The Magician’s Nephew: How it All Got Started

Featuring

Marjorie Lamp Mead, Associate Director of the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois

Christopher Mitchell Director of the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois

Session One

“The Beginning of the Beginnings: Origin and Background on Narnia and The Magician’s Nephew”

Marjorie Lamp Mead

When C. S. Lewis began writing The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, he had no thought of writing more than a single tale. It was not until many years later that he published The Magician’s Nephew, the story that reveals how Narnia came to be. In this session, we will explore the beginnings of the Chronicles of Narnia and look at Lewis as a children’s author.

Session Two

"The Theological Imagination: C. S. Lewis as Reader and Author”

Marjorie Lamp Mead

The imagination was not only instrumental in drawing C. S. Lewis to God, but it was also one of the most significant means that Lewis used to embody that faith. In this session, we will be looking at how the imagination impacted Lewis’s own faith, his view of the imagination, and finally his literary intentions in writing his own fiction including the Narnian stories.

Session Three

“The Magician’s Nephew: Theological Reflections”

Christopher Mitchell

Among the many things said about C. S. Lewis, two in particular stand out with regard to his Christian faith. One, he was one of the most converted men in all of Britain, and two, he had a remarkable ability to give imaginative body to the central doctrines of the Christian faith. The Magician’s Nephew is an example of both. The seamless integration of theological reflection and its imaginative embodiment are on display at a very high level. In this session we will explore the primary theological themes embedded in the story.

Sesion Four

Q&A and Panel Discussion, “C. S. Lewis and All Things Narnian”

Marjorie Lamp Mead and Christopher Mitchell

Registration

Registration is required. Full-day participation includes lunch and is available for $50. You can also register for either the morning or afternoon (not including lunch) for $30. Register online through our registrations page, or mail in the form below with your payment.

Saturday Seminar Mail-In Registration FormClick here to Download