George MacDonald (1824–1905) was a Scottish author, poet, and Christian minister. He was a pioneering figure in the field of fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow writer Lewis Carroll. His romantic vision of spiritual realities have been cited as a major literary influence by many notable authors including W. H. Auden, C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, Walter de la Mare, E. Nesbit and Madeleine L'Engle. MacDonald attended the University of Aberdeen, but although receiving a master's degree in chemistry and physics, was uncertain about what to do with his life. Desiring to bring others to the Christian faith, and having a gift of preaching, he attended Highbury College, London, graduating with a divinity degree. The following year he assumed the pastorate of a Congregationalist Church in Arundel, near the southern coast of England, and also married Louisa Powell, with whom he would eventually have eleven children. Within two years his congregation asked him to leave for theological reasons, particularly his insistence on the duty of obedience to the principles of Christian living. In poor health, struggling to support his growing family, and searching for a means to communicate his beliefs, MacDonald turned to writing. Three years later Phantastes was published to literary acclaim but little public enthusiasm. MacDonald took up lecturing to support his family and became Professor of English Literature at Bedford College, London, a post he held for seven years. For the next forty years MacDonald lectured and wrote realistic novels, fantasy, children's stories, and poetry, enjoying popular and financial success. MacDonald produced some of his best works during the last fifteen years of his life, including There and Back and Lilith. Show Less