What do Gandalf and Merlin have in common, besides robes and magical staffs? Where do hobbits get their recipes, riddles, and love of rambling? What other Rings of Power were circulating in medieval Europe? How did Thorin violate the rules of medieval kingship?Youll find the answers and more in this book, which explores the magic and creativity behind J.R.R. Tolkiens bestselling story from a historical perspective. Tolkien was a professor of medieval languages and literature at Oxford University, and he drew on his scholarshipand the homely comforts common in his own dayto build the world ofThe Hobbit.
The Hobbit and Historyuncovers the parallels between the Middle Ages and the intricate culture of Middle-earth that Tolkien created inThe Hobbit, showing how historical cultures provided the models for Tolkiens characters, foods, riddles, and battle tactics. The book explores how European myths and legends inspired Tolkiens wizards, dragons, and the monsters he created. Seeing Middle-earth and its peoples against these historical backdrops shines new light on the richness of Tolkiens world, which is rooted in knowledge of European cultures as deep as the archive that Gandalf explores in Minas Tirith.
Filled with fascinating facts and reproductions of Tolkiens original artwork of Smaug and other aspects of Middle-earth,The Hobbit and Historyis the missing piece for every book and movie fan and anyone who thought their J.R.R. Tolkien collection was complete.
Movie tie-in promotions (Nov. and Dec.)
National and local publicity and review coverage
E-mail, e-newsletters, and online marketing campaignSocial media campaignElectronic press kitBound galleys (print and electronic)Goodreads giveaway
Goblins are recurring enemies in The Hobbit. They prove to be even more dangerous than Smaug. The dwarves, humans, and elves are, despite their differences, united by their common hatred anl£+