63 pages 2 hours read

C. S. Lewis

That Hideous Strength

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1945

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis follows Dr. Ransom and his friends as they combat the evil N.I.C.E., a technocratic organization aiming to eradicate organic life. Central to the plot is Merlin, who awakens and aligns with Ransom. Mark and Jane Studdock face moral and existential challenges as the story builds to a climactic battle to save humanity. This book contains themes of human exploitation and mind control.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

C. S. Lewis' That Hideous Strength receives mixed reception. Praised for its imaginative narrative and philosophical depth, the book integrates science fiction with complex theological and social themes. However, some critics find its pacing uneven and the overt moralizing preachy. The novel's rich allegory and intricate world-building are notable strengths, but its accessibility remains contested.

Who should read this

Who Should Read That Hideous Strength?

A reader who enjoys That Hideous Strength by C. S. Lewis likely appreciates intellectual sci-fi with a blend of dystopian themes, moral and philosophical questions, and mythological references. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 or Aldous Huxley's Brave New World may find this book intriguing for its exploration of totalitarian societies and ethical dilemmas.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction