Tolkien's Ring - Hardcover

Day, David

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1586635271 ISBN 13: 9781586635275

Publisher: Barnes & Noble, 2002

Synopsis

J.R.R. Tolkien had a great knowledge of, and love for, world mythology when he wrote his beloved trilogy of Middle Earth. In particular, the symbol of the Ring has a rich and fascinating heritage, and this beautifully illustrated literary detective work searches down Tolkien's sources and inspiration. To understand the roots of The Lord of the Rings, we must go far back, to a tradition of ring-quest tales that came into being before the pyramids of Egypt were built, or the walls of Babylon raised. The extraordinary journey passes through the most magical stories told: Norse myths, including the Volsunga Saga; the Arthurian legends; the Carolingian tales, linked to the Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne; Celtic and Saxon myths; German romances, such as the Nibelungenlied; and more. By drawing on these potent primary myths and legends, Tolkien was able himself to create a new mythology for the 20th century--and beyond.

About this title

About the Author:

David Day is the author of more than 20 books, including Guide to Tolkien's World, Tolkien: The Illustrated Encyclopaedia, and A Tolkien Bestiary. Alan Lee is a lead conceptual artist for the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, and a recipient of the Academy Award for Best Art Direction for his work on The Return of the King. He illustrated The Lord of the Rings Sketchbook and the centenary editions of The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and The Children of Húrin.

Review:

"A mighty achievement, effectively described and celebrated in this lavish, handsomely presented volume."  —Times Educational Supplement

"Day's enthusiasm is infectious, and he concisely retells the myths he examines with some verve."  —SFX Magazine

About this edition

• Publisher: Barnes & Noble
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 1586635271
• ISBN 13: 9781586635275
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 184
• Illustrator: Lee Alan