The Question of Friendship: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien
Introduction
C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien were two of the most influential authors of the 20th century, known for their imaginative and thought-provoking works of fantasy and mythology. While they were often associated with the world of high fantasy, their lives and friendships were complex and multifaceted. This article will examine the nature of their relationship, highlighting key points, and challenging the common perception that they were only friends.
C.S. Lewis: A Guardian of Christianity
C.S. Lewis was a brilliant academic and scholar, best known for his fictional works, particularly "The Chronicles of Narnia" series. However, he was also a devout Christian, who actively sought to defend the faith against secularism and atheism. Lewis was a member of the Inklings, a literary group that included authors like Tolkien, with whom he shared a deep love of language and mythology.
J.R.R. Tolkien: A Philosopher and Scholar
Tolkien was a scholar of languages, particularly Old English and Finnish. He was also a professor of Anglo-Saxon studies at Oxford University and a fellow of Pembroke College, Cambridge. Tolkien’s academic background and scholarly pursuits made him an ideal companion for Lewis, who valued intellectual debates and discussions.
A Journey of Discovery and Exploration
One of the most significant aspects of their friendship was the shared love of exploration and discovery. Both authors were keen enthusiasts of exploration, with Lewis writing extensively about his experiences during World War I, while Tolkien drew inspiration from his own military service and the maps of Middle-earth.
Meeting and Collaboration
Tolkien and Lewis met in 1932, when Lewis moved to Oxford to study at Oxford University. At this point, Tolkien was a professor of Anglo-Saxon studies, while Lewis was a student. The two authors quickly formed a close bond, and their conversations and debates on literature, philosophy, and mythology were intense and engaging.
The Inklings Group
Tolkien and Lewis were part of the Inklings, a literary group that included other notable authors, such as Charles Williams, Robert Gilman, and Humphrey Carpenter. The Inklings met regularly to discuss their works, share ideas, and engage in intellectual debates. This camaraderie was a source of comfort and inspiration for both authors.
The Influence of Each Other’s Work
Both authors drew inspiration from each other’s work, with Lewis influencing Tolkien’s depiction of Middle-earth and Tolkien influencing Lewis’s exploration of Christian themes. The Lord of the Rings, for example, was heavily influenced by Lewis’s mythology and Christian allegory.
A Devoted Companion and Friend
While the relationship between Tolkien and Lewis was often seen as a simple friendship, it was also marked by a deep and abiding affection. Lewis was known to have been fiercely protective of Tolkien, and the two authors were often referred to as each other’s closest friends.
Beyond Literature
Tolkien and Lewis shared a deep appreciation for literature and the humanities. They were both members of the Society of Christians and Rationalists, a literary and philosophical organization that sought to promote intellectual debates and discussions.
Lessons from Their Friendship
The friendship between Tolkien and Lewis offers valuable lessons for us today. Firstly, their bond was built on a shared love of exploration and discovery, which inspired some of their most creative works. Secondly, their intellectual debates and discussions pushed each other to explore new ideas and perspectives. Finally, their friendship was characterized by a deep and abiding affection, which remained a source of comfort and inspiration for both authors.
Challenges to Their Friendship
Despite their deep affection for each other, there were also challenges to their friendship. Lewis’s criticisms of Tolkien’s treatment of servants in "The Lord of the Rings" sparked a bitter controversy, with Tolkien accusing Lewis of being a "Missilesmith" who did not understand the complexities of Middle-earth. The debate was passionate and hurtful, but ultimately resolved through a process of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien was complex and multifaceted, built on a shared love of exploration, literature, and philosophy. While the relationship was often seen as a simple friendship, it was also marked by intellectual debates, literary influences, and a deep affection for each other. The lessons from their friendship offer valuable insights for us today, reminding us of the importance of intellectual debates, the power of affection, and the boundless potential of human connection.
Significant Points:
• C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien were part of the Inklings, a literary group that included other notable authors.
• The two authors shared a deep love of exploration and discovery, which inspired some of their most creative works.
• Tolkien was a professor of Anglo-Saxon studies at Oxford University, while Lewis was a student.
• The Inklings group was a source of comfort and inspiration for both authors.
• Lewis and Tolkien drew inspiration from each other’s work, with Lewis influencing Tolkien’s depiction of Middle-earth and Tolkien influencing Lewis’s exploration of Christian themes.
• The friendship between Tolkien and Lewis was marked by a deep and abiding affection, which remained a source of comfort and inspiration for both authors.
Tools for Further Study:
• "The Adventures of Buck Bean" by Brian Jacques
• "The Silmarillion" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis
• "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• "Inklings and the Inklings" by Margaret Malamud