Tolkien's Usage of 'Human' and 'Men' in his Legendarium

In the expansive universe of J.R.R. Tolkien's works, the choice of language often reflects the mythic and epic nature of his stories. One of the most notable aspects of his writing is the careful and deliberate choice of terms to distinguish between human beings and the diverse races he created. This article explores Tolkien's preference for using 'Men' instead of 'human' and the significance of capitalization in his legendarium.

Introduction to Language in Tolkien's Works

J.R.R. Tolkien was meticulous in his choice of language, ensuring that each term and phrase conveyed the correct meaning and tone. In his vast corpus of works, including 'The Hobbit,' 'The Lord of the Rings,' and the volumes of 'The Silmarillion,' he consistently used 'Men' to refer to human beings in all majesty and capaciousness. This choice often contrasts sharply with the general or anthropomorphic use of 'human' in contemporary literature.

The Use of 'Human' and 'Men' in Tolkien's Writing

In his writing, 'human' is used on a few occasions, often out of concern for the linguistic limitations of English, particularly in cases where direct translations are not available. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings,' he might use 'human' to introduce terms that do not have a specific equivalent in the Elvish languages he created, such as when describing certain aspects of human society or culture. However, in referring to races, Tolkien almost always uses 'Men,' capitalized, to reflect their unique status as a created race within his legendarium.

Usage of 'Men' Capitalized

The capitalization of 'Men' is significant in Tolkien's legendarium. It is similar to the capitalization of other races such as 'Orcs,' 'Hobbits,' 'Elves,' and 'Dwarves.' This practice elevates 'Men' to a position of prominence and importance, highlighting their role as one of the principal races in Middle-earth's history.

Why Tolkien Prefers 'Men' Over 'Human'

Tolkien's preference for 'Men' over 'human' can be attributed to several factors:

Aesthetic and Linguistic Consistency: In Tolkien's languages, human beings are not just 'human' but members of a specific race with their own unique characteristics. The term 'Men' reflects this distinction. Mythological and Epic Significance: 'Men' is used in a way that underscores the mythological and epic nature of his storytelling, emphasizing the grandeur of the human experience in his world. Relevance to Specific Terms: In the context of Tolkien's universe, 'Men' is tied to terms such as 'the Shadow of Men' in 'The Lord of the Rings,' which is a distinct and powerful phrase.

Capitalization in Tolkien's Legendarium

The capitalization of 'Men' is a conscious choice in Tolkien's writing. This practice is consistent across his works, and it serves multiple purposes:

Distinguishing Different Races: Only the races that play significant roles in the narrative are capitalized. This distinction helps to draw a clear line between humans and other races, such as orcs, elves, and dwarves. Emphasizing Cultural and Historical Significance: By capitalizing certain terms, Tolkien emphasizes their cultural and historical significance within his legendarium, underscoring their role in shaping the world of Middle-earth. Aesthetic and Readability: The consistent use of capitalization enhances the readability and aesthetic appeal of his writing, reinforcing the mythic and epic tone of his storytelling.

Concluding Thoughts

Tolkien's careful and deliberate choice of language, particularly the use of 'Men' instead of 'human' and the capitalization of various races, is a testament to his deep understanding of the power of language in storytelling. By making such distinctions and emphasizing the uniqueness of each race, Tolkien creates a rich and immersive world that resonates with readers even today. His works continue to inspire and captivate readers with their linguistic and narrative sophistication.

Explore further the intricate layers of Tolkien's language and the profound impact it has on the legendarium. This study not only deepens our appreciation of his works but also highlights the enduring importance of careful and thoughtful language use in storytelling.