What was J.R.R. Tolkien’s academic subject at Oxford University before he became a professor?

J.R.R. Tolkien studied English language and literature at Oxford University before becoming a professor.

Tolkien entered Exeter College, Oxford, in 1911. He initially studied Classics, but he changed to the English language and literature course, specializing in philology. He completed his degree in 1915, graduating with first-class honours.

Philology—the historical study of language and texts—strongly influenced Tolkien’s creative work. His professional interest in Old English, Middle English, Welsh, and other languages helped him construct believable linguistic histories for the peoples of Middle-earth. His expertise also shaped his readings of medieval literature, including Beowulf and the Arthurian tradition.

Tolkien later held academic posts at the University of Leeds and the University of Oxford. He became Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford and later Merton Professor of English Language and Literature. His academic career and fantasy writing were closely connected rather than separate pursuits.