Recovering Consolation

“Greg Maillet has provided a thorough examination of Tolkien’s Catholic worldview as it shapes his writing. In his focus on Sam Gamgee as an example of humble Christian discipleship, Maillet gives us a touchstone; this is a fresh and deeply informed perspective on the greatest modern epic in Western literature which helps explain how, even for non-Christian readers, Tolkien’s fiction has successfully communicated a sense of abiding truth and, withal, deep consolation.”


—David Lyle Jeffrey, resident distinguished professor, Baylor Institute for Studies in Religion, Baylor University





“In exalting Sam Gamgee as the true hero of The Lord of the Rings—after all, Frodo finally fails to destroy the Sauronic ring of coercive power—Greg Maillet has produced a refreshing new study of what may one day be regarded as the twentieth century’s most important book. It is no small praise to say of Recovering Consolation that it should be read as it is written—devotionally.”


—Ralph C. Wood, professor emeritus of theology and literature, Baylor University





“Recovering Consolation is not only an outstanding exegesis of Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, it opens a series of portals to profound understanding of human nature, the war between good and evil, and the mysteries of divine providence. As layer upon layer of meaning is revealed, Greg Maillet’s readers will find themselves deeply moved and thrilled with unexpected illuminations. This is far more than a superb intellectual exercise; it is a beautiful integration of scholarship with holy wisdom.”


—Michael David O’Brien, author of Island of the World





“Who’s the true hero of The Lord of the Rings? Is it Frodo? Or Gandalf? Or possibly Aragorn? According to Tolkien, it was none of these. The true hero of The Lord of the Rings was none other than Samwise Gamgee. This is Tolkien’s view, and it is the view of Greg Maillet, author of this wonderful book. Thanks to Maillet’s fine scholarship and deep knowledge of Tolkien’s epic, we can now follow the footsteps of Sam, the least likely of heroes, and discover why the humble are worth exalting.”


—Joseph Pearce, author of Tolkien: Man and Myth





“Greg Maillet makes a compelling case that Sam Gamgee embodies the ennoblement of humility at the center of Tolkien’s artistic vision. By combining historical and literary learning with theological insight, this study reveals the integral role of the affections and the imagination in the growth of faith, hope, and love. Whether discussing how mortals face death or the history of the word ‘caution,’ Maillet models a tact of heart and mind that Tolkien’s writing deserves.”


—Phillip J. Donnelly, professor of literature, Baylor University





“Many of Tolkien’s readers consider Samwise Gamgee the hero of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. In this first book-length study of Sam, Greg Maillet takes us deep into this character’s soul. From Sam’s humble origins to the end of his remarkable adventures, Maillet is a sure guide to what makes this character so beloved. Consolation truly awaits those who revisit with Maillet both the perils and the beauties that this hardy Hobbit encounters as he finds his way into one of those ‘stories that really matter.’”


—Thomas L. Martin, professor of English, Wheaton College