Writer
A writer and philosopher, Ben Steiz strives to create realistic and engaging cultures and beliefs for fictional settings. A scholar of narrative and metaphysics, and having graduated from Bard College with a double major in creative writing and philosophy, Ben specializes in symbolism. As one of The Unconventional’s contributors, he unpacks layers of metaphor in world design and storytelling as a research assistant. He’s also penned his own series, “An Algebra of Archons”, examining mysticism.
Articles
An Algebra of Archons—Series Conspectus
Join philosophy student and avid gamer Ben Steiz in his examination of the various ethics, world views and metaphysics encoded across much of pop culture. This will include both a broad survey and robust analysis of the numerous speculative fiction works and franchises.
Mysticism and Tolkien
In today’s An Algebra of Archons, we explore Tolkien’s use of Norse mythology and Christian theology in establishing an angelic hierarchy that feeds the tree of Middle-Earth’s religion and traditions.
Beyond the Stone Table: Aslan Before & After Martyrdom
In today’s An Algebra of Archons, we explore how C.S. Lewis’ world of Narnia is both inspired by and interwoven with Christianity, and how its symbolism merges with scientific doctrine, philosophical and ethical questions of morality—and unpack, what that all means in the context of its narrative.