The Art of Manliness The Hobbit Virtues
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Dec 13, 2023 Christopher Snyder, a professor of European history and medieval scholar, dives into the rich tapestry of virtue ethics as presented in J.R.R. Tolkien's works. He reveals how characters in 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings' embody crucial moral lessons—highlighting courage, the value of fellowship, and the simple joys of life. Snyder explores the transformation of reluctant heroes like Bilbo Baggins and contrasts the strength of hobbits' perseverance with traditional warrior valor, illustrating how these timeless themes resonate in today's world.
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Arthurian Inspiration
- Christopher Snyder's interest in the Middle Ages stemmed from Arthurian legends, not Tolkien initially.
- He later saw Tolkien and C.S. Lewis as academic role models, leading him to write about Tolkien.
Tolkien's Academic Career
- J.R.R. Tolkien was a serious academic and philologist, specializing in Old English and Middle English literature.
- His work on the Oxford English Dictionary, particularly the letter 'W', demonstrates his expertise.
Language First, World Second
- Tolkien's fiction was deeply influenced by his love for languages; he built worlds around the languages he invented.
- The Hobbit was initially a standalone story for his children, later connected to his larger Middle-earth legendarium.
