The Ball and the Cross

Name: The Ball and the Cross
Author: G.K. Chesterton

The Ball and the Cross is a novel by G.K. Chesterton that explores themes of faith, reason, and morality through the story of two characters who represent opposing worldviews. The book follows the journey of Father Brown, a Catholic priest, and Professor Lucifer, an atheist philosopher, as they engage in a series of debates and adventures that challenge their beliefs and values. Along the way, Chesterton uses humor, satire, and allegory to explore complex philosophical ideas and offer insights into human nature and society.

By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1909 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Adventure · 20 chapters · 110,645 words

First lines

The flying ship of Professor Lucifer sang through the skies like a silver arrow; the bleak white steel of it, gleaming in the bleak blue emptiness of the evening. That it was far above the earth was no expression for it; to the two men in it, it seemed to be far above the stars. The professor had himself invented the flying machine, and had also invented nearly everything in it. Every sort of tool or apparatus had, in consequence, to the full, that fantastic and distorted look which belongs to the miracles of science. For the world of science and evolution is far more nameless and elusive and like a dream than the world of poetry and religion; since in the latter images and ideas remain themselves eternally, while it is the whole idea of evolution that identities melt into each other as they do in a nightmare.

What this Textopian page supports

The Ball and the Cross is listed on Textopian as a novel by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1909 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: G.K. Chesterton
Date: 1909 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Adventure, Fantasy, Religious Fiction
Length: 110,645 words
Structure: 20 chapters, 1,530 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for The Ball and the Cross by G.K. Chesterton
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophical Fiction — The book explores deep philosophical themes, particularly the conflict between science and religion.
Satire — The narrative employs satire to critique societal norms and beliefs.
Adventure — The plot involves a series of adventurous escapades and duels between the protagonists.
Fantasy — Elements of fantasy are present in the form of allegorical and surreal events.