About this episode
The episode explores how the virtues embodied by Hobbits in Tolkien's works can guide us towards living a good life amidst cultural division.
Hobbits are curious creatures. Simple taste, a love of “good tilled earth” and yet surprisingly courageous. And according to Dr. Christopher Snyder, they might hold the key to living the good life. This week, I had a delightful conversation with Dr. Snyder, medieval historian, Tolkien scholar, and author of Hobbit Virtues: Rediscovering Virtue Ethics Through J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings . Chris’s work as an academic intersects history, philosophy, and storytelling and even has taken him to the hallowed halls of Oxford University - Tolkien’s alma mater. A few highlights from our conversation: Why Hobbit Virtues ? Chris began writing this book in the aftermath of the 2016 election, during a time of cultural division. His thesis: virtue ethics can cut through polarization. By focusing on virtues like courage, humility, sacrifice, and friendship, we can find common ground. Chris argues Tolkien’s writings are full of timeless virtues embodied in hobbits, elves, and men. Fellowship as a Virtue Friendship is something of a hot topic right now at Geeky Stoics. Chris didn’t shy away from the controversy, arguing: * Tolkien modeled his Fellowship of the Ring partly…
People in this episode
Host: Stephen Kent
Guest: Dr. Christopher Snyder
Topics covered
- Tolkien
- virtue ethics
- Hobbits
- courage
- friendship
- cultural division
Keywords
- Tolkien
- Hobbits
- virtue ethics
- courage
- friendship
- cultural division
- Oxford
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Hobbit Virtues: Rediscovering Virtue Ethics Through J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings
Places: Oxford University
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