C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman: A Cognitive, Cultural, and Existential Dialogue Introduction: From Intellectual Correspondence to an Existential Union The relationship between the British literary scholar, Christian apologist C.S. Lewis and the American poetess, former communist and Jewish convert Joy Davidman is a unique case in the history of literature and culture of the 20th century. Their connection is more than a romantic drama (though this aspect, popularized by the play and film "Shadows of Love," is significant); it is a complex, multi-level intellectual and spiritual dialogue. It can be analyzed as a process of mutual cognitive and existential transformation of two brilliant intellects within the framework of common Christian beliefs, but with different cultural and life experiences. Background: Two Trajectories to the Encounter C.S. Lewis (1898-1963) at the time of their acquaintance (1952, correspondence; personal meeting — 1955) was an established Oxford professor, the author of the famous "Chronicles of Narnia," a brilliant apologist ("Mere Christianity"), and a member of the literary circle "The Inklings." His worldview was shaped within the framework of British intellectualism, Anglican tradition, and deep knowledge of medieval literature. On the other hand, Joy Davidman (1915-1960) had undergone a series of radical transformations: an accomplished poetess, winner of the prestigious Yale University prize; an active member of the Communist Party of the United States; the daughter of Jewish immigrants. Her conversion to Christianity was a dramatic intellectual and mystical experience, described in detail in her autobiography "Smoke on the Mountain." Her marriage to writer William Lindsey Graham was falling apart, her husband suffering from alcoholism. Thus, by the time of the beginning of their correspondence, Joy was seeking intellectual support in her new faith, and Lewis was one of her main spiritual authorities. Structure of the Dialogue: Three Inters ... Read more