J.R.R. Tolkien (1892 – 1973) British author

J. R. R. Tolkien Biography

J.R.R Tolkien is a name that is synonymous with fantasy literature. He is best known for his iconic work, The Lord of the Rings, which has inspired generations of readers and has been adapted into one of the most successful movie franchises of all time. But who was the man behind the myth? This documentary explores the life and legacy of J.R.R Tolkien.

Early Life

J.R.R Tolkien was born in South Africa in 1892. His father died when he was just four years old, and his mother moved the family to England. Tolkien was a gifted linguist and showed an early interest in languages. He studied at Oxford University, where he later became a professor of Anglo-Saxon.

The War Years

Tolkien served in World War I, and the experience had a profound impact on him. He witnessed the horrors of war firsthand, and this would later be reflected in his writing. Tolkien lost many friends during the war, and this had a lasting effect on him.

The Writing Years

After the war, Tolkien began writing in earnest. He drew inspiration from his love of language and mythology, and his work reflected his deep knowledge of these subjects. He wrote The Hobbit in 1937, which was an instant success. He followed this up with The Lord of the Rings, which was published in three volumes between 1954 and 1955.

The Legacy

Tolkien's work has had a lasting impact on literature and popular culture. The Lord of the Rings has sold over 150 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 30 languages. The books have inspired countless imitators and have spawned an entire genre of fantasy literature. The Lord of the Rings has also been adapted into movies, which have grossed over $6 billion at the box office.

The Man Behind the Myth

Despite his success, Tolkien was a private man. He shunned the spotlight and was uncomfortable with his celebrity status. He was a devoted family man and had a deep love for his wife, Edith, who inspired much of his writing. Tolkien was also a devout Catholic, and his faith had a profound influence on his work.

Conclusion:

J.R.R Tolkien was a remarkable man who left a lasting legacy. His work has inspired generations of readers and has had a profound impact on popular culture. But behind the myth was a man who was deeply devoted to his family and his faith. This documentary has explored the life and legacy of J.R.R Tolkien, and has shed light on the man behind the myth.