Catholicism in Tolkiens writings

Research Paper Proposal
Much of the influences of Tolkien’s works are influenced in some way or another by his own Catholic faith. In all of his works he incorporated his Catholic beliefs into his literary works. I would like to elaborate and specifically discuss in my research paper. I would like to investigate the compatibility and incompatibility between “theology” present in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and Tolkien’s own Catholic beliefs and theology and whether or not there are any points worth exploring on the compatibility of those beliefs. It would be really interesting to research the depth of Catholic theology or belief in his literary works. Throughout Tolkien’s works it would be interesting to break down different Catholic elements along with citing specific passages and quotes supporting Catholic elements. Then following that I would like to compare specific characters or groups of characters or nations and how they embody those Catholic elements and whether or not they flow smoothly in the overall telling of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit. For example, the ring of power was destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom on March 25th and for Catholics this also bears great significance in that it is solemnity of the Annunciation or the Incarnation. This particular date also bears significance in that the Catholic Church has believed that the historical date of Jesus crucifixion took place on March 25th. These and other points are worth mentioning as well as characters who embody elements of holy men and women or overall Catholic ideology.

Last Completed Projects