| Description |
xxiii, 391 pages : illustrations, maps ; 24 cm |
| Contents |
Tolkien, lord of the sciences -- Tolkien and the sciences: a relationship with many faces -- World-building -- An anchoring in space and time -- A complex environment -- Spectacular settings -- Remarkable characters -- A fantastical bestiary |
| Summary |
"hearts and imaginations around the world. From Oxford to ComiCon, the Middle Earth is analyzed and interpreted through a multitude of perspectives. But one essential facet of Tolkien and his Middle Earth has been overlooked: science. This great writer, creator of worlds and unforgettable character, and inventor of language was also a scientific autodidact, with an innate interest and grasp of botany, paleontologist and geologist, with additional passions for archeology and chemistry. Tolkien was an acute observer of flora and fauna and mined the minds of his scientific friends about ocean currents and volcanoes. It is these layers science that give his imaginary universe—and the creatures and characters that inhabit it—such concreteness. Within this gorgeously illustrated edition, a range of scientists—from astrophysicists to physicians, botanists to volcanologists—explore Tolkien’s novels, poems, and letters to reveal their fascinating scientific roots. A rewarding combination of literary exploration and scientific discovery, The Science of Middle Earth reveals the hidden meaning of the Ring’s corruption, why Hobbits have big feet, the origins of the Dwarves, the animals which inspired the dragons, and even whether or not an Ent is possible. Enhanced by superb original drawings, this transportive work will delight both Tolkien fans and science lovers and inspire us to view both Middle Earth—and our own world—with fresh eyes."--book jacket. |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references (pages [373]-386) |
| Subject |
Tolkien, J. R. R. (John Ronald Reuel), 1892-1973. Lord of the rings -- Criticism and interpretation.
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Tolkien, J. R. R. (John Ronald Reuel), 1892-1973.
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Fantasy fiction, English -- History and criticism.
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Middle Earth (Imaginary place)
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Literature and science -- Great Britain -- History -- 20th century.
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Science in literature.
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| Added Author |
Lehoucq, Roland, editor.
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Mangin, Loïc, editor.
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Steyer, Jean-Sébastien, editor.
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Kover, Tina A., translator.
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| Added Title |
Tolkien et les sciences. English.
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New understanding of Tolkien and his world |
| ISBN |
9781643136165 |
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164313616X |
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