Abstract
Three-part examination of “how Tolkien’s theory of the centrality of the monsters in Beowulf influenced his own concept of ‘monster’ and what function that concept should fulfill within” The Lord of the Rings. The conclusion traces the development of the character of Sauron through preliminary versions in The History of Middle-earth and analyzes the climactic episode at Mount Doom in terms of Sauron’s success as monster and Frodo’s as hero.
