J.R.R. Tolkien
Writer and Philologist
Get to Know more about John Ronald Reuel (J.R.R.) Tolkien through Joseph Pearce
In his discussion of Tolkien’s mythology, Joseph Pearce explains how myths reflect divine reality and transmit important truths. He analyzes The Hobbit, emphasizing its themes of adventure, bravery, and the moral growth of the characters. Pearce also examines The Lord of the Rings, emphasizing the work’s intricate mythology, the conflict between good and evil, and the profound influence of Tolkien’s Catholic faith. Here’s the list of the discussion per week:
1. Tolkien’s Philosophy of Myth
2. The Hobbit
3. The Lord of the Rings
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Tolkien on Fairy Stories. C.S. Lewis - all was excellent.
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- Jim M.
J.R.R. Tolkien Short Course
Approx. 2 hours and 48 mins. of content
First Week:
Tolkien’s Philosophy of Myth
Despite the work’s themes of religion, Tolkien rejects allegory, as the Joseph Pearce examines his theory of myth, concentrating on “The Lord of the Rings.” The discussion makes reference to Tolkien’s article “On Fairy Stories,” which explains the mystical, magical, and reflective qualities of fairy tales, and highlights his contempt for oversimplified interpretations, such as similarities to World War II. Biblical and mythical allegories are used to highlight the appeal of forbidden deeds, like as the Ring’s temptation, and the perils of misusing one’s freedom. The talk also emphasizes how important obstacles are to gaining knowledge and dignity, and how fantasy helps preserve a sense of childish wonder.
Second Week: The Hobbit
Pearce explores the theological and moral themes in Tolkien’s writings. He begins by discussing how the Great Music, which represents cosmic harmony and God’s plan, created Middle Earth. He draws a connection between Tolkien’s mythology and Boethius’s theory of three kinds of music, emphasizing Melkor’s disturbance and God’s production of beauty out of chaos. In “The Hobbit,” Pearce delves into the concept of “dragon sickness,” illustrating how avarice ensnares both Thorin and Bilbo and how providence leads Bilbo toward morality and knowledge. Lastly, he draws attention to Tolkien’s portrayal of spiritual enlightenment and hope, drawing parallels between Bilbo’s journey and Christian themes of selflessness, rebirth, and death.
Third Week: The Lord of the Rings
Pearce emphasizes J.R.R. Tolkien’s claim that “The Lord of the Rings” is inherently Catholic while highlighting the work’s essentially religious and Catholic components. Even though the story predates Christianity, it incorporates Catholic ideas through character arcs and symbolism, especially in Frodo and Bilbo Baggins’ transformational journeys, which are modeled after Christian qualities. Christ figures include Aragorn and Gandalf, while Samwise Gamgee, with his humility and dedication, epitomizes the ideal disciple. Furthermore, Frodo and Sam’s interactions with Gollum highlight the themes of sympathy, forgiveness, and divine intervention, emphasizing the value of grace and criticizing the misuse of technology, symbolized by the Palantir stones.
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