The Ring and the Cross: Christianity and the Lord of the Rings

by Paul E. Kerry (Editor)

The conversation, sometimes heated, about the influence of Christianity on the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien has a long history. What has been lacking is a forum for a civilized discussion about the topic, as well as a chronological overview of the major arguments and themes that have engaged scholars about the impact of Christianity on Tolkien's oeuvre, with particular reference to The Lord of the Rings . The Ring and the Cross addresses these two needs through an articulate and authoritative analyses of Tolkien's Roman Catholicism and the role it plays in understanding his writings. The volume's contributors deftly explain the kinds of interpretations put forward and evidence marshaled when arguing for or against religious influence. The Ring and the Cross invites readers to draw their own conclusions about a subject that has fascinated Tolkien enthusiasts since the publication of his masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings .

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Literature

310 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent collection of articles by scholars, who fairly and thoroughly assess the role played by Tolkien's Catholicism in his writings. The book begins with an excellent survey of the history of Christian approaches to The Lord of the Rings, which should be required reading for anyone interested in this question. After that the first section of the book addresses the pagan elements of Tolkien's legendarium and how they fit with the Christian elements. The second investigates how Tolkien's world is 'fundamentally Christian', as Tolkien himself put it, and specifically influenced by the Roman Catholicism which was so essential a part of his life.

[Gouchsmith · Rating 2 out of 5]

The last five books I have read have blown my mind. I loved every bit of them. I thought for sure that with this books topic being two of my most favorite things (The complete writings of JRR Tolkien, and his devotion to God, and how these two aspects of his life come together on the pages).

Sadly this is not the case.. Rather the book is a series of essays written by many different scholars, who all,seem more interested in the vomitous pontification spewing from their lower face.

I do not recommend this book

[Kevin Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think the multiple viewpoints (both pagan and Christian)are very interesting. Reading this book made me realize that Chesterton and Belloc had influenced Tolkien as a young man. Tolkien's myth confronts the Scientism and Capitalistic/Socialistic dualism of the modern world.

[Erika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Several interesting chapters that outline major areas of contention in the "Is the Lord of the Rings Christian" discussion. The first few chapters are even a little heated.