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The C.S. Lewis podcast

Latest episodes

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7 snips
Sep 4, 2023 • 10min

#121 Out of the Silent Planet: Nakedness, science and ransom

Professor Alister McGrath discusses the significance of nakedness in Out of the Silent Planet and CS Lewis's use of genuine science. They also explore the mystery behind Ransom's name and symbolism, and the incorporation of science in Lewis' space trilogy. The podcast delves into the theological connections between nakedness and sin in the story.
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11 snips
Aug 28, 2023 • 14min

#120 Out of the Silent Planet: Weston, Devine and JRR Tolkien

In this episode, Professor Alister McGrath examines the characters of Weston and Devine in C.S. Lewis's 'Out of the Silent Planet' and explores their ideologies. Topics include greed, ideological agendas, the ethical dimension of human survival, and Lewis's critique of Weston's ideas.
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Aug 21, 2023 • 15min

#119 Has The Space Trilogy stood the test of time?

Discussion on the potential for finding faith through CS Lewis' space trilogy despite its less clear messaging. Exploring parallels between the space trilogy and the Narnia Chronicles, and the challenges of adapting the trilogy into a film. Favorite moments in the trilogy include the beautifully described dance scene in Paralyngra as a metaphor for faith and the suggestion of adapting That Hideous Strength into a film.
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Aug 14, 2023 • 15min

#118 Evil, evolution and theological reflection in The Space Trilogy

Alister McGrath, a theological scholar and expert on the works of C.S. Lewis, explores theological themes in Lewis' Space Trilogy. He discusses Lewis's views on science and religion, his thoughts on evolution, and how he critiques worldviews through his fiction.
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Aug 7, 2023 • 13min

#117 Vivisection, mental health, racism and sexism

Delve into the ethical dilemmas of vivisection as C.S. Lewis passionately critiques animal experimentation. Explore his insights on mental health, reflecting on how his coping mechanisms might resonate with today's struggles. Additionally, Alister McGrath tackles allegations of sexism and racism in Lewis's writings, analyzing gender roles and colonial themes. The podcast also examines how historical forces shape literary works, offering a thought-provoking look at how Lewis's perspectives interact with contemporary issues.
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6 snips
Jul 31, 2023 • 15min

#116 Did CS Lewis believe in aliens?

Dive into C.S. Lewis's Space Trilogy as the discussion unpacks themes of alien life and humanity's introspection. Discover how medieval literature influenced Lewis's narratives and the unique ways he critiques real-world institutions. The enigmatic narrator adds layers to reader interpretation, while humor weaves through serious topics, revealing Lewis's storytelling mastery. These insights prompt listeners to reconsider the philosophical depths behind Lewis's seemingly whimsical tales.
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7 snips
Jul 24, 2023 • 10min

#115 Why did no one want to publish Lewis' Space Trilogy?

The discussion dives into C.S. Lewis's Space Trilogy, examining its intended audience and intricate themes of sexuality and theology. It reveals the publication struggles he faced, particularly around the genre shift to science fiction. The influence of Charles Williams on Lewis is explored, highlighting their literary bond and the impact of their friendship during World War II. Insights into J.R. Tolkien's role in Lewis's writing journey add another layer to the narrative.
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5 snips
Jul 17, 2023 • 16min

#114 An introduction to The Space Trilogy

Discover C.S. Lewis's surprising venture into science fiction with his Space Trilogy. Delve into the philosophical and theological themes that challenge our understanding of humanity and divinity. Explore how cultural debates of the 1930s shaped his writing and the critical perspective on science's limits. Understand Lewis's evolution as a writer, particularly how this trilogy contrasts with his beloved Narnia series. Uncover the profound questions about morality and the human condition that still resonate today.
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Jul 10, 2023 • 13min

#113 What about other religions?

Discussion on the value of other religions, interpretation of religious texts, and the reliability of the gospels. Exploration of beliefs, seeking outside help, and the enduring influence of C.S. Lewis.
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Jul 3, 2023 • 17min

#112 Was Jesus a liar, lunatic, Lord or something else?

In the third part of this replay of an Unbelievable show, originally broadcast in October 2010, Justin Brierley speaks to Lewis scholar Dr Michael Ward and former Christian-turned atheist Dan Barker. Here, they continue to discuss CS Lewis' apologetics, focussing particularly on his classic ‘Trilemma’ - Jesus is either a liar, lunatic or Lord. Other shows referenced in this programme: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/unbelievable/10-oct-2009-jesus-and-the-god-of-israel/12275.article + Subscribe to The CS Lewis podcast: https://pod.link/1560959545 + For more shows, free ebook and newsletter visit our new website + For online learning https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training + For our Premier Unbelievable? Live events + Support the podcast from the USA + Support the podcast from UK and rest of the world

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