A Sense of Defying Common Sense

Blog Fantasy

Post 9 - The Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien


Comparison of The Fellowship of the Ring (Book) to the The Fellowship of the Ring (Movie):

In the book titled, The Fellowship of the Ring, by JRR Tolkien, the author gives a large introduction (about 80 pages) about the prelude of the story. This introduction includes much of the events that occurred in The Hobbit, also by JRR Tolkien. The movie titled, The Fellowship of the Ring, directed by Peter Jackson, on the other hand, provides less history and leaves much of it out – perhaps because much of it is not important.

Comparison of The Fellowship of the Ring to the The Hobbit:

In both The Fellowship of the Ring as well as The Hobbit, the protagonists are similar. Bilbo, the protagonist in The Hobbit, and Frodo, the protagonist in The Fellowship of the Ring, both for one are Hobbits, “humanoid creatures smaller than Dwarves yet nimbler than Men” (The Fellowship of the Ring; Tolkien 16). Both protagonists are fond of a simple living yet yern for adventure away from the countryside.
Why is one drawn to Fantasy Worlds? What properties or qualities do these worlds posses that make them so captivating to one?
Perhaps, one of the properties that Fantasy Worlds posses that make them so appealing is: they posses a sense of defying common sense. In The Fellowship of the Ring, by JRR Tolkien, Gaffer a small town farmer protests againsts ‘adventures’ as he says:

“Elves and Dragons! I says to him. Cabbages and potatoes are better for me and you. Don't go getting mixed up in the business of your betters, or you'll land in trouble to big for you, I says to him. And I might say it to others.” (24)

This statement reflects the notion: one is better off sticking with reality rather than chasing fantasy dreams. It is logical to avoid danger when possible. It is common sense to stay away from danger, yet Frodo (along with a few other Hobbits) still decide to run off into an adventure; one in which will change them forever. This quality is so captivating because it allows one to vicariously experience recklessness without having to risk anything (as opposed to risking his/her own life, like how Frodo did).

A Fantasy World that allows one to defy common sense therefore is a truly captivating world.