The Great Oak, majestically standing near Addison’s Walk at Magdalen College, is a tree deeply intertwined with the intellectual and literary history of Oxford. This venerable oak is not only an impressive natural landmark but also a silent witness to the profound conversations between two of the 20th century’s most celebrated authors, J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Take your time to explore Addison’s Walk, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and reflect on the literary history associated with this beautiful spot. The walk is particularly lovely in the spring and autumn when the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Addison’s Walk is a circular path that follows the River Cherwell around part of the college grounds. As you walk, you will come across the Great Oak, an impressive and historic tree that stands as a focal point along this tranquil pathway.
Why Should You Visit This Tree?
Both Tolkien and Lewis were professors at the University of Oxford and close friends who frequently met to discuss their ideas, their writing, and their views on life. Their relationship was not just a professional camaraderie but a deep, philosophical connection that influenced their respective works in significant ways.
Addison’s Walk, a picturesque path that winds through the tranquil grounds of Magdalen College, was a favorite spot for these two literary giants. The walk is lined with trees and offers serene views of the River Cherwell, creating an environment that is both reflective and inspiring. It was along this path, in the shadow of the Great Oak and amidst the quiet beauty of the surrounding nature, that Tolkien and Lewis would engage in conversations about literature, philosophy, theology, and the nature of myth and storytelling.
These discussions were more than casual exchanges; they were intellectually rigorous and deeply influential. It was during one of these walks in 1931 that a conversation between Tolkien and Lewis played a crucial role in Lewis’s conversion to Christianity—a significant turning point in his life that would profoundly shape his writing, including his famous works, The Chronicles of Narnia.
The Great Oak itself stands as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Tolkien and Lewis. Its sturdy, ancient branches and deep roots mirror the strength and depth of the ideas that these two men explored together. The oak is a living testament to the way the natural world can inspire great thoughts and great art.
How to Visit the Addison Walk’s Tree?
For visitors to Magdalen College, the Great Oak and Addison’s Walk are not just scenic spots, but places of pilgrimage, especially for those who admire the works of Tolkien and Lewis. To walk where they walked, under the same canopy of leaves, offers a unique connection to the creative processes that led to some of the most beloved literature of the modern era.
Magdalen College is located at the eastern end of Oxford’s High Street, next to Magdalen Bridge. The main entrance to the college is through the Porter’s Lodge on High Street.
