Best known as the author of the  Lord of the Rings trilogy, J.R.R. Tolkien may have used some of his trench warfare experiences to create Middle Earth. While the trilogy is not entirely autobiographical, many scholars agree that Tolkien's experience fighting as a solider during the Great War informed the world view in his trilogy. Using an interesting video, scholars discover how a writers' experiences with war often influences their art.

Concepts

world war i, j.r.r. tolkien, england, british literature, trenches, trench warfare, biographies, fantasy

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• After viewing the video, ask your scholars to analyze Tolkien's writings for autobiographical details from World War I 

Classroom Considerations

• Part of Who Did What in World War I? series
• Graphic pictures of dead soldiers may make the video inappropriate for some viewers
• Video assumes familiarity with the plot of The Lord of the Rings
  

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Video makes clear connections between Tolkien's experiences and his literature
• Engaging narrator and intriguing photographs keep students engaged

Cons

• None

Common Core

L.9-10.2.a L.11-12.2.a