One week ago, I posed this question to members of the C.S. Lewis Forum, a new Facebook group. I also posted the question on a number of other Facebook groups that specialize in C.S. Lewis.
We have already had quite a few rather interesting comments from people who find the question intriguing, as well as a few others who have raised contrary points that merit consideration. For example, one person took issue with my initial graphic depicting Thomas Edison as the icon of “Inventive” genius. He proposed a better selection would be Nikola Tesla. Having read a few articles, I now concur. (See revised graphic below.)
Similarly, another person expressed the opinion that Lewis’s candidacy for “most erudite” is dubious by virtue of his limited reading in math and science. I wonder what others think about this. Perhaps it depends upon the definition of “erudition”.
This same person also suggested that I replace Beethoven with Bach as the icon for “Creative” genius. Many musicologists would agree with him, but I have been listening to orchestral music for nearly 50 years, and simply disagree–so Beethoven remains on the graphic. My daughter is an opera performer and has a Doctor of Music degree from Indiana University, so I asked her opinion. Her artfully-dodged answer? It is a tossup!
Several people questioned whether (and how) anyone could determine who was (or is) the most erudite person in history. Thier doubts are well-founded. (I think Jesus would be #1, but he is not included within the scope of the analysis.)
My intent over the next few months, is to present a case for Lewis, and to provide some level of leadership over the discussions that are likely to follow. I anticipate the dialogue will be robust.
For those who wish to participate directly, please consider joining the C.S. Lewis Forum.
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3
Erudition Series Index
