Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to analyse the profound verisimilitude and immersive qualities of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Although set in a mythical world, Tolkien’s work engages readers through its originality and depth. The purpose of this study is to uncover the literary techniques that make Middle-earth both fantastical and authentic, drawing attention to its intricate world-building, creation of languages, rich mythological history, and complex character development. By combining writing techniques from epic literature and modern realism, Tolkien creates a world that feels mystical and yet tangible, inviting readers to experience the story as bystanders rather than detached readers. Through close readings of key passages in The Fellowship of the Ring (1954), The Two Towers (1954), and The Return of the King (1955) alongside relevant literary sources within narrative fiction and the theory of potential worlds by Marie-Laure Ryan, this thesis aims to demonstrate why The Lord of the Rings trilogy is so immersive. By analysing how the narrative structures of Tolkien's work evoke a sense of verisimilitude and realism, this thesis aims to contribute to the scholarship on Tolkien, providing a new understanding of the enduring legacy and profound impact of Tolkien’s work.