In foramine terrae habitabat hobbitus. (‘In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit.’)
The Hobbit, is one of the world’s most popular classic stories, appealing to adults as much as to the children for whom J.R.R. Tolkien first wrote the book. Translated worldwide into more than 60 modern languages, now Hobbitus Ille is finally published in Latin, and will be of interest to all those who are studying the language, whether at school or at a higher level.
In the great tradition of publishing famous children’s books in Latin, professional classicist and lifelong Tolkien fan Mark Walker provides a deft translation of the entire book. His attention to detail, including the transformation of Tolkien’s songs and verses into classical Latin meters, will fascinate and entertain readers of all ability, even those with only a minimal acquaintance with the language. Read this full post for the Press Release and pick up your copy today! [Get your Copy!]
HOBBITUS ILLE:
The Latin Hobbit
by
J. R. R. Tolkien
Translated by Mark Walker
“A flawless masterpiece” — The Times
In foramine terrae habitabat hobbitus. “In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit.”
The Hobbit is one of the world’s most popular classic stories, appealing to adults as much as to the children for whom J.R.R. Tolkien first wrote the book. Translated worldwide into more than 60 modern languages, now HOBBITUS ILLE is finally published in Latin, and will be of interest to all those who are studying the language, whether at school or at a higher level.
Just in time to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Hobbit, and the December 14th release date of the highly anticipated movie, HOBBITUE ILLE is part of the great tradition of publishing famous children’s books in Latin. Professional classicist and lifelong Tolkien fan Mark Walker provides a deft translation of the entire book. His attention to detail, including the transformation of Tolkien’s songs and verses into classical Latin meters, will fascinate and entertain readers of all ability, even those with only a minimal acquaintance with the language.
• The complete text, together with Latinized maps and illustrations make this perfect for schoolchildren and students learning Latin, but also fans who want to dip in and find favorite passages.
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• Follows other classic Latin translations, e.g. Domus Anguli Puensis (The House at Pooh Corner), Harrius Potter et Philosophi Lapis (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone), Fabula de Petro Cuniculo (The Tale of Peter Rabbit), and Ursus Nomine Paddington (A Bear Called Paddington).
• Follows the Cambridge and Oxford Latin conventions, making this ideal for school use.
• Includes notes and glossary by the translator, an experienced Latin teacher and dedicated Tolkien fan.
About the Authors:
J.R.R. Tolkien is creator of Middle-earth and author of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion. He was awarded a CBE and an honorary Doctorate of Letters from Oxford University, and died in 1973.
Mark Walker has taught Latin to adults and children for several years. His published work includes the English translation of Geoffrey of Monmouth’s The Life of Merlin (Vita Merlini), the historical novel Amida, and three Latin-themed books: Annus Horribilis: Latin for Everyday Life, Annus Mirabilis: More Latin for Everyday Life, and Britannica Latina: 2,000 Years of British Latin. He is also the founder and editor of VATES: The Journal of New Latin Poetry.
HOBBITUS ILLE:
The Latin Hobbit
By J. R. R. Tolkien
Translated by Mark Walker
HarperCollins
Publication Date: November 27, 2012
