Abstract
Tolkien’s genius as a writer and insight as a philosopher and theologian (of sorts) are reflected in his subtle yet impactful interweaving of the consequences of greed within the lives of the peoples of Middle-Earth. He shows readers that greed is not simply the love of money. Greed is the root of all evil, and it takes a variety of forms, as represented by Sauron’s desire to possess power over and control others, Saruman’s imitative desire, and Feanor’s over-possessiveness of his sub-creative acts. Tolkien also reveals that a proper relationship with nature can provide recovery from the drab familiarity which the appropriation of nature can cause. Ultimately, Tolkien shows that in relinquishing possession of the things and people we most desire, we can find a greater sense of personhood, relationality, and peace within the world.
Recommended Citation
Kieffer, Amanda A.
(2017)
"Tolkien and the Deadly Sin of Greed,"
The Kabod: Vol. 4:
Iss.
1, Article 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70623/LMTA4045
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/kabod/vol4/iss1/1