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The Life and Writings of C. S. Lewis
What can we still learn from C.S. Lewis? Find out in these 12 insightful lectures that cover the author's spiritual autobiography, novels, and his scholarly writings that reflect on pain and grief, love and friendship, prophecy and miracles, and education and mythology.
This is your chance to explore a canon of literary work that speaks volumes about the imaginative, emotional, and spiritual power of literature. As you delve into the depths of enduring works such as the Chronicles of Narnia, The Screwtape Letters, Mere Christianity, and Till We Have Faces, you'll consider a range of questions central to truly understanding why C.S. Lewis has had such a profound impact on 20th-century readers.
From the magisterial Oxford History of English Literature to children's fantasy series, how did Lewis write with such brilliance and coherence in so many distinct fields? What were the people, events, and influences that shaped his thought, his character, and the spiritual drama at his life's core? What do Lewis's fictional and factual autobiographies reveal about his conversion and his efforts to explain and defend Christianity? How do his writings help readers come to grips with perennial spiritual questions involving miracles, suffering, sin, and salvation?
Join Professor Markos for an eye-opening examination of why Lewis - the Oxbridge don and self-described, "very ordinary layman of the Church of England," touches millions of readers so deeply and is considered the most widely read Christian spokesman of our time.
This is your chance to explore a canon of literary work that speaks volumes about the imaginative, emotional, and spiritual power of literature. As you delve into the depths of enduring works such as the Chronicles of Narnia, The Screwtape Letters, Mere Christianity, and Till We Have Faces, you'll consider a range of questions central to truly understanding why C.S. Lewis has had such a profound impact on 20th-century readers.
From the magisterial Oxford History of English Literature to children's fantasy series, how did Lewis write with such brilliance and coherence in so many distinct fields? What were the people, events, and influences that shaped his thought, his character, and the spiritual drama at his life's core? What do Lewis's fictional and factual autobiographies reveal about his conversion and his efforts to explain and defend Christianity? How do his writings help readers come to grips with perennial spiritual questions involving miracles, suffering, sin, and salvation?
Join Professor Markos for an eye-opening examination of why Lewis - the Oxbridge don and self-described, "very ordinary layman of the Church of England," touches millions of readers so deeply and is considered the most widely read Christian spokesman of our time.
Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2000
7 people are currently reading
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About the author
Louis A. Markos
39 books123 followersDr. Markos earned his B.A. in English and History from Colgate University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in English from the University of Michigan. At the University of Michigan, he specialized in British Romantic Poetry, Literary Theory, and the Classics.
He has taught at Houston Baptist University since 1991, where he is Professor in English and holds the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities.
He has taught at Houston Baptist University since 1991, where he is Professor in English and holds the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
July 15, 2022
A wonderful and inspiring set of lectures about C.S. Lewis, his life, and his works. Very enlightening.
March 5, 2022
5 stars for Markos' passion in teaching.
5 stars for his knowledge of Lewis and help in understanding Lewis' works (he’s a Lewis scholar par excellence!)
But 0 stars for Markos' “free-will” philosophy posing as biblical theology, and for his anti-Calvinist and anti-Puritan rants.
5 stars for his knowledge of Lewis and help in understanding Lewis' works (he’s a Lewis scholar par excellence!)
But 0 stars for Markos' “free-will” philosophy posing as biblical theology, and for his anti-Calvinist and anti-Puritan rants.
October 31, 2016
Although relatively brief as a course, I found it hugely informative. The audio lectures had a crisp sort of PBS feel to them, with solid transitions and clean organization. But they were by no means dry or rigid.
Markos is both fond and passionate about his subject--with whom he opens by admitting he shares both faith and many theological viewpoints. His excitement lends a frenetic energy to his talks, and a persuasive empathy that readily holds attention. Most authors could only hope to have their works and life taught about by such a devoted acolyte.
