Freedom of Choice in C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce

Abstract

The Free Will Explanation, as per the traditional perspective on hell, posits that the presence of certain individuals in hell can be attributed to their exercise of human freedom. The concept of human freedom also accounts for its punishment and ultimate conclusion: individuals in hell have willingly cultivated moral vices that serve as their own retribution and render redemption psychologically unattainable. Despite God's ongoing yearning for reconciliation with individuals in hell, those who are damned do not have the same longing for reconciliation with God. However, the explanation of hell's ultimate purpose based on moral depravity is not credible. It is contended that God possesses the ability and willingness to modify individuals' character, either directly or indirectly, in order to provide them with fresh motivational incentives that restore their capacity to repent. Consequently, it is likely that every condemned individual will ultimately be rescued, as there exists a possible infinite number of chances for voluntary remorse. Therefore, if the descriptions of hell and divine love provided by the Free Will Explanation are accurate, it is quite likely that every individual in hell will ultimately find their way to heaven.