‘The Lord of the Rings’ And J.R.R. Tolkien's Profound Impact on The Fantasy Genre

The mere mention of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ evokes a feeling of awe and adventure that spans across generations. Come with us as we embark on a journey through the enchanting realms of Middle-earth, exploring the profound impact of J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece on literature, the fantasy genre and the hearts of readers globally.

From the modest beginnings of hobbits to the monumental battles against the forces of darkness, Tolkien's storytelling mastery continues to cast a spell, captivating the imaginations of fans and scholars alike. Step into the mesmerizing universe of ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ where each page serves as a gateway to a world of magic, bravery and an enduring literary legacy.

Amid the trenches during World War I, J.R.R. Tolkien embarked on the creation of a mythos, weaving together stories and concepts that would evolve into what we now recognize as ‘The Silmarillion’ – his narrative recounting the history of Middle-Earth before the emergence of Sauron and the coveted ring of power. ‘The Silmarillion’ spans millennia, detailing the creation of the world by angelic beings in Arda (the known universe).

It explores the genesis of Elves, Men and Dwarves through divine songs, delving into the corruption of Melkor, one of the angelic beings, who rebels against the music of the Ainur. This narrative bears striking Biblical parallels, portraying Melkor (later known as Morgoth, the 'dark enemy,' bestowed upon him by the Noldorin Elves) akin to Lucifer, cast out of Heaven, just as Morgoth is cast out of the music of the Ainur, taking residence in Utumno, a symbolic Hell.

This quasi-Biblical tale lays the groundwork for world-building, introducing characters such as Sauron, Galadriel, Glorfindel and Elrond. It serves as an explanatory backdrop for various characters, races and kingdoms, offering a foundational narrative for Tolkien's broader storytelling. 

While not indispensable, ‘The Silmarillion’ acts as the cornerstone and essential building blocks for Tolkien's expansive narrative. Although Tolkien's most renowned works are ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit,’ ‘The Silmarillion’ stands as a remarkable piece of literature, often acclaimed even beyond the Bible.

In the 1970s, the role-playing game genre experienced a surge in popularity, with Dungeons and Dragons emerging as the most prominent and enduring game. Conceived by Gary Gygax, many aspects of the game closely mirror Tolkien's fictional universe. While Gygax occasionally played down the extent of his inspiration, the profound influence of Tolkien's work cannot be overstated. 

-Farheen Ali