Article Title

"A Far Green Country": Tolkien, Paradise, and the End of All Things in Medieval Literature

Authors

A. Keith Kelly, Kutztown University, PennsylvaniaFollow
Michael Livingston, The Citadel, Charleston, SCFollow

Abstract

Attempts to explain exactly what Frodo goes to when he sails from the Grey Havens. By looking at paradise, purgatory, and earthly Edens in medieval literature and theology, we gain a better understanding of the spiritual purpose of Tolkien’s “far green country” beyond the bent paths of the world. References “Pearl,” “Sir Orfeo,” mystery play cycles, and Sir John Mandeville’s Travels, among other sources.