The Constructed Languages of JRR Tolkien (Feat. Lindsay Ellis)

The video explores J.R.R. Tolkien's profound influence on the fantasy genre and language creation. It delves into the history of constructed languages, highlighting Tolkien's unique approach of creating languages first and then building worlds around them. The video also examines the characteristics of Elvish languages, their evolution, and the impact of Tolkien's work on modern conlangs in literature and media.

What was unique about Tolkien's approach to creating fictional worlds?

• He used existing languages for his worlds.

• He constructed languages first and then created worlds.

• He created worlds first and then languages.

• He borrowed languages from other authors.

What was the primary purpose of constructed languages in the 17th and 18th centuries?

• To create fictional worlds.

• To catalog and understand the world.

• To entertain readers.

• To replace natural languages.

How did Tolkien view the relationship between language creation and mythology?

• Language creation was a hobby unrelated to mythology.

• Language creation was separate from mythology.

• Mythology was more important than language creation.

• Language creation and mythology were intertwined.

Which real-world language influenced Tolkien's Quenya?

• Welsh

• Esperanto

• Finnish

• Hebrew

What is a key characteristic of Sauron's Black Speech?

• It is based on Celtic languages.

• It is accessible to all characters.

• It is a parody of international auxiliary languages.

• It evolved naturally over time.

What role did Tolkien's work play in the development of modern conlangs?

• It had no significant impact.

• It discouraged the creation of new languages.

• It elevated language invention in fiction.

• It was only influential in academic circles.

Which fictional language is considered the most developed conlang?

• Na'vi

• Klingon

• Dothraki

• Elvish

What was the impact of the Lord of the Rings films on Tolkien's languages?

• They replaced his languages with new ones.

• They increased the popularity of his languages.

• They had no impact on his languages.

• They decreased interest in his languages.

How did Tolkien's son contribute to the study of his father's languages?

• He ignored his father's work.

• He discouraged further study.

• He edited and published linguistic material.

• He created new languages.

What is a common feature of modern conlangs in media?

• They are based on Tolkien's languages.

• They are only used in books.

• They are developed by professional linguists.

• They are rarely used in films.