The Tolkien Road
Podcast-Informationen
Episoden (493)
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 7 » "The Natural Life of NĂșmenor" (Ep 331 Redux)
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor as we explore âThe Natural Life of NĂșmenor.â In this section, weâll learn about the beasts, birds, plants, and other natural phenomena of NĂșmenor, according to Tolkien! Join us! And...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 6 » "The Geography of NĂșmenor" » The Tolkien Road Episode 330
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with "The Geography of NĂșmenor". How big was the Land of Gift? What was it like? Did it have any cities? In the latest episode, weâre going to cover everything you ever wanted to...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 5 » "SA32 - The Edain Reach NĂșmenor" (Ep 329 Redux)
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with "SA32 » The Edain Reach NĂșmenor", in whch weâll learn about the people who became NĂșmenoreans, the various figures that aided them in establishing NĂșmenor, and how they came to...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 4 » "SA1 - Foundation of the Grey Havens and of Lindon" (Ep 328 Redux)
In this episode, weâll be exploring the âFoundation of the Grey Havens and of Lindonâ in Year 1 of the Second Age. Topics include the overthrow of Morgoth, Thranduil (father of Legolas), Gil-galad, Galadriel, Celeborn, Elrond, and Elros. Join us! If...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 3 » Before the Second Age (Ep 327 Redux)
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with "Before the Second Age", a summary of the major events leading up to the story of NĂșmenor. If youâve ever been curious about the rise and tragic downfall of Tolkienâs greatest...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 2 » The Saga of a Dark Age (Ep 325 Redux)
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with the volume's introduction, titled "The Saga of a Dark Age". If youâve ever been curious about the rise and tragic downfall of Tolkienâs greatest kingdom â and how it ties into...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 1 » Intro and Overview (Ep 324 Redux)
Weâre bringing back one of our most popular journeys: our series on The Fall of NĂșmenor! If youâve ever been curious about the rise and tragic downfall of Tolkienâs greatest kingdom â and how it ties into the Rings of Power and the epic drama of the...
0397 » Introducing Tolkienâs Tragedy: My New Book on NĂșmenor & the Second Age
Hey there, fellow travelers! Iâve got some exciting news: my new book Tolkienâs Tragedy: Concerning NĂșmenor, The Rings of Power, and the Second Age is finally here. This has been years in the making. In fact, when I first started outlining it,...
Silmarillion 2025 » Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey concludes with Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age! The last chapter of The Silmarillion is a synoptic account of the Second and Third Ages which focuses upon the legends of the Rings of Power, all the way through the...
Silmarillion 2025 » AkallabĂȘth » The Downfall of NĂșmenor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with AkallabĂȘth - the Downfall of NĂșmenor! âAkallabĂȘthâ is the synoptic account of NĂșmenor in the Second Age of Middle-earth. This account spans almost 3500 years of history. It begins with the establishment of...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 24 » Of the Voyage of EÀrendil and the War of Wrath
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 24 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Voyage of EĂ€rendil and the War of Wrath! In Chapter 24, the First Age comes to a cataclysmic end, as a hero undertakes a desperate journey to Valinor, and the...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 23 » Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 23 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin. With Doriath having fallen in Chapter 22, the remaining Elvish enclaves of Beleriand face increasing peril, and not even Gondolin can...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 22 » Of the Ruin of Doriath
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 22 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Ruin of Doriath! âOf the Ruin of Doriathâ is not one of the longer chapters in The Silmarillion, but it is packed with hugely significant events as we rapidly...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 21 » Of TĂșrin Turambar
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 21 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of TĂșrin Turambar. The tale of TĂșrin Turambar is a long one, rivaling âOf Beren and LĂșthienâ and âAkallabĂȘthâ as the longest chapter in The Silmarillion. It is also quite...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 20 » Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 20 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad!After Beren and LĂșthienâs excellent adventure, what could possibly come next? Only a great battle brimming with bloodshed and...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 19 » Of Beren and LĂșthien
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 19 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Beren and LĂșthien. In my view, âOf Beren and LĂșthienâ is the crown jewel of The Silmarillion. I love it so much I wrote a book about it. It was one of Tolkienâs...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 18 » Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 18 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin. In Chapter 18, Angband breaks loose upon Beleriand. What ensues is the The Battle of Sudden Flame and its terrible...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 17 » Of the Coming of Men Into the West
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 17 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Coming of Men Into the West. In Chapter 17, we learn of the first Men to enter into Beleriand. Furthermore, we learn about the beginnings of their relationship...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 16 » Of Maeglin
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 16 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Maeglin. âOf Maeglinâ represents a shift in the style of The Silmarillion. While we had previously been dealing in something like a chronicle of the various Elves in...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 15 » Of the Noldor in Beleriand
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 15 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Noldor in Beleriand. In Chapter 15, Turgon establishes the secret and glorious realm of Gondolin, Galadriel becomes a handmaiden of Melian, and Thingol learns of...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 14 » Of Beleriand and Its Realms
