Why a wardrobe? Why does Aslan lie on a stone table? What did Lewis mean by "Shadowlands"? Who and what inspired the White Witch? How did The Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien influence Narnia? What if you found another world, filled with magical creatures like centaurs, witches, and a talking lion, and the door to it was in your own house? So begins C.S. Lewis's classic book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, which, along with its six sequels, has delighted readers for generations. Now The Magical Worlds of Narnia explores the myths, legends, and history behind Lewis's beloved Narnia series. Discover the medieval lore and ancient myths that inspired Lewis, and trace Narnia's origins to the Bible, the tales of King Arthur, and various corners of history. This is a passport to the undiscovered corners of Narnia and the essential guide to one of the most wondrous adventures of all time. - Back cover.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: Lewis's Thoughts -- Why a Wardrobe? -- How Did Lewis Make Hell Freeze Over? -- What Is Deep Magic? -- Does Aslan Fear Death? -- Why Does a White Stag Lead the Way? -- The Magician's Nephew: Lewis's Thoughts -- Who Were the Real Digory Kirkes? -- Who Saw the First Inkling of Narnia? -- Who Let Evil into Narnia? -- Why Does Aslan's Breath Make Animals Speak? -- Why Did Charn Go from Bad to Worse? -- What's the Deplorable Word? -- The Horse and His Boy: Lewis's Thoughts -- If You Can Lead Bree to Water, Why Won't He Drink? -- Why Does Shasta Go with the Flow? -- What's the Knight's Tale? -- Which Way to Narnia? -- Prince Caspian: Lewis's Thoughts -- What's the Twist in Reepicheep's Tale? -- Why Does Bacchus Have So Many Names? -- Why Did Only Lucy See What Lucy Saw? -- The Voyage of the "Dawn Treader": Lewis's Thoughts -- Why Is Eustace Pained by a Bracelet? -- Why Did the Dark Island Disappear Twice? -- What's the Story in the Magician's Book? -- The Silver Chair: Lewis's Thoughts -- Is the Silver Chair Part of a Set? -- Why Can't Jill Remember Four Simple Signs? -- Why Does Prince Rilian Wear a Mask? -- The Last Battle: Lewis's Thoughts -- What Is Tash-and What Isn't He? -- Should Aslan Save Emeth? -- What Does Lewis Mean by "Shadowlands"? -- Afterword: Why Would Anyone Hate Narnia? -- Bibliography and Suggestions for Further Reading.