Tolkien's Ordinary Virtues

January 28, 2002
Smith, a graphic designer at InterVarsity Press, is clearly an avid fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tale The Lord of the Rings. His emotional attachment to the book is unfortunately not coupled with the skill needed for the kind of thematic analysis he undertakes. Each chapter explores a different virtue, such as friendship, sacrifice or humility. However, several of the topics, such as resurrection or providence, cannot be appropriately categorized as "virtues." Within each chapter, Smith's thoughts meander and sometimes even contradict. "Wise generals lead from the rear," he notes, but he counsels on the very same page that "the proper position of leadership is in front, partaking fully in the dangers of the lowliest of soldiers." Smith's chapter about the virtue of justice is actually entirely about mercy. Many Tolkien fans will disagree with much of Smith's interpretation, particularly the assertion that Gandalf clearly dies and is resurrected, or that Gollum and Sam are very similar characters. Christian readers will also be disappointed at the paucity of theological thought; Scripture references are rare and often appear to be tacked on as afterthoughts. Also puzzling are the indications that Smith believes the story to reflect some actual past time somehow "revealed" to Tolkien. Although it contains some original ideas, especially in the chapter on community, this book lacks depth and clarity of expression.