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J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novel, The Lord of the Rings, has captivated readers for over half a century and continues to do so today.
The book tells the story of Frodo Baggins, a hobbit from the Shire, who is entrusted with the task of destroying the One Ring, an ancient and powerful artifact created by the dark lord Sauron. Along with a fellowship of other creatures, including hobbits, men, dwarves, and elves, Frodo sets out on a perilous journey across Middle-earth, encountering friend and foe.
One of the most striking aspects of The Lord of the Rings is the incredible depth and detail of Tolkien’s world-building. Middle-earth is a vast and complex place, filled with rich histories, cultures, and languages. Tolkien’s attention to detail is unparalleled, and it’s clear that he put enormous thought and care into creating every aspect of his world. From the lush forests of Lothlórien to the treacherous peaks of Mount Doom, Middle-earth is a fully-realized and immersive world that readers easily get lost in.
While the world-building is certainly impressive, it’s the characters that truly bring The Lord of the Rings to life. Frodo is a wonderfully relatable protagonist, and his struggles to carry the burden of the One Ring are both harrowing and heartbreaking. The other members of the fellowship are equally compelling, each with their unique personalities and motivations. Whether it’s the wise and powerful Gandalf, the valiant Aragorn, or the mischievous hobbit Pippin, every character in The Lord of the Rings feels fully-realized and fleshed out.
Of course, no review of The Lord of the Rings would be complete without mentioning the book’s prose. Tolkien’s writing is often praised for its lyrical beauty, and it’s not hard to see why. His use of language is masterful, and his descriptions of Middle-earth’s landscapes and creatures are breathtaking. At the same time, he never loses sight of the story he’s telling, and his prose always serves to move the plot forward.
Another strength of The Lord of the Rings is its themes. The book touches on a wide range of topics, including power, corruption, friendship, sacrifice, and the nature of evil. Tolkien’s Catholic faith is also evident throughout the book, with many characters displaying a strong sense of morality and spirituality. These themes give the book a depth and complexity that sets it apart from other works of fantasy.
It’s worth noting, however, that The Lord of the Rings is not without its flaws. The book can be slow-paced at times, with lengthy descriptions and passages of exposition that may test some readers’ patience. While the book’s depiction of women has been criticized in recent years, it’s worth keeping in mind that it was written in the 1950s and reflected the cultural attitudes of its time.
Overall, however, The Lord of the Rings is a true masterpiece of fantasy literature. It’s a book that rewards close reading and careful attention and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes the time to delve into its rich and complex world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of fantasy fiction, or are simply looking for a gripping and immersive read, The Lord of the Rings is a book that should not be missed.
Chase Burgess is a senior who is in his second and final year at Washington High. He was born in the Bay Area but has moved around alot and moved to Oregon for 6 years before finally returning to the Bay. He has been in journalism before in 8th grade and is excited to be back at it. This is his second year at the Hatchet and as an editor he is ready to make sure you receive the best articles. His hobbies outside of school include biking, skating, reading, and doing origami as his creative outlet. He plans to graduate from Washington and then go to college pursuing psychology and journalism. Outside of school he works at a Lego museum in Niles and spends his weekends working and spending time with his family and friends.