Christopher Snyder

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.

Join Christopher Snyder, a history professor and director of British Studies at Mississippi State University, as he explores J.R.R. Tolkien's rich narratives through the lens of virtue ethics. He highlights how Tolkien’s works, including 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings,' reveal complex moral themes and the significance of imagination in ethics. The discussion also touches on Tolkien's literary influences, the relevance of his stories to contemporary morality, and the transformative power of myth in shaping personal ethics.