Key Dates at a Glance
C. S. Lewis is widely known for The Chronicles of Narnia and influential Christian writings. Below are the essential biographical anchors, followed by context and reliable sources to confirm the details.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Clive Staples Lewis | Authoritative biography |
| Birth Date | 29 November 1898 | Birth records and biographies |
| Birth Location | Belfast, Ireland (now Northern Ireland) | Biographical documentation |
| Death Date | 22 November 1963 | Death records and biographies |
| Death Location | Whipsnade, Buckinghamshire, England | Biographical documentation |
| Age at Death | 64 years | Calculated from verified dates |
Why These Dates Matter
Birth and death dates anchor a reliable biography, enabling accurate chronology for works, influences, and historical context. For Lewis, the dates frame two world wars, major philosophical and theological debates, and the mid-20th-century cultural landscape in which he wrote. Clarifying them counters common misremembering and distinguishes facts from speculation.
Biographical Overview
Clive Staples Lewis was born on 29 November 1898 in Belfast, Ireland, now part of Northern Ireland. He grew up in a book-rich household, lost his mother early, and was shaped by boarding school experiences and wartime service. He became a renowned Oxford and Cambridge scholar, a lay theologian, and a central figure in Christian intellectual life. He died on 22 November 1963 at his home in Whipsnade, England.
Notable Life Context
Lewis wrote across genres: children’s fantasy, literary criticism, science fiction, and apologetics. His Narnia series remains globally influential, while works such as Mere Christianity reach broad audiences. His intellectual partnerships, including J.R.R. Tolkien, helped shape the Inklings, a writers’ group that influenced modern fantasy and apologetics. These achievements are best understood within his verified lifespan.
Common Misconceptions
- Some confuse the year of his birth with other cultural figures of the early 20th century.
- Awareness of his precise death date helps situate his legacy relative to contemporaries and posthumous publications.
- Locations such as Belfast and Whipsnade are sometimes misunderstood; clarifying them supports accurate geography.
Frequently Asked Questions
Readers often ask how old Lewis was in key moments or whether events align with particular historical periods. By starting from verified dates, answers remain consistent and fact-based, avoiding speculation about undocumented details.
How to Confirm These Facts
For enduring reference, consult peer-reviewed biographies, published birth and death records, and institutional archives such as those at Oxford and Cambridge. Reputable scholarly sources consistently report 29 November 1898 to 22 November 1963.