The recordings aren't perfect in their editing--the professor does falter now and then. But this really does nothing to pull you out of the material, and may actually enhance the live-recorded sense of it all. The study booklet is a great reinforcement on the content. And while there are times one may wonder if Markos is reading a little too much into Lewis' intent, his justification is generally compelling.
It's true, I've always loved Lewis' works. But I can now appreciate them on a much more personal level of understanding. I have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis, not simply as an astoundingly talented and wide-ranging writer, but as person whom I would have genuinely loved to know as a friend had our earthly timelines been more compatible.
Markos is both fond and passionate about his subject--with whom he opens by admitting he shares both faith and many theological viewpoints. His excitement lends a frenetic energy to his talks, and a persuasive empathy that readily holds attention. Most authors could only hope to have their works and life taught about by such a devoted acolyte.
The recordings aren't perfect in their editing--the professor does falter now and then. But this really does nothing to pull you out of the material, and may actually enhance the live-recorded sense of it all. The study booklet is a great reinforcement on the content. And while there are times one may wonder if Markos is reading a little too much into Lewis' intent, his justification is generally compelling.
It's true, I've always loved Lewis' works. But I can now appreciate them on a much more personal level of understanding. I have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis, not simply as an astoundingly talented and wide-ranging writer, but as person whom I would have genuinely loved to know as a friend had our earthly timelines been more compatible.
January 28, 2015
Markos really does a good job of walking the listener through Lewis's most popular or influential texts. This feels like a college seminar on Lewis. I own this and am glad to have it in my library for future reference.
April 12, 2025
Series of lectures by The Great Courses that offers a simple introduction (or refresher) on themes in Lewis's work. Begins with a brief bio, then describes major concepts or recurring ideas across Lewis's fiction and nonfiction. Spends a little too much time providing plot summaries for his fiction. Some of the symbols he points out are obvious, some more subtle. Not the first place I'd recommend people go if they want to learn more about Lewis's work, but I wouldn't actively tell people to avoid it, either.
First time I've ever heard somebody claim that Ginger is symbolic of Goebbels. That's a new one.
Markos is at Houston Christian University here: https://hc.edu/contact/louis-markos/
First time I've ever heard somebody claim that Ginger is symbolic of Goebbels. That's a new one.
Markos is at Houston Christian University here: https://hc.edu/contact/louis-markos/
January 23, 2024
Listened. Very easy to follow lecture series on the life and works of CS Lewis. I found it very interesting and now want to read some of his books.
February 27, 2011
There were quite a few things I liked about this course. It gave of good overview and explanation of Lewis' writings. I didn't particularly care for Prof Markos. He was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic, but I felt that he was often preaching. Sometimes I wasn't sure what was his own opinion and what was the opinion of Lewis. I found this quite irritating and had to frequent brakes from listening.
September 21, 2018
Life and Writings of C.S. Lewis is a lecture from The Great Courses by Louis Markos. Markos admits that the subject is a favorite of his, personally, because C.S. Lewis influences this author profoundly. The course is broken up into 12 chapters, each describing the events affecting Lewis at the time of his writing.
I learn a lot about this prolific writer who encompasses so many genres from children's literature to explanatory assignments from Oxford University on 16th and 17th century English literature, like John Milton, 1608-1674, a poet who wrote Paradise Lost in 1667. Another tidbit of information is what Lewis answers to, the nickname, Jack, since childhood. I know of Lewis's eventual conversion to Christianity later in life but I am unaware, until I listen to this lecture, that an estranged relationship between he and his father occurs after his mother dies and he is shipped off to boarding school. Only after his father's death does Lewis become Christian. Closure with the father figure and the prodding by his close friend, J.R.R. Tolkien allows Lewis to drop his resistance and develop Christianity's best apologetic arguments to date.
Markos excitedly delves into the stories and their deeper meanings with each interesting lecture. The Narnia Chronicles are a favorite of his and his children. The symbolism is rich in his tales that display Lewis's knowledge of scripture and its meaning. I enjoy this course immensely and have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis because of it.
