Introduction to Til We Have Faces
C.S. Lewis’s novel Til We Have Faces stands as a profound exploration of love, faith, perception, and the human condition. Published in 1956, the book is often regarded as one of Lewis’s most mature and poetic works, blending elements of myth, philosophy, and theology. The novel reimagines the myth of Cupid and Psyche, transforming it into a complex narrative centered around the character of Orual, a princess of Glome. Through her journey, Lewis delves into themes of inner truth, the nature of gods, and the difficulty of understanding oneself and others. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the novel’s themes, characters, symbolism, and its significance in Lewis’s literary oeuvre.
Overview of the Plot
The Setting and Context
The story is set in the ancient kingdom of Glome, a fictional land inspired by the myth of Psyche. The narrative is framed as Orual’s autobiography, narrated from her perspective years after the events have transpired. The novel begins with her childhood, emphasizing her close relationship with her sister, Psyche, and her subsequent feelings of jealousy and love.
Key Events in the Narrative
- Orual’s childhood and her bond with Psyche
- Psyche’s marriage to the god (the “Unseen King”) and the subsequent betrayal
- Orual’s role as a ruler and her struggles with her people
- The discovery of Psyche’s fate and Orual’s confrontation with her own perceptions
- The revelation of divine truth and the novel’s philosophical climax
The plot intricately intertwines personal relationships with larger questions about divine justice and human perception, culminating in Orual’s realization that her own biases and judgments have clouded her understanding of love and truth.
Major Themes in Til We Have Faces
Love and Obsession
At its core, the novel examines different facets of love—selfless, obsessive, and misguided. Orual’s love for Psyche is initially possessive and jealous, driven by her own insecurities. Over time, her understanding evolves into a deeper, more sacrificial love. The narrative challenges the reader to consider whether love is truly about possession or about self-giving.
Perception versus Reality
One of the novel’s central themes is the distinction between how things appear and how they truly are. Orual’s perceptions are clouded by her passions, leading her to misjudge Psyche, the gods, and herself. Lewis emphasizes that true understanding often requires humility and the willingness to see beyond superficial appearances.
Divinity and Faith
Lewis explores the nature of gods and divine justice. The gods in Glome are both mysterious and demanding, and their ways are often inscrutable. The novel suggests that faith involves trusting in divine goodness even when it is hidden or misunderstood, a theme that resonates with Lewis’s Christian worldview.
Inner Transformation and Self-Discovery
Orual’s journey is as much inward as outward. Her struggles with her identity, her perceptions, and her understanding of love lead her to a profound self-awareness. The novel ultimately advocates for inner humility and the recognition that human perceptions are limited, and that divine truth surpasses human understanding.
Character Analysis
Orual
Orual is the protagonist and narrator, whose perspective shapes the entire narrative. She begins as a jealous, possessive sister, but grows into a figure of humility and insight. Her journey from blindness—both literal and metaphorical—to clarity is central to the novel’s message. Her complex character embodies the struggle to see truth amidst emotional turmoil.
Psyche
Psyche is portrayed as beautiful, gentle, and deeply loved by Orual. Her innocence and purity become the subject of Orual’s envy and love. As the story unfolds, Psyche’s own suffering and sacrifice reveal her strength and humility, embodying the ideal of true love.
The Unseen King
The divine figure who marries Psyche represents the divine mystery and love. In Lewis’s reimagining, the Unseen King is both a literal deity and a symbol of divine truth that must be accepted by faith. His role underscores the novel’s exploration of the divine’s inscrutability and the importance of trust.
The Queen and the People of Glome
Orual’s role as queen places her in a position of authority and responsibility. Her interactions with her subjects reveal her struggles with power, justice, and compassion. Her leadership is tested through personal and political crises, reflecting the complexities of moral authority.
Symbolism and Literary Devices
The Myth of Psyche and Cupid
Lewis’s adaptation of the myth serves as a foundation for the novel’s exploration of love, trust, and divine mystery. Psyche’s journey mirrors the soul’s quest for understanding and union with the divine.
Eyes and Sight
The motif of eyes symbolizes perception, understanding, and divine insight. Orual’s blindness—both literal and metaphorical—represents her inability to see the truth. Her eventual sight signifies spiritual awakening and acceptance of divine reality.
Mirror and Reflection
Mirrors are used to symbolize self-awareness and the confrontation with one’s true self. The act of seeing oneself honestly is crucial for inner growth.
Language and Narrative Style
Lewis employs a poetic and reflective narrative voice, blending allegory with straightforward storytelling. This style invites readers into Orual’s inner world and emphasizes the novel’s philosophical depth.
Philosophical and Theological Implications
Divine Justice and Human Suffering
The novel grapples with the problem of suffering and divine justice. Orual’s perception of injustice is challenged when she learns that her judgments have obscured divine truth. Lewis suggests that divine justice often requires trust and humility, even when human experience suggests unfairness.
Faith and Obedience
Lewis advocates for a faith that transcends understanding. Orual’s journey culminates in her acceptance of divine love, echoing Christian themes of trust in God’s goodness despite unseen plans.
Love as Sacrifice
The novel portrays love not as possession but as self-sacrifice. Psyche’s willingness to endure suffering for love exemplifies this ideal, resonating with Christian notions of sacrificial love.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Initial Reception
Upon release, Til We Have Faces received mixed reviews; some critics found it less accessible than Lewis’s other works, while others praised its poetic depth and philosophical richness.
Modern Appreciation
Today, the novel is regarded as a literary masterpiece, celebrated for its profound insights into human nature and divine mystery. Its themes continue to resonate with readers interested in theology, philosophy, and literature.
Influence
Lewis’s reimagining of myth in a Christian context has influenced countless writers and thinkers. The novel’s exploration of perception and divine love offers a timeless meditation on faith and understanding.
Conclusion
Til We Have Faces remains a compelling and poetic exploration of the human quest for truth, love, and divine understanding. Through Orual’s journey, Lewis challenges readers to confront their own perceptions and biases, emphasizing that true sight—both spiritual and moral—comes from humility and trust in the unseen. The novel’s rich symbolism, complex characters, and philosophical depth continue to make it a significant work in 20th-century literature, inspiring reflection on the mysteries of divine love and the nature of the human soul. Its enduring relevance lies in its universal message: that only by surrendering our illusions and embracing humility can we truly face ourselves and the divine face-to-face.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 'Till We Have Faces' by C.S. Lewis?
The novel explores themes of love, faith, perception, and the nature of the gods, examining how human understanding and divine influence intersect through the story of Psyche and Orual.
How does 'Till We Have Faces' reinterpret the myth of Psyche and Cupid?
Lewis offers a retelling from Orual's perspective, emphasizing themes of love, misunderstanding, and the human desire for divine recognition, ultimately highlighting the complexity of true love versus superficial admiration.
What is the significance of the title 'Till We Have Faces'?
The title suggests the idea that only when we truly understand ourselves and gain clarity ('have faces') can we comprehend divine truths and our own inner realities, emphasizing self-awareness and spiritual insight.
How does 'Till We Have Faces' reflect C.S. Lewis’s Christian worldview?
The novel incorporates Christian themes of sacrifice, grace, and the nature of divine love, illustrating the journey from misunderstanding and idolization toward genuine faith and spiritual enlightenment.
Why is 'Till We Have Faces' considered one of C.S. Lewis’s most mature works?
Because it delves deeply into complex characters, moral ambiguities, and philosophical questions about perception and faith, showcasing Lewis’s mature literary and theological insights beyond simple allegory.