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 14 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Beleriand and Its Realms. Silm Guide Link: https://www.tolkienroad.com/silmguide/sg17/ To support our work here, please visit https://patreon.com/tolkienroad. Enjoy!...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 13 » Of the Return of the Noldor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 13 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Return of the Noldor. The action really picks back up in Chapter 13: a faceoff between FĂ«anor and Balrogs, the capture and torment of Maedhros, a confrontation...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 12 » Of Men
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 12 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Men. Yes, Chapter 12 introduces a mysterious new intelligent species to Middle-earth - the Atani, that is, the mortal people of mankind - and speaks of their first...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 11 » Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 11 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of The Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor. With the hurricane of catastrophes brought on by Morgothâs murder of the Two Trees subsiding, the dust is settling, and the...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 10 » Of the Sindar
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 10 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of The Sindar. The Noldor, led by FĂ«anor, have re-entered Beleriand in pursuit of Morgoth and the Silmarils. This chapter brings us up to speed with the Elves that...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 09 » Of the Flight of the Noldor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 9 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of The Flight Of The Noldor. With Melkor and Ungoliant having slain the Two Trees and stolen the Silmarils, Chapter 9 concerns the consequences of these actions for the...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 08 » Of the Darkening of Valinor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 8 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Darkening of Valinor. In Chapter 8, the bliss of Valinor comes to a sudden end as Melkor unleashes his sinister plot with the aid of the horrifying monster...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 07 » Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 7 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor. In Chapter 7, we learn what the Silmarils are, where they came from, and how clouds begin to gather over the blessed realm...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 06 » Of Fëanor and the Unchaining of Melkor
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 6 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of FĂ«anor and the Unchaining of Melkor. Chapter 6 is really the quiet calm before the storm. All hell is about to break loose. Yet first, we must become acquainted with...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 05 » Of Eldarmar & The Princes of the Eldalië
Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 5 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Eldalië. In Chapter 5, we come to find out how the three Elvish peoples (the Vanyar, the Noldor, and the Teleri) came to Aman, the...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 04 » Of Thingol and Melian
Hey there, fellow travelers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 4 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Thingol and Melian! Over the next several months, we'll be continuing to revisit the entire 30-episode Silmarillion series that Greta and I...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 03 » Of the Awakening of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor
Hey there, fellow travelers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 3 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of The Awakening of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor! Over the next several months, we'll be continuing to revisit the entire 30-episode...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 02 » Of Aulë and Yavanna » Origins of Dwarves and Ents
Hey there, fellow travellers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 2 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of Aulë and Yavanna! Over the next several months, we'll be continuing to revisit the entire 30-episode Silmarillion series that Greta and I...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 01 (part 2) » Of the Beginning of Days » The Creation of the Two Trees of Valinor
Hey there, fellow travellers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 1 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Beginning of Days, part 2! Yes, Chapter 1 had so much to discuss that we had to break it into two parts, so you're getting the second...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ch 01 » Of the Beginning of Days » The Two Lamps, The First War of Middle-earth
Hey there, fellow travellers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Chapter 1 of Quenta Silmarillion - Of the Beginning of Days. Just to be clear, "Quenta Silmarillion" means "The History of the Silmarils". While Tolkien intended "Ainulindalë"...
Silmarillion 2025 » Valaquenta » The Gods Of Middle-earth » The Story of the Valar
Hey there, fellow travellers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Valaquenta - The Story of the Valar! Over the next several months, we'll be revisiting the entire 30-episode Silmarillion series that Greta and I recorded back in 2022. And...
Silmarillion 2025 » Ainulindalë » The Creation of Middle-earth » The Music of the Ainur
Hey there, fellow travellers! Our 2025 Silmarillion journey continues with Ainulindalë - The Music of the Ainur - which, simply put, is the Middle-earth creation story. Over the next several months, we'll be revisiting the 30-episode series that Greta...
Read The Silmarillion in 2025 » START HERE!
Hey there, fellow travellers! Right now, I have one major goal for The Tolkien Road: to finish my next book! While I'm doing that, I want to invite you to read through The Silmarillion with The Tolkien Road this year! Over the next several months,...
REVISITED » 6 Life-Changing Insights From Tolkien
Hey there fellow travellers! This week we'll be revisiting episode 197, which focused on 6 amazing spiritual insights from Tolkien. Visit https://TolkienRoad.com/spirit to download these 6 points as a PDF! Also, visit https://truemythspress.com/ to...
Lore of the Rings Interview » Why and How The Lord of the Rings is a "Religious and Catholic Work"
Listen to the whole episode: https://www.ringspodcast.com/190-why-and-how-the-lord-of-the-rings-is-a-religious-and-catholic-work/ Hey there, fellow travellers! Merry Christmas! I was recently a guest on the Lore of the Rings podcast - that's L-O-R-E -...
0396 » REVIEW: The War of the Rohirrim » New Lord of the Rings Anime Film
In The Tolkien Road Episode 396, we review The War of the Rohirrim, the newly released animated Middle-earth film from Executive Producer Peter Jackson! I have to be honest: the first 2 seasons of The Rings of Power were so painfully bad that I was...