There are 12 (twelve) lectures, averaging 30 minutes each that Louis Markos addresses. They are: 1) The Legacy of C.S. Lewis, 2) Argument by Desire--Surprised bu Joy and the Pilgrims Regress, 3) Ethics and the Tao--Mere Christianity and the Abolition of Man, 4) Nature and Supernature--Miracles and the Problem of Pain, 5) Heaven and Hell--the Screwtape Letters and the Great Divorce, 6) Lewis the Scholar--Apologist for he Past, 7) Paradise Regained--The Space Trilogy I, 8)
Temptation, Struggle, and Choice--The Space Trilogy II, 9) Smuggled Theology--The Chronicles of Narnia I, 10) Journeys of Faith--Chronicles of Narnia II, 11) The Beginning and the End--The Chronicles of Narnia III, and 12) Suffering unto Wisdom--Till We Have Faces and A Grief Observed. This is an excellent way to address such a book. I'm a big fan or C.S. Lewis. Highly Recommend.
I learn a lot about this prolific writer who encompasses so many genres from children's literature to explanatory assignments from Oxford University on 16th and 17th century English literature, like John Milton, 1608-1674, a poet who wrote Paradise Lost in 1667. Another tidbit of information is what Lewis answers to, the nickname, Jack, since childhood. I know of Lewis's eventual conversion to Christianity later in life but I am unaware, until I listen to this lecture, that an estranged relationship between he and his father occurs after his mother dies and he is shipped off to boarding school. Only after his father's death does Lewis become Christian. Closure with the father figure and the prodding by his close friend, J.R.R. Tolkien allows Lewis to drop his resistance and develop Christianity's best apologetic arguments to date.
Markos excitedly delves into the stories and their deeper meanings with each interesting lecture. The Narnia Chronicles are a favorite of his and his children. The symbolism is rich in his tales that display Lewis's knowledge of scripture and its meaning. I enjoy this course immensely and have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis because of it.
There are 12 (twelve) lectures, averaging 30 minutes each that Louis Markos addresses. They are: 1) The Legacy of C.S. Lewis, 2) Argument by Desire--Surprised bu Joy and the Pilgrims Regress, 3) Ethics and the Tao--Mere Christianity and the Abolition of Man, 4) Nature and Supernature--Miracles and the Problem of Pain, 5) Heaven and Hell--the Screwtape Letters and the Great Divorce, 6) Lewis the Scholar--Apologist for he Past, 7) Paradise Regained--The Space Trilogy I, 8)
Temptation, Struggle, and Choice--The Space Trilogy II, 9) Smuggled Theology--The Chronicles of Narnia I, 10) Journeys of Faith--Chronicles of Narnia II, 11) The Beginning and the End--The Chronicles of Narnia III, and 12) Suffering unto Wisdom--Till We Have Faces and A Grief Observed. This is an excellent way to address such a book. I'm a big fan or C.S. Lewis. Highly Recommend.
December 27, 2018
I've listened to these lectures two to four times and plan to listen again before I return this set to my brother. It has been a boon companion for my C.S. Lewis Reading Project and holds a permanent place in my car CD changer.
Some of CSL's works are tough sledding. These talks have been helpful as I wrestled with them. I'm grateful for the Professor Markos' help.
Some of CSL's works are tough sledding. These talks have been helpful as I wrestled with them. I'm grateful for the Professor Markos' help.
January 1, 2022
This is a must for anyone who reads and appreciates the writing and genius of C. S. Lewis. Louis Markos brilliantly and articulately teaches on all the major works of Lewis from the Chronicles of Narnia to the Space Trilogy. I felt like I was sitting in his classroom while I listened. Fabulous!
January 8, 2023
I should have known better than go for a sermon-like rant of a lecture by a Baptist on an author I'd already developed a slight dislike for for wrapping Christian ideology into a globally celebrated children's book series. Not my thing. Definitely. Not.
