Exploring the Naming Conventions of Eustace in C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia

In this article, we delve into the reasons behind C.S. Lewis's decision to refer to the character Eustace as both 'Eustace' and 'Scrubbs,' providing insights into his character development and the cultural context of the Narnian world. We examine how the manner of addressing a character can reflect their relationship and the narrative context in which they appear, enriching our understanding of the literary work.

Character Development and Naming

Throughout C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia, the author pays close attention to the names he uses to describe his characters, each chosen to reflect their growth and development across the series. Eustace Scrubb, for instance, presents a compelling case study. In The Voyage of the Dawn Treader and The Silver Chair, C.S. Lewis varies Eustace's name to underscore his evolving relationship and the narrative context in which he appears.

Character Development of Eustace Scrubb

Evolution of Eustace's Character

Eustace Scrubb's full name is his defining characteristic, highlighting his heritage. Lewis intentionally chooses to use both the first and last names in different contexts to signify the journey Eustace embarks on. In The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Eustace's full name 'Eustace Scrubb' often reflects his initial, somewhat arrogant and self-centered nature. This choice as 'Eustace Scrubb' denotes his distant, almost indifferent relationship with his more cherished family members, specifically his cousins Lucy and Edmund, who also use his full name.

Narrative Context in 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader'

During the voyage, Eustace is coexisting with his cousins, a situation that fosters a kind of family interaction and a sense of shared adventure. It is the nature of the relationship between cousins that prompts the use of full names, emphasizing a familial and, at times, uncomfortable bond. This familial context serves as a backdrop to Eustace's transformation, as his character begins to wrestle with his inner demons and the harsh realities of his past.

Change in Addressing Eustace in 'The Silver Chair'

By the time we reach The Silver Chair, however, Lewis alters the way Eustace is addressed. Eustace is now a school friend of Jill Pole, much like how British students at English boarding schools commonly address each other by their last names. Lewis’s choice to refer to Eustace as 'Scrubbs' rather than 'Eustace' is a reflection of the new, more intimate and trusting relationship between them.

Perspective of Others

Furthermore, how Eustace is referred to reflects his evolving relationship with those around him, especially his companion Jill Pole in The Silver Chair. Eustace's name, 'Scrubbs,' resonates with a sense of camaraderie and friendship, as he refers to Jill as 'Pole' as well. This switch in nomenclature encapsulates the depth of their bond and the trust they have built over their shared adventures.

Overall the Choice of Names

The decision to use Eustace's full name in certain contexts and his last name in others is a strategic literary choice made by C.S. Lewis. It serves to highlight the character's growth and the different relationships he is involved with, showcasing the richness of the narrative.

Cultural Context

It is essential to consider the broader cultural context in which C.S. Lewis wrote the Chronicles of Narnia. In the 1940s, during World War II, the practice in English boarding schools and informal settings was to address each other by last names. This adds authenticity to the narrative, making the dialogue and interactions feel more natural. However, it is important to note that this practice has evolved over the years; for instance, while it was common for siblings at the same school to have 'surname minor' (e.g., 'John Smith Jr. '), such practices may have become less stringent in modern times.

Conclusion

In summary, C.S. Lewis's deliberate choice to refer to Eustace as 'Eustace' and 'Scrubbs' is a holistic reflection of the character's development and the narrative's context. This practice not only adds depth to the story but also enhances the reader's understanding of the intricate relationships and dynamics within the Narnian world.

References

Paul Johnson’s useful and more accurate comment on modern British school practices is also worth considering. However, the Narnia series was written in the 1940s, and the practices mentioned in the text reflect the cultural context of that time.