REVISITED » Tolkien's Epic Christmas Poem, NOEL
Hey there fellow travellers! This week we'll be revisiting episode 261, which focused on Tolkien's EPIC Christmas poem NOEL. Visit https://TolkienRoad.com/noel for plenty of resources related to it! Also, visit https://truemythspress.com/ to for...
0395 » The Rings Of Power Season 2 Is A Crushing Disaster
I'm done with Season 2 of Amazon's The Rings of Power, but I didn't watch all 8 episodes. I just can't watch anymore... EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - KG - EÀrendil Hope WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/4g1ugQfbHFE...
0394 » Lord of the Rings » Foreword & Prologue » Mailbag » Allegory, Stoors / Harfoots / Fallohides, etc
Welcome to The Tolkien Road Episode 394! In this bonus MAILBAG episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll be considering your thoughts on the Foreword and Prologue to The Lord of the Rings! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - KG -...
0393 » Lord of the Rings » Foreword & Prologue » Mathoms » "Hobbit" origins, Shire background, and more
Welcome to The Tolkien Road Episode 393! In this bonus MATHOMS episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll take a look at some fascinating footnotes to the Foreword and Prologue of The Lord of Rings! TOPICS COVERED: - Lord of the Rings' attraction - The...
REVISITED » The Fall of Eregion and Celebrimbor » Tolkien's Version
Hey there, fellow travellers! Let's revisit our discussion of Sauron's sack of Eregion and defeat of Celebrimbor from 2023, as Tolkien told it! Episode notes: https://www.tolkienroad.com/e0349/ Video: https://youtu.be/DnI07pSeqXQ
REVISITED » Sauron Seduces The Elves » Tolkien's Version
Hey there, fellow travellers! Let's revisit our 2023 episode on Sauron's seduction of the Elves, which led to the creation of the Rings of Power! Episode notes: https://www.tolkienroad.com/e0345/ Video: https://youtu.be/cY5EmQrBD2k
0392 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt11 » The Shadow of the Past part 11 » Sam's Grand Entrance
Welcome to Episode 22 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "Sam's Grand Entrance". (This is episode 392 of The Tolkien Road podcast). âWell, sir,â said Sam dithering a little. âI heard a deal that I didnât rightly understand, about an enemy, and...
REVISITED » The Rings of Power - Tolkien's Version - Part 2
Hey there, fellow travellers! In this REVISITED episode, we're looking at episode 315 from 2022, which was our latest discussion concerning Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age, Tolkien's history of the events from the beginning of the Second Age...
REVISITED » The Rings of Power - Tolkien's Version - Part 1
Hey there, fellow travellers! Let's revisit our discussion of "AkallabĂȘth" from 2022, so we can get some solid perspective on what Tolkien intended for the story of NĂșmenor. Join us! https://www.tolkienroad.com/0314-akallabeth-2022/ Video:...
0391 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt10 » The Shadow of the Past part 10 » Frodo, the Chosen One
Welcome to Episode 21 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "Frodo, The Chosen One". (This is episode 391 of The Tolkien Road podcast). ""It has been said that dragon-fire could melt and consume the Rings of Power, but there is not now any dragon...
REVISITED » In the House of Tom Bombadil with CR Wiley
Who is Tom Bombadil? This is a topic weâve covered several times on the Tolkien Road, but itâs an undying enigma for Lord of the Rings fans, and weâre always hungry for new insights into the mysterious nature of The Old Forestâs Master. With the...
REVISITED » The Bombadil Engima with Keith Mathison
Hey dol! merry dol! ring a dong dillo! With the inclusion of Tom Bombadil in Season 2 of The Rings of Power, we're in a Tommy kind of mood, and will be revisiting a few episodes we've done on the engimatic fellow over the next week or so. Today,...
0390 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt09 » The Shadow of the Past part 9 » The Power of Pity
Welcome to Episode 20 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "The Power of Pity". (This is episode 390 of The Tolkien Road podcast). "Many that live deserve death. And some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then do not be too eager to...
REVISITED: The Rings of Power » Why The Details Of Middle-earth Matter
Hey there, Fellowship! We interrupt your week to revisit this bonus episode from a few years back called "The Rings of Power » Why the Details of Middle-earth Matter". It came out a few months before The Rings of Power Season 1 debuted. In it, I...
0389 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt08 » The Shadow of the Past part 8 » Gandalf's Worst Mistake
Welcome to Episode 19 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "Gandalf's Worst Mistake". 'The murder of DĂ©agol haunted Gollum, and he had made up a defence, repeating it to his âPreciousâ over and over again, as he gnawed bones in the dark, until he...