June 13, 2019
CSL: The Greatest Hits, performed by a decent cover band
March 19, 2009
I loved the idea of a series of lectures spanning all the major works of C.S. Lewis. While this lecture series was overall pretty good, I wasn't quite as happy with it as I might have expected. Of course, nothing can substitute for reading the books.
The professor, Louis Markos, did a good job preparing the lectures but I found his presentation and speech sometimes to be a bit distracting or annoying. There were many times where he fumbled over his words and I find that his voice is a bit straining to listen to after a while. It is clear that he has a personal love for Lewis' works which is good, but despite saying that he wouldn't "preach" in the introduction, I felt like at times there were some expansions of ideas that may have been more from Markos than from Lewis (though the content I would certainly agree with).
Some of the lectures were of course more interesting than others. It is difficult to give the synopsis of a book like the Chronicles of Narnia as well as to pull out the important themes and such in a short space of time.
The professor, Louis Markos, did a good job preparing the lectures but I found his presentation and speech sometimes to be a bit distracting or annoying. There were many times where he fumbled over his words and I find that his voice is a bit straining to listen to after a while. It is clear that he has a personal love for Lewis' works which is good, but despite saying that he wouldn't "preach" in the introduction, I felt like at times there were some expansions of ideas that may have been more from Markos than from Lewis (though the content I would certainly agree with).
Some of the lectures were of course more interesting than others. It is difficult to give the synopsis of a book like the Chronicles of Narnia as well as to pull out the important themes and such in a short space of time.
October 8, 2008
It's surely advantageous to have a lecturer who is an enthusiastic lover of his subject matter, and Markos is certainly that, as he manicly trying to convey the joy he gets from Lewis's works. But he verges on too devoted, and some objectivity is wanting. I've read Lewis - he's enjoyable, true, but not perfect.
Still, that's forgiveable.
What's not is the lecturer's frequent snide comments about modern issues, targeting groups as diverse as feminists, post-modernists, environmentalists, the parents of the Columbine shooters, and the somewhat unclear grouping "moderns." Fine for talk radio - but the Teaching Company typically does better. Now most of the material is true and on topic, but these cranky comments about current culture are annoying.
Still, that's forgiveable.
What's not is the lecturer's frequent snide comments about modern issues, targeting groups as diverse as feminists, post-modernists, environmentalists, the parents of the Columbine shooters, and the somewhat unclear grouping "moderns." Fine for talk radio - but the Teaching Company typically does better. Now most of the material is true and on topic, but these cranky comments about current culture are annoying.
September 23, 2013
Really great course. I found Markos to be enthusiastic & knowledgeable about Lewis & his work. I know some of the complaints about Markos' presentation is that he seems to be too devoted to Lewis & not critical enough of Lewis' works. But I found that refreshing actually. Too often today most treatments of authors in the past are post-modern deconstructionist hack jobs & are riddled with chronological snobbery, i.e. dismissing the author as being backward on topics we present day people consider ourselves to be so enlightened upon. Very rarely do we actually take the author seriously & try to really get inside their work & thought. Markos does a fantastic job of taking us inside Lewis' work & also letting us know the man as well. Would highly recommend this course.
May 16, 2017
A quick enjoyable set of lectures from the Houston Baptist University Professor on the writings of C.S. Lewis. I have written elsewhere about how meaningful Lewis has been in my life, an opinion obviously shared by Dr. Markos.
The lectures go through several of Lewis' writings, covering most of his fiction and a few of his non-fiction works. Dr. Markos gives quick summaries and then discusses the role each work plays in the primary themes that flow through most of Lewis' work.
The first word of the title is somewhat misleading, as Dr. Markos even mentions that he doesn't cover much of Lewis' biography. But that focus on the writings turns out to work quite well and led me to enjoy the time spent with him.
The lectures go through several of Lewis' writings, covering most of his fiction and a few of his non-fiction works. Dr. Markos gives quick summaries and then discusses the role each work plays in the primary themes that flow through most of Lewis' work.
