| Abstrakt: |
With Tolkien's extensive production of maps and the intricate detail of geology, flora, and fauna he provides, the basic elements of nature express not only the very physicality of the sub-created 'Middle-Earth' which makes it come to life in such depth of detail, but also an underlying network of motifs and ideas that often pervade story and action through what might be described as 'structural landscapes'. What is lacking, however, is a detailed and structured study of the natural elements, taking into account their immediate and constitutive physicality, their impact on, and role within the stories of Middle-earth, and the conceptual framework within which these elements manifest themselves in more abstract ways. This essay is a first step to fill this gap by providing an analysis of the role water plays in the creation of Middle-earth and its history. By taking a closer look at specific occurrences of water within the narratives as well as more subtle underlying motifs in The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien's other works, I will reveal how water works as the most subversive element of Tolkien's sub-creation through its often corrupted and corrupting qualities, and is essential to the unfolding of the story by adding ambiguity to an underlying meta-narrative of the elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
