Sword between the Sexes?, A: C. S. Lewis and the Gender Debates
"A keen intellect and a rich academic background are necessary in tackling a substantive study of C. S. Lewis and gender, and Mary Stewart Van Leeuwen brings those resources and much more to her work. In this fascinating, careful, and probing examination, Lewis's views of gender and his relationships with women are discussed within their cultural, historical, and theological contexts. The book is wonderfully illuminating and important for C. S. Lewis fans and for anyone interested in contemporary discussions of gender."--Christine D. Pohl, Asbury Theological Seminary"This magisterial and constructive critique of C. S. Lewis reveals him as a sensitive commentator on some centrally important areas of human interaction. The very social sciences of which he was so suspicious may both confirm his intuitions whilst correcting his mistakes. This valuable book breaks out of some of the Lewis-reading straitjackets and encourages us to see why he is still well worth our careful attention."--Ann Loades, St. Chad's College and University of Durham"Van Leeuwen traces Lewis's changing views of gender step by step through his prodigious output of books and letters until the end of his life. Whether you're a scholar, a Lewis fan, or a general reader, you will find yourself turning pages with pleasure."--Jeanne Murray Walker, University of Delaware"This is a remarkable book. Not only does Van Leeuwen critique and explore the roots of C. S. Lewis's thought and belief, she does so as a woman who has herself been in the forefront of biblical feminist scholarship. The insights gained by the reader come not only from the life and times of C. S. Lewis, but also from a deeper understanding of the psychology of gender itself. I highly recommend this book for all Christians--male and female--who desire a richer awareness of our essential unity and communion as persons."--Diane Marshall, Institute of Family Living"Respecting but not romanticizing him, Van Leeuwen explores Lewis's strengths, influences, and weaknesses, particularly as his writing deals with the relationships between women and men. This adds another excellent volume to Van Leeuwen's own work."--Debra K. Block Clark, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship