Lord of the Rings: A Leftist Reading of a Right-Wing Classic?
The immense popularity of *The Lord of the Rings* is juxtaposed with its curious embrace by the political right. This article explores this paradox: despite overt elements of racism, imperialism, and sexism, many on the left continue to cherish Tolkien's work. The author argues this stems from inherent contradictions and ambiguities within the text. For instance, the celebration of working-class heroes like Samwise Gamgee, critiques of power and control, and reflections on the horrors of war resonate with leftist values. Further, the narrative structure itself invites critical readings, encouraging examination of contradictions, gaps, and omissions, challenging the very nature of historical narratives. Ultimately, the work's open-endedness and ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, serving both right-wing appropriations and leftist critiques of power, inequality, and historical fabrication.
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