Lewis' Interplanetary Themes & Plot


In addition to first week logistics and introductions, here is what you can expect us to do in relation with your summer reading:
1.      Formal discussion of Lewis’ plot and the theme “A fallen human cannot fully see what is unfallen.”
2.      I will be checking that you have annotated the book or constructed notes following the instructions on the summer assignment.
3.      Lesson on  basic Plot Structure
4.      Writing our Narrative Essays
a.      2 pages, MLA Format (heading, spacing, font type)
b.      Start the story with something ordinary that turns into something extraordinary (think about the opening of Out of the Silent Planet, Alice in Wonderland, or some other fantasy story).
c.       Follow the basic 5-step plot flow: Exposition/setting, rising action, climax, falling action, dénouement/resolution).
d.     Seek to explore the theme that is our focus in Out of the Silent Planet: “fallen humanity cannot properly see what is perfect.” Try to explore this theme using character and plot.
5.      Quiz on characters, plot structure, and theme in Out of the Silent Planet.
a.      C.S. Lewis was friends with H.G. Wells, but he was very critical of Well’s fantasy writing. You will notice references to Wells and one of his most famous works War of the Worlds (1897), which was quite popular in the early 20th century (Lewis wrote the Space Trilogy between 1938 and 1945). How did Wells’ writing impact imaginings of what promises and horrors space discoveries held? What kind of statement might Lewis have been trying to make?
b.      Upon reading the above article and revising your narratives, think: how can my story provide hope and truth, not cast fear and doubt?

For better perspective, review our summer reading assignment.




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