66 pages • 2 hours read
The Great Divorce
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Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Limbo And Heaven • 1940s
1945
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis, an unnamed narrator finds himself in a drab gray town and boards a bright bus that arrives to take him and other passengers to what they soon realize is Heaven. There, they meet solid, bright Spirits who try to guide them into accepting Heaven, though most Ghosts struggle with their attachments to life and sin. The narrator encounters various individuals as he explores, guided by the spirit of 19th-century writer George MacDonald, ultimately realizing he is dreaming and should share his experiences. The novel includes sensitive topics such as the afterlife and discussions of religious belief.
Contemplative
Fantastical
Inspirational
Mysterious
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
166,857 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
C. S. Lewis's The Great Divorce is widely praised for its imaginative and provocative exploration of moral and spiritual themes. Its allegorical narrative captivates readers, though some find its theological concepts challenging. The book's concise prose and vivid imagery are admired, but its heavy-handed message may not appeal to all. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Great Divorce?
Readers who enjoy theological explorations and imaginative fiction will appreciate The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis. Fans of Dante's The Divine Comedy or Lewis's own The Screwtape Letters will relish its allegorical narrative on the afterlife, morality, and redemption. Its reflective and moralistic tone appeals to both literary and spiritual seekers.
166,857 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
GEORGE MACDONALD
GEORGE MACDONALD
A real-life Scottish author and minister who acts as a spiritual guide for the narrator, offering insights into the nature of Heaven and spiritual understanding. He is portrayed as wise and deeply knowledgeable about Christian teachings.
IKEY
IKEY
A Ghost who believes that human systems can redeem the Grey Town, and attempts to gather commodities from the Valley. His plans focus on economic solutions and gathering people, illustrating his flaw in depending on human governance.
THE APOSTATE
THE APOSTATE
A character who once adhered to orthodox Christianity but now embraces a more liberal theology. He is involved in endless debates and questioning, valuing the search for truth more than truth itself, and leads a theological society in the Grey Town.
160
Novel • Fiction
Limbo And Heaven • 1940s
1945
Adult
16+ years
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