Lessons from C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien at Oxford University

Josh Harlan, a junior at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA), spent his summer wandering the streets of Oxford, England, pondering the faith and writings of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. In between sightseeing, Harlan immersed himself in studying the two authors who are considered by many as the pinnacle of fantastical and symbolic literature of the twentieth century.

"It would be quite difficult to choose a favorite experience while at Oxford. It feels totally unfair, in fact," Harlan confesses "It would be like picking a favorite family member,or trying to decide which book to bring on a long trip."

Harlan was originally attracted to the idea of studying at Oxford because of its vibrant historical heritage as the oldest English-speaking university, founded in 1096 AD. He was also very excited about the opportunity to study two of his favorite authors in the place where they lived, wrote, and taught. When Harlan disembarked from his plane at Heathrow Airport in London, one of the first sounds to reach his ears was "The Shire" theme from "The Hobbit", a movie based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novel. It was the perfect welcome for someone arriving to study the author who created that world.

In his classes about Lewis and Tolkien, Harlan discovered how academic and artistic excellence can be used to expand and glorify the kingdom of heaven. He was already familiar with how Lewis's work strongly reflected his Christian faith and was pleasantly surprised by how much Tolkien's works highlighted the man as an academic and devout Catholic. Harlan found that Tolkien's writings are infused with divine principles like wisdom and beauty. After studying the two authors closely, Harlan was left with a firm conviction that God can use any field, artistic pursuit, or vocation to His glory. Brilliance and success do not have to come at the cost of sacrificing or even compromising one's beliefs. Instead of defining one's work as purely secular or religious, an individual can use their faith as a guide to achieving excellence in their discipline, as seen in the works of Lewis and Tolkien.

"I saw such faith-driven innovation at work in Oxford, especially in the lives and work of both Lewis and Tolkien, and have since been inspired to take on, to the best of my ability and with all my capacities, the most daunting and ambitious tasks and challenges in my field as an aspiring pastor-theologian," Harlan shares. "I believe I will be equipped for my calling."

Another spiritual revelation Harland had abroad came from outside the classroom by visiting England's many cathedrals. Harlan was struck by how the grand architecture of the building was purposely designed to aim the viewer's focus heavenward. The elegant and extravagant churches reminded him of the temple featured in the book of Exodus, which was masterfully crafted to reflect God and his relationship with humanity.

Harlan returned from his study abroad with lots of photos, spiritual insight, and many new experiences. He recommends other students consider taking a semester or summer abroad, as it may offer clarity as they discern their passions and calling.

To learn more about semester and summer terms abroad, visit the Rinker Center for Experiential Learning.