Tolkien and the Invention of Myth: A Reader
by Jane Chance
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At what stage in J.R.R. Tolkien's reading of other literatures and mythologies did he conceive of the fantastic mythology of Middle-earth that has become so deeply entrenched in contemporary culture? At what point did medieval epic and legend spark Tolkienian myth? The eighteen essays in "Tolkien and the Invention of Myth" examine the ancient Greek, Latin, Old Norse, Old English, and Finnish sources from which Tolkien appropriated the concepts, images, characterizations, contexts, and show more theories that inform his own fictional narratives The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion. Understanding his invented mythologies requires a rediscovery of those tales of larger-than-life gods and heroes found in northern myths. A well-rounded and essential reader for any Tolkien lover, the book includes several essays that provide background and context, explaining Tolkien's literary aesthetic and his interest in folklore, his love of philology, and the philosophical and religious underpinnings of his narratives. Among the contributors are well-known medievalists and Tolkien scholars Marjorie Burns, Michael Drout, Verlyn Flieger, David Lyle Jeffrey, Tom Shippey, and Richard West. "Tolkien and the Invention of Myth" identifies the various medieval mythologies woven into the elaborate tapestry of Tolkien's work, making it a vital contribution to the study of one of the twentieth century's most influential authors. show lessTags
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This is a really good anthology of scholarly essays about Tolkien edited by one of my college professors. I've been meaning to read it ever since I took her class on mythology, several years ago now, and I'm really glad I finally got around to it. All of the essays are great, and they generally focus on identifying and exploring particular influences to Tolkien's work, which range through just about every ancient European language and culture you can think of. It's really interesting to see how thoroughly "rooted" all of Tolkien's ideas are, and it gives you an impressive sense of the scope of any truly mythic creation. This is a must-read if you're interested in scholarly Tolkien research and it's quite accessible even if you're only show more casually interested. A very informative look at the immense background of the immense background Tolkien created for his stories. show less
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Tolkien Studies
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19+ Works 432 Members
Jane Chance, Professor of English at Rice University, has published fifteen books four on Tolkien, including the companionstudy to this book. The Lord of the Rings: The Mythology of Power
Common Knowledge
- People/Characters
- J. R. R. Tolkien
- Important places
- Barad-dûr
- Important events
- Destruction of Isengard
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- Reviews
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- English
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- Paper, Ebook
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