Saint Brendan

Saint Brendan, also known as Brendan of Clonfert and Brendanus, was an Irish monk who made a legendary journey to the western sea and found utopian lands. J.R.R. Tolkien was aware of this legend and made references to it.

The concept of Aman as the Paradise in the West, and the voyage of Ælfwine, are inspired from the tale of St. Brendan. Tolkien even wrote a poem Imram about him.

Brendan's voyage is referenced again in The Notion Club Papers as well as the search for the West.