The Song of Middle-earth: Symbols and Mythology of J.R.R. Tolkien

David Harvey (b. 1946) — New Zealand writer and Tolkienist.

Before the reader is an exciting critical investigation devoted to the role of myths and legends in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. The book offers a new perspective on such works as «The Lord of the Rings», «The Silmarillion», «Unfinished Tales of Numenor and Middle-earth», «The Children of Húrin» and conducts a deep analysis of the entire legendarium, as well as thoroughly examines the intertwining of history and mythology that underlies the works of the British writer. 

The author refutes the notion that Tolkien merely borrows plots and symbols from folk traditions and reveals the rich historical context of the fictional universe. «The Song of Middle-earth» demonstrates that J.R.R. Tolkien's desire to «create a new mythology for England», as he himself wrote in letters, is not only evident in his works but also successfully embodied in them.