Hall of Images

The Hall of Images was a section of the royal palace of Charn that survived centuries after Queen Jadis had spoken the Deplorable Word, containing life-size figures of the monarchs of Charn throughout the generations.



After Jadis spoke the Deplorable Word that killed all living organisms in the entire world of Charn, she put an enchantment on the Hall's dining table so that all the images that were seated there, as well as herself, were magically preserved eternally. Jadis seated herself at the very end of the table, and from the opposite side the nobles appeared gentle and kind. As one moved down the table, each generation became more intimidating and more frightening until one's eyes fell upon Jadis, the most beautiful yet cruelest-looking of all.

This tells us that the rulers of Charn were once wise and benign, but over the ages they degenerated into a proud but cruel people, filled with despair.

One other thing that is noticed about these images, is that none of the monarchs wear the same crown. Each one, including Jadis, has a different one. No doubt this means that unlike the monarchs of other worlds, including the royal family of England who pass the same crown to every generation, Charn would commission a new crown, which was unique, for every new ruler.

By the time Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer, two young humans from Earth, discovered the Hall, Jadis had placed a short column in the centre of the Hall with writing inscribed on it; resting on top of the column's capital was a golden bell and small hammer with which to hit it. The writing read approximately as follows: -


 * Make your choice, adventurous Stranger;
 * Strike the bell and bide the danger,
 * Or wonder, till it drives you mad,
 * What would have followed if you had.

Ringing the bell, as Digory did, sent out a single note that did not fade but only grew deafeningly louder and louder (until the roof of the building collapsed from the sonic vibrations). Ultimately, the ringing became so loud that it broke the spell, awakening Jadis from her preserved state.