Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art : Book Review

"Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art" by Robert E. Morse is a captivating exploration of the profound influence that the ancient Roman poet Virgil had on J.R.R. Tolkien's literary works. Morse skillfully delves into the parallels between Virgil's epic poem, "The Aeneid," and Tolkien's iconic fantasy novels, including "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit."

The book begins by providing a comprehensive historical context and background information on both Virgil and Tolkien. Morse illuminates the shared themes of heroism, destiny, and the transformative power of language that permeate their respective works. Through meticulous analysis of Tolkien's writing, Morse uncovers numerous allusions to Virgil's work, unveiling captivating connections between the two authors.

One aspect that distinguishes this book is Morse's exploration of Tolkien's use of language, particularly Latin and how it influenced his creation of intricate invented languages like Elvish. Morse expertly demonstrates how Tolkien's deep understanding of linguistics enabled him to infuse his narratives with the same elegance and grandeur found in Virgil's poetry.

Morse's skill as a scholar is evident in his ability to present complex literary concepts in a concise and accessible manner. He supports his arguments with direct comparisons of specific passages from Virgil and Tolkien's works, allowing readers to fully grasp the extent of Virgil's impact on Tolkien's artistry.

In conclusion, "Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art" offers a captivating exploration of the profound influence of ancient literature on one of the most renowned fantasy authors of our time. Morse's meticulous research and insightful analysis make this book a must-read for both fans of Tolkien's works and those interested in the intersection of classical literature and modern fantasy.

What are readers saying?

"Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art" by Robert E. Morse has garnered mixed reviews. The book delves into the connection between Virgil and J.R.R. Tolkien, specifically in relation to "The Lord of the Rings." Here is a summary of the feedback:

1. Positive: Some readers commend Morse for his detailed analysis of the relationship between Virgil and Tolkien. They appreciate his thorough research, which sheds light on Tolkien's creative process. Morse's writing style is praised for its accessibility and engaging nature, making the book enjoyable for both scholars and Tolkien enthusiasts.

2. Negative: However, some reviewers believe that "Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art" falls short in execution. They criticize the book for being overly academic, with an excessive amount of footnotes and references that may overwhelm casual readers. Additionally, some find the writing style dry and lacking clarity, which hinders their understanding of the subject matter.

3. Positive: Many readers value the unique perspective that Morse brings to the table. By exploring the link between Virgil and Tolkien, the book provides fresh insights into Tolkien's mythological world. Readers admire Morse's dedication and passion for the topic, as well as his ability to highlight the parallels between these influential authors.

4. Negative: Several reviewers express disappointment with the book's organization. They feel that the content lacks a clear structure, making it difficult to follow the author's arguments. Furthermore, a few readers believe that "Evocation of Virgil in Tolkien's Art" fails to thoroughly explore certain aspects of the topic.

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