J.R.R. Tolkien and the Wars

A discussion of whether J.R.R Tolkien's experiences in the first and second World Wars greatly influenced his trilogy, "The Lord of the Rings."

2,762 words () | 9 sources | MLA | 2003 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines whether J.R.R Tolkien's wartime experiences in both World Wars are reflected in his trilogy "The Lord of the Rings." It looks at how his character's relationships reflect the lives of soldiers in war, with the politics between them similar to the politics of the time. It evaluates how the landscape in Middle Earth is greatly influenced by the first World War, especially the Battle of Somme and how the elements of fear and suspense that are present in his works are directly from the mind of a soldier.

From the Paper:

"The last, and most obvious comparison that can be made between Tolkien's books and his element of fear. Fears faced by a soldier can be difficult to overcome. Many people are forced to leave lines of battle because of sheer stress and pressure on their minds. A soldier's fears can be influenced by many things: fear of death, fear of killing, fear of loneliness, and fear of loss. Tolkien's fears in battle greatly influenced the situations that he puts his characters into in the LOTR. Fear of advance for any soldier in WWI was certain. A step onto No-Man's land was almost assured death, but they were forced to go "over the top" and advance on their enemy."

More papers on J.R.R. Tolkien and the Wars:

View more related papers »

Cite this paper

APA Citation:

J.R.R. Tolkien and the Wars (2012, January 15). Retrieved February 13, 2012, from http://www.academon.com/Analytical-Essay-J-R-R-Tolkien-and-the-Wars/26351