Michael Martinez begins a comprehensive study of Tolkien’s imaginary history by “Browsing the Compleat
Middle-earth Library”. His trademark conversational tone and style introduce Tolkien’s readers to new
perspectives on Elves, Hobbits, Númenoreans, and other fantastic inhabitants of Middle-earth.
Advising that “if you really want to see where it all came from…you first need to see what it all is”, Martinez
explores Tolkien’s pseudo-history in detail, analyzing the motivations and values of Middle-earth’s civilizations as
described by Tolkien himself. Extensive research on Tolkien’s Second Age, a mysterious era spanning thousands of
years, illuminates the second “Fall” of Tolkien’s Elves, who made the dreadful Rings of Power, withheld vital
knowledge from their allies, and exposed all of Middle-earth to Sauron’s evil.
Finally, Martinez provides a wealth of insightful commentary, quoting Tolkien’s letters and his son
Christopher’s extensive documentation, on those of Tolkien’s sources which are often missed by other
researchers. You will never look at Middle-earth the same way again after reading Understanding
Middle-earth.
ISBN: 1-58776-145-9
Available through most booksellers Fall 2003
PUBLISHED BY VIVISPHERE
www.vivishpere.com
