The first study of C.S. Lewis to offer a detailed examination of "Till We Have Faces," Peter J. Schakel's book is also the first to explore the tension between reason and imagination that significantly shaped Lewis' thinking and writing. Schakel begins with a close analysis of "Till We Have Faces" which leads the readers through the plot, clarifying its themes and it discusses structure, symbols and allusions. The second part of the book surveys Lewis' works, tracing the tension between reason and imagination. In the works of the thirties and forties reason is in the ascendant; from the early fifties on, in works such as the Chronicles of Narnia, there is an increased emphasis on imagination - which culminates in the fine "myth retold," "Till We Have Faces." Imagination and reason are reconciled, finally in the works of the early sixties such as "A Grief Observed" and "Letters to Malcolm." PETER J. SCHAKEL is Professor of English at Hope College, Holland, MI. "This book is what Lewis scholarship ought to be. It is the most thoughtful, careful Lewis study yet." - Peter Kreeft "Reason and Imagination" is a remarkable achievement, literary criticism that is both wise and moving." - Margaret Hannay "Peter Schakel brings to C. S. Lewis scholarship what has often been lacking, namely rigorous scholarly method and real critical detachment. His study of "Till We Have Faces" is a major contribution to Lewis studies." - Thomas Howard
Peter J. Schakel (1941-2024) was Peter C. and Emajean Cook Professor of English at Hope College, where he taught for forty-eight years. He was honored in 2013 with the Hope Outstanding Professor Educator (H.O.P.E.) Award, an honor presented by the graduating class to the professor whom they feel exemplifies the best qualities of Hope College teachers. An internationally respected student of C. S. Lewis's work, he published multiple books on Lewis's fiction and its relationship to faith, imagination, and the arts.
Peter Kreeft -- Boston College "This book is what Lewis scholarship ought to be. It is the most thoughtful, careful Lewis study yet. " Margaret Hannay -- Siena College "Reason and Imagination is a remarkable achievement, literary criticism that is both wise and moving. " Thomas Howard -- Gordon College "Peter Schakel brings to C. S. Lewis scholarship what has often been lacking, namely rigorous scholarly method and real critical detachment. His study of Till We Have Faces' is a major contribution to Lewis studies.' "
