Tolkien: Middle Earth & the Middle Ages
Gone Medieval
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Rediscover the Past: Beowulf's Legacy
Tolkien's work draws heavily from medieval sources, with Beowulf identified as a key influence. Beowulf itself poses challenges for students learning Old English, often eliciting mixed feelings among them. Its absence from the literary canon during the Middle Ages and Renaissance highlights a significant gap in medieval literature awareness, with even prominent figures like Chaucer not referencing it. The text remained largely forgotten until its rediscovery in the late 18th century, illustrating the lengthy disconnection and the complexities of literary heritage.
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