Twenty-First-Century Tolkien

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An engaging and radical reassessment of J.R.R. Tolkien reveals the enduring relevance of his visionary creation of Middle-Earth. What captivates millions globally about this world and its inhabitants? This exploration begins with Tolkien's early influences and key life moments, offering a reinterpretation of his beloved works. It traces the origins of his original books and examines later adaptations, including Peter Jackson's blockbuster films and the anticipated TV series, The Rings of Power. Delving into themes such as friendship, failure, the environment, and diversity, the narrative illustrates Tolkien's significance in a post-Covid world. Groom suggests that Tolkien is the writer we need as we navigate a new life in this post-pandemic age. Each chapter showcases a mastery of Tolkien's works and the extensive scholarship surrounding them, making the literary and Hollywood narratives both absorbing and illuminating. Groom's enthusiasm for folklore and customs enriches the discussion, emphasizing the importance of traditions in our lives. Nick Groom, a Professor in English at the University of Exeter, has extensively written on literature, music, and contemporary art. His works include Introducing Shakespeare and The Forger's Shadow, and he resides on Dartmoor.