Tolkien, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the Metaphysics of Faerie

: The Tapestry of Middle-earth and Thomistic Thought

In the tapestry of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, woven within the intricate threads of epic battles and mythical creatures, lies a profound philosophical and theological substratum. Tolkien, a devout Catholic, drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas, the 13th-century Dominican friar and Doctor of the Church.

The Flame Imperishable: Tolkien, St. Thomas, and the Metaphysics of Faerie

by Jonathan S. McIntosh

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This article delves into the compelling parallels between Tolkien's work and the thought of Aquinas, exploring how these shared ideas enrich our understanding of Middle-earth and its enduring themes.

Being and the Essence of Creation

Central to Aquinas's metaphysics is the concept of being, or existence. He posits that being is the first and most fundamental concept, from which all other concepts derive.

Similarly, in Middle-earth, the act of creation is imbued with a sense of profound significance. Tolkien writes in The Silmarillion, "Then Ilúvatar spoke, and he said: 'Ea, let there be Light!'" This act of creation brings forth the very fabric of existence, establishing the ontological foundations of Middle-earth.

The Beauty of the Created World

Aquinas also emphasizes the beauty of the created world, which he sees as a reflection of God's own beauty. In Summa Theologica, he writes, "Beauty consists in due proportion." This concept of beauty is evident throughout Middle-earth, from the majestic landscapes of Rivendell to the intricate artistry of the dwarves.

Tolkien's descriptions of nature are imbued with a sense of awe and wonder, capturing the inherent beauty and harmony of creation. In The Lord of the Rings, he describes Lothlórien as a place "where the trees grew tall and straight, their branches laden with blossoms; and the air was filled with the sound of birds singing."

Good and Evil: A Cosmic Struggle

Aquinas's philosophy also grapples with the nature of good and evil. He argues that good is the pursuit of proper ends through virtuous actions, while evil is the pursuit of disFree Downloaded ends through sinful actions.

In Middle-earth, the cosmic struggle between good and evil is central to the narrative. The forces of darkness, led by Sauron, seek to dominate and corrupt all living beings. Conversely, the forces of light, embodied by the Fellowship of the Ring, strive to preserve the beauty and freedom of Middle-earth.

This struggle is not merely a physical conflict, but a profound clash of moral values and worldviews.

The Sacramental Nature of Middle-earth

One striking aspect of Tolkien's work is its sacramental nature. Aquinas believed that the material world is not merely a veil that conceals the spiritual realm, but a channel through which the divine can be experienced.

In Middle-earth, the physical world is imbued with a sense of the sacred. The bread that the Fellowship eats is more than mere sustenance; it is a reminder of the nourishment provided by the Valar, the divine beings who created the world. The light of the stars guides the travelers on their journey, illuminating the path towards hope and redemption.

: The Enduring Legacy of Tolkien and Aquinas

The convergence of Tolkien's imagination and Aquinas's philosophy has left an enduring legacy on literature and thought. Tolkien's Middle-earth is not simply a realm of fantasy but a profound reflection on the nature of being, beauty, good, and evil.

By drawing parallels between Tolkien and Aquinas, we gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical and theological underpinnings of Middle-earth. Their shared insights illuminate the tapestry of Tolkien's work, enriching our appreciation for its depth and complexity.

As we continue to journey through the landscapes of Middle-earth, may we be inspired by the wisdom of Tolkien and Aquinas, embracing the beauty of creation, striving for virtue, and finding hope in the face of darkness.

The Flame Imperishable: Tolkien, St. Thomas, and the Metaphysics of Faerie

by Jonathan S. McIntosh

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1387 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	292 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE