Within And Without A Dramatic Poem

by George MacDonald

Within And Without A Dramatic Poem is a multi-part verse drama by George Macdonald published in 1872. The work follows Julian, a monk who wrestles with faith, doubt, and the claims of religious authority while seeking a direct encounter with the divine. Spanning Part I through Part IV (and beyond), the poem interweaves scenes from monastic life, moral crisis, and romantic entanglements, chiefly the relationship between Julian and Lilia, a noblewoman whom he loves and with whom he faces social consequences, vows, and forgiveness. The narrative blends prayer, inner struggle, and external conflict—monastic discipline, church politics, and the tragic and redemptive arcs of its characters—into a lyrical, dramatic exploration of spirituality, love, and the quest for meaning. Dream sequences, visionary episodes, and a concluding reconciliation weave together themes of beauty, suffering, and salvation, all conveyed in MacDonald’s characteristic blend of imaginative poetry and metaphysical meditation.

Genres: Poetry

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1855

About the author

George MacDonald was a Scottish author, poet and Christian Congregational minister. He became a pioneering figure in the field of modern fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow-writer Lewis Carroll. In addition to his fairy tales, MacDonald wrote several works of Christian theology, including several collections of sermons.

Reviews

[Caleb Stober · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not expect to be moved in the ways I was through reading this. It reminds me so much of the beginning of the Silmarillion where Ilúvatar sings the creation song:

“And it seemed at last that there were two musics progressing at one time before the seat of Ilúvatar, and they were utterly at variance. The one was deep and wide and beautiful, but slow and blended with an immeasurable sorrow, from which its beauty chiefly came.”

These poems are deep and wide and beautiful, but slow and blended with immeasurable sorrow, from which its beauty chiefly came.

Apparently I am coming into a George MacDonald era; I already wish it had come sooner, though I’m not sure I could have appreciated it sooner.