Aravis Quote by C.S. Lewis
““When I heard the language of men uttered by my mare," continued Aravis, "I said to myself, the fear of death has disordered my reason and subjected me to delusions. And I became full of shame for none of my lineage ought to fear death more than the biting of a gnat. Therefore I addressed myself a second time to the stabbing, but Hwin came near to me and put her head in between me and the dagger and discoursed to me most excellent reasons and rebuked me as a mother rebukes her daughter. And now my wonder was so great that I forgot about killing myself and about Ahoshta and said, 'O my mare, how have you learned to speak like one of the daughters of men?' And Hwin told me what is known to all this company, that in Narnia there are beasts that talk, and how she herself was stolen from thence when she was a little foal. She told me also of the woods and waters of Narnia and the castles and the great ships, till I said, 'In the name of Tash and Azaroth and Zardeenah, Lady of the Night, I have a great wish to be in that country of Narnia,' 'O my mistress,' answered the mare, 'if you were in Narnia you would be happy, for in that land no maiden is forced to marry against her will.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis, 1954
A young woman confronts irrational fear of death, is saved by a wise mare, and learns that true freedom lies in a land where no one is forced into marriage.
In simple terms: Fear can be irrational; guidance can restore reason.
Key Takeaway
Seek wise counsel when fear overwhelms.
Themes
courage
freedom
guidance
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- decision making
- seeking autonomy
Key Concepts
existential dread
self‑discovery
mythical guidance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront irrational fears?
- What role does trusted counsel play in your decisions?
A Different Perspective
Fear may persist despite rational arguments.
