The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum - View Single Post - The Seven Deadly Sins in Middle-earth

Amarie of the Vanyar · 08-22-2003, 11:58 AM

I think that your theory is quite realistic, and that maybe it could be esaily proven by looking at the virtues rather than the sins.

In my opinion, and I agree in this with most of you, the Seven Deadly Sins can be identified as sins in almost every culture and piece of literature. But, what makes the biggest difference for me, between christian thought and the rest of cultures, is what is considered a virtuous behaviuor, based on the Virtues. And, for me, Tolkien writings show this Christian set of values.

One obvious example is the extensive use of the word Hope (Estel) in Middle-Earth. And Hope is one of the Theological Virtues (faith, hope and love). From Eärendil to Aragorn, and not forgetting the mention to the 'Old Hope' in the Athrabeth, Tolkien always shows here the importance that this virtue has in the fight against Evil.

08-22-2003, 11:58 AM	#15
Amarie of the Vanyar Wight Join Date: May 2003 Location: Valinor Posts: 215	I think that your theory is quite realistic, and that maybe it could be esaily proven by looking at the virtues rather than the sins. In my opinion, and I agree in this with most of you, the Seven Deadly Sins can be identified as sins in almost every culture and piece of literature. But, what makes the biggest difference for me, between christian thought and the rest of cultures, is what is considered a virtuous behaviuor, based on the Virtues. And, for me, Tolkien writings show this Christian set of values. One obvious example is the extensive use of the word Hope (Estel) in Middle-Earth. And Hope is one of the Theological Virtues (faith, hope and love). From Eärendil to Aragorn, and not forgetting the mention to the 'Old Hope' in the Athrabeth, Tolkien always shows here the importance that this virtue has in the fight against Evil. __________________ But it is said that not until that hour had such cold thoughts ruled Finrod; for indeed she whom he had loved was Amarië of the Vanyar, and she went not with him into exile.