Puddleglum

Puddleglum, also known as Puddle-Dum, is a fictional character from *The Silver Chair*, the fifth book in C.S. Lewis’s *The Chronicles of Narnia* series. Created by Lewis and illustrated by Pauline Baynes, Puddleglum is a Marsh-Wiggle, a small, mud-dwelling creature native to the marshes of Narnia. He is introduced as a skeptical and pragmatic figure, often serving as a voice of reason among the more fantastical or idealistic characters in the story.

Puddleglum is notable for his sharp wit, dry humor, and unyielding logic. Unlike many of the other Narnian creatures, he is deeply rooted in the mundane realities of his environment, often contrasting the fantastical adventures of the protagonists with his own grounded perspective. His most famous line, *"You don’t really suppose this is a fairy story, do you?"*—spoken in response to the enchanting but dangerous world of the Under-Secret Chamber—has become iconic in discussions of skepticism and realism within fantasy literature.

His role in the narrative is pivotal, as he helps the protagonists, Eustace Scrubb and Jill Pole, navigate the treacherous landscape of the Under-Secret Chamber. Despite his initial reluctance to believe in magic or grand adventures, Puddleglum ultimately demonstrates courage and loyalty, proving that even the most pragmatic individuals can rise to the occasion when needed.

Puddleglum’s character reflects Lewis’s exploration of themes such as faith, reason, and the balance between belief and skepticism. His presence in *The Silver Chair* adds depth to the story by grounding fantastical elements in a relatable, human-like perspective. Though he appears only in this single book, his influence on discussions of Narnia and its themes remains significant.