Historical Context of The Hobbit
Post-War Influence
The Hobbit, published in 1937, was profoundly shaped by J.R.R. Tolkien's experiences during World War I. As a veteran who served in the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest battles in human history, Tolkien's writing reflects the impact of industrialization and warfare on society.
NoteThe peaceful Shire, contrasted with the industrialized and war-torn regions of Middle-earth, mirrors the contrast between rural England and the mechanized warfare Tolkien witnessed.
Industrial Revolution's Impact
The story's themes strongly reflect the tensions between:
- Traditional rural life
- Modern industrialization
- The destruction of nature
This is particularly evident in Tolkien's description of the dragon Smaug's devastation:
"There was no gleam of gold, nor wink of gem, nor sheen of silver, left upon the trees or in the grass in that withered place." This imagery parallels the industrial scarring of the English countryside that Tolkien witnessed in his lifetime.
Literary Context
The Hobbit emerged during a significant shift in children's literature:
- Moving away from purely moralistic tales
- Embracing fantasy and imagination
- Incorporating deeper themes accessible to both children and adults
Understanding this context helps readers appreciate how The Hobbit revolutionized children's literature by introducing complex themes while maintaining an accessible narrative style.
Medieval Influences
Tolkien's academic background as a professor of Anglo-Saxon significantly influenced the work:
- Norse mythology
- Beowulf
- Anglo-Saxon poetry
