Introduction
Who does Orual kill in the novel "Till We Have Faces" by C.S. Lewis is a central question that explores themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion. The story, told from Orual’s perspective, delves into her complex emotions and moral dilemmas, ultimately revealing her role in the tragic events that unfold. Understanding who Orual kills, and why, provides insight into her character development and the novel’s underlying messages about human nature and divine justice.
Context of Orual’s Actions
Background of the Narrative
"Till We Have Faces" is a retelling of the myth of Psyche and Eros from the perspective of Orual, Psyche’s older sister. Throughout the story, Orual grapples with her feelings of jealousy, love, resentment, and remorse. Her journey is marked by moments of intense emotional conflict, which influence her decisions and actions, including acts of violence and betrayal.
Orual’s Character and Motivations
Orual begins as a protective sister, deeply attached to Psyche. Her love is complicated by feelings of inadequacy and jealousy when Psyche’s beauty and the attention she receives threaten her own sense of worth. As the story progresses, her perceptions of the gods, love, and justice evolve, leading her to confront difficult truths about herself and others.
Who Does Orual Kill?
The Killing of the Fox
One of the pivotal moments in the novel involves Orual’s act of violence against the Fox, a trusted counselor and friend. The Fox had been a guiding figure for Orual and her people, offering wisdom and comfort. However, in a moment of intense emotional distress and perceived betrayal, Orual kills him.
- Reasons for the Killing: Orual believes that the Fox has betrayed her by secretly aiding Psyche’s divine relationship and by undermining her authority. Her jealousy and suspicion culminate in her decision to take his life.
- Implications: This act of violence signifies Orual’s internal struggle with trust and her own capacity for cruelty. It also marks a turning point in her moral journey, highlighting how her emotions override her sense of justice.
The Killing of Psyche
Most notably, Orual’s actions indirectly lead to Psyche’s death, which is a central tragedy in the narrative. While Orual does not physically kill Psyche in the traditional sense, her actions and emotional torment contribute to Psyche’s demise.
- Context of Psyche’s Death: Psyche, subjected to divine tests and societal rejection, endures suffering and despair. Orual’s relentless grief, accusations, and inability to understand Psyche’s divine mission exacerbate her sister’s suffering.
- Orual’s Role: While she does not directly kill Psyche, her emotional cruelty, accusations, and failure to protect her contribute to Psyche’s tragic end. Some interpretations consider Orual’s inability to save Psyche as a form of moral killing—destroying her sister’s happiness and life through neglect and misunderstanding.
The Symbolic or Spiritual "Killing"
Beyond physical acts, Orual’s journey involves a spiritual or symbolic form of killing—she must confront her own darkness, jealousy, and misconceptions about the divine. Her ultimate recognition and acceptance of divine love can be seen as a form of internal 'killing' of her former self, leading to her spiritual rebirth.
Analysis of Orual’s Acts of Violence and Their Significance
Understanding Her Motivations
Orual’s violence stems from a mixture of love, jealousy, fear, and misunderstanding. Her actions are driven by her intense emotional attachment to Psyche and her perception of betrayal or loss.
- Protection: She believes she is protecting Psyche from divine interference or harm.
- Jealousy and Resentment: Her feelings of inadequacy and envy contribute to her destructive impulses.
- Misunderstanding Divine Will: Her inability to comprehend the gods’ intentions leads to tragic misjudgments.
Consequences of Orual’s Actions
The consequences of her killing and other destructive acts are profound:
- Loss of human connection and trust
- The tragic death of Psyche
- Her own spiritual awakening and eventual redemption
Comparison with Mythological and Literary Themes
Myth of Psyche and Eros
The myth from which the novel is inspired explores themes of love, trust, and divine intervention. Orual’s acts reflect the human tendency to misunderstand and mistrust the divine, leading to suffering. Her killing of Psyche’s divine love can be seen as an allegory for human hubris and the destructive power of jealousy.
Literary Significance of Violence
In literature, acts of killing often symbolize the destruction of innocence, the consequences of unchecked emotion, or the necessity of moral growth. Orual’s violent acts serve as a catalyst for her eventual enlightenment and acceptance of divine love, illustrating the transformative potential of suffering and remorse.
Conclusion
In summary, Orual kills the Fox in a literal sense, driven by her emotional turmoil and misunderstandings. Her indirect role in Psyche’s death underscores her internal conflicts and moral struggles. While she does not physically kill Psyche, her actions and emotional cruelty contribute to her sister’s tragic end, making her responsible in a moral and emotional sense. Ultimately, Orual’s journey through acts of violence, remorse, and spiritual awakening highlights the complex nature of human morality and the redemptive power of love and understanding. Her story reminds us that while humans are capable of great cruelty, they also possess the capacity for growth, forgiveness, and divine grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Orual kill in the story?
Orual kills the false prophet in the story, as part of her journey to confront her beliefs and protect her people.
Why does Orual decide to kill someone?
Orual kills to defend her loved ones, uphold justice, or eliminate a threat that endangers her community or her own moral integrity.
Is Orual responsible for any murders in the narrative?
While Orual is not a murderer by nature, she takes drastic actions, including killing, to achieve her moral and spiritual goals.
Does Orual kill the false god or creature?
Yes, Orual confronts and kills the false god or creature, symbolizing her rejection of falsehood and her pursuit of truth.
How does Orual's act of killing impact her character development?
Her act of killing marks a pivotal moment of growth, reflecting her transformation from vengeance to understanding and acceptance.
Is the killing in the story justified according to Orual's perspective?
From Orual's perspective, the killing is justified as a necessary act to protect her loved ones and uphold her moral convictions.
Are there any other characters Orual kills in the story?
The primary killing associated with Orual involves the false prophet or creature, with other acts of violence being more symbolic or indirect.
What are the consequences of Orual's killing in the story's resolution?
The consequences lead to her spiritual awakening and acceptance of herself, as her act of killing helps her find peace and understanding.
