C.S. Lewis

Definition

C.S. Lewis was a British writer and theologian best known for his works on Christian apologetics and fiction, including 'The Chronicles of Narnia' and 'Mere Christianity.' His writings often addressed contemporary moral issues, presenting a Christian perspective that emphasized reason, morality, and the significance of faith in everyday life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. C.S. Lewis converted to Christianity in 1931, which significantly influenced his writing and views on morality.
2. He argued that moral law is universal and that it reflects a higher moral order established by God, making it an essential element in understanding contemporary moral issues.
3. Lewis's work 'Mere Christianity' is one of the most influential Christian texts of the 20th century, providing logical reasons for faith and addressing doubts about Christianity.
4. His fictional works often include deep theological themes, illustrating moral dilemmas faced by characters that reflect real-life issues.
5. C.S. Lewis's impact on modern Christian thought continues through his ability to communicate complex ideas in relatable language, bridging the gap between faith and reason.

Review Questions

• How did C.S. Lewis's conversion to Christianity influence his writings on moral issues?
  • C.S. Lewis's conversion played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to contemporary moral issues. His newfound faith deepened his understanding of morality as rooted in God's character, leading him to argue that moral laws are not merely societal constructs but reflect a divine standard. This perspective is evident in his apologetic works, where he addresses doubts and challenges while emphasizing the importance of a moral framework guided by Christian principles.
• In what ways does C.S. Lewis address contemporary moral dilemmas in his fiction, particularly in 'The Chronicles of Narnia'?
  • In 'The Chronicles of Narnia', C.S. Lewis tackles contemporary moral dilemmas through allegorical storytelling. The characters face choices that reflect real-life ethical challenges, such as sacrifice, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil. Through these narratives, Lewis illustrates how faith can guide individuals in making moral decisions and highlights the importance of aligning one's actions with a higher moral law.
• Critically evaluate how C.S. Lewis’s approach to apologetics can provide insight into resolving modern moral issues faced by society today.
  • C.S. Lewis’s approach to apologetics offers valuable insights for addressing modern moral issues by emphasizing the universality of moral law as a reflection of God's character. His arguments encourage critical thinking about ethics beyond subjective opinions or cultural norms, advocating for an objective foundation based on faith. This framework can help individuals navigate complex moral landscapes today, fostering dialogue around difficult topics such as justice, equality, and the role of religion in public life while maintaining a focus on reasoned discourse and ethical integrity.

Related terms

Apologetics: A branch of theology concerned with defending and explaining the Christian faith, often through rational arguments and evidence.

Narnia: A fictional world created by C.S. Lewis in his series of children's books, serving as an allegory for Christian themes and moral lessons.

The Problem of Pain: A book by C.S. Lewis that discusses the coexistence of suffering and a good God, exploring how pain can lead to spiritual growth.