J.R.R. Tolkien’s TheLord of the Rings is a novel based on the popular theme of Good and Evil. It is an epic story filled with wisdom and knowledge. Tolkien tells us that in order to reach balance we need to get rid of ego and become critical thinkers that seek truth through understanding. Tolkien implies that humility is the key to living in harmony. Therefore we must learn how to love and set aside hate or, I should say, be more inclined to show love rather than to be fearful and discharge malice.
The book’s central character is named Frodo Baggins. He must withstand temptations in order for him to save the various peoples (races) from the emergence of evil. Frodo Baggins receives a magic ring from his uncle. His task is to destroy the treacherous object which is a threat to all existence. Frodo learns that the ring has the power to control the entire world, but that no person can have that much power withut being corrupted to evil. Frodo eventually destroys the ring and saves the world from the evil of absolute power.
This book is of literary merit because Tolkien creates an imaginary world based on stories, myths, and literary traditions of the ages. One feels connected to the literary history of the world while at the same time entering a new world of fantasy. Tolkien creates literary traditions within his tale. He creates several languages that are based on ancient languages. He pays particular attention to the beauty of the sounds of the languages. He uses poems, rhymes, riddles and songs in these created languages to display the literary intellect of the races.
I used to think that Tolkein buffs were Major Geeks, but I changed my mind 100 percent after reading The Hobbit, and then beginning The Lord of the Rings trilogy. A wonderful, imaginative work of art. Good times.
I still have to read the 3rd book.
Posted by: mary | November 09, 2004 at 09:37 AM