The C.S. Lewis podcast
#150 Holly Ordway: Tolkien on Holy Week
Mar 25, 2024
Dr. Holly Ordway discusses J.R.R. Tolkien's perspective on Holy Week, his view on death, and the significance of Easter and resurrection in his faith. They explore themes of euchatostrophe, cosmic joy, and Tolkien's use of invented languages in reflecting his spiritual beliefs.
18:05
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Quick takeaways
- Tolkien viewed Holy Week as a pivotal time of solemnity and celebration in his Catholic faith, emphasizing the importance of Christ's resurrection.
- Tolkien's concept of eucatastrophe in storytelling mirrored his profound belief in the cosmic significance of the resurrection, reflecting in his writings like 'The Lord of the Rings'.
Deep dives
Tolkien's Emphasis on Holy Week and Easter
Tolkien viewed Holy Week as a significant period, especially leading up to Easter, the celebration of Christ's resurrection. He highlighted the solemnity and journey through Christ's last days during Holy Week as pivotal in his faith. For Tolkien, Easter was a crucial time with its culmination marking the highest point of celebration, emphasizing the importance of the resurrection in his Catholic beliefs. Additionally, Tolkien's reflections on Good Friday's veneration of the cross and poignant experiences at St. Gregory and St. Augustine Church in Oxford underscored the depth of his spiritual connections during Holy Week.
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