TOLKIEN AS COMMENTATOR: PHILOLOGY, MYTHOLOGY, AND FANTASY
updated:
Friday, February 9, 2018 - 11:07am
South Atlantic Modern Language Association 90
deadline for submissions:
Monday, April 30, 2018
In his introduction to J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century, Tom Shippey argues that “The Lord of the Rings has established itself as a lasting classic, without the help and against the active hostility of the professionals of taste; and has furthermore largely created the expectations and established the conventions of a new and flourishing genre.” The impact Tolkien has made on not only high fantasy, but also on the importance of language and mythology studies is undeniable. The influences of World War I, modern industrialization, and more are evident in his works as socio-political commentary, despite his personal dislike of allegory. Tolkien studies reflects a thriving culture in and outside the university.