How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)
Quote #10
"[…] this signifies that Aslan will be our good lord, whether he means us to live or die. And all's one, for that. Now, by my counsel, we shall all kneel and kiss his likeness, and then all shake hands one with another, as true friends that may shortly be parted." (13.191)
Both Rilian and Puddleglum, true born Narnians, have very little regard for death. They are creatures of principle who pride themselves on their allegiance to Aslan and everything the Lion stands for. The prince is encouraged further by the appearance of Aslan's device on his previously blank armor—like a sign of favor that promises protection and reward no matter what happens to their bodies.
Quote #11
[…] it was the old King on a bed, very pale and still. They set him down. The Prince knelt beside him and embraced him. They could see King Caspian raising his hand to bless his son. And everyone cheered, but it was a half-hearted cheer, for they all felt that something was going wrong. Then suddenly the King's head fell back upon his pillows, the musicians stopped and there was a dead silence. (16.235)
The death of King Caspian after all of their efforts to restore Rilian to him makes the children feel like they've failed at their mission. But in the end, they weren't meant to save Caspian's life; they were meant to preserve his reign by returning his heir in time to receive his blessing and take the throne of Narnia. Eustace has the added pain of losing a good friend and leader—at least for the moment.
Quote #12
"He has died. Most people have, you know. Even I have. There are very few who haven't."
"Oh," said Caspian. "I see what's bothering you. You think I'm a ghost or some nonsense. But don't you see? I would be if I appeared in Narnia now: because I don't belong there any more. But one can't be a ghost in one's own country." (16.240-241)
The children have just seen the old King Caspian die outside of Cair Paravel in Narnia, and now are speaking with a young, living Caspian on Aslan's mountain. Aslan wants the children to see that there are different ways of being alive—or rather, that death is not the last word when it comes to human existence. Caspian will continue to live and thrive with Aslan, despite the fact that his life in Narnia is over. If you're thinking Aslan's mountain sounds a bit like heaven right now, well, we're with you on that one.