The first word of the title is somewhat misleading, as Dr. Markos even mentions that he doesn't cover much of Lewis' biography. But that focus on the writings turns out to work quite well and led me to enjoy the time spent with him.
February 23, 2011
By far my least favorite TTC series to date - Markos's lecturing style is condescending, simplistic, and unpleasant. As another reviewer pointed out, he is quite preachy despite the claims of the introduction.
March 4, 2015
Some have complained that Dr. Markos's voice is annoying and it did take me a while to get used to it but I ended up enjoying these lectures. I never tire of reading and hearing about CS Lewis.
July 29, 2016
A nice and very enthusiastic overview of Lewis' work. Makes we want to read them all again.
February 24, 2025
Louis A. Markos’ "The Life and Writings of C. S. Lewis" is a compelling lecture series from The Great Courses that provides an insightful exploration of Lewis' vast body of work. As both a scholar and a devoted admirer of Lewis, Markos presents twelve engaging lectures that examine Lewis' contributions to Christian apologetics, literary criticism, and creative fiction.
C. S. Lewis (1898–1963) had a remarkable personal journey, transitioning from atheism to devout Christianity. This transformation significantly influenced his writings, allowing him to present Christian ideals from an outsider's perspective. His apologetic works seek to justify the existence of God and tackle common theological challenges in innovative ways. Unlike traditional approaches that depict humanity as straying from God and requiring redemption, Lewis argues that human nature itself reflects God’s existence and power. He delves into themes of joy, morality, miracles, and suffering, asserting that these elements align with the divine concept. Lewis contends that God serves as the ultimate source of joy, the arbiter of moral standards, the force behind natural laws (enabling miracles), and the granter of free will, which inherently brings pain and suffering. Furthermore, he emphasizes that humanity can only find true fulfillment through God, as our innate desire for joy is only meaningful if there exists an ultimate source of joy to satisfy it. His apologetic writings are enriched by his personal experiences, making his arguments both relatable and compelling.
Lewis also presents a novel perspective on hell, viewing it not as a place of punishment or abandonment for those who reject God, but rather as a space where individuals may remain if they choose to distance themselves from God’s presence. According to Lewis, those in hell are not condemned without recourse; rather, they have the opportunity to reconsider their choices. This interpretation offers a vision of God as compassionate and just, emphasizing human free.
Beyond his theological works, Lewis was a prolific literary writer whose fantasy stories left a lasting impact on literature, particularly children's fiction. His works, including "The Chronicles of Narnia," "The Space Trilogy," and "Till We Have Faces," redefined children's literature by infusing it with profound themes and intellectual depth, ensuring its recognition as a valuable and meaningful literary genre. Although many of his stories incorporate Christian ideals and symbolism, they were not written as overt religious texts; rather, they naturally reflect his beliefs and personal experiences. His literary influences are deeply rooted in medieval literature, reflecting his classical education and taste. Additionally, his focus on the human experience is evident in the complex characters he created, who navigate moral dilemmas and personal transformations.
Lewis also made significant contributions to literary criticism. His scholarly works challenge the prevailing "modern prejudices" of his time, which evaluated historical literature through a contemporary lens. Instead, Lewis advocated for a historical approach, applying his extensive knowledge of medieval and Renaissance literature to his critiques. His work remains influential in the field of literary studies, offering a perspective that values historical context and timeless human themes over modern reinterpretations.
While the primary focus of Markos’ lectures is Lewis’ intellectual and literary achievements, he also provides glimpses into Lewis’ personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, Joy Davidman. These biographical elements add depth to the portrait of Lewis, depicting him as a brilliant yet deeply human figure whose personal experiences informed his writings.
