Title
Tolkien's Modern Reading: Middleearth Beyond the Middle Ages,Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
Tolkiens Modern Reading addresses the claim that Tolkien read very little modern fiction, and took no serious notice of it. This claim, made by one of his first biographers, has led to the widely accepted view that Tolkien was dismissive of modern culture, and that The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are fundamentally medieval and nostalgic in their inspiration.In fact, as Holly Ordway demonstrates in this major corrective, Tolkien enjoyed a broad range of contemporary works, engaged with them in detail and depth, and even named specific titles as sources for and influences upon his creation of Middleearth.Drawing on meticulous archival research, Ordway shows how Tolkien appreciated authors as diverse as James Joyce and Beatrix Potter, Rider Haggard and Edith Nesbit, William Morris and Kenneth Grahame. She surveys the work of figures such as S.R. Crockett and J.H. Shorthouse, who are forgotten now but made a significant impression on Tolkien. He even read Americans like Longfellow and Sinclair Lewis, assimilating what he read in characteristically complex ways, both as positive examples and as influencebyopposition.Tolkiens Modern Reading not only enables a clearer understanding of Tolkiens epic, it also illuminates his views on topics such as technology, women, empire, and race. For Tolkiens genius was not simply backwardlooking: it was intimately connected with the literature of his own time and concerned with the issues and crises of modernity. Ordways groundbreaking study reveals that Tolkien brought to the workings of his fantastic imagination a deep knowledge of both the facts and the fictions of the modern world.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Tolkien's Modern Reading'? A: 'Tolkien's Modern Reading' explores how J.R.R. Tolkien engaged with modern literature, challenging the perception that he dismissed contemporary works. The book highlights his appreciation of various authors and how they influenced his creation of Middle-earth.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Tolkien's Modern Reading: Middle-earth Beyond the Middle Ages' is Holly Ordway, a scholar who delves into Tolkien's literary influences and modern readings.
- Q: What is the publication date of this book? A: 'Tolkien's Modern Reading' was published on January 15, 2021.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains 392 pages, providing an in-depth analysis of Tolkien's reading habits.
- Q: Is this book available in hardcover? A: 'Tolkien's Modern Reading' is available in a hardcover edition, making it a durable choice for readers and collectors.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book falls under the Medieval genre, focusing on Tolkien's connections to medieval themes while also addressing modern influences.
- Q: What can I learn from this book about Tolkien's views on modernity? A: Holly Ordway's study reveals Tolkien's thoughts on various modern issues, including technology, gender, and race, showing that his genius was intertwined with contemporary literature and challenges.
- Q: Is this book suitable for Tolkien fans? A: 'Tolkien's Modern Reading' is highly suitable for Tolkien fans, as it offers a new perspective on his works and influences, enhancing the understanding of his literary contributions.
- Q: Are there any specific authors discussed in the book? A: Yes, the book discusses a range of authors, including James Joyce, Beatrix Potter, and Kenneth Grahame, highlighting their impact on Tolkien's writings.
- Q: What edition of the book is available? A: 'Tolkien's Modern Reading' is available as a First Edition, offering readers an original look at Tolkien's literary engagements.