В Worcestershire проведут лекцию о связи Дж. Р. Р. Толкина с регионом

A hidden regional connection to one of literature’s most famous fantasy worlds will be explored at a free public talk this autumn. Dan Johnson, senior lecturer at the University of Worcester, will discuss J.R.R. Tolkien’s ties to Worcestershire in conversation with journalist Stewart Kingscott at The Hive on September 22, from 6.30pm to 8pm. The event marks National Hobbit Day, which celebrates the shared fictional birthdays of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. Mr Johnson said: "Tolkien didn’t just write stories, he created worlds. "Others have done it since, but he and CS Lewis really were the first of their kind. "The Lord of the Rings is widely regarded as one of the greatest pieces of fiction writing of the 20th century because it’s such an epic story, and it’s so descriptive." Tolkien’s connection to Malvern, where both he and Narnia author C.S. Lewis spent time, has long intrigued fans and historians. Although Tolkien was born in South Africa and later lived in Oxford and Bournemouth, Mr Johnson believes his time in Worcestershire had a lasting impact. He said: "A lot of myths surround Tolkien’s links to Worcestershire. "But when you dig a little deeper, you see how much time he spent here and how many events in Malvern helped shape the path towards the publication of his Lord of the Rings." The event will also explore C.S. Lewis’s links to the region and the close friendship between the two authors. Mr Kingscott said: "To think that these books, films, and stories, which have surrounded me all my life, can be so closely linked to where I live fascinates me. "Dan has some brilliant stories to tell about those links and I can’t wait for him to share them with us." The event is free, but tickets must be booked in advance.