Book Summary – The Silver Chair – The Chronicles of Narnia – Book 6
- Jason Montero
- Aug 28
- 14 min read
Updated: Aug 29
Book summary by chapter of The Silver Chair. Includes spoilers from Aslan’s signs to the end of the book. A prince bound underground waits for the memory of a lion to shatter the spell’s chains; when Jill, Eustace, and Puddleglum choose to believe in the unseen, the underworld collapses and Narnia breathes anew beneath the moonlight.
Introduction – The Silver Chair
The Silver Chair, written by C. S. Lewis, is the sixth entry in the universe of The Chronicles of Narnia. This chapter-by-chapter book summary of The Silver Chair leads us into a descent where silence weighs more than words and destinies tangle between giants, witches, and forgotten doors. We follow Jill Pole, Eustace Scrubb, and the gloomy Puddleglum in a journey marked by missed signs, buried cities, and a chair that binds more than just a body: it imprisons a will. To understand how this installment fits within the broader Narnian tapestry, explore the complete reading order of the saga The Chronicles of Narnia ➤.
In this tale, mythical conflict merges with existential struggle. The challenges are not only physical—like giant-filled plains or tunnels devoid of light—but also deeply spiritual: each forgotten sign is an inner defeat. Lewis's restrained and symbolic style shapes its darkest moments, such as the spell that nearly erases Aslan from memory, or the Queen’s final transformation, making this volume one of the most somber and haunting of the saga.
What do Aslan’s signs truly demand? And what happens when forgetfulness becomes part of the path? Continue reading to uncover each chapter’s turning point in The Silver Chair.
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Chapter Navigation
Chapter 1 Summary – The Silver Chair – Behind the Gym
Jill Pole cries alone behind the gym at the Experimental School, a chaotic place where bullies are never punished. Eustace Scrubb, a former acquaintance, finds her by chance, and after a brief argument, they have an honest conversation about their experiences at school. Eustace says he has changed, and Jill agrees, noting that even the bullies have noticed his transformation. He then confesses that during the holidays he visited another world, a magical one with talking animals and dragons. Intrigued, Jill believes him, and together they decide to ask Aslan for help to return to that place. They pray together but are interrupted and have to flee. When they reach an old door, they discover it is open for the first time. On the other side lies a completely different world, bathed in light and nature. With fear and hope, they pass through the door just as a voice from the school calls them back.
Chapter 2 Summary – The Silver Chair – Jill Has a Task
After crossing the door, Jill and Eustace arrive at a towering mountain where the air is calm and silent. In a tense moment near a cliff edge, Jill steps too close and causes Eustace to fall. Desperate, she watches as a massive lion blows him away. Terrified, she finds herself alone until the same lion, Aslan, speaks to her and gives her a vital mission: to find the lost prince of Narnia. Jill must remember four specific signs that will guide her in the quest. Aslan stresses that she must memorize them, as the air will be denser in the world below and the signs will seem different. Finally, he blows her toward the lower world. Jill floats gently as the scenery shifts—seas, islands, seagulls, mountains, and a castle. Upon landing, she reunites with Eustace and finds herself soaked but fascinated by what awaits.
Chapter 3 Summary – The Silver Chair – The King Sets Sail
Jill and Eustace arrive at Cair Paravel and observe an impressive castle, a radiant ship, and a diverse crowd bidding farewell to the elderly King Caspian, who is sailing off to the islands. Jill urges Eustace to look for his old friend, following the first sign, but he is confused and ignores her. A large white owl named Glimfeather approaches, recognizes their magical origin, and takes them to Trumpkin, the regent, who is deaf and irritable. Thanks to the owl, they are acknowledged as Aslan’s messengers. They are welcomed and given new clothes. Alone, Eustace tells Jill that King Caspian was once his friend, but due to the time difference between worlds, he is now an old man. Horrified, Jill realizes they have already failed the first sign. Guilt and confusion weigh on them as the day ends with a grand dinner at the castle and a growing sense of concern.
Chapter 4 Summary – The Silver Chair – A Parliament of Owls
That night, a tapping at the window wakes Jill: it is Glimfeather, the owl, urging her to flee the castle immediately. She dresses for travel and climbs onto his back, flying through the cold, dark air. He takes her to an abandoned tower where a secret parliament of owls is meeting. Eustace is there too. Glimfeather reveals that if Trumpkin knew of their mission, he would lock them up for safety, as many brave souls have sought Prince Rilian before and never returned. Jill and Eustace explain that Aslan sent them, which changes the owls’ attitude. Though wise, the owls cannot join them but suggest they be guided by a marsh-wiggle who knows the northern region. They decide to leave that very night under cover of darkness, as traveling to Ettinsmoor, where the ancient ruins are believed to lie, would be dangerous if the giants discovered them.
