53 pages • 1 hour read
Till We Have Faces
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
Glome • Mythological Era
1956
Adult
16+ years
860L
Super Short Summary
Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis is a retelling of the Greek myth of Cupid and Psyche, narrated by Orual, the Queen of Glome, who records her complaint against the gods regarding her sister Psyche's fate. Orual’s love, jealousy, and pain drive her to separate Psyche from her divine husband, leading to dire consequences and a personal journey of self-discovery and reconciliation with the divine.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
76,814 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
C. S. Lewis's Till We Have Faces is praised for its intellectual depth and rich mythological themes, offering a complex retelling of Cupid and Psyche. Readers commend its introspective narrative and philosophical insights. However, some criticize its dense prose and slow pacing, which may deter casual readers. Overall, it's highly regarded by those seeking a profound and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Till We Have Faces?
Readers who enjoy mythological retellings and philosophical explorations will find Till We Have Faces intriguing. Fans of Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time and Ursula K. Le Guin's The Left Hand of Darkness will appreciate the blend of imaginative storytelling and deep moral questions in C. S. Lewis's work.
76,814 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Psyche
Psyche
Orual's youngest sister, Psyche is celebrated for her beauty and grace, and she is viewed by some as possessing almost a divine presence.
The King
The King
King Trom, the ruler of Glome, is depicted as a harsh and self-serving figure who is disappointed by his lack of a male heir.
The Fox
The Fox
A Greek slave who serves as tutor and adviser to the king's daughters, the Fox is known for his rational and philosophical perspectives that influence Orual significantly.
Bardia
Bardia
The Captain of the Palace Guard, Bardia is a practical and loyal adviser to Orual, who teaches her swordsmanship and offers counsel on matters concerning the gods.
368
Novel • Fiction
Glome • Mythological Era
1956
Adult
16+ years
860L
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