“The Two Towers,” the second installment of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, presents a richly woven narrative that draws heavily on historical and cultural influences. Written during a period marked by global conflicts and societal upheaval, the book reflects the troubled times in which it was created. Understanding the historical context in which “The Two Towers” was written, as well as the author’s background and influences, provides deeper insight into the lasting impact and relevance of the book.
Period When the Book Was Written
Tolkien began writing the compendium that contained “The Two Towers” in December 1937 at the persuasion of his publishers following the success of his first book, “The Hobbit.” The compendium was written primarily during the 1940s, and a period marked by global upheaval and significant socio-political changes, with the horrors of World War II and the great damage to many countries deeply impacting it.
Major Historical Events Influencing the Book
The influence of World War I and World War II is evident throughout much of Tolkein’s work, including “The Two Towers.” Tolkien, a veteran of World War I, was deeply affected by the horrors of trench warfare and the industrialization of conflict, which are reflected in how he portrays large-scale battles and the ever-present sense of impending doom. The daunting landscapes of Mordor and the desolation surrounding Isengard can be seen as metaphors for the tortured battlefields of Europe. Additionally, the book’s emphasis on friendship, sacrifice, and the fight against a seemingly insurmountable evil reflects the collective experiences of those who lived through the wars.
“The Two Towers” also subtly reflects the political tensions of the post-World War II era. The rising threat of totalitarianism, embodied by Sauron and Saruman, echoes the fears of authoritarian regimes and the struggle between democracy and fascism.
Socio-Political Environment of the Era
The socio-political environment of the 1940s was characterized by the aftermath of World War II and the onset of the Cold War, which brought about a widespread sense of uncertainty and fear of global conflict. This atmosphere of tension and distrust is reflected in “The Two Towers,” where alliances are fragile, and the forces of good are constantly threatened by more powerful enemies.
“The Two Towers” also explores themes of power and its corrupting influence, which reflect contemporary concerns about political power and the ethical dilemmas associated with leadership. Characters like Saruman, who becomes corrupted by his desire for power, reflect the era’s fears of leaders who prioritize their ambitions over the greater good.
Author’s Background
J.R.R. Tolkien was born in 1892 in South Africa and moved to England after his father died. He would often invent secret languages with his cousins and went on to become a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University and was a philologist with a deep interest in language, mythology, and history. His academic background greatly influenced his writing, particularly his creation of elaborate languages and mythological structures for Middle-earth. His experiences in World War I, where he fought in the Battle of the Somme, left a lasting impact on him, influencing his portrayal of war and its impact on individuals and societies in his works.
Author’s Influences and Motivations
Tolkien’s motivations for writing “The Two Towers” were shaped by his experiences and scholarly interests. His love for myth and storytelling drove him to create a world rich in history and lore, heavily inspired by ancient myths and languages. He was also motivated by a desire to provide hope and resilience in the face of darkness, a theme prevalent throughout “The Two Towers” and the entire trilogy. The influence of his Catholic beliefs is also evident in his emphasis on themes such as sacrifice, redemption, and the battle between good and evil.
Previous Works and Their Impact
Before “The Lord of the Rings,” Tolkien published “The Hobbit” in 1937, which was well-received and established his reputation as a fantasy writer. Inspired by the success of “The Hobbit,” his publishers requested for a sequel, which eventually led to the creation of “The Lord of the Rings.” The impact of “The Hobbit” is evident in “The Two Towers” as it builds upon the world and characters introduced in the first book, expanding them into a more complex and darker narrative.
Cultural Norms and Values Depicted in the Book
“The Two Towers” is deeply rooted in the cultural norms and values of a pre-modern, quasi-medieval society. The book emphasizes honor, duty, courage, and the importance of friendship and loyalty, reflecting values particularly resonant in post-war Europe. These values are portrayed through the actions of key characters such as Aragorn, who embodies the ideal of a noble leader committed to his people and his destiny, and Samwise Gamgee, whose staunch loyalty to Frodo demonstrates the importance of friendship and selfless service.
In Middle-earth, social hierarchies are clearly defined, and characters often act according to their social status and roles. Aragorn’s royal lineage and his acceptance of his destiny to become king of Gondor show the tradition of holding hereditary and leadership in high esteem. The Rohirrim, with their warrior culture and reverence for their king, reflect a society structured around feudal loyalty and strength in arms. These depictions are reminiscent of medieval European societies.
Influence of Cultural Movements or Trends
Several cultural movements and trends influenced Tolkien’s work, including romanticism, medievalism, and the resurgence of interest in mythologies and folklore. The Romantic movement, which emphasizes nature, individualism, and the critique of industrial society, heavily influenced Tolkien’s portrayal of Middle-earth. The depiction of the Shire as an idyllic rural paradise threatened by the encroaching forces of industrialization mirrors Romantic concerns about the loss of the innocence of the countryside, and the destructive impact of modernity.
Medievalism, the revival of interest in medieval literature and culture, also shaped Tolkien’s world-building. “The Two Towers” draws heavily on medieval literature, including epic poetry, chivalric romance, and Norse mythology. The structure of society in Rohan and Gondor, the use of archaic language, and the emphasis on noble quests and heroic deeds reflect Tolkien’s medievalist influences and his desire to create a mythic history for England.
The Fantasy Genre and its Conventions
“The Two Towers” is firmly rooted in the fantasy genre, which traditionally includes elements of magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. Tolkien’s work is often praised for shaping modern fantasy and establishing many conventions that have since become staples of the genre. These include a detailed world-building with history, languages, and mythologies; a clear line between good and evil; and a quest narrative structure.
