How to celebrate Christmas like a Hobbit
How to celebrate Christmas like a Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien is most renowned for his tales of Hobbits, elves, and enchanted rings situated within his created realm of Middle-earth. Upon initial observation, a new reader will see this realm as one rich with uplifting themes of bravery, camaraderie, and illumination battling against shadow. However, as one starts to explore further, readers will uncover a mythology — a Legendarium, as he termed it — intricately crafted by the profoundly Catholic beliefs of a faithful man.
Numerous readers might be taken aback to discover that Tolkien himself was a committed Catholic. While he stated that “The Lord of the Rings” was essentially Catholic, Tolkien observed that nearly all mentions of religion were intentionally excluded or eliminated, with the spiritual themes instead infused into the story’s symbolism. Tolkien’s creations are not allegorical, allowing them to exist independently as impactful literary achievements; the themes of “The Lord of the Rings” are universal, resonating with any reader’s heart regardless of their beliefs. Nonetheless, when examined from a Catholic viewpoint, “The Lord of the Rings” begins to acquire a new level of significance, which both touches the heart and uplifts the spirit.
Eucatastrophe
In his piece “On Fairy-Stories,” Tolkien introduced the concept of “eucatastrophe” — the positive catastrophe — an abrupt shift in events that results in an unforeseen joyous conclusion in a narrative. Eucatastrophe evokes a “Christian” happiness that touches the soul; grief is not ignored or discarded but instead is enveloped in joy, the two intertwining as one. Central to Tolkien’s interpretation of eucatastrophe is the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. “The Birth of Christ is the eucatastrophe of Man’s history,” he states. “The Resurrection is the eucatastrophe of the Incarnation’s narrative.”
Tolkien regarded eucatastrophe as the paramount purpose of fairy-tales because he believed that every impactful narrative ought to mirror what he perceived as the ultimate story ever told: the Gospel. “Man the story-teller must be redeemed in a fashion that aligns with his nature: through an evocative tale” (“The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien”). In this same correspondence, Tolkien mentioned that he believed “The Lord of the Rings” had transformed into a tale of significance when he encountered this feeling of eucatastrophe while reading it.
Tolkien and the Gregorian calendar
Now, even though “The Lord of the Rings” is a piece of fantastical literature, Tolkien opted to utilize the Gregorian calendar when documenting significant events in his fictional world’s timeline. One of the dates recognized by Tolkien is December 25 (in the year 3018 of the Third Age, for those interested), on which the Fellowship of the Ring sets off from Rivendell. This signifies the commencement of Frodo’s journey to annihilate the One Ring, the personification of all evil within this narrative. It is also notable that the ring is eventually shattered on March 25, which is the feast of the Annunciation. Although Christmas is not distinctly observed or referenced as a sacred day in “The Lord of the Rings,” Tolkien’s intentional choice to initiate Frodo’s quest on the feast of the Nativity of Our Lord evokes several intriguing parallels.
In this regard, Tolkien’s cherished Hobbits could act as a source of motivation for Christian festivities and outreach throughout this Christmas season. When we picture Hobbits, we envision warmth and coziness. I conjure up an ample Second Breakfast that feeds both the body and spirit when shared among loved ones. Cozy beverages and engaging discussions relished in front of a crackling fireplace, melodies that evoke nostalgia and happiness, and presents exchanged with sincerity and kindness. Hobbits do not hurry from one chore to another; instead, they relish the delight of each instant. As Tolkien penned in “The Hobbit”: “There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us cherished food and cheer and song above amassed gold, it would be a merrier world.” A festive time spent in Hobbiton seems like the most wonderful Christmas any of us could wish for.
Hobbits and the joys of a simple life
Although Hobbits are renowned for relishing the modest joys of existence, they are also unexpectedly tough and capable of sacrificing the comforts of home when necessary. Observers are often astonished by their strength to withstand temptation and hopelessness, a trait that can often be linked to the virtuous lifestyle in Hobbiton. This deep immersion in positivity has prepared Tolkien’s Hobbits for the challenges they face on their journey, much like it can and ought to in our own lives.
Christmas is a season of sustenance and festivity, yet it also imparts the call to spread the joyful message of Christ’s nativity. We have dedicated Advent to readying our homes and our spirits to honor the initial arrival of Christ while also anticipating his return. In “The Lord of the Rings,” Frodo has utilized this time in the security of Rivendell, a sanctuary of restoration and readiness, preparing himself to venture into danger. Therefore, as we commemorate Christ’s birth into the world, it is our duty now to declare this reality.
Christlike nature
Though we might observe a hint of Christ in Frodo’s persona as he dedicates himself entirely to the mission of obliterating the One Ring, we can likewise find a semblance of Mary in his willingness to accept the ring. In the same way, Mary made her own fiat, we witness Frodo’s fiat as he readily submits himself to the position that was selected for him. And in departing from the security of Rivendell, we are reminded of Christ’s entry into the world. In both cases, this signifies the start of a perilous and challenging mission for the redemption of the world.
If we aim to experience this Christmas season as a Hobbit would, we ought to aim to appreciate this time of gentle joy by pausing and enjoying the company of those we care for, calming our hearts and thoughts away from distractions and instead immersing ourselves in the blessings that envelop us. Discover what is nurturing and lovely in your life and take solace in it. However, simultaneously, we must remember that the journey to sanctity involves sacrifice and unease. Just like Tolkien’s Hobbits, we need to cling to our bravery and venture forth onto the path before us to confront whatever awaits on that journey.
Kaitlyn Facista is a Catholic convert, wife, mother and Hobbit at heart. She is the creator of Tea with Tolkien, an online community inspired by the works and Catholic faith of J.R.R. Tolkien. Follow her on Twitter @TeawithTolkien.
