J.R.R. Tolkien, often hailed as the “father of modern fantasy,” has enchanted millions with his epic tales, which have inspired both beloved books and blockbuster films. A brilliant university professor, poet, historian, and linguist, Tolkien’s creativity knew no bounds. As a child, he even invented his own languages for fun. He introduced us to the mythical world of Middle-earth, filled with hobbits, orcs, and elves. Some believe his stories reflect historical power struggles, his Roman Catholic faith, or his personal experiences. Regardless of the inspiration, Tolkien’s imagination has secured his place among the greatest writers of all time. Let’s delve into the life of J.R.R. Tolkien.
Before their son was born, Arthur Tolkien and Mabel Suffield moved from England to South Africa, hoping for a better life. John Ronald Reuel, or “Ronald,” was born in Bloemfontein on January 3, 1892. His early years in Africa were brief, as his mother decided to return to England for better educational opportunities. Tragically, his father passed away in 1896, leaving the family without a breadwinner.
Back in England, Tolkien’s childhood was spent in the West Midlands, an area that combined urban and rural landscapes. This environment, especially the idyllic countryside, inspired the Shire, home of the hobbits. His mother homeschooled him, nurturing his love for languages and literature. By age four, Tolkien was reading fluently, and his passion for languages grew as he attended King Edward’s School in Birmingham. There, he mastered numerous languages and even began creating his own, including early forms of Elvish.
Tolkien formed a close-knit group with friends at school, known as T.C.B.S., where they shared and critiqued each other’s literary works. Despite the loss of his father, Tolkien’s early life was generally happy until two major events: his mother’s conversion to Catholicism, which isolated them from their family, and her death in 1904 from diabetes. Fortunately, Father Francis Morgan, a Catholic priest, became their guardian and supported the boys.
At 16, Tolkien met Edith Bratt, a fellow orphan. Their friendship blossomed into love, but Father Francis disapproved, fearing it would distract Tolkien from his studies. He forbade Tolkien from seeing Edith until he turned 21. Respecting this, Tolkien proposed to her as soon as he could. Edith, engaged to another at the time, chose Tolkien, and they married in 1916. Their enduring love inspired the characters Lúthien and Beren in Tolkien’s works. They had four children, and Tolkien often created stories for them, later published as Letters from Father Christmas.
When World War I began, Tolkien was hesitant to join the military, preferring to complete his studies at Oxford. Eventually, he enlisted and was sent to the Western Front, experiencing the horrors of the Battle of the Somme. The war deeply affected him, and many of his close friends were lost. These experiences influenced his writing, adding depth and realism to his fictional worlds.
After the war, Tolkien worked on the Oxford English Dictionary and later became a Reader at the University of Leeds. In 1925, he secured a professorship at Oxford, where he thrived. His lecture “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics” revolutionized the study of the Old English epic. At Oxford, he formed “The Inklings,” a group of writers including C.S. Lewis, where they shared and critiqued each other’s work.
In 1945, Tolkien became the Merton Professor of English Language and Literature at Oxford, a position he held until retirement in 1959.
In 1928, while grading papers, Tolkien scribbled, “In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.” This sparked the creation of The Hobbit, a tale for his children that eventually became a literary sensation. Published in 1937, it sold over 100 million copies worldwide. Its success led to The Lord of the Rings, published in three parts between 1954 and 1955, which became immensely popular.
Tolkien’s works, including essays and stories about Middle-earth, continued to captivate readers. After his death, his son Christopher published The Silmarillion and other writings, ensuring his father’s legacy endured.
Tolkien’s influence on the fantasy genre is unparalleled. His characters and worlds have inspired countless adaptations, including Peter Jackson’s film trilogies and Amazon’s upcoming series. His works have left an indelible mark on literature and popular culture, showcasing the power of imagination and storytelling.
Explore Tolkien’s passion for languages by creating your own fictional language. Consider its grammar, vocabulary, and script. Share your language with classmates and discuss how it could be integrated into a fantasy world.
Research the historical events and personal experiences that influenced Tolkien’s writing. Present your findings in a group discussion, focusing on how these elements are reflected in his works, particularly in the themes of power struggles and war.
Write a short story set in a fictional world inspired by Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Incorporate elements such as mythical creatures, unique landscapes, and a central quest. Share your story with peers for feedback and discussion.
Watch a film adaptation of Tolkien’s work, such as “The Lord of the Rings,” and compare it to the original text. Analyze the differences in storytelling, character development, and thematic emphasis. Discuss how these adaptations impact your understanding of Tolkien’s legacy.
Engage in a debate about the philosophical and religious themes in Tolkien’s works. Consider his Roman Catholic faith and how it might have influenced his portrayal of good versus evil, heroism, and redemption. Use examples from his texts to support your arguments.
