The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis - Research Paper Example

It is primarily based on the man’s freedom in choosing the path that can either lead to salvation or hell. Before, delving into the thematic intricacies of the novel, the substance of this prose will examine the exact premise of the plot. The correspondences between the two demons involve the senior demon guiding his nephew in leading a British astray, who is only referred to as the ‘Patient’. Wormwood is a novice in the great conflict between his “Lord” the Satan and the enemy – God, hence he must use his uncle Screwtape’s advice in turning the patient against God.

Most of the correspondences involved Wormwood getting rebuked for his carelessness that causes his Patient to convert to Christianity; however, both demons do not give up and continue to tempt their patient. (Lewis, 1945) Wormwood’s character is shown to possess the same diabolical nature of silently manipulating his patients into committing heinous acts, whereas Screwtape is one of those demons, who believe in corrupting one’s soul and faith using doubt and confusion to turn him against God.

The story explores the seven deadly sins and Lewis’ theological approach through which the British man that is Wormwood’s patient to lure him towards the path of hell. . punishment for failing to turn a soul towards Satan, Wormwood is condemned for life and receives the same fate that would have been given to his patient, had he been successful in his mission. There are a number of key aspects of the story that make it stand out; firstly, the story delves into fundamental Christian subjects such as free will that God has granted every human.

For the patient, the junior Wormwood had laid down countless hurdles in the form of temptations such as a beautiful girl, money, carnage that is in a war and gluttony, but it was the choice the patient that eventually led to his abode in paradise. The story sheds new light on the dynamism involved in life and gives a new perspective on how various elements are used against men to tarnish their souls and condemn them to hell. Both demons have different methods to corrupt mankind, the senior believes that by corrupting his or her is the best way instead of getting the man to do deplorable deeds.

This highlights a fundamental aspect of man’s nature and religious beliefs, which is when a man commits a heinous act it is always followed by guilt and the man may repent. However, doubt is a key aspect of faith that leaves a permanent scar on one’s faith. Not allowing him to see the truth is the best way to confound the soul and eventually lead it to the path that leads towards hell. (Griffin, 2005) Therefore, the elder demon always advised him to do that but the younger demon, being inexperienced as he was, caused him to use other methods that eventually caused the man to fall in love with a Christian woman, and yet remained unsuccessful in tempting him to do anything sinful.