Illustrating the Lord of the Rings in the Soviet Bloc: Iconographies of Difference

＂A comprehensive history and analysis of the Soviet illustrated editions of The Lord of the Rings published 1981 - 1993, this book explores these works against a backdrop of state censorship, restrictive publishing practices and logistical struggles of translation. Employing comparative analysis to reconcile neglected Soviet illustrations with their Western equivalents, it situates both within the wider cultural and political contexts of the period. Reflecting upon their relevance to current debates regarding visual heterogeneity in fantasy, the book examines artistic reception, iconography and the permeability of cultural boundaries during the final years of Communist rule, shedding new light on the role of visual art in shaping cultural content＂-- Provided by publisher.

Joel Merriner is Associate Lecturer in Art History at the University of Plymouth, UK. His latest research focuses on the global imaginary and the interconnected nature of Tolkien book illustration, fanart and film. He has presented at the Tolkien Society Seminar several times.