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Old 02-06-2003, 09:21 PM   #16
Angry Hill Troll
Wight
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Ephel Duath
Posts: 115
Angry Hill Troll has just left Hobbiton.
Silmaril

Aerandir Carnesir,

A few thoughts on your post:

-I couldn't tell from your original post if you have read The Silmarillion yet. If you haven't I strongly encourage it--I think you would enjoy it as it deals much more explicitly with the metaphysical/theological aspects of Tolkien's universe, which are only infrequently hinted at in LOTR.

-I agree that Tolkien's own religious beliefs influence his works, but I think the beauty of his writings is that one does not necessarily have to share his religious background to appreciate his books.

-I'm not sure I would agree that a set of Tarot cards is necessarily evil (just my own opinion) but basing it on LOTR characters certainly misses the point of the story. One thing in Tolkien's work is that magical objects or supernatural abilities are not intrinsically different than any other ability or talent. Like physical strength, intelligence, or charisma, they can be used for good or bad purposes. Having a magic wand, or a magic sword, or a palantir, doesn't avoid the moral dilemmas that most of Tolkien's characters must face.

Sauron's ring is perhaps the one exception, but even that had no effect on Tom Bombadil, because he, unlike every other person who came into contact with it, had no capability of lust for power, and so was immune to its temptation.

-The moral nature of Tolkien's world is somewhat more complex than the Christian doctrine, at least in its simplist presentation. There is no sense of "a Savior has arrived, so all we have to do is acknowledge Him, and all our misdeeds however grave, can be forgiven."

In ME it does matter whether you do the right thing or not, and blanket forgiveness doesn't generally seem to be a possibility. On the other hand, characters who do the wrong thing (if it's not too wrong), often end up having the chance to redeem themselves, at least up to a point. But, more often than not, they don't make use of the opportunity of redemption.
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