Animals in the Writings of C. S. Lewis

Description

This book examines C. S. Lewis’s writings about animals, and the theological bases of his opposition to vivisection and other cruelties. It argues Genesis is central to many of these ethical musings and the book’s organization reflects this. It treats in turn Lewis’s creative approaches to the Garden of Eden, humanity’s “dominion” over the earth, and the loss of paradise with all the catastrophic consequences for animals it presaged. The book closes looking at Lewis’s vision of a more inclusive community. Though he left no comprehensive summary of his ideas, the Narnia adventures and science fiction trilogy, scattered poems and his popular theology inspire affection and sympathy for the nonhuman. This study challenges scholars to reassess Lewis as not only a literary critic and children’s author but also an animal theologian of consequence, though there is much here for all fans of Mr. Bultitude and Reepicheep to explore. Front Matter ....Pages i-xv Introduction: The Genesis Palimpsest (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 1-29 Genesis and Peaceful Coexistence (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 31-60 Genesis and Humanity’s Dominion (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 61-111 Genesis and Paradise Lost (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 113-138 Genesis and Food (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 139-177 Genesis and the Animal–Human Community (Michael J. Gilmour)....Pages 179-211 Back Matter ....Pages 213-219