Eagles vs Hawks; U.K. vs Napolean & U.S. - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Tirinor · 02-17-2003, 10:29 AM

During the century in which Tolkien was born, England had warred with both France (Napoleon), and the United States (war of 1812). Both of these opponents are represented with an eagle. If I am remembering correctly, Tolkien originally used hawks as the servants of Manwe, not eagles. Perhaps, Tolkien believed the eagle to be the superior bird all along, but due to an ingrained English aversion to Imperial France and those rebellious colonies, Tolkien adjusted his mythology as to not imply undue favor upon those old enemies. And due to the change in world climate during and after the two great wars Tolkien was freed from the old associations and able to use the creature he truly felt fit the part.

In other words: Perhaps, from the viewpoint of Tolkien/England, the U.S. and Imperial France besmirched the image of the eagle, and until their negative influence upon the creature abated, Tolkien reluctantly had to look elsewhere to provide servants for Manwe.

02-17-2003, 10:29 AM	#1
Tirinor Haunting Spirit Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Alabama, U.S.A. Posts: 90	Eagles vs Hawks; U.K. vs Napolean & U.S. During the century in which Tolkien was born, England had warred with both France (Napoleon), and the United States (war of 1812). Both of these opponents are represented with an eagle. If I am remembering correctly, Tolkien originally used hawks as the servants of Manwe, not eagles. Perhaps, Tolkien believed the eagle to be the superior bird all along, but due to an ingrained English aversion to Imperial France and those rebellious colonies, Tolkien adjusted his mythology as to not imply undue favor upon those old enemies. And due to the change in world climate during and after the two great wars Tolkien was freed from the old associations and able to use the creature he truly felt fit the part. In other words: Perhaps, from the viewpoint of Tolkien/England, the U.S. and Imperial France besmirched the image of the eagle, and until their negative influence upon the creature abated, Tolkien reluctantly had to look elsewhere to provide servants for Manwe. __________________ War Eagle.