We examine Tolkien’s controversy about the character of Christmas in Lewis’s world.
In the corner of fantasy literature where magic and legend intersect, a fascinating controversy has arisen: JRR Tolkien, the legend of Lord of the Rings, and Santa Claus in the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. What are the hidden reasons behind your frustration?
A friendship of fantasy and misunderstanding
In the year In the 1930s, Tolkien and Lewis, two literary titans, intertwined their lives in Oxford classrooms and meetings of the Inkling literary group, forming a unique friendship. This relationship, although characterized by respect and constructive criticism, was not without controversy. Best known: The South African writer’s refusal to let Santa Claus appear in Lewis The Lion, The Wizard and the Wardrobe.
For Tolkien, a careful world-builder, it was unthinkable to include a character as symbolic and consistent with the Western Christmas tradition as Santa Claus in the various legends of Narnia. He saw this mixture of myth as a clash of conflict, a blot on the canvas of narrative unity, and he exalted it greatly.
Tolkien and his own version of Santa Claus
Interestingly, Tolkien was no stranger to Santa Claus. In his work Letters from Santa Claus, he shows a more playful and creative side, in which he portrays this character in a different way, full of adventures and away from the complexities of Narnia.
Despite the disagreements, both writers had deep admiration and respect for each other. This dynamic of friendship and intellectual conflict was undoubtedly the driving force behind the evolution of both of them as writers and thinkers.
The magic behind the argument
In the midst of this literary dispute, the South African writer did not simply express his grievances in simple narrative. His critique of the inclusion of Santa Claus in The Chronicles of Narnia reveals a deep and complex vision of epic literature. The author of The Hobbit, known for his strong world-building, believes in the importance of internal consistency and respect for mythological tradition. For him, each element of a narrative had to be organically and meaningfully connected, creating a coherent whole.
Thus, the controversy over Santa Claus becomes an example of how fantasy literature can be interpreted and shaped in different ways. While the author of Middle-earth seeks purity and thematic unity, Lewis delights in variety and surprise. Both approaches have left an indelible mark on the genre, showing that even within the same field, multiple artistic visions can coexist and develop. This argument, more than just a disagreement between two friends, becomes an important lesson about the difference in approach to literary creation.
A legacy of thought and debate
The relationship between the two writers went beyond simple literary disagreements; It represents a union that significantly shaped the fantasy genre. Both of them introduced the quality and depth of their work through extensive discussion and criticism. It is clear how this dynamic influenced JRR’s conversion to Christianity in Lewis, an element that is subtly reflected in both of his works.
In turn, Lewis was one of the most enthusiastic defenders and promoters of ESDLA, recognizing its genius even before it became a global phenomenon. This interaction of two great minds not only enriched their friendship but also left an indelible legacy in literature and demonstrated the power of collaboration and respect in the creative process.
The author’s controversy over Santa Claus in Narnia is not just a literary story; It is the reflection of two brilliant minds, each with their own artistic and narrative vision. Their works, enriched by this friendship and debate, continue to inspire generations, showing that even in disagreement there is room for creativity and respect.