A STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGUISTIC DEVICES IN THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: A STUDY OF THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE AND THE LAST BATTLE

Abstract

C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia has captivated readers for decades with his style of rich narratives, allegorical depth, and masterful storytelling. By employing statistical tools and methods, the study aims to unravel how Lewis’s use of language contributes to the series' immersive and allegorical qualities. However, the linguistic intricacies that make the series so compelling often go unnoticed. The research paper focuses on four major areas: word frequency, figures of speech, sentence structure, and dialogue patterns. The study further analyzes sentence structures, highlighting the predominance of simple sentences in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, which create accessibility for younger readers, and the increasing complexity of sentence types in The Last Battle reflecting the series’ shift toward mature and philosophical themes. Dialogue patterns are also examined, revealing how conversations between characters are used to articulate moral dilemmas, allegorical themes, and emotional depth. Through statistical visualizations like pie charts and bar graphs, this research demonstrates how Lewis’s stylistic choices evolve across the series, mirroring the narrative’s transition from childlike wonder to profound theological and philosophical reflections. The findings underscore the delicate balance Lewis maintains between readability and depth, ensuring that the books resonate with readers of all ages. This study provides a unique perspective on the linguistic artistry of The Chronicles of Narnia and its role in enhancing the allegorical, moral, and thematic richness of the series. By combining literary analysis with statistical rigor, this research offers valuable insights into the interplay between language and storytelling in one of the most iconic fantasy series of the 20th century.