The Strange Case of Tom Bombadil: A Metaphysical Account

Abstract

The aim of this article is to present a coherent account of the identity and narratological purpose of Tom Bombadil by examining various pieces of textual evidence and identifying the historical model on which he is largely based. What is revealed is a metaphysical reality not explored in current literature that reveals the author’s philosophical and theological grounding as part of his universe creation. It reexamines the character in light of those findings and encourages further research.