30/09/2024
Amazing Tolkien themed map of Cymru!
J.R.R. Tolkien, the genius behind “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings,” was not only a literary mastermind but a philologist deeply connected to Cymru. His works are steeped in the influence of Welsh language, mythology, and landscapes. In his own words, he referred to Welsh as the “senior language of the men of Britain.”
Tolkien’s appreciation for the Welsh language went beyond mere admiration. He embedded Welsh linguistic elements into his fictional world. The Elvish languages of Quenya and Sindarin, which feature prominently in “The Lord of the Rings,” exhibit clear Welsh influences, both in phonetics and structure. This linguistic artistry lent authenticity to Middle-earth.
The mythological tradition of Cymru was another wellspring of inspiration. The tale of the Mabinogion, a collection of Welsh legends, offered parallels to Tolkien’s storytelling. Elements of the Mabinogion, such as the enchanted Cauldron of Rebirth, are visible in Tolkien’s works.
(Image Credits: NACHODYNAMYTE @ Reddit)