LE3 .A278 2018

2018

Whetter, Kevin

Acadia University

Bachelor of Arts

Honours

English

English & Theatre Studies

This thesis will examine experiences of C. S. Lewis’ life, as Lewis himself penned in Surprised by Joy, that are evident throughout The Chronicles of Narnia. This thesis will argue that elements of Lewis such as: his approach to women, education, childhood and Christianity are inevitably present in Narnia as a result of his conversion to Christianity late in his life, which ultimately impacted his writing and character. The framework of his conversion in the thesis largely follows Lewis’ structure in Surprised by Joy, which is an autobiographical retelling of his coming to faith. Although the thesis argues the importance of this moment, it is not the sole important element of Lewis that translates into Narnia. Although Roland Barthes argues for a separation of the author and text, this thesis suggests that that separation may not be so distinct. Instead, the author plays an important role in telling the story, if for nothing else, to provide context.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2695