J.R.R. Tolkien, the Father of Modern Fantasy, a talk by Shaun Gunner

Friday 21 August, at 7pm 

Join us at Bewdley Museum for a fascinating evening with Shaun Gunner, CEO of The Tolkien Society, as he explores the life, inspirations and extraordinary legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien, widely regarded as the Father of Modern Fantasy.

Running alongside our summer exhibition, The Magic of Middle-earth, this engaging talk will delve into the influences that shaped Tolkien's imagination, from the English countryside and his faith to Scandinavian sagas and ancient mythology. Discover how Tolkien revolutionised storytelling through his pioneering approach to world-building, creating the richly detailed and internally consistent world of Middle-earth, complete with its own languages, geography, histories, genealogies and rules.

Tolkien's innovative vision has become the blueprint for countless fantasy writers, artists and filmmakers, and his influence can still be seen across popular culture today. Shaun Gunner will explore not only what inspired Tolkien, but also the generations of creators he has inspired in return, helping audiences understand his unique place in literary history.

Whether you are a lifelong admirer of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings or simply curious about one of the most influential authors of the twentieth century, this promises to be an illuminating and entertaining evening.

Booking available: £15 per ticket; a paying adult must accompany under-16s.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain fresh insights into the man whose imagination transformed fantasy literature and continues to captivate audiences around the world.