J.R.R. Tolkien’s Experience in WWI

J.R.R. Tolkien’s Experience in WWI

The First World War was in fact otherworldly. J.R.R. Tolkien’s contributions, while small, were made during crucial advances and battles as a second lieutenant. This essay will contextualize Tolkien’s experience by providing the larger historical context of World War I, the New Army, Lancashire Fusiliers, the role of communication during the war, and the battle on the Somme.
While the main purpose of this essay is to give a historical account of Tolkien’s experience in WWI, there should also be reference to how WWI influenced his fictional work.