Tolkienists.org

While Tolkien (when pressed) identified most closely with his original character Faramir, there are in fact many similarities between Tolkien and Elrond. This essay utilizes the concept of liminality, alterity, and the ​“queer” (as defined by the privileged majority of their respective cultures) to explore the myriad parallels between author and creation. Points of similarity include belonging to a minority population, being an orphan and a twin/​near twin, and the deep impact of close homosocial relationships. Issues of self-identification (especially important for individuals who reside at the boundary between dichotomous groups) also point to a close connection (perhaps completely subconscious) between Tolkien and Elrond Half-Elven.