If Tolkien Were Reformed: Integrating Van Til’s Presuppositional Apologetics into Fantasy Fiction

J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis are renowned for their masterful integration of profound theological themes within the rich tapestries of their fantasy worlds. Their works transcend mere storytelling, delving deep into the nature of good and evil, redemption, and the human condition. But what if Tolkien, a devout Catholic, had embraced Reformed theology? Specifically, how might his narratives have evolved under the influence of Cornelius Van Til’s presuppositional apologetics? This intriguing “what if” opens the door to exploring how such a theological framework can be woven into fantasy fiction, offering fresh avenues for both writers and readers.

Understanding Van Til’s Presuppositional Apologetics

Cornelius Van Til was a significant figure in Reformed theology, best known for developing presuppositional apologetics. This approach argues that all reasoning is based on presuppositions, and that Christian theism is the only worldview that provides a consistent foundation for logic, morality, and science. Unlike classical apologetics, which often seek to prove God’s existence through evidence and reason, presuppositional apologetics starts with the assumption that the Bible is true, and that all other worldviews are inherently flawed because they reject this fundamental truth.

Integrating this into fantasy fiction means constructing narratives where the underlying reality of the story aligns with a theistic worldview. Characters might grapple with existential questions, only to find that the Christian perspective offers the most coherent answers. This doesn’t necessarily mean overt preaching; rather, the very fabric of the fictional world reflects these presuppositions, subtly guiding readers to contemplate deeper truths.

Fantasy Fiction as a Vessel for Theological Themes

Fantasy worlds offer unparalleled freedom for authors to explore complex ideas within engaging narratives. Tolkien’s Middle-earth and Lewis’s Narnia are quintessential examples where mythical landscapes serve as backdrops for exploring profound moral and spiritual themes. If Tolkien had been influenced by Reformed theology, his works might have more explicitly highlighted the sovereignty of God and the inherent limitations of human reasoning apart from divine revelation.

In such a reimagined Middle-earth, the struggle against Sauron could symbolize not just a battle against evil, but a clash of fundamentally different worldviews. The Ring of Power might represent the seductive allure of human autonomy and the rejection of divine authority. Characters like Gandalf and Aragorn could embody the wise acknowledgment of human limitations and the necessity of submission to a higher, divine order.

A Steampunk Fantasy Example

Drawing inspiration from this concept, a modern steampunk fantasy novel can serve as a practical example. Imagine a world where steam-powered technology and supernatural elements coexist, mirroring the industrial revolution but with an added layer of the fantastical. The protagonist, perhaps an ingenious inventor or a daring explorer, begins to question the materialistic and human-centric philosophies that dominate their society.

As they journey through this richly imagined world, they encounter factions and cultures with differing worldviews. Some might adhere strictly to empirical science, dismissing any notion of the supernatural. Others might embrace mysticism without grounding. The protagonist’s path leads them to a group that holds to an ancient belief system remarkably similar to Reformed Christianity, emphasizing the necessity of divine revelation for true understanding.

Through trials and tribulations, the character realizes that without acknowledging this foundational truth, all other pursuits lead to contradictions and moral ambiguities. The story doesn’t merely present a battle between good and evil but delves into why certain actions are deemed good or evil in the first place, rooted in the presuppositions held by individuals and societies.

The Power of Presuppositional Themes in Storytelling

Incorporating Van Til’s presuppositional apologetics into fantasy fiction enriches the narrative on multiple levels. It challenges readers to consider the foundational beliefs that shape their understanding of the world. By presenting characters who must confront the limitations of their own reasoning and the consequences of their presuppositions, stories become more than just escapism—they become a mirror reflecting profound philosophical and theological questions.

This approach also pays homage to the tradition of Tolkien and Lewis, who skillfully blended their faith with their storytelling. While they didn’t explicitly promote a particular theological framework, their works are imbued with Christian principles. A fantasy novel influenced by presuppositional apologetics takes this a step further, intentionally crafting a world where the truth of the Christian worldview is not just present but foundational.

Conclusion

If Tolkien were Reformed, his legendary works might have delved even deeper into the nature of reality, truth, and the human condition from a distinctly presuppositional perspective. Such an integration offers a wealth of possibilities for contemporary writers of fantasy fiction. By embedding Van Til’s theological insights into the very fabric of their stories, authors can create compelling narratives that not only entertain but also provoke thoughtful reflection on the presuppositions that underlie our understanding of the world.

In an age where fantasy continues to captivate audiences worldwide, there’s a unique opportunity to explore these themes within the genre. Whether through the lens of a steampunk adventure or a sprawling epic reminiscent of Middle-earth, integrating presuppositional apologetics invites readers to embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of fiction and touches upon the eternal truths that shape our existence.