Book III: Chapter 2 The Cardinal Virtues Summary and Analysis

The four Cardinal Virtues are Prudence, Temperance, Justice and Fortitude. These are cardinal because they are pivotal, the early Latin meaning of the word, a door hinge. Lewis thinks they are the most important virtues for a Christian to maintain. He expands the interpretation of these virtues.

Where Prudence might be thought of as being prudish, or one who never takes risks, Lewis thinks its actual meaning is closer to using common sense and staying out of trouble. He also addresses the issue of being like a child to enter Heaven. The point is to have the faith of a child, not be a child in the mind. Christians should use every piece of intelligence available to them. Lewis warns that in taking on Christianity, the whole of the person is...