Greta Gerwig's upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation is set to introduce a fresh generation to C.S. Lewis's beloved fantasy world. The first film will focus on The Magician's Nephew, a prequel that follows Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer as they witness the creation of Narnia. This choice cleverly sidesteps the heavy nostalgia tied to the Pevensie siblings, allowing audiences to experience the wonder anew. But it also shines a spotlight on one of the series' most overlooked heroes.
Each of the seven Narnia books centers on a different protagonist, though some share the stage. While everyone adores brave Lucy Pevensie, who remembers Eustace Scrubb, the obnoxious cousin who transforms into a dragon? With Netflix's acquisition of the rights, there's hope that these lesser-known characters will finally get their due. Until then, let's rank every book's hero from least to most compelling.
7. King Tirian (The Last Battle)
It's tough to make a memorable entrance in a finale. The Last Battle chronicles the end of Narnia, and King Tirian is caught in the middle of a cosmic struggle. Unfortunately, his personal story gets overshadowed by the grand themes of faith and salvation. Once Eustace and Jill arrive, Tirian fades into the background, and by the time the Pevensies show up, readers have almost forgotten him.
Tirian is unique in that his trials begin after he's already king, highlighting the burdens of leadership and the importance of staying true to one's principles. He has his flaws—like the rage that leads him to kill two unarmed soldiers—but his stand at Stable Hill is genuinely heroic. And who can forget his loyal companion, Jewel the Unicorn?
6. Digory Kirke (The Magician's Nephew)
Digory is a surprising hero. We first meet him as the mysterious professor who owns the wardrobe in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. In The Magician's Nephew, we see him as a curious boy who accidentally awakens the evil Queen Jadis and brings her to the newly created Narnia. His mistake allows evil to enter the world, setting up the entire series.
Few heroes cause this much damage, but Digory's internal struggle—choosing between saving his dying mother or protecting Narnia—is deeply moving. C.S. Lewis, who lost his own mother young, infuses this moment with profound emotional weight.
5. Prince Caspian (Prince Caspian)
Prince Caspian is one of the most recognizable Narnia monarchs, thanks in part to Ben Barnes's charming portrayal in the 2008 and 2010 films. But in the books, Caspian is just 13, and his story is often overshadowed by the returning Pevensies. He's a supporting character in his own tale, with Peter taking the spotlight in the duel against Miraz.
The movies aged him up and added a rivalry with Peter, but the book version is more passive. Even in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Caspian takes a backseat to the next hero on our list.
4. Shasta (The Horse and His Boy)
Shasta is the protagonist of The Horse and His Boy, a book that was skipped by the film adaptations. He's a poor boy who escapes Calormen with a talking horse, Bree, and embarks on a journey that reveals his true identity. Shasta's arc is one of self-discovery and courage, and his story is a refreshing change from the usual Narnia formula.
He's relatable and resourceful, and his adventures through the desert and into Archenland are some of the most underrated in the series. It's a shame more readers haven't gotten to know him.
3. Eustace Scrubb (The Voyage of the Dawn Treader)
Eustace starts as a whiny, spoiled brat, but his transformation into a dragon—and back—is one of the most powerful redemption arcs in children's literature. His journey teaches him humility and courage, and by the end, he's a genuinely likable character. He even returns as a hero in The Silver Chair and The Last Battle.
Eustace's growth is a testament to Lewis's skill at crafting believable character development. He's proof that even the most insufferable people can change.
2. Jill Pole (The Silver Chair)
Jill Pole is Eustace's companion in The Silver Chair, and she's a breath of fresh air. She's brave, resourceful, and has a sharp wit. Her quest to find Prince Rilian takes her through the Underworld, where she faces her own fears and doubts. Jill is a strong female lead who doesn't need to be rescued, and her partnership with Eustace is one of the best dynamics in the series.
She's also the protagonist of The Last Battle alongside Tirian, but she shines brightest in The Silver Chair.
1. Lucy Pevensie (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe)
It's no surprise that Lucy takes the top spot. She's the heart of the entire series—the first to discover Narnia, the most faithful to Aslan, and the bravest of the Pevensies. Her kindness and unwavering belief are what make her so compelling. Even when her siblings doubt her, she never wavers.
Lucy's journey from a curious child to a wise queen is the emotional core of the books. She's the hero we all aspire to be, and her story remains timeless. For more on the best fantasy novels of the 20th century, check out our ranking of the genre's greatest works.
As Gerwig's adaptation approaches, it's worth revisiting these heroes and appreciating the depth Lewis brought to each one. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, there's a Narnia hero for everyone.
