Understanding the Nature and History of The Shire in Middle-earth

The The Shire, a region renowned for its pastoral charm and rustic lifestyle, has always been a central setting in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. It is an independent district inhabited by Hobbits, located within the borders of the Realm of Aronn in the realm of Middle-earth. However, the Shire's status and characteristics have often been the subject of confusing analogies and discussions.

Geographical and Cultural Context of The Shire

Contrary to popular beliefs, The Shire is not just a small portion of Middle-earth. It is comparable to a county within England, named for its antiquated system, where the term "Shire" is derived from the Old English word middangeard, meaning "inhabited lands." The name itself reflects the historical and cultural significance of the region, a protected area for Hobbits alone.

The Relative Size and Location of The Shire

The Shire is located near the northwest corner of Middle-earth, defined as a relatively small area analogous to a county. Its size and location can be compared to Iowa in the United States or as a small county in England, which itself is part of the United Kingdom. This region was set apart long ago for the exclusive habitation of Hobbits by the Big Folk, who were only allowed to visit for short periods as traveling merchants or emissaries.

The Big Folk, or Men, were not encouraged to stay for long periods. The understanding was that their temporary presence would not disrupt the peaceful and protected nature of the Shire. This ecology was monitored and protected by the Rangers, led by Aragorn, who patrolled the borders and kept the region safe.

Passage Through the Shire by Other Races

While the Shire was primarily a Hobbit haven, other races often traveled through, though somewhat cautiously. Elves, traveling to and from the Grey Havens, would sometimes make their presence known but would try to remain almost unseen. Similarly, Dwarves might pass through but would not stay for any length of time, as their presence was not encouraged.

The Breelands and Mixing Points

A notable exception to this rule is the Breelands, of which the town of Bree was the central point. The Breelands were considered a "mixing point" where both Hobbits and Big Folk could make their homes and stay for any length of time. Bree often served as a hub for travelers from various races to meet and exchange news and goods.

The Etymology and Inspiration of "Shire"

There is a persistent belief that "Shire" or "middangeard" has its roots in Norse myths or Scandinavian languages. However, J.R.R. Tolkien himself refuted this notion. In his letter 165 of The Letters of J. R. R. Tolkien, he stated, "Middle-earth by the way is not a name of a never-never land without relation to the world we live in like the Mercury of Eddison. It is just a use of Middle English middel-erde or erthe altered from Old English Middangeard: the name for the inhabited lands of Men between the seas."

Tolkien further clarified that there are no "Nine Worlds" in his cosmology, a concept that might be more associated with Norse mythology. His use of the term "Shire" is rooted in Old English and reflects the cultural and historical context of his creation.