Tolkien’s world-building is also a defining feature of the genre, with “The Two Towers” continuing to expand the rich tapestry of Middle-earth introduced in “The Fellowship of the Ring.” Detailed descriptions of new landscapes like Rohan, the Fangorn Forest, and the Dead Marshes add depth to the setting. In contrast, new characters and creatures, such as the Ents and the Uruk-hai, enhance the epic scope of the narrative.
Literary Movements Influencing the Book
Several literary movements influenced Tolkien’s writing, including Romanticism, Medievalism, and Mythopoeia. Romanticism’s emphasis on nature, the subtle, and the heroic individual is evident throughout the book. The reverence for natural landscapes and the portrayal of industrialization as a corrupting force reflect Romantic ideals, as is the focus on heroic quests and the inner struggles of characters like Frodo and Aragorn.
Medievalism also plays a significant role in The Two Towers. Tolkien, a professor of Anglo-Saxon and a scholar of medieval literature, drew heavily on medieval themes, settings, and characters in crafting his story. The book references medieval chivalry, the feudal system, and epic battles, reflecting the influence of works such as “Beowulf“, and “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.” The use of archaic language and the emphasis on oral tradition and storytelling further root the book in medieval literary traditions.
Mythopoeia, the creation of a mythic world, is the most defining literary movement influencing “The Two Towers.” Tolkien’s work is a great example of this movement, as he not only creates a detailed world with its mythologies and histories but also fills it with a sense of timelessness and universality. The story’s themes of good versus evil, the hero’s journey, and the struggle for redemption and salvation are all drawn from Tolkein’s Christian beliefs.
Comparison with Other Works in the Same Genre
Compared to other works in the fantasy genre, “The Two Towers” stands out for its depth of world-building, complex characters, and a blending of multiple literary influences. Unlike many fantasy novels that followed, which often focused more on action and spectacle, Tolkien’s work is noted for its intricate narrative structure and philosophical and moral depth.
For example, while C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia” series shares some thematic similarities with Tolkien’s work, such as the battle between good and evil and the use of a secondary world, Lewis’s books are more allegorical and overtly Christian in their messaging. In contrast, “The Two Towers” and the rest of The Lord of the Rings trilogy are more subtle in their incorporation of Christian themes, using myth and legend to explore deeper questions of morality, free will, and the nature of evil.
Initial Response
Upon its release, “The Two Towers” garnered positive feedback from critics, though some remained skeptical about the fantasy genre’s place within “serious” literature. The book was praised for its vivid descriptions, complex characters, and moral depth. Critics also highlighted Tolkien’s ability to blend mythological elements with original storytelling, creating a rich tapestry of themes and archetypes. However, some reviews criticized the slower pace when compared to “The Fellowship of the Ring” and noted that the split narrative could be confusing for readers who preferred a more straightforward plot. Despite this, the overall reception was favorable, and the book was seen as a strong continuation of the epic tale begun in the first book.
Critical Analysis Over Time
Over the decades, “The Two Towers” has been the subject of extensive critical analysis, evolving in its reception and interpretation. Initially regarded primarily as a work of fantasy, new critics have placed greater emphasis on the depth of its themes, including its exploration of good versus evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the importance of fellowship and sacrifice. Scholars have examined the influence of Tolkien’s academic background in medieval literature and philology, noting how these fields informed the book’s linguistic richness and its use of mythological and heroic themes.
Impact on Literature and Culture
“The Two Towers” has had a massive impact on literature and popular culture. As part of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, it has played a pivotal role in defining modern fantasy literature. The book’s influence extends beyond the genre, impacting storytelling across various mediums, including film, television, video games, and graphic novels. The depiction of epic battles, such as the Battle of Helm’s Deep, has become iconic, influencing countless other works in fantasy and beyond.
The novel has also sparked discussions on environmentalism, as Tolkien’s portrayal of the destruction of Isengard and the scouring of the Shire is often interpreted as a critique of industrialization and environmental degradation.
Contemporary Relevance
In “The Two Towers,” J.R.R. Tolkien explores themes that are highly relevant to contemporary issues. The corrupting influence of power, depicted through the One Ring, mirrors modern concerns about political and corporate greed. The book’s environmental themes, illustrated by the Ents’ fight against industrial destruction, and the Scouring of the Shire, reflect current worries about the degradation of the environment, and climate change. The story also highlights the importance of unity in overcoming adversity, a message that resonates in today’s highly divided world. Themes of hope and resilience, embodied by characters like Frodo and Sam, offer a timeless reminder of the strength needed to face contemporary challenges.
Ongoing Significance
“The Two Towers” remains significant today due to its exploration of universal themes that resonate across generations. The book’s depiction of power struggles, moral dilemmas, and the complex nature of good and evil offers valuable insights into the human condition and societal issues that are still relevant. Its characters, who grapple with internal conflicts and ethical choices, reflect the complexities of modern life, encouraging readers to think critically about their own values and decisions.
Adaptations and Reinterpretations
“The Two Towers” has been widely adapted and reinterpreted across various media, showcasing its enduring appeal and versatility. The most notable adaptation is Peter Jackson’s 2002 film, part of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, which brought Tolkien’s story to a global audience. The film was praised for its visual effects, storytelling, and relatively faithful adaptation of the source material, though some changes were made for cinematic purposes. This adaptation helped popularize Tolkien’s work, introducing it to a new generation of fans and reinforcing its themes and narratives in popular culture.
In addition, “The Two Towers” has inspired a wealth of fan fiction, artwork, and academic reinterpretations. These reinterpretations often explore the story from different angles, such as feminist, post-colonial, or psychological perspectives, demonstrating the text’s richness and the diverse ways it can be understood.
