WHERE DID JRR TOLKIEN GET HIS INSPIRATION?

Literary Influences:

JRR Tolkien was an avid reader and drew inspiration from a wide range of literary works. He was particularly enamored with the works of William Morris, George MacDonald, and Andrew Lang, whose fantastical tales sparked his imagination and laid the groundwork for his own literary creations.

1. Norse Mythology:

• Tolkien's love for Norse mythology is evident in many aspects of his work, from the names of his characters to the epic battles and quests that unfold in his stories.
• The mythology's themes of heroism, loyalty, and the struggle against evil resonated deeply with Tolkien and found their way into the tapestry of his fictional worlds.

2. Medieval Literature:

• Tolkien was fascinated by the rich tapestry of medieval literature, including the legends of King Arthur and the tales of knights errant.
• These stories provided him with a framework for exploring themes of honor, chivalry, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

Personal Experiences:

1. World War I:

• Tolkien's experiences in World War I profoundly impacted his writing. The horrors he witnessed on the battlefields of France shaped his perspective on life and death and the fragility of human existence.
• The trenches became a metaphor for the darkness and despair that can consume the human soul, a theme that permeates his works.

2. The English Countryside:

• Tolkien's deep love for the English countryside, particularly the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, served as a constant source of inspiration.
• The beauty and tranquility of the natural world provided a stark contrast to the horrors of war and fueled his imagination with images of idyllic landscapes and ancient forests.

3. Languages:

• Tolkien was a gifted linguist with a passion for creating new languages. This passion stemmed from his belief that language is an integral part of culture and identity.
• The intricate languages he devised for his fictional worlds, such as Elvish and Dwarvish, added depth and realism to his stories.

Academic Influences:

1. Oxford University:

• Tolkien's time at Oxford University exposed him to a wealth of academic knowledge and intellectual stimulation.
• He studied Old English, Old Norse, and other ancient languages, which further fueled his interest in mythology and linguistics.

2. The Inklings:

• Tolkien was a member of the informal literary discussion group known as the Inklings, which included fellow writers such as C.S. Lewis.
• The group provided a supportive and collaborative environment where Tolkien could share his ideas and receive feedback on his work.

Conclusion:

JRR Tolkien's inspiration was a tapestry woven from diverse threads: literary influences, personal experiences, and academic pursuits. His ability to fuse these elements into a cohesive and enchanting world is a testament to his boundless imagination and his profound love for language, mythology, and the human spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What were some of Tolkien's favorite literary works?

• Tolkien was particularly fond of the works of William Morris, George MacDonald, and Andrew Lang, whose fantastical tales sparked his imagination.

2. How did Tolkien's experiences in World War I influence his writing?

• Tolkien's experiences in World War I profoundly impacted his writing. The horrors he witnessed on the battlefields of France shaped his perspective on life and death and the fragility of human existence.

3. What role did the English countryside play in Tolkien's inspiration?

• Tolkien's deep love for the English countryside, particularly the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, served as a constant source of inspiration. The beauty and tranquility of the natural world provided a stark contrast to the horrors of war and fueled his imagination with images of idyllic landscapes and ancient forests.

4. Why was Tolkien so passionate about creating new languages?

• Tolkien believed that language is an integral part of culture and identity. His passion for creating new languages stemmed from his desire to explore the intricate relationship between language, mythology, and the human experience.

5. How did the Inklings contribute to Tolkien's writing?

• The Inklings was an informal literary discussion group that provided Tolkien with a supportive and collaborative environment where he could share his ideas and receive feedback on his work.