Overall, "The Life and Writings of C. S. Lewis" offers a thorough and engaging introduction to one of the most influential writers and thinkers of the 20th century. Markos’ passion for Lewis’ work shines through in his lectures, making this series an excellent resource for both newcomers and longtime admirers of Lewis. By weaving together Lewis’ apologetics, fiction, and literary criticism within a cohesive framework, Markos inspires his audience to explore Lewis’ works more deeply and appreciate the profound impact he had on literature and theology.
C. S. Lewis (1898–1963) had a remarkable personal journey, transitioning from atheism to devout Christianity. This transformation significantly influenced his writings, allowing him to present Christian ideals from an outsider's perspective. His apologetic works seek to justify the existence of God and tackle common theological challenges in innovative ways. Unlike traditional approaches that depict humanity as straying from God and requiring redemption, Lewis argues that human nature itself reflects God’s existence and power. He delves into themes of joy, morality, miracles, and suffering, asserting that these elements align with the divine concept. Lewis contends that God serves as the ultimate source of joy, the arbiter of moral standards, the force behind natural laws (enabling miracles), and the granter of free will, which inherently brings pain and suffering. Furthermore, he emphasizes that humanity can only find true fulfillment through God, as our innate desire for joy is only meaningful if there exists an ultimate source of joy to satisfy it. His apologetic writings are enriched by his personal experiences, making his arguments both relatable and compelling.
Lewis also presents a novel perspective on hell, viewing it not as a place of punishment or abandonment for those who reject God, but rather as a space where individuals may remain if they choose to distance themselves from God’s presence. According to Lewis, those in hell are not condemned without recourse; rather, they have the opportunity to reconsider their choices. This interpretation offers a vision of God as compassionate and just, emphasizing human free.
Beyond his theological works, Lewis was a prolific literary writer whose fantasy stories left a lasting impact on literature, particularly children's fiction. His works, including "The Chronicles of Narnia," "The Space Trilogy," and "Till We Have Faces," redefined children's literature by infusing it with profound themes and intellectual depth, ensuring its recognition as a valuable and meaningful literary genre. Although many of his stories incorporate Christian ideals and symbolism, they were not written as overt religious texts; rather, they naturally reflect his beliefs and personal experiences. His literary influences are deeply rooted in medieval literature, reflecting his classical education and taste. Additionally, his focus on the human experience is evident in the complex characters he created, who navigate moral dilemmas and personal transformations.
Lewis also made significant contributions to literary criticism. His scholarly works challenge the prevailing "modern prejudices" of his time, which evaluated historical literature through a contemporary lens. Instead, Lewis advocated for a historical approach, applying his extensive knowledge of medieval and Renaissance literature to his critiques. His work remains influential in the field of literary studies, offering a perspective that values historical context and timeless human themes over modern reinterpretations.
While the primary focus of Markos’ lectures is Lewis’ intellectual and literary achievements, he also provides glimpses into Lewis’ personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, Joy Davidman. These biographical elements add depth to the portrait of Lewis, depicting him as a brilliant yet deeply human figure whose personal experiences informed his writings.
Overall, "The Life and Writings of C. S. Lewis" offers a thorough and engaging introduction to one of the most influential writers and thinkers of the 20th century. Markos’ passion for Lewis’ work shines through in his lectures, making this series an excellent resource for both newcomers and longtime admirers of Lewis. By weaving together Lewis’ apologetics, fiction, and literary criticism within a cohesive framework, Markos inspires his audience to explore Lewis’ works more deeply and appreciate the profound impact he had on literature and theology.
September 7, 2017
Life and Writings of C.S. Lewis is a lecture from The Great Courses by Louis Markos. Markos admits that the subject is a favorite of his, personally, because C.S. Lewis influences this author profoundly. The course is broken up into 12 chapters, each describing the events affecting Lewis at the time of his writing.
