C.S. Lewis' fictional world of Narnia has delighted readers of all ages for generations. Though less detailed than his friend Tolkien's Middle Earth, Lewis' world of Narnia is nevertheless richly conceived and extensively detailed. Drawing upon all seven books, this class will explore the various details of this fantasy world, including geography and topography, the various creatures that inhabit the world, the way magic works, and its history.

The class for learners ages 8-14 does not assume that students have read the books. Those that have will enjoy diving deeper into a world they love and talking about it with like-minded students. Those who have not yet read them will find in this class an invitation through guided discussion to the fantastical journey that the books are.

The 15+ class assumes familiarity with the major plot elements of the series.

In either case, students will encounter this world under the guidance of an instructor who has been an avid lover and reader of Narnia for nearly 40 years, and who delights to share this passion with others.

Next Offering TBD

Ages 8-14

$100 / student

Nature Lion Landscape Fantasy

Topics of Conversation:

Week 1: Narnian Geography, Topography, and Politics
Week 2: Dwarves, Dragons, Talking Beasts, and Giants: Narnia's Denizens
Week 3: Aslan's Rules: The Magic of Narnia
Week 4: From the First Sunrise to the Last Sunset: The History of Narnia

  • Every time I hear Junius Johnson speak, I walk away asking: "Did I forget how exciting and joyful the life of the mind can be?”

  • A deep perspective on the human need for wonder, and the essential desire for things powerful and uncontrollable.

  • Why do you suppose dragons have possessed the imagination of writers and readers for most of our recorded history. Junius Johnson has come away from the dragons hoard with a few secrets to share. I found his treatment personally encouraging and a call to pick up my lance (or my pen), and join in the battle.