Chapter 5 Summary – The Silver Chair – Puddleglum
Jill wakes tired in the dark hut of Puddleglum, a marsh-wiggle with a long face, oversized hat, and gloomy demeanor. Despite his bleak tone, he offers them shelter and food. The area is a vast marshy plain with channels and birds. Though he seems disheartened, Puddleglum agrees to join them on their dangerous journey north. While cooking eels, he explains they must cross the River Shribble to reach Ettinsmoor, a land inhabited by giants. Though there is uncertainty about the existence of the ruins they seek, he insists they depart at dawn. Despite his constant pessimistic remarks, he sees the mission as a chance to change his life. As he prepares supplies and weapons, Jill and Eustace notice his excitement for the adventure, though he masks it with negative comments. They go to bed early, but Puddleglum snores so loudly that Jill dreams of trains and waterfalls.
Chapter 6 Summary – The Silver Chair – The Wild Wastes of the North
The next morning, Jill, Scrubb, and Puddleglum cross the River Shribble and begin their march across the barren land of Ettinsmoor. The terrain becomes increasingly desolate, and among the rock formations, they are horrified to discover that what looked like stones are actually motionless giants. Puddleglum warns them to keep walking without running, as they might provoke a chase. Amid grotesque laughter and shouting, the giants play target games with rocks, unaware of the travelers. After witnessing a ridiculous fight among the giants, the group presses on for days, surviving on hunted birds and enduring the cold. Eventually, they find a monumental bridge that leads to an ancient path. There, they meet a beautiful lady in a green gown and a silent knight who direct them toward Harfang, home of the Gentle Giants. Enticed by promises of hot food and rest, Jill and Scrubb ignore Aslan’s signs, marking the beginning of their distraction.
Chapter 7 Summary – The Silver Chair – The Hill of Strange Trenches
Amid a snowstorm, the three travelers descend toward the plain on their way to Harfang. They struggle along a ruined path until they reach a flat-topped hill. There, the wind and snow make the journey nearly unbearable. As they cross the plateau, they discover strange embankments that force them to climb and fall into snow piles. Jill falls into a deep trench, and upon exploring it, they find a straight passage that turns to the right. Though they investigate a bit further, they find no exit or meaning to the structure. They return above, frozen and frustrated. Puddleglum mentions the Signs, but Jill, embarrassed for having forgotten them, responds with irritation. At dusk, they spot lights in the distance confirming Harfang is near. Anxious to arrive before the gates close, they run ahead, ignoring all warnings. Their minds are fixed only on warmth, food, and immediate rest.
Chapter 8 Summary – The Silver Chair – The House of Harfang
Jill, Scrubb, and Puddleglum finally reach the gates of Harfang. A giant gatekeeper welcomes them warmly when they mention the Lady of the Green Kirtle. Inside, they find fire, warmth, and attentive service. Jill and her companions are taken to separate rooms. Jill is attended to by a giantess who bathes her and dresses her in fine clothes. She eats delicious food with utensils fit for her size, and although she dislikes the giant toys offered to her, she sleeps soundly in a soft bed. That night, she dreams of Aslan urging her to remember the Signs, but she forgets the dream upon waking. When Scrubb and Puddleglum visit her, they look out the window and are horrified to realize the hill they crossed is actually a ruined city. On the ground, the words “UNDER ME” are clearly visible. They realize they failed to follow the Signs and missed a crucial opportunity in their mission.
Chapter 9 Summary – The Silver Chair – How They Discovered Something Worth Knowing
The three travelers, disheartened for having missed the Signs, try to maintain a cheerful facade while plotting their escape. Jill gains the giants’ trust with her innocent behavior and discovers a back door in the kitchen. During lunch, they overhear a conversation revealing that they’ve eaten the meat of a talking stag, filling them with guilt. Later, while waiting for a chance to flee, Jill finds a giant cookbook describing how to prepare humans and marsh-wiggles. Horrified, they realize they are to be the main dish for the autumn feast. When the kitchen giantess finally falls asleep, they quietly escape through the back door. However, once outside, they find the landscape offers no hiding places and they are completely exposed. As hunting horns sound and the giants discover them, they run desperately, Jill lagging behind, until they find a crevice where they manage to hide.
Chapter 10 Summary – The Silver Chair – Travels Without Seeing the Sun
Inside the dark crevice, Jill, Scrubb, and Puddleglum descend through winding passages and end up trapped in a dead-end cavern. They are discovered by the Earthmen, pale and sad beings who lead them to the Underland. Under a guard’s watch, they traverse caverns lit by cold light, with no sound or wind. In one of the caves, they see Father Time asleep, a former king of Overland who will awaken at the end of the world. They are then taken by boat through an underground river. The journey becomes monotonous, making them doubt whether the sun and sky were ever real. Upon reaching a silent, gloomy city, they are led to a castle where a young human greets them. It is the Black Knight they met by the bridge. When Jill mentions Prince Rilian, he reacts with indifference. Though he appears courteous, something unsettling lurks behind his words and demeanor.
