest and come upon the lamppost, recalling their beginnings in Narnia. Following the stag, they pass through the wardrobe and return to the real world, at the exact moment they had left. The Professor believes them and tells them they won’t return to Narnia the same way, but when they least expect it. Thus, for now, their adventures in Narnia come to an end.
Conclusion – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe leaves a lasting impression by transforming ordinary spaces —an old wardrobe, a countryside manor— into the entrance to a world of honor, sacrifice, and transformation. Aslan’s quiet strength, Edmund’s redemption, and the siblings’ shared destiny build toward an unforgettable ending, as symbolic as it is emotional.
Far beyond a simple adventure, this tale creates a moral world where a hundred-year winter can be broken by one selfless act. Lewis’s writing is straightforward yet deeply allegorical, reminding us that power doesn’t lie in the sword, but in choosing when and why to wield it.
If you're ready to continue exploring Narnia through its deeper structure and themes, continue with the chapter-by-chapter summary of the next book, The Horse and His Boy ➤.
FAQs – Chapter by Chapter Summary – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Why does Aslan submit to death on the Stone Table instead of defeating the Witch outright?
Aslan isn’t trying to embarrass the White Witch; he’s overturning the legal root of her power—the Deep Magic that claims a traitor’s life. By taking Edmund’s place, he fulfills that law’s demand while awakening an older magic that undoes it. His sacrifice restores Narnia’s moral order, frees the guilty without denying guilt, and turns death into a doorway back. It isn’t weakness; it’s a juridical and spiritual victory that makes the Witch’s tricks irrelevant and ushers in the thaw. The result is a kingdom reborn, not merely an enemy defeated.
Beyond his early betrayal, what concrete role does Edmund play in the Witch’s downfall?
Edmund isn’t just the reason Aslan dies; his transformed will becomes tactically decisive. After he’s rescued and speaks privately with the Lion, he begins to choose well. In the final battle he shatters the Witch’s wand, disabling her most dangerous edge: turning foes to stone. That brave, targeted move collapses her magical advantage and clears the way for Aslan’s charge. Edmund’s redemption, then, isn’t abstract; it’s proven by an act of courage that changes the battle’s outcome—and the course of his own life, from pawn to knighted protector of Narnia.
How does Lucy’s tea with Mr. Tumnus steer the entire story’s destiny?
That quiet visit triggers a chain of moral choices. Tumnus’s confession and refusal to obey the Witch reveal a conscience still alive in Narnia and plant unshakable loyalty in Lucy. Her fidelity draws the siblings in, pushes them to seek help, and—crucially—brings Aslan’s name into the open. Tumnus’s capture then becomes a personal debt that propels the plot toward the prophecy of the four thrones at Cair Paravel. What begins as hospitality becomes ignition: a small kindness that rallies kings and queens and wakes a kingdom from winter sleep.
What do Father Christmas’s gifts actually signify for Peter, Susan, and Lucy?
They aren’t festive trinkets; they’re prophetic tools. The sword and shield recognize Peter’s calling to order battle and govern. Susan’s bow and horn embody discernment and aid: seeing danger from afar and summoning just help. Lucy’s dagger and cordial mark a courage that heals: going where it hurts and mending what’s broken. The gifts arrive as winter cracks, signaling that grace accompanies responsibility. They don’t guarantee easy wins; they authorize service—fight, warn, and heal—in rhythm with Narnia’s awakening rather than against it.
How should we read the “two Sons of Adam and two Daughters of Eve” prophecy in the ending?
The prophecy isn’t a shortcut to power; it’s a frame for shared responsibility. When the four are crowned at Cair Paravel, they don’t replace Aslan—they embody the everyday justice of a restored realm. Their long, peaceful rule confirms that human governance in Narnia is stewardship and remembrance: keeping strength in service to truth and mercy beneath the law. Their hunt for the White Stag and return by the lamppost show vocation doesn’t cancel childhood; it refines it. The promise is fulfilled without tearing the world they came from.
Comments