60 pages • 2 hours read
The Screwtape Letters
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Book Brief
209
Novel • Fiction
England • 1940s
1942
Adult
16+ years
1170
Super Short Summary
The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis is an epistolary novel consisting of letters from the senior devil Screwtape to his nephew, Wormwood, a novice tempter, detailing strategies to lead a human away from virtue towards vice. The story outlines the young man's spiritual journey, his conversion to Christianity, relationships, and experiences, with the backdrop of World War II, emphasizing the devils' manipulation of human thoughts and emotions.
Mysterious
Informative
Contemplative
Dark
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
481,929 ratings
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Review Roundup
C. S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters offers a witty, satirical exploration of human nature and morality through demon Screwtape's advice to his nephew. Readers praise its imaginative narrative and profound insights but note its repetitive format. Some critique its religious focus as limiting broader appeal. A thought-provoking, albeit niche, read.
Who Should Read The Screwtape Letters?
A reader who enjoys philosophical and theological reflections mixed with wit and satire would find The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis compelling. Fans of Lewis's Mere Christianity or Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy will appreciate its exploration of human nature and morality through a unique narrative lens.
481,929 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Wormwood
Wormwood
A novice demon assigned to tempt a young man, who relies on advice from his uncle Screwtape in his attempts to corrupt the soul he has been tasked with.
The Patient
The Patient
An ordinary young man under Wormwood’s temptation, whose choices and behavior are observed and discussed through Screwtape's letters.
The Patient’s Beloved
The Patient’s Beloved
The Christian woman loved by the young man, depicted as coming from a balanced Christian family without extreme religious views.
The Patient’s Mother
The Patient’s Mother
An older woman described by Screwtape as having a particular picky nature, which the devil hopes will influence her son negatively.
209
Novel • Fiction
England • 1940s
1942
Adult
16+ years
1170
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