Fall 2011

FSNW-Seattle

ST574

Burton

 

 

DESCRIPTION: This course surveys and examines the entire range of C. S. Lewis’ works, with a focus on the major theological themes introduced and developed through the wide variety of his writings.

 

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The effective practice of Christian ministry will be enhanced by developing an understanding – and appreciation – of the remarkable impact of C. S. Lewis’ contributions not only to the area of Christian apologetics, but also to the world of the imagination (i.e., fiction with a profound spiritual component). While our classroom investigations and discussions will be primarily theological, biographical and literary in nature, every effort will be made to set aside time in class for the practical application of the material under consideration.

 

LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will enhance student’s basic factual and thematic knowledge of the theology of C. S. Lewis; it will help students gain a basic competence in how to interpret that theology; it will help students gain a greater ability to evaluate various theological issues and their development; and, it will provide students with the tools and knowledge for a critical and sympathetic appreciation for the breadth, unity and diversity of Lewis’ life and theological contribution.

 

COURSE FORMAT: Class will meet Monday afternoons from 2:00-5:00pm, 9/26-11/28, for a total of 30 contact hours. Time will be devoted to lectures, questions/answers, and discussion, including a panel discussion with several experts in C.S. Lewis in metro-Seattle.

 

REQUIRED READING: A minimum of 1200 pages of reading, with at least 512 pages to be from primary writings:

Howard, Thomas. Narnia and Beyond: A Guide to the Fiction of C.S. Lewis. Ignatius, 2006. ISBN: 9781586171483. 237 Pages. $12.44.

Lewis, C.S. Signature Classics (including Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, A Grief Observed, and The Abolition of Man) San Francisco: Harper One, 2002. ISBN: 0060506083. 512 Pages. $30.00.

MacSwain, Robert and Michael Ward. The Cambridge Companion to C.S. Lewis. NY: Cambridge University Press, 2010. ISBN: 0521711142. 348 Pages. $25.00.

Sayer, George. Jack: A Life Of C.S. Lewis. Wheaton. Crossway, 2005. ISBN: 978-1581347395. 464pp. $21.99.

 

RECOMMENDED READING:

Hooper, Walter. C.S. Lewis: A Complete Guide to His Life and Works. San Francisco: Harper One, 1998. ISBN: 978-0060638801. 960 Pages. $17.00.

 

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

1.     10-page research paper focusing on one doctrine as covered by C.S. Lewis: 30% of final grade.

2.     10-page reflection paper on the theological influence of C.S. Lewis: 30% of final grade.

3.     Reading journal on required texts (not including Hooper reference guide): 20% of final grade.

4.     Class presentation and discussion engagement: 20% of final grade.

 

PREREQUISITES: None.

 

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

 

FINAL EXAM: None.