After reflecting on the different interpretations of love
stated in C.S. Lewis’s philosophical text The
Four Loves and their implication on the relationship between Orual and
Istra, or Psyche, in another one of Lewis’s novels, Til We have Faces, I believe I understand a few of the
ramifications of the different versions of love. While Psyche selflessly gives
of herself, both emotionally and physically, for the people she loves, Orual
selfishly and jealously guards the objects or people of her affections and
spitefully discerns any recourses against her love. It is clear that Orual’s
affections are most closely aligned with Eros, the rational romance, for Lewis
whereas Psyche represents unconditional love and, thus, symbolizes a more
divine and virtuous orientation to love. Orual’s selfishness inevitably brings
misfortune to both her and her sister during the story, but I believe it is
Orual’s instinctual love for Psyche that redeems her actions. Regardless of
Orual’s faults, I believe the strength and sincerity of her affections defend
the error of her judgment simply due to the overwhelming influence love can
have over individuals.
No comments:
Post a Comment