Question 1: Today is J.R.R. Tolkien’s birthday. What do fans say when toasting him?
- The Professor!
- To Frodo!
- Long live Middle-earth!
Correct Answer: The Professor!
Fact: Every January 3, fans of J.R.R. Tolkien celebrate his birthday with the Tolkien Birthday Toast, a tradition promoted by the Tolkien Society. At 9 PM local time, fans around the world raise a glass—whether it’s filled with ale, tea, or another favorite drink—and say the phrase: ‘The Professor!’ This simple yet heartfelt toast honors Tolkien’s immense contributions to literature and his enduring legacy as the creator of ‘The Hobbit,’ ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ and the world of Middle-earth.
Question 2: Where did Tolkien work as a professor?
- University of Cambridge
- University of Oxford
- University of Bristol
Correct Answer: University of Oxford
Fact: J.R.R. Tolkien spent most of his academic career at the University of Oxford. He held two major positions during his time there: Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon (1925–1945) at Pembroke College, and Merton Professor of English Language and Literature (1945–1959) at Merton College. The Radcliffe Camera at the University of Oxford, featured in today’s image along with All Souls College, was built between 1737 and 1749. It is said to have inspired the design of Sauron’s temple to Morgoth on Númenor in Tolkien’s stories.
Question 3: Which language did Tolkien create for his stories?
- Klingon
- Elvish
- Parseltongue
Correct Answer: Elvish
Fact: J.R.R. Tolkien’s passion for linguistics greatly influenced his work. In addition to Elvish (used by elves), Tolkien also crafted several other languages for his stories set in Middle-earth, including Khuzdul (Dwarvish), the Black Speech (Sauron’s language), and Entish (the slow, descriptive language of the Ents).