I learn a lot about this prolific writer who encompasses so many genres from children's literature to explanatory assignments from Oxford University on 16th and 17th century English literature, like John Milton, 1608-1674, a poet who wrote Paradise Lost in 1667. Another tidbit of information is what Lewis answers to, the nickname, Jack, since childhood. I know of Lewis's eventual conversion to Christianity later in life but I am unaware, until I listen to this lecture, that an estranged relationship between he and his father occurs after his mother dies and he is shipped off to boarding school. Only after his father's death does Lewis become Christian. Closure with the father figure and the prodding by his close friend, J.R.R. Tolkien allows Lewis to drop his resistance and develop Christianity's best apologetic arguments to date.
Markos excitedly delves into the stories and their deeper meanings with each interesting lecture. The Narnia Chronicles are a favorite of his and his children. The symbolism is rich in his tales that display Lewis's knowledge of scripture and its meaning. I enjoy this course immensely and have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis because of it.
I learn a lot about this prolific writer who encompasses so many genres from children's literature to explanatory assignments from Oxford University on 16th and 17th century English literature, like John Milton, 1608-1674, a poet who wrote Paradise Lost in 1667. Another tidbit of information is what Lewis answers to, the nickname, Jack, since childhood. I know of Lewis's eventual conversion to Christianity later in life but I am unaware, until I listen to this lecture, that an estranged relationship between he and his father occurs after his mother dies and he is shipped off to boarding school. Only after his father's death does Lewis become Christian. Closure with the father figure and the prodding by his close friend, J.R.R. Tolkien allows Lewis to drop his resistance and develop Christianity's best apologetic arguments to date.
Markos excitedly delves into the stories and their deeper meanings with each interesting lecture. The Narnia Chronicles are a favorite of his and his children. The symbolism is rich in his tales that display Lewis's knowledge of scripture and its meaning. I enjoy this course immensely and have a greater appreciation for C.S. Lewis because of it.
September 4, 2019
Louis A. Markos takes the listener on an edifying journey through the life of the Christian Apologist C. S. Lewis by using his writings as a framework for discovery. He begins by stating that C.S. Lewis did not seek "to earn the praise of the literati, and instead wrote for the common man, the educated nonspecialist and the sincere layman." The semi biographical presentation shows how C. S. Lewis' Christianity evolved over his lifetime through a series of painful life events and earnest searching for meaning. Writings reviewed include The Problem of Pain, the Screwtape Letters, Mere Christianity, the Great Divorce, Nature and Supermature; Miracles, Smuggled Theology, The Chronicles of Narnia I; Journeys of Faith; The Chronicle of Narnia II; The Beginning and the End; The Chronicles of Narnia III; and Suffering into Wisdom; Till We Have Faces and A Grief Observed. The philosophical framework provided by Professor Markos filled the gaps of my understanding especially about the hidden spiritual meanings embedded in the Chronicles of Narnia I, II and III. While the author's style of delivery was grating at times, this was a small price to pay for the wisdom and beauty made available by these lectures.
March 24, 2024
In this series of lectures Louis A. Markos endeavors to sum up the life and works of C.S. Lewis. He does so with a heavy emphasis on the religious aspects of Lewis’s work, which is fair enough considering Lewis's well-earned reputation as the 20th century's foremost Christian apologist.
I’ve been a fan of C.S. Lewis for much of my life, but Markos takes it to a whole other level. At one point he says that he agrees with everything Lewis wrote and believed. 🤩 Yikes! This worried me since I was really wondering if I was in for an adoring hagiography here. Maybe it wasn’t quite as bad as that but it was close. Still, I enjoy C.S. Lewis’s work enough that I still managed to get something out of it as Markos gushes his way through 12 lectures.
I guess this was still worthwhile since I intend to read more of C.S. Lewis’s work, though there is plenty that I disagree with him about and I think that’s a healthy thing.
I’ve been a fan of C.S. Lewis for much of my life, but Markos takes it to a whole other level. At one point he says that he agrees with everything Lewis wrote and believed. 🤩 Yikes! This worried me since I was really wondering if I was in for an adoring hagiography here. Maybe it wasn’t quite as bad as that but it was close. Still, I enjoy C.S. Lewis’s work enough that I still managed to get something out of it as Markos gushes his way through 12 lectures.
