J. R. R. Tolkien: A Biography Papers & Assignment Topics

Essay Topics/Writing Assignments

These 20 essay questions can be used as essay questions on a test, or as stand-alone essay topics for a take-home or in-class writing assignment. Students should have a full understanding of the text in order to answer these questions. They ask for a thorough analysis of the text.

1. Ronald's parents greatly influenced him.
Part 1) Describe Ronald's parents. How is he like his parents?

Part 2) Why are his parents, especially his mother, so influential?

Part 3) How do his parents affect his life and work? How do others influence Tolkien and his work?

2. Tolkien had a love for languages.
Part 1) Describe this love for languages. When did it begin?

Part 2) What caused this love for languages? How did this love affect his work? How did this love affect his social life and family life?
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