William Morris's influence on Tolkien

William Morris's influence on J. R. R. Tolkien was substantial. From an early age, Tolkien bought many of Morris's books, including his fantasies, poetry, and translations. Both men liked the Norse sagas, disliked mechanisation, and wrote fantasy books which they illustrated themselves. On the other hand, Morris was a socialist and atheist, while Tolkien was a Catholic.

Scholars have identified multiple elements of Tolkien's fantasy writings that match Morris's writings. These range from general aspects like use of archaism and a medieval setting, to specific features like details of life in a Nordic hall and a savage character who brings the protagonist rabbits.

Morris's influence extends through Tolkien to the Tolkien artist Alan Lee and the filmmaker Peter Jackson. Together, they have spread a medievalist aesthetic to a wide modern fantasy audience.

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