‘On the gathering tide of darkness ride’: Tolkien and the Autumnal Equinox

On the very first page of The Lord of the Rings, there is a reference to September 22 – the date of the autumnal equinox, and of the ‘long-expected party’ which opens the novel. Dates close to this point in September come up repeatedly in The Lord of the Rings, and the significance of the autumnal equinox in Tolkien’s work can be traced back to the earliest beginnings of his invented mythology. What did this date mean for him?

In this talk we’ll explore how Tolkien’s interest in the autumnal equinox builds on medieval thinking about the solstices and equinoxes, which drew a powerful connection between astronomical myth, the cycle of the seasons, and the structure of the Christian year. It’s a history which weaves together stories of light-bearers, moments of cosmic balance, and journeys into the dark.

Dr Eleanor Parker is Lecturer in Medieval English Literature at Brasenose College, Oxford. She writes and lectures widely on medieval literature and history, including writing a regular column for History Today. Her most recent book is Winters in the World: A Journey through the Anglo-Saxon Year, which explores the cycle of the seasons and the festival year in early medieval England.

Eleanor has a long-standing interest in Tolkien’s engagement with medieval literature and is a member of the Oxford Tolkien Network.

This talk marks the start of a week of Autumn-themed events, and is being broadcast on Zoom from Fintry. You have the option of attending the session either online or in person.

For both options, tickets are £12 – book below.

Please note that for those attending the Autumn Equinox Retreat 17th – 20th September, the talk is automatically included – no need to book separately.