J.R.R. Tolkien's influence on modern gaming and literature
Intelligence Summary
- Discover how J.R.R. Tolkien's work laid the foundations for modern fantasy in gaming and literature.
In short
- J.R.R. Tolkien was a professor at the University of Oxford from 1925.
- His influence on fantasy is undeniable, with works like 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'.
- Brandon Sanderson, a contemporary author, recently delivered the Tolkien Lecture and shared his insights.
Tolkien's role as a professor at Oxford not only shaped his own writing, but also the way fantasy is approached in both literature and gaming. The publication of 'The Hobbit' in 1937 marked a turning point in the genre, and his later works laid the foundation for the modern fantasy we know today. Brandon Sanderson's recent lecture, as an expert on Tolkien, highlighted the enduring relevance of Tolkien's ideas and themes in contemporary culture.
GAME-scanner analysis
Tolkien's impact on the gaming industry is enormous. Many of the tropes and elements we see in fantasy games today are directly derived from his work. From epic quests to intricate worldbuilding, Tolkien created a blueprint that countless developers have followed. Sanderson's lecture offers a fresh look at how these elements still resonate in modern stories and games, and how they were inspired by Tolkien's deep knowledge of language and mythology.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers, this means the stories and worlds they explore are often rooted in the traditions Tolkien helped establish. Understanding that origin can give players a deeper appreciation of the narratives and themes they encounter in their favorite games. And with authors like Sanderson carrying the torch, Tolkien's influence is likely to live on in new and innovative ways.
Timeline
1925: J.R.R. Tolkien becomes a professor at the University of Oxford.
1937: Publication of 'The Hobbit'.
2026-08-12: Brandon Sanderson delivers the annual Tolkien Lecture at Oxford.