0388 » Reaction: The Rings of Power Season 2
The second season of The Rings of Power is upon us, and in the Tolkien Road Episode 388, Greta and I give you our reaction to the first three episodes! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - KG - EÀrendil Hope WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0387 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt07 » The Shadow of the Past part 7 » The Sad Story of Gollum
Welcome to Episode 18 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "The Sad Story of Gollum". "'You ought to begin to understand, Frodo, after all you have heard," said Gandalf. 'He hated it and loved it, as he hated and loved himself. He could not get...
REVISITED: 0254 » The Purpose of NĂșmenor
Hey there, Fellowship! Greta and I plan to be back with more episodes in our epic DO NOT BE HASTY series soon. This week, with season 2 of The Rings of Power nearly upon us, I thought we'd revisit episode 254, which focused on The Purpose of NĂșmenor,...
0386 » Lord of the Rings » Prologue part 3 » Of the Finding of the Ring and a Note on Shire Records (2024)
Hey there, fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, episode 386! In this bonus episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll conclude our jaunt through the Prologue to The Lord of the Rings by exploring the sections âOf the Finding of the Ringâ and âNote on...
0385 » Lord of the Rings » Prologue part 2 » Concerning Pipe-weed and The Ordering of the Shire (2024)
Hey there, fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, episode 385! In this bonus episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll continue through the Prologue to The Lord of the Rings by exploring the sections âConcerning Pipe-weedâ and âOf the Ordering of the...
0384 » Lord of the Rings » Prologue part 1 » Concerning Hobbits (2024)
Hey there, fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, episode 384! In this bonus episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll be talking about HOBBITS, and specifically, the history and culture of hobbits. Weâll do so by exploring the first part of the...
0383 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt06 » The Shadow of the Past part 6 » Sméagol and Déagol
Welcome to Episode 17 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "Sméagol and Déagol". "The Ring went into the shadows with [Gollum], and even [Sauron], when his power had begun to grow again, could learn nothing of it." In this episode of DO NOT BE...
0382 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt05 » The Shadow of the Past part 5 » The Powers of the Ring
Welcome to Episode 16 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "The Powers of the Ring". In this episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, we continue through The Shadow of the Past, as Gandalf leads us on a deep dive into the history and lore of the Rings of...
0381 » Lord of the Rings » Tolkien's Foreword(s) » What LOTR Is About, According To Tolkien
Hey there, fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, episode 381! In this bonus episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll be considering this highly important and controversial question: WHAT DID TOLKIEN SAY LORD OF THE RINGS WAS ABOUT? Weâll do so by...
0380 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt04 » The Shadow of the Past part 4 » The Fiery Letters
Welcome to Episode 15 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "The Fiery Letters". 'Hold it up!' said Gandalf. 'And look closely!'Â As Frodo did so, he now saw fine lines, finer than the finest pen-strokes, running along the ring, outside and...
0379 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt03 » The Shadow of the Past part 3 » About That Ring, Frodo...
Welcome to Episode 14 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "About That Ring, Frodo..." "'It would be a grievous blow to the world, if the Dark Power overcame the Shire; if all your kind, jolly, stupid Bolgers, Hornblowers, Boffins, Bracegirdles,...
0378 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt02 » The Shadow of the Past part 2 » Sam At The Green Dragon
Welcome to Episode 13 of DO NOT BE HASTY - I'm calling this one "Sam at the Green Dragon"! "And I've heard tell that Elves are moving west. They do say they are going to the harbours, out away beyond the White Towers.' Sam waved his arm vaguely;...
0377 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch02.Pt01 » The Shadow of the Past part 1 » 17 Years Later » Bilbo's Fate, Fredegar Bolger, Folco Boffin, more
In this episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, weâll begin exploring The Shadow of the Past (Book 2, Chapter 2 of Lord of the Rings), by finding out what Frodo is up to as the lone master of Bag-End, and what is going on in the wider world beyond the borders of...
0376 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt11 » Mailbag » Proudfoots, Eleventy, Michel Delving, Winyard, and more!
In this episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, we hit the mailbag for your thoughts on The Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party.And by the way, you guys delivered BIG TIME! While we wonât be able to get to nearly everything you wrote in the...
0375 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt10 » Mathoms » Return of the Shadow, Bilbo's Wife, Bingo vs Frodo, etc
"My father bestowed immense pains on the creation of The Lord of the Rings, and my intention has been that this record his first three years of work on it should reflect those pains." - Christopher Tolkien, Return of the Shadow, Foreword In this...
Ainulindalë, Tom Bombadil, and the Music of Middle-earth
Hey there, fellow travellers! Having just completed our 9 episode leg through Chapter 1 of Lord of the Rings, Greta and I are taking this week and next week off as we prepare for our Mailbag and Mathoms episodes and the beginning of our dive into...
0374 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt09 » Goodbye, Gandalf! » A Long Expected Party Pt 9
"Good-bye now! Take care of yourself! Look out for me, especially at unlikely times! Good-bye!" - GANDALFÂ In this episode of Do Not Be Hasty, we complete our journey through Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party! After the...
