J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy is quite different than J.K. Rowling’s children's fantasy series in many way. But the stories share a striking commonality on an important theme.
Excellent exposition on how both of these epic tales teach us something incredible about what's happening in our society. I want to write like you when I grow up.
Who knew that Tolkien had Anarchist (libertarian) leanings? It should be obvious that the US is a failed experiment in “limited” government - we are all subjects of the American Empire, the largest government in human history.
Great points about both series, makes me want to reread LOTR again! There really is so much depth in Tolkien’s writing, it’s great to see new facets each reread.
I would add that the character of Dumbledore also illustrates JKRs point about power corrupting. Not sure if the movies really go into it but in the books we learn about his early friendship with Grindlewald and the terrible incident that caused it to go sour and set them in opposition to each other.
Great essay! I too learned to love reading via The Hobbit then devoured The Lord of the Rings soon after. Tolkien’s wisdom is still lodged in my cranium.
Excellent exposition on how both of these epic tales teach us something incredible about what's happening in our society. I want to write like you when I grow up.
Hannah, this is the nicest compliment I've received in a while. You just made my day. I thought you should know that.
I call it like I see it, friend!! Your thought processes are spot on and you are so detailed in how you describe things.
Who knew that Tolkien had Anarchist (libertarian) leanings? It should be obvious that the US is a failed experiment in “limited” government - we are all subjects of the American Empire, the largest government in human history.
Well said.
Great points about both series, makes me want to reread LOTR again! There really is so much depth in Tolkien’s writing, it’s great to see new facets each reread.
I would add that the character of Dumbledore also illustrates JKRs point about power corrupting. Not sure if the movies really go into it but in the books we learn about his early friendship with Grindlewald and the terrible incident that caused it to go sour and set them in opposition to each other.
Great essay! I too learned to love reading via The Hobbit then devoured The Lord of the Rings soon after. Tolkien’s wisdom is still lodged in my cranium.