J.R.R. Tolkien is mainly known for his high - fantasy works rather than science fiction in the traditional sense. However, some might consider elements in his works that could be loosely related to science - fictional concepts. His most famous work is 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. In this, there are aspects like different races (hobbits, elves, dwarves etc.) with their own cultures and technologies which could be seen as a form of world - building similar to what science fiction does. Another important work is 'The Hobbit' which also has a richly detailed world with unique creatures and cultures.
Yes, it can be considered a new genre. Tolkien's works are mainly high - fantasy, but when we talk about 'Tolkien Plausible Science Fiction', it might refer to science - fiction works that incorporate some of Tolkien's elements like detailed world - building, complex cultures, and deep lore. For example, a sci - fi story set in a universe where there are different alien races with their own languages and histories, much like the races in Middle - earth. This new genre blurs the line between pure high - fantasy and traditional science fiction.
Tolkien's work, though more high - fantasy, still has an influence on modern science fiction literature. His detailed world - building has inspired modern authors to create rich and complex universes. For example, the way he developed languages for different races in Middle - earth has influenced the idea of creating unique cultures in science fiction. Many science fiction authors now strive to create not just different planets but also distinct cultures with their own languages, beliefs and ways of life.
Yes, fiction has been popular for a long time before Tolkien. Different forms of fictional stories have existed throughout history in various cultures.
Well, 'Dune' by Frank Herbert has some elements that could be considered in this genre. The detailed world of Arrakis, with its unique ecology, different factions, and a sense of a grand, overarching story, is somewhat like Tolkien's work. Also, 'Altered Carbon' has aspects that might qualify. It has a future - setting with different social strata and a deep - seated mystery, much like Tolkien's stories often have hidden lore and mysteries within their worlds.
Character analysis is also important. Each character in Tolkien's books has their own motives and development. For instance, Frodo's transformation from an ordinary hobbit to a hero who bears the burden of the One Ring can be explored. Also, the relationships between characters, such as the friendship between Sam and Frodo, can be a great topic for discussion.
The 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy is a must - read. It has an incredibly rich and detailed world - building, with diverse characters like Frodo, Aragorn, and Gandalf. The epic battles between good and evil, and the journey to destroy the One Ring make it a captivating read for any science fiction and fantasy book club.
There are Tolkien fan fictions that are set in different time periods of Middle - earth. A great example would be a story set during the First Age, which Tolkien didn't fully explore in his main works. It could show the wars between the Elves and Morgoth in more detail. Some fan fictions also play with the idea of alternate universes, where things in Middle - earth happened very differently, like if Sauron had won the war. This allows for very creative and unique stories.
One great Tolkien fan fiction is 'The Last Ringbearer'. It offers an alternative perspective on the events after the destruction of the One Ring. It's really interesting as it delves deeper into the cultures and characters that Tolkien created. Another good one could be various stories that explore the backstories of minor characters like Tom Bombadil. These fan fictions add more depth to Tolkien's already rich world.
The Tolkien Estate has been quite strict about fan fiction. They are protective of J.R.R. Tolkien's works and their intellectual property. Fan fiction often treads on a thin line as it uses the world, characters, and concepts created by Tolkien. In general, they don't encourage it without proper authorization as it could potentially lead to misinterpretations or misuse of the lore that Tolkien so painstakingly created.