I guess this was still worthwhile since I intend to read more of C.S. Lewis’s work, though there is plenty that I disagree with him about and I think that’s a healthy thing.
September 25, 2023
One of the things I enjoy about G. K. Chesterton's little biographies (such as the one on Francis of Assisi) is that while you don't get a lot of biographical detail, Chesterton does a fabulous job of explaining why his subject is so interesting and significant--i.e., why they matter. You get the impression that Chesterton sees the big picture and wants us to know how this marvelous character fits in the grand scheme of things. That is what is missing in this lecture series on Lewis. Instead of helping us see C. S. Lewis in a broader context, Markos mostly summarizes Lewis's main points in his many works. But if your goal is to understand Lewis's arguments and achievements, I think time would be much better spent reading or rereading Lewis himself.
July 29, 2024
Markos is a good, high-energy lecturer - the sort of unabashed "stan" for the subject who nevertheless brings a high degree of scholarly rigor to the task. However, this particular lecture series (which originally belonged to my late uncle) is simply too short to satisfy those of us who want more on Lewis' complete bibliography - particularly his nonfiction and academic work (the lecture on the latter is by far the best of the bunch, but Markos has only so much time with which to work). This would've fared far better as a 36- or 48-lecture series - it matters little to me, since I run them all at 2x during the commute - though I'd guess the public appetite for such a thing probably wasn't/isn't great enough to justify such an effort.
May 17, 2023
I read Mere Christianity years ago and need to revisit it, but then found this audio course and dived in. Clive Staples was a very interesting man with an extraordinary mind, and lived an curious life with lots of ups and downs. Combining that with his faithful struggles makes his writing compelling. I'm not into fiction, but his fantasy novels summarized in this course seem enticing and I can see how young readers love them.
The narrator, Louis A. Markos, was simply fantastic! His grasp of C.S. Lewis' writings was superb and the animation in his narration was captivating.
The narrator, Louis A. Markos, was simply fantastic! His grasp of C.S. Lewis' writings was superb and the animation in his narration was captivating.
December 29, 2024
"The Life and Writings of C. S. Lewis" by Louis A. Markos is outstanding. Markos' love for C. S. Lewis and enthusiasm for his writings came through consistently. The course ties together Lewis' non-fiction and fiction to reveal his underlying theological premise. It also provides a solid understanding of Lewis' journey from non-believer to committed Christ follower to his struggle with grief and suffering. I highly recommend this work to anyone interested in a better understanding of C. S. Lewis and his work.
August 16, 2021
Outstanding Insights into C.S. Lewis
Terrific insights into C.S. Lewis the apologist, the writer, and the person. I would have liked much, much more. The only thing that was a bit off-putting was the frenetic style of the lecturer. I normally listen to most of my Audible books at 1.3x speed, and did so this time, but I had to pay extra-close attention because of the way in which he talked. Still, and outstanding set of lectures.
Terrific insights into C.S. Lewis the apologist, the writer, and the person. I would have liked much, much more. The only thing that was a bit off-putting was the frenetic style of the lecturer. I normally listen to most of my Audible books at 1.3x speed, and did so this time, but I had to pay extra-close attention because of the way in which he talked. Still, and outstanding set of lectures.
June 18, 2022
Good overview. There are many good points with this but as with all there are shortcomings too. It’s peppered with the interpretations of what C S Lewis may have thought. Albeit, from someone who is well versed in his writings. But there’s some bias that come out. I think many “Christians” may not agree with some of what is espoused. That’s because it reflects heavily on pagan or medieval ideals and ideas. Not wrong in any sense. Lewis is a complex man no doubt.
March 31, 2021
This is an introduction to Lewis and his work. The lectures focus much more on his work than on Lewis as a person. That is both the strength and weakness of the course. For a person who wants an overview of his work, this is a good introduction. For those who are interested in his life, they will need to look elsewhere.
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