0373 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt08 » Master Frodo » A Long Expected Party Pt 8
"You'll live to regret it, young fellow! Why didn't you go too? You don't belong here; you're no Baggins - you - you're a Brandybuck!" In this episode of Do Not Be Hasty, we continue through Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party!...
0372 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt07 » Keep It Secret, Keep It Safe » A Long Expected Party Pt 7
Gandalf: "Go away and leave it behind. Stop possessing it. Give it to Frodo, and I will look after him." In this episode of Do Not Be Hasty, we continue through Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party! Herein, Bilbo finally hits the...
0371 » Lord of the Rings Bk1.Ch01.Pt06 » Bilbo Goes Gollum » A Long Expected Party Pt 6
In this episode of Do Not Be Hasty, we continue through Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party! As Bilbo sneaks back to Bag-End and prepares to leave the Shire once and for all, Gandalf confronts him about the Ring, and an ugly...
0370 » LOTR 1.01.05 » A Long Expected Party Pt 05 » Bilbo's Speech / Hobbit Math
In this episode of Do Not Be Hasty, Bilbo delivers his unforgettable birthday speech and shocking surprise, as we continue through Lord of the Rings Book 1, Chapter 1, A Long Expected Party! Weâll take time to consider every detail of his speech, and...
0369 » LOTR 1.01.04 » A Long Expected Party Pt 04 » Bilbo's Birthday Banquet
In this episode of DO NOT BE HASTY, Bilboâs birthday festivities begin, as we continue through LORD OF THE RINGS Book 1, Chapter 1, A LONG EXPECTED PARTY! Weâll take time to envision the layout of the party field, and consider the variety of...
0368 » Tolkien Reading Day 2024: Tolkien, Tarantino, and The Great Escape
Tolkien Reading Day 2024 is upon us, and boy do we have a curve ball for you! What do Tolkien and Quentin Tarantino have in common? Apparently more than you'd think! Greta and I watched Tarantino's 2019 film "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" twice this...
0367 » LOTR 1.01.03 » A Long Expected Party Pt 03 » Gandalf, Keeper of the Secret Fire(works)
Welcome to Episode 367 of The Tolkien Road, or Episode 3 in the Do Not Be Hasty - reckoning! In this episode, we'll explore Gandalf's arrival at Bag End with fireworks in tow, and his subsequent discussion with Bilbo about his party, plans, and...
0366 » LOTR 1.01.02 » A Long Expected Party Pt 02 » Hamfast "The Gaffer" Gamgee
In this episode, we grab a pint with Sam's dad at the Ivy Bush as we resume our exploration of Lord of the Rings Book 1 Chapter 1 A Long Expected Party by considering the section from âTwelve more years passedâŠâ to â...this very month as-is.â The bulk...
0365 » LOTR 1.01.01 » A Long Expected Party Pt 01 » Bilbo Goes To Eleventy
With this episode, we begin a new journey, as we return to The Lord of the Rings for something epic (in scope) and Entish (in pace). Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - Melkor27 - KG WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0364 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 38 » The Third Age (A Brief Chronicle)
With Sauron having been defeated and disembodied at the end of the Second Age, and a time of peace settling in upon the free lands of Middle-earth, how do we arrive at the events of The Lord of the Rings, some 3,000 years later? The account weâll be...
0363 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 37 » SA3329-3341 » The Last Alliance of Men and Elves
With Elendil and his sons having founded Arnor and Gondor after the downfall of NĂșmenor, Sauron wastes little time in launching an assault upon them, his aim to conquer the free lands of Middle-earth once and for all! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of...
0362 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 36 » Founding of Arnor & Gondor » SA3320
In this episode, weâre approaching the END of our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor as we explore the founding of Arnor and Gondor after the downfall of NĂșmenor. Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - SaberSystems -...
0361 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 35 » The Downfall » SA3310-3319
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring Ar-PharazĂŽnâs assault on the Blessed Realm and the great cataclysm that brings NĂșmenor to itâs tragic end. Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with...
0360 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 34 » Sauron In NĂșmenor » SA3262
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring Sauronâs tenure there, his devious and depraved works, and Isildurâs heroic moment. EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - SaberSystems -...
0359 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 33 » SA3255 » Ar-PharazĂŽn vs Sauron
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring the rise of Ar-PharazĂŽn, NĂșmenorâs last King, AND his attack upon Sauron. Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - SaberSystems -...
0358 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 32 » SA3175 » Tar-Palantir
In this episode, we learn of the reign of Tar-Palantir, the penultimate King of NĂșmenor, who sought to return the land of Gift to its ancient ways. Weâll also learn of the rise of his nephew PharazĂŽn and the beginning of the abominable reign that...
0357 » Tolkien's Lost Letters » Our Lady of Lourdes (St. Bernadette), Socialism, Fatherhood, and more!
In this episode, weâre taking a quick break from The Fall of NĂșmenor to review the new edition of The Letters of JRR Tolkien, released just last week! Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R - SaberSystems - Melkor27 - KG...
