The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum - View Single Post - Psychological depth in Tolkien's characters

Hilde Bracegirdle · 11-08-2003, 08:33 AM

It is refreshing how Tolkien chose not to overtly draw attention to the psychological conflict his characters faced. By just touching on the circumstances of these people’s lives it gave a greater depth to the work, similar to how he dealt with the historical aspect of ME. And yes, it does seem to let the reader fill in the rest in a way they can understand.

So I would say there is implied psychological depth to quite a few, if you are looking for it. I would not say that it is a hindrance to have the stories told from a character’s viewpoint, rather it is more like real life; you have to read between the lines. Tolkien seems to get these internal struggles across by clues in conversations, characters actions and the reader’s common sense. By that I mean, the reader realizing how anyone is apt to feel under those conditions.

11-08-2003, 08:33 AM	#4
Hilde Bracegirdle Relic of Wandering Days Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: You'll See Perpetual Change. Posts: 1,488	It is refreshing how Tolkien chose not to overtly draw attention to the psychological conflict his characters faced. By just touching on the circumstances of these people’s lives it gave a greater depth to the work, similar to how he dealt with the historical aspect of ME. And yes, it does seem to let the reader fill in the rest in a way they can understand. So I would say there is implied psychological depth to quite a few, if you are looking for it. I would not say that it is a hindrance to have the stories told from a character’s viewpoint, rather it is more like real life; you have to read between the lines. Tolkien seems to get these internal struggles across by clues in conversations, characters actions and the reader’s common sense. By that I mean, the reader realizing how anyone is apt to feel under those conditions.