J.R.R. Tolkien: Truth and MythJOSEPH PEARCE
Tolkien preserved his mother's legacy and kept the faith, not only in his life but also in his work. In particular, and crucially, Tolkiens encounter with the depths of Christian mysticism and his understanding of the truths of orthodox theology enabled him to unravel the philosophy of myth that inspired not only the "magic" of his books but also the conversion of his friend C.S. Lewis to Christianity.
Interview with Author Joseph Pearce on "Lord of the Rings"ZENIT
Catholic convert Joseph Pearce is author of two popular books on J.R.R. Tolkien, Tolkien: Man and Myth and Tolkien: A Celebration (both Ignatius Press). With the film release of Lord of the Rings scheduled for next month, Pearce mused about Tolkien (1892-1973) and his work in this interview with ZENIT.
Tolkien: Man and Myth - book reviewDANIEL KENNELLY
While few writers and few books have inspired such extremes of opinion as Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the book remains an enormous popular success.
Why Tolkien SaysJOSEPH PEARCE
"The Two Towers", the second part of Peter Jackson's blockbuster film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings, was let loose on an expectant nation on Dec. 18, 2002. Over the coming months and years it will be watched by millions of moviegoers throughout the world, most of whom will be unaware that they are watching a film version of what its author called "a fundamentally religious and Catholic work."
Conscience and TruthJOSEPH CARDINAL RATZINGER
In the contemporary discussion on what constitutes the essence of morality and how it can be recognized, the question of conscience has become paramount especially in the field of Catholic moral theology.
J.R.R. Tolkien's Sanctifying MythBRADLEY BIRZER
In his writings and in his life, J.R.R. Tolkien believed that true myth allows us to see things as they were meant to be, prior to the Fall.
St. JosephFR. WILLIAM SAUNDERS
St. Joseph truly is the silent figure of the New Testament. For instance, the Gospel does not record one spoken verse for St. Joseph. Nevertheless, what this great saint did in his life for God speaks volumes. To appreciate him and his role in salvation, we need to glean the Gospels.
Myth Become FactMARK LOWERY
One need not accept the historicity of the Gospels on blind faith. It is eminently reasonable to believe that in Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem, the deepest yearnings of mankind, expressed in so many various mythological modes, have been fulfilled.
The Blind-Obedience MythMICHAEL NOVAK
Catholics do not praise, admire, or aspire to unquestioned obedience. There is nothing virtuous in unquestioned obedience. There is no virtue in being an unquestioning sheep.
Are the Gospels Myth?CARL OLSON
So, are the four Gospels "myth"? Can they be trusted as historical records?
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