Exploring Tolkien » Peter Jackson vs. Lord of the Rings (Tolkien's Version)
Hey there, fellow travelers! I was recently a guest on the Exploring Tolkien podcast from https://www.theonering.com/. We had a great discussion looking at some of the changes in Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings films and asking the question: Are we...
0356 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 31 » SA2899 » Ar-AdĂ»nakhĂŽr and Ar-GimilzĂŽr
In the last episode, we considered the decreasing reign and lifespans of the rulers of NĂșmenor in the late third millennium of the Second Age, and the root causes of their decline. In this episode, we pick up where we left off, with the death of...
0355 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 30 » Tolkien Road Episode 355 » SA2280 » Umbar, Pelargir, and the Decline of NĂșmenor
In this episode, weâll explore key events during the reign of Tar-Ancalimon, as well as briefly review the reigns of several NĂșmenorean rulers that followed. Weâll learn of NĂșmenorâs increasing spiritual and moral decay and the increasingly...
0354 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 29 » Tolkien Road Episode 354 » SA2251 » Rise of the Ring-Wraiths
In this episode, weâll explore the events attributed to the year 2251 of the Second Age. Those events are: Death of Tar-Atanamir; Tar-Ancalimon Takes The Sceptre; Rebellion and Division of the NĂșmenĂłreans begins; About this time the NazgĂ»l or...
0353 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 28 » Tar-Atanamir » Envying the Valar
In this episode, we consider the reign of Tar-Atanamir, the 13th ruler of NĂșmenor. We learn here that Atanamir was given the epithet âThe Greatâ. Yet we also learn that he was given another - âThe Unwillingâ. I have to admit, itâs not entirely clear...
0352 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 27 » The NĂșmenorean Empire » Tar-Ciryatan
The War of the Three Rings is over! With Sauronâs armies destroyed, Middle-earth is at peace. However, Middle-earthâs peace brings with it a new threat - NĂșmenorean Empire! In this episode, weâll consider the events spanning the years of SA1731 thru...
0351 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 26 » SA1701 » Sauron Routed and The First White Council
With Sauronâs invading armies having been pushed back from the Grey Havens and subsequently routed at the Battle of Tharbad, the Dark Lord is on the run! In this episode, weâre looking at the next series events, those of the year SA1701. Join us!...
0350 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 25 » SA1699-1700 » The Battle of the Grey Havens
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring Sauronâs full scale invasion of Eriador and the subsequent counterattack of the NĂșmenoreans. When we left off, things were looking pretty dire for the Elves of...
0349 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 24 » SA1693-1697 » The War of the Three Rings
With this episode, the War of Sauron Upon The Elves (what we might also call the War of the Three Rings) begins. And given the relative length of the next 3 chapters, as well as their unified theme, I decided to combine them into this one episode. The...
0348 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 23 » SA1600 » Sauron Forges The One Ring
In this episode, we're continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with "c1600 - Sauron Forges The One Ring In Orodruin. The Completes The Barad-dĂ»r. Celebrimbor Perceives The Designs Of Sauron." Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0347 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 22 » SA1590 - The Forging of the Three Rings
In this episode, we're continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor with "c1590 - The Three Rings Are Completed In Eregion"! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/1tsKulWfUBk WATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-88290129...
0346 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 21 » SA1500 » Sauron The Generous Demon
The full title of this chapters is "c1500 - The Elven Smiths Instructed By Sauron Reach The Height Of Their Skill. They Begin The Forging of the Rings of Power."In this episode, we discuss the nature of Sauron's "gifts" to the Noldor, and how their...
0345 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 20 » SA1200 » Sauron Seduces The Eldar (But Not Gil-galad Or Elrond)
In this chapter, we find rumors of Sauron beginning to unveil his plot. In fact, itâs even debatable what Sauronâs âplotâ was from the beginning! Even so, Gil-galad and Elrond refuse to treat with him, though the Elven-smiths of Eregion are won over....
0344 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 19 » SA1075 » The Reign of Tar-AncalimĂ«
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring the chapter 1075 - TAR-ANCALIMĂ BECOMES THE FIRST RULING QUEEN OF NĂMENOR. Having covered the life and significance of one of NĂșmenorâs most important rulers,...
0343 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 18 » SA1000 » Sauron Founds Mordor
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through the Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring the chapter c1000 SAURON CHOOSES MORDER. After our deep dive in to the story of NĂșmenorâs pivotal 6th king, Tar-Aldarion, we return now to Sauron, and take a look...
0342 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 17 » SA883 » The Accession of Tar-Aldarion
This chapter concludes the era of Aldarion, one of the most important kings in the history of NĂșmenor. As we learned in the last episode, his father, Tar-Meneldur, chose to turn the rule of NĂșmenor over to Aldarion earlier than was normal, due to a...
0341 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 16 » SA870: The Wedding of Aldarion & Erendis » Gil-galad, Tar-Meneldur
This chapter continues the story of Aldarion, destined to be NĂșmenorâs 6th King. While it begins with the wedding, long-expected, of Aldarion and Erendis, it concludes with many events unexpected, including word from Gil-galad to the King of NĂșmenor...
