In "On Fairy Stories," J.R.R. Tolkien explores the nature and significance of fairy tales, arguing that they are not mere children's stories but profound expressions of human longing and imagination. He delves into the concept of 'eucatastrophe,' a sudden and joyful turn of events that transcends the ordinary, and how it relates to the Christian narrative of redemption. Tolkien's essay is a rich tapestry of literary criticism, mythology, and personal reflection, offering insights into the creative process and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world. He emphasizes the importance of fantasy literature in providing escape, consolation, and a glimpse into the deeper truths of existence. The essay remains a cornerstone of fantasy literature studies and continues to inspire writers and readers alike.
In 'Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art', Scott McCloud delves into the history and mechanics of graphic storytelling. The book defines comics as 'sequential art' and examines various aspects such as visual iconography, closure, reader participation, word-picture dynamics, and the psychology of line styles and color. McCloud traces the origins of comics back to ancient forms of visual storytelling and discusses how comics work on the human brain, emphasizing the role of the reader in filling in the gaps between panels. The book is praised for its lucid and accessible analysis, making it a landmark work in the field of comic studies.
John Hendrix's "The Mythmakers" is a captivating graphic novel biography that explores the remarkable friendship and creative collaboration between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. The book delves into their personal lives, their shared faith, and the influences that shaped their iconic works. It showcases the development of their ideas and the unique storytelling techniques they employed. Through vivid illustrations and insightful narrative, Hendrix brings to life the creative process and the profound bond between these two literary giants. The book is a must-read for fans of Lewis and Tolkien, as well as anyone interested in the power of friendship and creativity.
The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will[3][4][5].
In 'Perelandra', the second book of C.S. Lewis’s Space Trilogy, Dr. Elwin Ransom is transported to the planet Perelandra (Venus) to counter a temptation similar to that of Eve in the Garden of Eden. The planet, described as a paradise with floating islands, rich colors, and peaceful creatures, is home to a Green Lady and her King, who are the only sentient inhabitants. Ransom must thwart the plans of Dr. Edward Weston, who has been possessed by diabolical forces and aims to tempt the Green Lady into disobeying Maleldil’s (God’s) prohibition against dwelling on the Fixed Land. The novel explores themes of obedience, free will, and the struggle between good and evil, culminating in a physical battle between Ransom and the possessed Weston to determine the fate of Perelandra[2][3][5].
In addition to creating myths themselves, the friendship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien is the stuff of myth and legend. Join Dr. Jim Beitler, Director of the Marion E. Wade Center, and co-host Aaron Hill as they sit down with illustrator and professor John Hendrix to discuss his latest graphic novel, The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. We discuss the visual language that Hendrix created for The Inklings, his creative process, and the ways in which Lewis and Tolkien impacted the 20th and 21st centuries.
Wade Center 
