Tolkien

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien (or J.R.R. Tolkien) is widely known for his modern Lord of the Rings books and the fantastical tales of the Middle-Earth. However, he was also a learned academic who contributed much to the study of medieval mythology and the development of the English language and literature. One of his most well-known writings was a translation of the Middle English tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.

Tolkien and the SCA

Many SCA members have read Tolkien's novels but his influence extends little beyond that. The peerage oaths used within some kingdoms are based on that used in The Return of the King by Peregin "Pippin" when swearing service to Denethor, Steward of Gondor. The SCA College of Heralds used to accept names in Noldorin Elven, one of Tolkien's invented languages.