These parallels [or more tangible symbols] to be discussed, may or may not have been deliberately written into Tolkien's story, but they certainly flow from " certain religious ideas ".
" Theologically I imagine the picture [ed - story] to be less dissonant from what some [including myself] believe to be the truth. But since I have written a tale, which is built on or out of certain 'religous' ideas, but is NOT an allegory of them..." [Letters p.283].
These 'religious' ideas and parallels are in the story, but not as direct metaphors. It is important not to be univocal; i.e. not to be too literal or expect exact reflection of these when looking at Tolkien's works or writing. But they are there in essence.
| Priest, Prophet and King. |
| The Trees of Life. |
| 25th of the Month. |
| Three, Seven and Nine. |
| The Lembas. |
| Metaphysical Elements. |
| Women of the Middle-earth. |
Next Page - Priest, Prophet & King
All film images © New Line Cinema
Go to IE version of this page.