The Age of the Ring (Lord of the Rings) Forum
Tolkien only Section => Tolkien => Topic started by: Anarya on September 07, 2007, 03:18:11 AM
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When my professor at University gave his opening lecture on Anglo-Saxon History, he said; "If you are ever in doubt, watch Lord of the Rings". And I have to say, studying works such as Bede and the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle you do see the immediate similarities between this history and Tolkien's own mythology. For instance when reading Bede he discusses all the kings and there is a character called Eomer, son of Ethomer (not quite sure if that's his father's name...but you get the picture!) and I just find it fasinating. I have also read numerous works by Tolkien on Anglo-Saxon history, language and poetry. I think if people, really want to understand Lord of the Rings better, maybe it would be good for them to invest some time into reading the stories which influenced Tolkien so much :) What do other people think about the aspects of Anglo-Saxon history and its relation to the mythology Tolkien created?
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Well, I think you are quite right. I guess if you read the mythology, not only Anglo-Saxon, it broadens your mind and perhaps reveals the prototypes of characters, events in Tolkien's mythology. For instance, as I remember, there are certain similarities between the Finnish Kalevala and Lord of the Rings. Besides it must be an exciting reading.
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Bede... how is that pronounced? Bih-day? ::) :P :laugh: