Descent into Hell
Descent into Hell
Book Brief
222
Novel • Fiction
Battle Hill, London • 1930s
1937
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Descent into Hell by Charles Williams follows the outbreak of supernatural chaos in Battle Hill, a fictional English suburb, during the staging of a play by poet Peter Stanhope. Amid the rehearsals, Pauline Anstruther grapples with a haunting doppelganger, while Lawrence Wentworth's jealousy leads him to black magic. The story unfolds non-linearly, exploring themes of sin, love, and redemption. Contains themes of self-harm and emotional distress.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Unnerving
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
2,400 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Descent into Hell by Charles Williams is praised for its intricate narrative and rich symbolism, blending supernatural elements with profound theological insights. However, some find the prose complex and the plot abstract, challenging reader engagement. Despite this, it is revered for its intellectual depth and compelling exploration of good and evil.
Who Should Read Descent into Hell?
Readers who relish the theological depth of C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce or the mystical elements of Dante's Divine Comedy will find Charles Williams's Descent into Hell captivating. This novel appeals to those interested in spiritual allegory, psychological horror, and metaphysical themes.
2,400 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Descent into Hell is often celebrated for its incorporation of Williams' Christian theology, particularly his notion of "co-inherence," where characters can choose to carry each other's burdens.
The novel features the character Pauline Anstruther, who experiences a form of time travel known as "echthroi," showcasing Williams' unique blend of supernatural and psychological elements.
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Charles Williams was a member of the Inklings, a literary group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, and his novel Descent into Hell reflects his shared interest with them in the intersection of myth, reality, and spirituality.
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222
Novel • Fiction
Battle Hill, London • 1930s
1937
Adult
18+ years
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