Some time ago I blogged on Planet Narnia , a fascinating and truly thick book of literary criticism which argued that the seven Chronicles of Narnia are each organized around themes suggested by the medieval (and even more ancient) myths which rose up around the seven planets.
Here’s my own modest literary critical contention, reinforced after a recent read through 1 and 2 Samuel: Reepicheep is King David.
Who but King David had the almost shocking gallantry (and holy bravado!) of Reepicheep? King David cuts off a portion of the robe of the man who is trying to murder him—and he feels guilty for violating the honor due the Lord’s anointed… even though he’s the Lord’s anointed, too! And he kills the man who admits he helped Saul commit suicide. Likewise Reepicheep is ready to fight to the death anyone who would insult the honor of Queen Lucy.
Who but King David has such sweet, passionate, adventurous, and even martial love for the Lord—the same love that led Reepicheep to sail his punt off the edge of the world?
Reepicheep is King David.
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