World War 1 had a great effect on the world, especially Britain. British writers were greatly effected by the war. Well known authors J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis both were greatly effected by the war. They were both British authors who rose to popularity in the first half of the 20th century. They are commonly known for their works in fantasy such as The Lord of the Rings (Tolkien) and Chronicles of Narnia (Lewis). Tolkien, born in South Africa and raised Roman Catholic served in WW1 and took part in the deadly battle of the Somme which is often credited as one of the deadliest battles in history. It is often said that Tolkien’s experiences growing up in South Africa and during the war guided his style as a writer. His devotion to the Catholic Church also greatly effected his writing. Tolkien is often called the father of modern fantasy not only because of his skill of storytelling but also his symbolism in his works. His relationship with C. S. Lewis was unique because of there powerful storytelling and devotion to symbolism.

C. S. Lewis was born in Belfast Ireland and as an Irishman was exempted from military service but joined anyway. He was involved in the Battle of Arras where he was severely wonded and often spoke of the carnage he witnessed. After the war, he first met Tolkien at a college meeting in 1926 and they became fast friends. They bonded over their experiences from the war and both were staunchly against modern society. Both never owned a car and avoided politics at all costs. An Atheist, Lewis eventually converted to Christianity due to his friendship with Tolkien but to Tolkien’s dismay he joined the  Church of England not the Catholic church. Lewis and Tolkien eventually went to write many famous works that where often results of conversations between the two. The Hobbit, The Screwtape Letters, and even Narnia where direct results from Lewis and Tolkien’s sessions together. They also often met to discus Christian subjects and their work was heavily influenced by the Bible and early christian scholars. Both used their shared experiences from the war and faith to write their stories. Their friendship was a unique example of writing because of the war.

https://www.statista.com/statistics/1022625/casualty-fatalities-statisti...

https://www.worldwar1centennial.org/index.php/articles-posts/5502-war-no...

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