Robert Foster

Robert Foster is an American Tolkien scholar best known for *The Complete Guide to Middle-earth* (1971, revised 1978), an encyclopedic reference work covering J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium. His comprehensive guide indexes characters, places, languages, and events from *The Hobbit*, *The Lord of the Rings*, and *The Silmarillion*, serving as an essential companion for Tolkien readers and scholars. Foster's meticulous research and systematic organization helped establish the standard for Tolkien reference materials. His work demonstrates deep knowledge of Tolkien's complex mythology and chronology, making Middle-earth's vast history accessible to readers. The guide remains a valuable resource for Tolkien enthusiasts decades after its initial publication.