Thanks Estel (and also Nar for a typically eloquent contribution).
To my mind the allegory argument has been fairly clearly refuted. However, it seems as though people will continue to assert that 'similarities' or 'subconscious manifestations' are either the evidence or the symptom of a link to Biblical narrative. Although I and others have tried pretty hard to at least offer some ambiguity in this line of reasoning, and counsel the dangers of appropriation, I think there is an agenda here that will run and run [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Perhaps there is a subtle link between this and the 'Are there any valid criticisms' thread, in that the nature of LotR as a act of modern myth-making (as distinct from the fantasy genre as a whole) gives it that sense of spiritual conviction, and a certain 'timeless' quality ...
Again, my compliments to all contributors - whether I agree or disagree, I continue to be stimulated and impressed by the erudite and articulate responses herein [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Peace
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