Is THIS how you imagined the vampires?

[Morthoron]

Originally Posted by Bêthberry

In short, I think he shared some of the same cultural issues as the Moderns (using that word very broadly). He might have taken a different tack in understanding those topics, but he was not immune to, say, the subjects of beauty, art, indulgence, taste. The lure of beauty and the depiction of beauty as truth is central to his art. I think it would be really interesting to consider some of the similarities he had with the Wildes before automatically assuming he had nothing in common with them. I think it is entirely possible he understood vampires in--dare I say it--an allegorical way--perhaps the better term is vampirism--and explored it within the context of his thought. In fact, his very defense of art as culturally, historically, socially significant takes it out of the mere realm of personal hedonism, although even there one could explore that topic too, as you have done here about Bilbo.

You are, of course, correct, and I thank you for the profound comparative analysis.

Another thought, perhaps the Ring itself could be considered vampiric, or maybe parasitic would be a better term, latching onto a host and insidiously draining one's moral fiber down to the last shred of humanity -- to the point where the Ring has drank the soul of its host, leaving only a wraith where once stood a man (or Hobbit).