"They Have Pulled Down Deep Heaven on Their Heads" -- Chapter 13
The celestial being whose awakening unleashes Heaven’s power on Earth.
Who is Merlin?
The phrase that captures Lewis’s theme of encounter and personhood.
What is “Real life is meeting”?
The cosmic event when the Oyéresu (planetary angels) visit Earth.
What is the Descent of the Gods?
The event that turns from celebration into chaos.
What is the banquet at Belbury?
The planet whose influence brings renewal and harmony.
Who is Venus?
The organization that tries to harness supernatural forces and ends up judged by them.
What is the N.I.C.E.?
The wife who begins to see true love as obedience to God’s order.
Who is Jane Studdock?
The planetary spirit whose influence brings beauty, fruitfulness, and peace.
Who is Mars?
The miraculous confusion that strikes the guests.
What is the curse of Babel?
The couple whose marriage is healed and redeemed.
Who are Mark and Jane Studdock?
The humble leader who recognizes Merlin’s divine role.
Who is Dr. Ransom?
The husband who realizes he has used intellect for pride rather than truth.
Who is Mark Studdock?
The planetary spirit whose martial holiness fills St. Anne’s with awe.
Who is Mars?
The prophetic figure through whom judgment comes.
Who is Merlin?
The destiny of Ransom after the events at St. Anne’s.
What is that he returns (ascends) to Perelandra?
The meaning of the chapter’s title: what happens when men meddle with Heaven.
What is that they draw down divine powers and judgment on themselves?
The home of spiritual fellowship that opposes N.I.C.E.’s tyranny.
What is St. Anne’s-on-the-Hill?
The physical manifestations of Heaven’s descent—lights, scents, and transformations.
What are signs of divine presence at St. Anne’s?
The animal that helps execute Heaven’s judgment.
What is the bear, Mr. Bultitude?
The overarching theme fulfilled in this chapter.
What is the triumph of divine order and love over pride and rebellion?
The ancient figure whose revival marks Heaven’s intervention in human affairs.
Who is Merlinus Ambrosius?
The truth Jane learns about joy and submission.
What is that true joy comes through humble obedience, not rebellion?
The reason Merlin and Ransom host the descent.
What is to channel Heaven’s judgment and restore divine order?
The biblical story reflected in the banquet scene.
What is the Tower of Babel?
The meaning of Venus’s presence.
What is the restoration of right love between man, woman, and God?