**J.R.R. Tolkien: Father of Modern Fantasy**
By: Crystal Sullivan
Known as the “father of modern fantasy,” J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic tales of legend and lore have been enjoyed by millions worldwide, inspiring popular books and blockbuster films. A distinguished university professor, poet, historian, and expert linguist, Tolkien was remarkably bright. As a child, he even created his own languages for fun. He introduced us to complex and fanciful creatures, including hobbits, orcs, and elves, set in the prehistoric realm of Middle-earth. Some theorize that his invented worlds symbolize his country’s past power struggles, are influenced by his devout Roman Catholic faith, or stem from his personal experiences. Regardless, his glorious imagination secures his place among the greatest writers of all time. Today, we explore the life of J.R.R. Tolkien.
**Formative Years**
Before bank clerk Arthur Tolkien and Mabel Suffield welcomed their son, the English couple moved to South Africa, where Arthur hoped to advance his career and provide a comfortable life for their family. John Ronald Reuel (known as “Ronald”) was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, on January 3, 1892. Not long after, another son, Hilary, was born, completing the Tolkien family. Tolkien’s childhood in Africa was cut short when his mother decided the boys would be better educated in England. At the age of three, Tolkien and his mother, along with his younger brother, returned to their homeland while Arthur stayed behind to settle business. Tragically, he fell ill and died of a brain hemorrhage on February 15, 1896.
Having spent only a small fraction of his early years in Africa, Tolkien had few memories from that time. However, one tale persists: as a toddler, he reportedly stumbled upon and was bitten by a baboon spider in the garden. He later recounted a hot day and running in fear through long grass, but the memory of the spider faded, leaving him with no particular dislike of them. Fans and psychologists speculate whether this incident influenced the presence of man-eating spiders in his later works.
Back in England, Mabel and the boys settled with family in the West Midlands, first in Kings Heath and then in Sarehole. The West Midlands was both urban and industrial, yet also featured idyllic countryside. Between the ages of four and eight, Tolkien lived near Sarehole Mill and Moseley Bog, where he spent many hours playing with his brother and being chased by the miller’s son, whom they nicknamed the “White Ogre.” The Shire, Tolkien’s imaginary land of hobbits, was inspired by Sarehole.
Tolkien’s mother homeschooled the boys initially, teaching him botany and the basics of Latin. He could read fluently by age four and soon began writing. He loved drawing landscapes and trees, but his favorite subjects were languages. Later, he attended King Edward’s School in Birmingham, which nurtured his curiosity and linguistic development. An exceptional student, Tolkien mastered ancient and modern languages, including Greek, Latin, Spanish, Old English, Old Norse, Gothic, and Finnish. He created his own languages, including early variations of Elvish.
At King Edward’s, he formed a semi-secret society with friends, enjoying tea and critiquing each other’s literary works, calling themselves T.C.B.S. Despite the earlier loss of his father, Tolkien’s early life was generally happy until two significant events changed its course. In 1900, his mother converted to Catholicism, which estranged them from both sides of the family, leading to feelings of isolation and poverty. Following her acceptance into the Catholic Church, Tolkien remained devout for the rest of his life and played a role in bringing his friend C.S. Lewis back to Christianity.
Tragedy struck again in 1904 when his mother was diagnosed with diabetes, a sure death sentence before insulin was available. Mabel died later that year, on November 14, when Tolkien was just 12. Fortunately, their Catholic priest, Father Francis Morgan, became their guardian, ensuring the boys received the support they needed.
**Lúthien and Beren**
Tolkien met his future wife, Edith Bratt, when he was 16, and she was 19. Both were orphans living in a boarding house. Their friendship blossomed, but Father Francis disapproved of their relationship, fearing it distracted Tolkien from his studies. He forbade Tolkien from seeing or corresponding with Edith until he turned 21. This was a devastating blow, but Tolkien obeyed. When his birthday approached, he proposed to her in a letter. Though she was engaged to another man, his letter made her reconsider. Edith agreed to meet Tolkien on January 8, 1913, and after hours of conversation, she accepted his proposal, breaking off her prior engagement. Edith converted to Catholicism, and they married on March 22, 1916, just before Tolkien was deployed to the Western Front.
In a letter to his son Michael years later, Tolkien expressed admiration for his wife’s willingness to marry a man with little money and uncertain prospects. He wrote of her beauty and talent, and their romance inspired the fictional characters Lúthien and Beren. Their love story, marked by challenges, was left unfinished during Tolkien’s lifetime but later published by his son Christopher as part of *The Silmarillion*.
Tolkien and Edith enjoyed a long and happy marriage, having four children: John Francis, Michael Hilary, Christopher John, and Priscilla Mary Anne. A devoted father, Tolkien often created fanciful stories for his children. From 1920 to 1942, he illustrated letters to them, introducing new characters each year. After his death, these stories were published as *Letters from Father Christmas*.
**The Great War**
Believing he was “a young man with too much imagination and little physical courage,” Tolkien did not rush to join the military when World War I broke out. Instead, he returned to Oxford, where he had earned a first-class degree in June 1915. Eventually, he enlisted as a second lieutenant in the Lancashire Fusiliers and was sent to the Western Front just in time for the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest battles in history.
