Jakob

S: Is it not so that Plato's Republic is the foundational text of western philosophy?

J: Of course it is, Socrates.

S: And while many parts may no longer be directly applicable, does not its impact alone make it a relevant read?

J: It certainly does.

S: Is it not that, although many of Plato's ideas will seem alien to a modern reader, this also gives the book value as a point of reflection?

J: I don't understand what you mean, Socrates.

S: Let me put it like this. Is it not still relevant to ask question like: What are the issues with class based systems? Why is free speech important? Is it right to have families as foundational parts of our society? Does this not contradict our idea that merit should determine your life outcomes? What defines a just and legitimate state?

J: These are clearly important thoughts.

S: Then shouldn't everyone with an interest in philosophy, political theory or history read the Republic?

J: Yes, Socrates. Of course, Socrates. I couldn't have put it any better, Socrates.

Just not a good book. While some of the underlying ideas are cool, the book is very shallow. The characters are extremely one-dimensional (the main villain rapes or murders someone in most chapters he is involved in, often in sections that are entirely incidental to the main story and feel like they were just included to make sure you wouldn't forget who the bad guys are) and behave unnaturally. It takes one of the main characters about ten minutes to recover from his beloved wife dying from childbirth in his arms, immediatly falling in love with a woman he saw once before and who pretty much rapes him on the spot. The story also doesn't feel medieval. It feels like most characters are from the 20th century larping "dark ages" England. Finally, way to much of the book is just porn. I really did not wish to know how much the author likes large boobs, but now I do.

One of the great works of political philosophy of the 20th century. An important perspective on the delineations between power and violence and the differences between legitimate state action and authocratic behavior.

The Lord of the Rings is an absolute classic - and for very good reason. Enjoyable from a first readthrough for its amazing worldbuilding, story and characters, further engagement with the series really makes you appreciate it on a whole other level. I usually don't do rereads, but I have done multiple for LotR over the years and regained my appreciation of the series each time.

The Fellowship in particular has some of the best parts of the series, although there are also some weaker sections. Whilst the opening is slow and in parts meandering, the story really starts picking up pace in Bree, and the journey through Moria is clearly a peak of the series.

Famously difficult read, but great book for anyone that loves the worldbuilding of the Lord of the Rings and wants more of it. While some sections really drag on, others contain exceptional stories in and of themselves. Overall, the Silmarillion really shows the depth and love for detail Tolkien invested into his work.