J. R. R. Tolkien

Date of Birth: January 3, 1892

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: September 2, 1973

Biography

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, known as J. R. R. Tolkien, was a British writer, poet, philologist, and academic renowned for creating the high fantasy works “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, Tolkien moved to England with his family at a young age. He studied at Exeter College, Oxford, where he developed a passion for languages and medieval literature. During World War I, he served in the British Army, an experience that profoundly influenced his writing. After the war, he became a professor at the University of Leeds and later at Oxford University, where he worked on translating medieval texts and teaching philology. His literary career took a significant turn with the publication of “The Hobbit” in 1937, which was followed by “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy between 1954 and 1955. These works have since become some of the most beloved and influential in the fantasy genre. Tolkien’s world-building, characterized by intricate languages, detailed histories, and rich mythologies, has left a lasting legacy in literature and popular culture. He passed away in 1973, but his works continue to captivate readers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about J. R. R. Tolkien

1. Tolkien was an expert linguist, having invented several languages, including the Elvish languages Quenya and Sindarin.

2. He was a member of the literary discussion group known as “The Inklings,” which included C. S. Lewis.

3. Tolkien’s experiences in World War I, particularly the Battle of the Somme, significantly influenced his writing, particularly the depiction of war in “The Lord of the Rings.”

4. In 2008, “The Times” ranked him sixth on a list of “The 50 greatest British writers since 1945.”

5. His son, Christopher Tolkien, played a crucial role in editing and publishing many of his posthumous works, including “The Silmarillion.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from J. R. R. Tolkien

1. “Not all those who wander are lost.”

2. “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.”

3. “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

4. “There is some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for.”

5. “I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the time of his death in 1973, J. R. R. Tolkien had an estimated net worth of approximately $500,000. However, the Tolkien Estate has since generated considerable revenue from his works, significantly increasing the family’s wealth over the years.

Children

J. R. R. Tolkien and his wife Edith Mary Bratt had four children: 1. John Francis Reuel Tolkien (1917–2003) – A Catholic priest. 2. Michael Hilary Reuel Tolkien (1920–1984) – Served in the Royal Air Force and became a schoolteacher. 3. Christopher John Reuel Tolkien (1924–2020) – A literary executor and editor of many of his father’s posthumous works. 4. Priscilla Anne Reuel Tolkien (1929–2022) – The only daughter, involved in the management of the Tolkien Estate.