| This dissertation examines prominent works of fiction by Christian authors from the late nineteenth century to the middle of the twentieth century. The Focus of the study is on the narrative techniques utilized by Christian authors to ensure a theological interpretation of their works.;The dissertation begins with a brief overview of the cultural and academic environment of the twentieth century. The introductory chapter focuses on theoretical works which describe the secularization of academic and social culture.;The second chapter focuses on the early and middle novels of George MacDonald. MacDonald's use of an intrusive and didactic narrator is demonstrated utilizing examples from David Elginbrod, The Marquis of Lossie, Malcolm, and Thomas Wingfold, Curate.;The third chapter describes the works of C. S. Lewis and attempts to show how his use of symbolism and myth made his works more palatable to a modern audience than would an emulation of earlier narrative techniques. Examples are taken from Lewis' series The Chronicles of Narnia as well as The Screwtape Letters, Perelandra, and Till We Have Faces.;The fourth chapter discusses two authors: Graham Greene and Flannery O'Connor. This chapter focuses on these authors' use of epitexts such as lectures and autobiographies to advance specific interpretations of their own work.;As culture has become more secular, Christian authors have increasingly turned to fiction to gain a wider audience. While many authors have been successful in utilizing fiction to promote their religious beliefs, the narrative techniques they have used have changed in response to prevailing attitudes of their intended audiences. The brief concluding chapter of the dissertation addresses the question of whether these changes have been successful in gaining a wider audience for Christian fiction and how the techniques might change in the future. |
