Examines the culture of chivalry and reign of Christianity in “The Lord of The Rings” trilogy by J. R. R. Tolkien.
Acclaimed writer and historian, John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, author of the popular trilogy book series, “The Lord of the Rings”, is an advocate of the great traditions of chivalry and Christianity. This paper discusses the dynamic elements used in “Lord of the Rings” to illustrate the prevalence of the tradition of chivalry and Christianity as reflected in the behavior, thinking, and actions of its main characters. The analysis is an interpretation of “Lord of the Rings” three-part movie and book series. It focuses on the themes of good versus evil, with sub-themes involving the dominance of women, pervasiveness of evil in the midst of human weakness, and, most importantly, the element of hope and faith in people and one?s self in the face of adversity and suffering.
“LOTR 3 is perhaps, among the three-story installments of Tolkien’s Middle Earth tale, the only story that blatantly illustrates the reign and prevalence of Chivalry and Christianity as important values held important by its main characters. Chivalry is personified in every man involved in the battle, with the exception of Eowyn, who chooses to fight for her people. Centering the story’s focus on Eowyn reiterates the fact that in Middle Earth, male dominance is prevalent, and her deviance illustrates the bravery of women despite their portrayal as domestic housekeepers and nurturers of their children.”