The Battle of the Somme lasted four months, with British troops suffering over 57,000 casualties on the first day alone. Tolkien witnessed the horrors of trench warfare and lived in deplorable conditions. He contracted “trench fever,” a major medical issue of the war, and eventually left the front to recover in a Birmingham hospital in November 1916. Throughout 1917 and 1918, he had recurring bouts of illness but spent his time writing and serving at various camps. Tragically, most of his close friends perished in the war, and this loss deeply influenced his writing.
On November 11, 1918, the Armistice was signed, marking the end of World War I.
**The Professor**
Tolkien was appointed Assistant Lexicographer on the Oxford English Dictionary in 1918 but left shortly after. In the summer of 1920, he accepted a position as a Reader at the University of Leeds, where he taught, collaborated with other authors, and continued writing *The Book of Lost Tales*. In 1925, he received a professorship at Oxford, where he thrived in academia.
Tolkien did not publish many scholarly articles but was highly influential. His lecture “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics,” delivered in 1936, changed the modern study of the Old English epic, arguing that the monsters should be a focus of study rather than being seen as extraneous.
At Oxford, Tolkien befriended C.S. Lewis, and they formed a group known as “The Inklings,” which met regularly to share and critique each other’s work. The group included notable members like Neville Coghill and Charles Williams. Tolkien shared manuscripts of works-in-progress, receiving valuable feedback.
In 1945, Tolkien became the Merton Professor of English Language and Literature at Oxford, a position he held until his retirement in 1959.
**The Storyteller**
On a hot summer day in 1928, while grading exam papers, Tolkien wrote, “In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit” on a blank page. Curious about what a hobbit was, he began crafting a tale for his children and sharing it with The Inklings. In 1936, an incomplete copy of *The Hobbit* reached Susan Dagnall, an employee of the publishing firm George Allen and Unwin. Recognizing its potential, she encouraged Tolkien to finish it. The book was published in 1937 and became an immediate success, selling over 100 million copies worldwide.
*The Hobbit* is enduring for its richly described Middle-earth and complex characters. It lacks politically correct elements and does not center around a typical child figure, yet Bilbo Baggins serves as a surrogate child for readers. The depth of emotion and moral courage woven into the story sets it apart, exemplified by Bilbo’s internal struggles and his ultimate loyalty to his friends.
After *The Hobbit*, Tolkien presented portions of *The Silmarillion* to his publisher, but they were deemed unpublishable due to their poetic nature. He then focused on writing *The Lord of the Rings*, which was published in three parts between 1954 and 1955. Despite mixed reviews, the series gained immense popularity, especially after a BBC adaptation and a pirated paperback version in the mid-1960s.
Tolkien authored numerous other works, including essays and stories related to Middle-earth. Following his death, his estate published *Letters from Father Christmas*, and his son Christopher ensured that *The Silmarillion* and other writings were released.
After retiring from Oxford, Tolkien moved to Bournemouth. On November 29, 1971, Edith passed away, and nearly two years later, on September 2, 1973, Tolkien followed. They were buried together, with “Beren” engraved under his name and “Lúthien” under hers.
**Accomplishments & Legacy**
Tolkien remains a celebrated literary figure, inspiring the fantasy genre. His characters and places have become namesakes for various locations and objects, including asteroids named after him and Bilbo Baggins. He received numerous accolades, including being made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 1972.
Tolkien’s works have been adapted into successful films, including Peter Jackson’s *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy and *The Hobbit* series. Most recently, Amazon announced plans to adapt *The Lord of the Rings* for its streaming service, focusing on previously unexplored stories from Tolkien’s writings. His Middle-earth continues to captivate audiences, showcasing the enduring legacy of his imagination.
Literature – The body of written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit. – “The study of literature allows students to explore diverse cultures and historical periods through classic and contemporary texts.”
Languages – Systems of communication used by particular communities or countries, consisting of spoken, written, or signed words and the rules for combining them. – “The English department offers courses in various languages to help students appreciate global literary traditions.”
Imagination – The faculty or action of forming new ideas, images, or concepts not present to the senses. – “A writer’s imagination is crucial for creating compelling narratives that captivate readers.”
Fantasy – A genre of literature that involves magical elements and fantastical worlds, often set in imaginary universes. – “J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’ is a seminal work in the fantasy genre, renowned for its intricate world-building.”
Writing – The activity or skill of composing text for various purposes, including storytelling, communication, and expression. – “Effective writing is a fundamental skill for students pursuing a degree in English literature.”
Characters – The individuals who populate a narrative, each with distinct traits and roles that drive the story forward. – “Shakespeare’s characters, such as Hamlet and Lady Macbeth, are studied for their complex psychological depth.”
Storytelling – The art of conveying events in words, images, and sounds, often by improvisation or embellishment. – “Storytelling is a powerful tool in literature, allowing authors to connect with audiences on an emotional level.”
Influences – The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself. – “The influences of Romanticism are evident in the works of 19th-century poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge.”
Academic – Relating to education and scholarship, particularly at the college or university level. – “Academic writing in literature requires a critical analysis of texts and the ability to construct coherent arguments.”
Legacy – Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor, often in the form of cultural or intellectual heritage. – “The legacy of the Harlem Renaissance continues to inspire contemporary writers and artists.”
