The Screwtape Letters

The war is getting closer to the young man, so the devils’ strategy needs to be updated. “Are we to aim at cowardice—or at courage, with consequent pride—or at hatred of the Germans?” (159). Screwtape comes down on the side of promoting cowardice in the heat of the moment, a sinful concern for self over others, as the best expedient.

The saga of the young man continues with a report on the young man: “the patient’s behavior during the first air raid has been the worst possible. He has been very frightened and thinks himself a great coward and therefore feels no pride; but he has done everything his duty demanded and perhaps a bit more” (165).

The young man dies in a state of grace and goes straight to Heaven where he meets God and the angels. Screwtape is disgusted that Wormwood has “let a soul slip through your fingers” (171). He vows punishment for Wormwood’s failure as a tempter.