Information about the author: Maria A. Shteуnma
Maria A. Shteynman
Maria A. Shteynman, PhD in Philology, Professor, National Research University “Higher School of Economics”, Pokrovskiy Bd. 11, 109028 Moscow, Russia.
ORCID ID: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1916-6495
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Abstract:
The article examines various aspects of the philosophy of creativity and the principles of creating fictional reality, specifically the Secondary World according to J.R.R. Tolkien. Particular attention is paid to his essay “On Fairy-Stories” as well as his short story “Leaf by Niggle.” The key concepts of the Secondary World, Secondary Belief, and the idea of the human being as a Sub-creator are explored within the context of the theory of myth. The functions of fantasy, such as recovery, escape, and consolation, are also closely analyzed.
A special emphasis is placed on the literary discussion group, The Inklings, as a unique forum for sharing, producing, and reproducing theories, meanings, and ideas. The comparative analysis includes three poems: “Mythopoeia” by J.R.R. Tolkien, “The Birth of Language” by C.S. Lewis, and “Riders of Pegasus” by Owen Barfield.
Keywords: myth, fantasy, Secondary World, Secondary Belief, the Inklings, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Owen Barfield.