0340 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 15 » SA800 » Aldarion & Erendis » Uinen, OssĂ«, Tar-Meneldur
Over the next 3 episodes in our Fall of NĂșmenor series, weâll return to the story of Aldarion, whom we met 2 episodes ago. Aldarion is the son of Tar-Meneldur and the expectant heir to NĂșmenor's throne. But as we will learn, he is a man torn between a...
0339 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 14 » Eregion Founded By The Noldor
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring the year SA750, when Eregion was founded by the Noldor. 750 years into the Second Age, things are relatively peaceful. NĂșmenorâs benevolent influence is extending...
0338 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 13 » The Voyages of Aldarion âą Tar-Meneldur
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring The Voyages of Aldarion, the grandson of VĂ«antur, and future King of NĂșmenor. While we donât have any narratives from the Second Age on the scale of Lord of the...
0337 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 12 » SA600 The First Ships Of The NĂșmenoreans Appear Off The Coast Of Middle-earth
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by examining NĂșmenorâs return to Middle-earth in the year 600 of the Second Age. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/VumQLI07YW4 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea...
0336 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 11 » SilmariĂ«n, Elendil, & The Lords of AnduniĂ«
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by considering the curious case of SilmariĂ«n, the daughter of Elendil (but not the sister of Isildur). Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/UWgGk5hz3xs EXECUTIVE...
0335 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 10 » Sauron Stirs In Middle-earth
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by examining the return of Sauron around the year 500 of the Second Age. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/JwxMA3AICiQ EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with...
0334 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 9 » Dwarves, Moria, and the Death of Elros
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by considering the state of Dwarf-dom at the beginning of the Second Age, the founding of Moria / Khazad-dĂ»m, and well as the death of NĂșmenorâs first king. Join us! WATCH THE...
0333 » Lord of the Rings & Easter Joy » Everything Sad Will Come Untrue » Samwise and The Field of Cormallen
Happy Easter everyone! (we're Catholic, and so was Tolkien, so it's still Easter...) In this episode, we read Samwise's astonished awakening in The Field of Cormallen after the destruction of the One Ring, and discuss how it relates to the...
0332 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 8 » The Life of the NĂșmenoreans
What was it like to be an every day NĂșmenorean? How did it feel to be one of that blessed number who were able to enjoy a much longer lifespan in an island paradise? While these details may not seem of particular importance in advancing the story of...
0331 » "The Natural Life of NĂșmenor" » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 7
In this episode, weâll be continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor as we explore the section title âThe Natural Life of NĂșmenor.â In this section, weâll learn about the beasts, birds, plants, and other natural phenomena of NĂșmenor, according...
Window On The West » What Makes Tolkien So Great?
Hey there, fellow travelers! I recently joined the Tolkien podcast https://www.theonering.com/lord-of-the-rings-podcast/, from the guys at https://www.theonering.com/, for a discussion of what makes Tolkien so great and the future of Middle-earth on...
0330 » "The Geography of NĂșmenor" » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 6
How big was NĂșmenor? What was it like? Did it have any cities? In the latest episode, we're discussing the geography of NĂșmenor. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/MXVNVJvm-Fw EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: - Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien - John R -...
Mythic Mind » On Fairy-stories
Hey there fellow travellers! I recently joined fellow Tolkien enthusiast Andrew Snyder on his Mythic Mind podcast for a discussion of On Fairy-stories and All Things Tolkien. For those of you who don't know, Andrew is doing great work on the Mythic...
0329 » The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 5 » SA32 » The Edain Reach NĂșmenor » Elros Tar-Minyatur
NĂșmenor becomes a reality in year 32 of the Second Age. In this section, weâll learn about the people who became NĂșmenoreans, the various figures that aided them in establishing NĂșmenor, and how they came to NĂșmenor in the first place. Join us! WATCH...
0328 » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 4 » SA1 » "The Foundation of the Grey Havens and Lindon"
In this episode, weâll be exploring the âFoundation of the Grey Havens and of Lindonâ in Year 1 of the Second Age. Topics include the overthrow of Morgoth, Thranduil (father of Legolas), Gil-galad, Galadriel, Celeborn, Elrond, and Elros. Join us!...
REACTION: New MIDDLE-EARTH Films On The Way! » Good News, Bad News...???
New Line / Warner Brothers have announced that they are forging ahead with plans to create new films based on Lord of the Rings and the Middle-earth legendarium! What does this all mean? Let's talk about it!...
0327 » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 3 » "Before the Second Age"
This is the third episode in my series exploring The Fall of NĂșmenor, the recently published collection of Second Age writings, edited by Brian Sibley. âBefore The Second Ageâ is, in a way, the bookâs second introduction. Here, Sibley goes into the...
0326 » Leaf By Niggle 2023 » Featuring Dr. Chris Hackett » Tolkien's Purgatorial Myth
Leaf By Niggle, 2023! Dr. Chris Hackett (https://hackettwrites.com%29/ joins us for what has become an annual tradition on The Tolkien Road. While weâve covered Leaf By Niggle several times in the past, and frequently refer to it, itâs an incredible...