Chapter 11 Summary – The Silver Chair – In the Dark Castle
During a lavish dinner at the castle, the Knight reveals he remembers nothing of his life before meeting the Queen of Underland and that each night he undergoes a terrible transformation, turning into a violent snake-like creature. He begs them never to untie him during this trance, as he might kill anyone nearby. When the hour comes, the Knight is bound to the silver chair, as Puddleglum, Scrubb, and Jill watch in secret. At first, he behaves like a raving lunatic, but suddenly, with a clear voice and restored mind, he begs them to set him free. Upon invoking Aslan’s name, the three friends recognize the fourth Sign they had been given by Aslan and, despite their fear, decide to cut his bonds. Once freed, the Knight destroys the chair in a rage and reveals himself as Rilian, son of King Caspian. He thanks his rescuers and confirms that they have broken the spell that bound him for ten years.
Chapter 12 Summary – The Silver Chair – The Queen of Underland
The Queen of Underland suddenly appears in the room where Prince Rilian has just been freed. Though her gaze is furious, she speaks sweetly and pretends to be concerned, casting a spell with green powder and a monotonous tune that dulls their minds. Slowly, Jill, Scrubb, and the Prince begin to doubt the existence of Narnia, the sun, Aslan, and the outside world. The magic overtakes them, convincing them it was all a dream. Puddleglum, though nearly succumbing, resists and remembers the wonders of the Overworld. With effort, he stamps on the fire, weakening the enchantment. His act of bravery breaks the spell, and the others regain their clarity. The Queen, now enraged, transforms into a massive green serpent and attacks Rilian. After a fierce battle, the Prince, Scrubb, and Puddleglum manage to decapitate her. Rilian vows revenge for his murdered mother and thanks his friends, beginning the plans to escape the Deep Lands.
Chapter 13 Summary – The Silver Chair – Underland Without the Queen
With the Queen dead, the four travelers take a moment to bandage Puddleglum’s burn and plan their exit. As they eat and discuss options, they notice increasing noise outside. The Underworld seems to come alive: screams, red lights, and strange movements fill the city. From above, they watch boats sailing through flooded streets and gnomes running in the shadows, as if fleeing or starting a revolt. They conclude the Witch’s death has triggered the collapse of her kingdom. The Prince decides to retrieve his and the Queen’s horses. As they prepare, Rilian’s shield magically changes to display Aslan’s image, confirming his guidance. They ride through the crumbling city, facing hostile stares and a potential ambush. Following the Prince’s plan, they capture a gnome who, surprised by the Queen’s death, expresses gratitude. He reveals the gnomes were enslaved and now long to return to Bism, their true homeland.
Chapter 14 Summary – The Silver Chair – The Bottom of the World
The captured gnome, named Golg, tells them that the gnomes were under the Queen’s spell and that with her death, they remember who they are and yearn to return to Bism, a glowing, fiery land beneath the world. He explains the open fissure leads there, home to intelligent salamanders and living gemstones. Though Rilian and Eustace are tempted by the adventure, Jill and Puddleglum oppose it, remembering their mission and King Caspian. As they debate, a voice warns them the crack is closing, and Golg joyfully leaps into the abyss. The rocks then seal shut with a crash, closing Bism forever. They immediately begin their ascent through the tunnel to the surface, guided by magical lamps that start to go out. Racing against time, they cross the flooded valley and climb uphill in exhaustion. As the lights fade completely, they are enveloped in darkness—until a cold blue light appears above, showing a possible way out.
Chapter 15 Summary – The Silver Chair – Jill Disappears
Jill climbs onto Puddleglum’s shoulders and pokes her head through the lit hole, marveling at a snowy landscape under the moon: they’ve reached the heart of Narnia. She watches a traditional Narnian dance with fauns and dryads, accompanied by dwarfs throwing snowballs to the rhythm. Overcome with emotion, she tries to call to her friends, but a snowball hits her in the mouth. Once she recovers, she screams for help and is rescued by the Narnians. The dwarfs quickly fetch tools and begin to dig. Eustace, fearing Jill has been captured, climbs up with his sword drawn until he realizes they are safe. With help from fauns, moles, and squirrels, they pull up Puddleglum, Rilian, and the horses. The Prince is recognized and cheered by the creatures, who remember him as King Caspian’s son. All celebrate his return and gather in a warm cave as Jill and Eustace fall asleep, finally safe.
