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I am a great fan of Tolkein's work and after reading one critic's website about the book, I do agree that to some extent the book does sort of defend elitism. think about it:
- Absolute monarchies rule the 'West' nations, even The Shire(though the position of the Thain is ceremonial)
- The Istari are sent to help guide the West to fight Sauron but by doing so also turn a blind eye to the internal political structure of the societies. Right or wrong, they focus their attention on defending feudal societies.
- While the Western nations are absolutist in structure I do concede the rulers of each are not violently repressive of their subjects.
- There is no portrayel of internal dissent against the status quot, unless you include the woodmen of Dunland who side with Saruman against Rohan.
Most fantasy stories are set in feudal times, TLOTR is in the minority where internal political struggle is non-exsistant.
What do you think?
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Head of the Fifth Order of the Istari
Tenure: Fourth Age(Year 1) - Present
Currently operating in Melbourne, Australia
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