A specific written work by J.R.R. Tolkien, frequently accessed in digital document format, constitutes a significant contribution to the theoretical understanding of imaginative literature. This work delves into the nature, purpose, and value of tales featuring fantastical elements, exploring the inherent human desire for enchantment and secondary creation. As an example, a student researching Tolkien’s literary theories might seek a digital copy of this essay to analyze his perspectives on mythopoeia.
The value of this essay lies in its profound influence on fantasy literature and criticism. It provides a framework for understanding how these narratives function on psychological, artistic, and cultural levels. Originally delivered as the Andrew Lang Lecture at the University of St Andrews in 1939, the essay represents a pivotal moment in the academic recognition of fantasy as a legitimate and important art form. Its insights continue to shape critical discourse and inform the creative processes of authors working within the genre.
