Description
Book SynopsisA basic guide to some of the possible linguistic and mythological origins of Middle earth, and a rudimentary analysis of its many themes and lessons for our world. It includes topics that explore the main themes in Tolkien's works, including immortality and death; the heroic quest; love; fate and free will; and faith and redemption.
Trade Review"...a great book...helps readers make sense of the creatures, language, geography and richly-detailed history of Middle earth..." (
Shields Gazette, Dec 03)
"...a mine of information?a must-have for anyone interested in exploring the epic tales of the four ages of Middle earth..." (Dundee Evening Telegraph and Post, Dec 03)
Table of ContentsForeword xvii
Introduction 1
Part I: The Geography of Middle-earth 7
Chapter 1: The Worlds of Middle-earth 9
Chapter 2: The Lands of Middle-earth and Beyond 21
Part II: The Beings of Middle-earth 45
Chapter 3: The Divine Ainur 47
Chapter 4: The Fair Race of Elves 57
Chapter 5: The Mortal Race of Men 73
Chapter 6: The Hardy Race of Dwarves 95
Chapter 7: Those Homespun Hobbits 109
Chapter 8: The Wily Wizards 129
Chapter 9: Beorn, Tom Bombadil, and Treebeard 139
Chapter 10: The Enemy and His Minions 149
Part III: The History of Middle-earth 167
Chapter 11: The Valarian Ages 169
Chapter 12: The First Three Ages and Then Some 177
Part IV: The Languages of Middle-earth 187
Chapter 13: Tolkien and Language 189
Chapter 14: The Tongues of Tolkien 199
Part V: The Themes and Mythology of Middle-earth 211
Chapter 15: The Struggle Between Good and Evil 213
Chapter 16: Immortality and Death 219
Chapter 17: The Heroic Quest 233
Chapter 18: Chivalry and True Love 247
Chapter 19: Fate and Free Will 257
Chapter 20: Faith and Redemption 269
Chapter 21: Ring-related Myths 277
Chapter 22: Ecological Themes 287
Chapter 23: Sex and Gender 293
Part VI: The Part of Tens 301
Chapter 24: Top Ten Battles in the War of the Ring 303
Chapter 25: Top Ten Online Middle-earth Resources 309
Chapter 26: Top Ten Ways The Lord of the Rings Books Differ from the Movies 313
Index 319
