Other possible connections are being explored by scholars. The suggested influences include the pervasive classical theme of decline and fall in Middle-earth the splendour of the Atlantis-like lost island kingdom of Númenor the Troy-like fall of Gondolin the Rome-like stone city of Minas Tirith in Gondor magical rings with parallels to the One Ring and the echoes of the tale of Lúthien and Beren with the myth of Orpheus descending to the underworld. Tolkien and the classical world have been linked by scholars and by Tolkien himself.

Tolkien derived the characters, stories, places, and languages of Middle-earth from many sources, especially medieval ones. Revelations abound.Among the many influences on Middle-earth are Classical sources (marked 'C' on map), including Greek mythology, Plato's tale of the lost island civilisation of Atlantis, and cities such as ancient Rome. For the first time, you will know exactly what Sam and Frodo are doing on the same exact day that Aragorn used the palantir to reveal himself to Sauron. ♦ The individual journeys of all the members of the Fellowship are chronicled in great detail as they play out their own important parts in the quest to destroy the One Ring. ♦ It is history and geography all rolled together in one place when you read of Númenor, The Shire, the migration of the Hobbits, and the Kingdoms of the Dunédain. ♦ Want to really understand the detail and ramifications of the Battles of Helm's Deep and the Pelennor Fields? You will be amazed at all the data and logistics that are brought together from the far flung chapters of Tolkien's books when his characters go to war in Middle-earth. Your understanding will be enhanced immeasurably by Fonstad's book. Take part in all of the key events that shape Tolkien's stories. Visit all of your favorite places in Middle-earth. Army movements, journeys and travels, as well as event timelines, are chronicled throughout the book. The book spans the First, Second and Third Ages of Middle-earth and it is fascinating to see Tolkien's landscapes change with time. Don't leave the bookstore without this book.

Most importantly, however, are the explanations and analyses of every chart, map and graph. But there is so much more! Besides the maps, there are charts, sketches, battle plans and timelines, just to name a few noteworthy and critical items.

When one envisions an atlas, one thinks primarily of maps, and there are wonderfully detailed, intricate, and informative maps in Fonstad's book. If there is an indispensable reference guide in reading the books of J.R.R.Tolkien it is The Atlas of Middle-earth. Only such breadth of knowledge and attention to detail could provide the data for an entire atlas. especially J.R.R.Tolkien, who wrote not only enthralling books, but also meticulous ones. the work could never have been completed without the encouragement and assistance of many people.

The atlas of tolkien's middle earth