"Tolkien and the Great War: The Threshold of Middle-earth" examines the profound impact of World War I on J.R.R. Tolkien and his literary works. The book delves into how his experiences as a soldier shaped his perspectives and the themes that permeate his writings. It highlights the contrast between the brutality of war and the imaginative realms he created, enriching his narratives with deeper emotional and historical context.
The authors investigate Tolkien's connections with fellow soldiers, particularly his friendship with Christopher Wiseman and their shared experiences, which influenced the creation of Middle-earth. These relationships provided Tolkien with a sense of camaraderie that is mirrored in the bonds between characters in his stories, emphasizing loyalty and sacrifice.
Additionally, the book explores the post-war psychological effects on Tolkien, including feelings of loss and the struggle for meaning in the harsh aftermath of conflict. This exploration offers readers insight into how his traumatic experiences informed the mythic and often allegorical nature of his fantasy works, revealing a complex interplay between reality and imagination that defined his storytelling.