The Road to Middle-earth: How J. R. R. Tolkien created a new mythology

A detailed and fascinating journey to the roots of The Lord of the Rings, by award-winning Tolkien expert Professor Tom Shippey.

Overview

The Road to Middle-earth is a fascinating and accessible exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien’s creativity and the sources of his inspiration. Tom Shippey delves into how Tolkien’s professional background led him to write The Hobbit, creating a work of timeless charm for millions of readers.

Key Features:

• Exploration of Tolkien’s Mythology:
  Shippey discusses the contributions of The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales to Tolkien’s great myth-cycle, showing how these more ‘complex’ works can be read enjoyably and seriously by readers familiar with his earlier books.
• Insight into the Creative Process:
  Examines the remarkable 12-volume History of Middle-earth by Tolkien’s son and literary heir, Christopher Tolkien, which traces the creative and technical processes through which Middle-earth evolved.
• Focus on The Lord of the Rings:
  Concentrates on The Lord of the Rings as:
  • A linguistic and cultural map.
  • A twisted web of a story.
  • A response to the inner meaning of myth and poetry.

Literary Tradition and Critique

By following Tolkien’s obsessions – the poetry of languages and myth – The Road to Middle-earth reveals how works like Beowulf, The Lord of the Rings, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, the Elder Edda, and many others form part of a live and continuing tradition of literature. Shippey challenges many basic premises of orthodox criticism, offering a fresh perspective on Tolkien, fantasy, and the importance of language in literature.

Revised and Expanded Edition

This new edition includes:

• Revisions and expansions to the original text.
• A previously unpublished, lengthy analysis of Peter Jackson’s film adaptations and their impact on Tolkien’s work.

Whether you are a dedicated fan of Tolkien’s works or a newcomer to Middle-earth, The Road to Middle-earth offers unparalleled insights into the mind and creativity of one of the greatest authors of the 20th century.