Question....

[SimonW]

Just let it be known I'm not against what I'm about to say. This is more for chat, but can be a serious discussion.

In the BBC's The Silver Chair, did anyone think it wrong for Eustace to drink wine that Puddleglum (who got it from the giant in a thimble) handed to him?
Although I think in Narnian ages (most like the Dark Ages) it was more lax during those times, near-men allowed to drink at an early age.

Or do you think it is possible he (and Jill) were allowed so they could get warm from it, since it was so cold outside?

What do you think?

[loverble]

The whole getting warm thing would make a lot of sence. But it could also be because that is the only thing safe to drink espeasuly if it is set like the Middle Ages.

[Tsukiko]

I think he just drank it to warm himself up

[Hermit of Archenland]

Actually there was another occasion in SC where it is implied the children drank alcohol; after killing the witch/serpent.

You have to remember Lewis was Britsh, and here in the UK it is customary, and legally allowed for parents/guardians to give children as young as 5 alcohol, as long as it is done responsibly.

I can't actually remember the first time I had alcohol. I think I was about 6 and it was some sparkling perry at Christmas. Now as an adult, although I am an enthusiastic wine buff, I don't really drink all that often, certainly not as a regular thing

[Copperfox]

Note also that, in much of Earthly history, wine was drunk diluted, and so would probably be fairly safe even for the young to drink. In the Roman Empire, at banquets, one man would be appointed as the "King of Drinking," and for every toast he would call out what wine-to-water ratio would be served.

[Nikia]

It is quite customary for children to drink wine all around the world and certain religions allow it as well.
As Hermit of Archenland mentioned Lewis was British and it is far more accepted across the pond to allow children to have a bit of wine than it is in America. Also Lewis was Catholic and once a child takes his/her first communion some take the wine as well as the wafer.
I don't see how it would have been wrong for Eustace to take the wine. Though given the description Lewis gave of his parents I'm sure they'd feel differently on the subject. ;)

[PrinceOfTheWest]

Actually, Lewis was Anglican, but they also use wine in their Eucharistic services.

Those who have pointed out that in other times and cultures wine (or beer) was commonly drunk by people of all ages are correct. Don't forget, throughout most of history, and in many places in the world still, the water wasn't safe to drink. A bit of brewed or fermented drink would add just enough ethanol to kill the pathogens, and the human system can metabolize alcohol into harmless chemicals. For most people, it was safer to drink wine or beer than water.

[LadyEm]

Also, in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, King Caspian gives Lucy, Edmund and Eustace spiced wine.
I think perhaps it was something they were used to having on a regular basis while living in Narnia...Eustace was the one who turned his nose up at it, and Lu was quite excited to have it again.

It sounded quite normal to drink wine, to me.