Abstract
In this chapter, Coutras explores the nature of “incarnate beings,” Elves and Men, in relation to the light of being. As a part of creation, incarnate beings are an inherent union of body and soul; to sever these two aspects of their being is against their original design. In view of this, the problem of death is a subject of great interest to Tolkien. Drawing upon the Debate of Finrod and Andreth, Coutras demonstrates how Elves are coherent in body and soul, yet confined to a damaged creation. In contrast, Men experience a disharmony of being and fear of death, a result of the Fall.
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© 2016 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s)
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Coutras, L. (2016). Incarnate Beings. In: Tolkien’s Theology of Beauty. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-55345-4_5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-55345-4_5
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Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, New York
Print ISBN: 978-1-137-55344-7
Online ISBN: 978-1-137-55345-4
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