The original story of "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is a beloved children's novel written by C.S. Lewis. This classic tale follows the adventures of four siblings who stumble upon a magical wardrobe that transports them to the enchanting world of Narnia. In this mystical land, they encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, and a power struggle between the heroic lion, Aslan, and the wicked White Witch. The main idea of the original Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the exploration of the themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil.
In a statement, university officials mentioned the use of the term by the Ku Klux Klan and that crusader imagery was displayed by individuals who participated in the Jan. 6. U.S. Capitol riot.
Valparaiso is the latest in a series of professional sports teams and college athletic programs to examine and abandon team names and mascots amid a national discussion on the meaning of such symbols. The Crusader mascot is not only of concern to our current students but has been under scrutiny during the past few decades as it can be associated with aggressive religious oppression and violence, Irwin-Knott said.
The main idea of the original Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the exploration of the themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil. Aslan, the noble lion, serves as a Christ-like figure, sacrificing himself to save one of the siblings, Edmund, from the clutches of the White Witch. The bold main idea of the story is the triumph of good over evil and the redemption of Edmund through the power of love and self-sacrifice.
Valparaiso University to drop Crusader mascot, citing name's association to hate groups
Valparaiso University announced it will begin looking for a new nickname and mascot on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021.
Posted at 8:41 AM, Feb 12, 2021 and last updated 2021-02-12 08:52:57-05VALAPARAISO — Valparaiso University will begin a search for a new mascot after campus leaders announced Thursday the school will abandon the Crusader nickname due to its association with hate groups.
The Lutheran university's faculty and student senates each passed resolutions calling for the change and the university's board of directors supported examining the appropriateness of the team name, interim president Colette Irwin-Knott said in a video posted online.
Irwin-Knott said hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan have adopted and embraced the Crusades and its symbols. The Crusades were a series of religious wars in the 11th century between Christians and Muslims. Valparaiso's mascot is a helmeted figure that wears faux armor.
"In fact, a newspaper of the KKK carries the name 'The Crusader,' and this is not something we want to be connected with Valparaiso University in any way," Irwin-Knott said. "The negative connotation and violence associated with the Crusader is not reflective of Valpo's mission and values, which promote a welcoming and inclusive community."
Student body president Kaitlyn Steinhiser said many students are eager to see the Crusader mascot retired.
"Mascots are intended to help us show our school spirit and represent Valpo values, rather than be divisive and symbolize negativity," Steinhiser said. "There has been a growing concern from students on campus about how the current Crusader mascot represents us, as well as how it may impact prospective students’ views of our university."
A new mascot has not been announced by the university and leaders did not provide a timetable for when one will be named. The Northwest Indiana school has been known as the Crusaders since 1942.
Valparaiso is the latest in a series of professional sports teams and college athletic programs to examine and abandon team names and mascots amid a national discussion on the meaning of such symbols.
Major League Baseball's Cleveland Indians announced in December a plan to drop the team name it has had since 1915. The Washington Football Team changed its name before the 2020 NFL season.
Copyright 2021 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Valparaiso University announced it will begin looking for a new nickname and mascot on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021.
By the end of the story, the siblings learn the importance of loyalty, courage, and standing up for what is right. They also discover the true meaning of family and the strength that lies within each of them. Overall, the original Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe captivate readers with its imaginative world and timeless themes. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain and inspire readers of all ages, reminding us of the power of love, bravery, and the ultimate victory of good over evil..
Reviews for "The Significance of Aslan in The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe"
1. Emily - 1/5 stars - I found "The Original Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe" to be a disappointment. The characters lacked depth, and the plot felt rushed and predictable. The writing style was also simplistic and didn't engage me as a reader. Overall, it didn't live up to the hype, and I wouldn't recommend it.
2. John - 2/5 stars - I went into "The Original Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe" with high expectations, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. While the concept was intriguing, I felt that the execution was lacking. The pacing felt off, and I found it difficult to connect with the characters. The world-building also left much to be desired. Overall, I was left wanting more from this novel.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - "The Original Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe" was not my cup of tea. I struggled to get through the book as it failed to captivate my interest. The plot felt disjointed, and the writing style didn't grab my attention. I didn't feel invested in the characters, and their actions often seemed forced. Overall, I was left feeling underwhelmed by this book.