John Ronald Reuel Tolkien was an English writer, philologist, and academic, best known for his high-fantasy works. He was born on January 3, 1892, in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and later moved to England. Tolkien's most famous books include The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, which have become classics in literature and have inspired numerous adaptations in film and other media. Tolkien was also a professor at the University of Oxford, where he taught English language and literature. His deep interest in languages and mythology influenced his writing, leading him to create intricate worlds and languages, such as Elvish, that enriched his storytelling. He passed away on September 2, 1973.