Chapter 16 Summary – The Silver Chair – The Healing of Wrongs
Jill wakes in a cave lit by sunlight and warmed by a fireplace, recalling a hearty meal of royal sausages, potatoes, chestnuts, and chocolate. Puddleglum and Eustace are still asleep until Glimfeather the owl informs them the Prince has gone to Cair Paravel. A faun named Orruns tells them that two centaurs will escort them there—an immense honor. Puddleglum, still injured, is tended to by Cloudbirth. Jill and Eustace ride through snowy landscapes as the centaurs speak of stars and herbs. Upon reaching the castle, they witness King Caspian’s arrival, who, to everyone’s sorrow, dies the moment he touches land. Aslan appears, comforts the children, and takes them to his mountain. There, after a symbolic ceremony, Caspian is revived as a young man. They return to their world with Caspian, punish the school bullies, and Aslan’s intervention prompts an investigation that transforms the place. Eustace and Jill remain close, and in Narnia, Rilian reigns wisely.
Conclusion – The Silver Chair
In The Silver Chair, C. S. Lewis reveals a Narnia where courage often hides in silence, and truth emerges from the cracks of forgotten promises. This story stands out for turning internal hesitations and quiet redemption into the very forces that save the day.
With a tone that is grim yet intimate, the narrative transforms every cave, every giant, every misstep into reflections of personal struggle. Jill and Eustace are far from ordinary adventurers—they carry the burden of memory, doubt, and choice. And Puddleglum, beneath layers of pessimism, rises as an unexpected moral compass.
Continue with the chapter-by-chapter summary of the next book, The Last Battle ➤, where the saga reaches its final, most decisive hour.
FAQs – Chapter by Chapter Summary – The Silver Chair
What makes Aslan’s four Signs more than a scavenger hunt, and why does Jill fail to keep them?
The Signs aren’t breadcrumbs to decode a maze; they are a moral compass that keeps purpose ahead of comfort. On the mountain, Jill learns them in clear air; below, “denser” air—fatigue, appetite, self-reliance—warps perception. Forgetting becomes a temptation, not a memory glitch: trading the essential for the immediate. Missing Caspian at Cair Paravel and overlooking “UNDER ME” on the ruined city exposes how distraction edits truth. The book insists that guidance works only when rehearsed, obeyed, and re-read in the dark, precisely when warmth, food, and haste argue against attention.
How does Harfang’s cozy welcome critique comfort as a tool of deception?
Harfang offers the softest path to the worst outcome: exquisite beds, roaring hearths, and menus that quietly include you. The “Gentle Giants” don’t roar; they flatter. That politeness seduces Jill and Eustace into sidelining Aslan’s Signs, proving that comfort can be an anesthetic. The castle’s windows literally overlook the truth spelled on the ground—“UNDER ME”—which they only recognize too late. Harfang satirizes the kind of hospitality that turns guests into meat by making them feel special. The lesson is sharp: the danger isn’t always a dungeon; sometimes it’s a dining room with perfect napkins.
Why does Puddleglum’s burnt foot snap the Witch’s spell when reason seems outmatched?
The Queen’s enchantment feeds on abstraction: soft music, tidy logic, and a green dust that blurs memory. Puddleglum counters with proof that hurts—smoke, pain, and the stink of scorched skin. Reality, reintroduced through the senses, punctures the tidy lie. His act is stubborn faith in action: better a true world that burns than a false one that soothes. It’s also his pessimism redeemed; suspecting easy answers makes him brave at the right moment. The stomp gives everyone back the sun, Aslan, and their names—facts no argument can tidy away once you’ve smelled them.
What does the silver chair symbolize, and why is smashing it a spiritual victory as much as a rescue?
The chair ritualizes forgetfulness. It straps a body so a schedule can overwrite a soul. While Rilian is bound, identity is outsourced to the Witch’s routine. Silver—cold, lunar, alluring—suggests noble shine without warmth. Shattering the chair ends more than a captivity; it ends an administration of the will that confuses compliance with healing. The scene insists that true memory—of a murdered mother, of Aslan—cannot be preserved by restraints. Freedom here is not a jailbreak but the restoration of agency, where remembering becomes an act stronger than any mechanism that tries to time it.
How does the ending with Caspian and Aslan resolve the book’s emotional stakes rather than dodge them?
After the underworld’s gloom, the finale doesn’t cheapen grief; it answers it. Caspian’s death and renewal on Aslan’s mountain is restitution, not convenience. Jill and Eustace return to their school as changed agents, not escapees: they confront cruelty instead of hiding from it. Aslan doesn’t erase consequences; he transfigures them into clarity and courage. Underground collapses when truth enters; aboveground justice appears when the children act. The last pages pull mission, memory, and mercy tight—closing a story that began behind a gym in tears and ends with the world, and its bullies, seen in clean light.
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