0325 » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Part 2 » The Saga of a Dark Age
This is the second episode in my series exploring The Fall of NĂșmenor, the recently published collection of Second Age writings, edited by Brian Sibley. Sibleyâs introduction is titled âThe Saga of a Dark Ageâ. Tolkien himself termed the Second Age a...
0324 » The Fall of NĂșmenor » Part 1 » An Overview
I'm beginning a journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor, the recently published compilation of Tolkien's Second Age and NĂșmenorean writings! Join me! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Eru27 WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0323 » Smith of Wootton Major » The Background & The Story
Finally, we arrive at SMITH OF WOOTTON MAJOR! In this episode, weâll be reviewing the story and having a knock-down, drag-out, deep dive discussion, classic Tolkien Road style! But hereâs the thing: as youâre going to find out, Smith of Wootton Major...
0322 » The Mythic Mind with Andrew Snyder
In episode 322, I'm joined by https://linktr.ee/andrewnsnyder podcast. We talk Middle-earth, Tolkien, Christianity, Kierkegaard, The Shadow, and the consolation that Tolkien provided in Andrew's life during a very dark period. Join us! ANDREW SNYDER...
Echoes of Eternity: Rings Of Power, NĂșmenor, Gandalf, Blue Wizards, Game Of Thrones, and more!
I'm delighted to share a sample of my recent conversation with Echoes of Eternity, a new-ish podcast from animator Ben West and evangelist Matthew Cantrell. We had a blast, and you're going to love this conversation (1 hour plus). Check out the whole...
UK Fantasy Tour Summer 2023 » Tolkien, CS Lewis, Rowling » Places That Inspired LOTR, Narnia, Harry Potter
We're joined by Solomon Schmidt, the man behind https://historybites.com/tours/. Solomon is leading a Tolkien-themed tour to the UK (England and Scotland) in July of 2023, and we sit down with to hear all about the plans. Seriously folks, this looks...
0321 » Rings Of Power Seasons 2 and 3 + Middle-earth and Christmas
Merry Christmas, fellow travelers! Let's take a close look at the Middle-earth / Christmas connection as well as the recent Rings of Power discussion with Amazon Studios' Vernon Sanders. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/gr7WfZZoFAk...
0320 » The Song of NĂșmenor » Elendil, The Lost Road, CS Lewis, The Rings Of Power
What was the purpose of NĂșmenor? In this episode, we explore that question through the lens of the song of NĂșmenor. Many of you know that I have argued that NĂșmenorâs purpose went beyond being a mere reward for the descendants of the Edain, and...
0319 » The Rings of Power » How Do They Work?
Have you ever asked yourself how the Rings of Power work? In other words, WHY did Sauronâs Ring bring him mastery over the other Rings? What sorts of power did the Rings convey? Let's take a close look at these questions! WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0318 » Where Do We Go From Here?
2022 was a pretty busy year for this podcast and for Tolkiendom on a broad scale! It was pretty intense to cover both The Silmarillion and The Rings of Power. And, to quote Bilbo, it's made me feel like butter scraped over too much bread. I may...
"Frodo Failed" » What Did Tolkien Mean?
In a 1963 letter, we find this remarkable line from Tolkien: âFrodo indeed âfailedâ.â What did he mean by that? Is there a deeper message that Tolkien himself took away from writing the scene of Frodoâs failure? What bits of wisdom can we glean...
0317 » The Fall Of NĂșmenor » Book Review
Is the latest Tolkien book worth your time and money? In this episode, I take a close look at The Fall of NĂșmenor and tell you what I think! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/kx-r92L7ydc EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R,...
0316 » Wrestling With The Rings Of Power
In this episode, we will be looking back on The Rings of Power season 1, and most importantly, discussing some of the in-depth feedback weâve received along the way! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/E-RTe65YO78 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of...
0315 » Of The Rings Of Power And The Third Age 2022
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age", an account that covers six millennia of Middle-earth history, from the beginning of the Second Age to the end of the Third. WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0314 » AkallabĂȘth 2022
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "AkallabĂth", the legend of NĂșmenor's fall from JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the rise of Sauron, PharazĂŽn's assault on Valinor, and the escape of Elendil and Isildur to establish Arnor...
0313 » The Rings of Power » How I Would Have Done It
The first season of The Rings of Power is behind us, and for a lot of us, including me and Greta, it was pretty disappointing. In this episode, Iâm going to explore how I would have approached telling the story of the Second Age. WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0312 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 24 » Of the Voyage of EÀrendil and the War of Wrath
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Voyage of EĂ€rendil and the War of Wrath", the 24th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about EĂ€rendil's and Elwing's journey to the Blessed Realm, the final battle with Morgoth, and...
0311 » The Rings of Power Ep 8: Alloyed » Reviewed!
In "Alloyed", the Three Elven Rings are created, Tar-PalantĂr dies, and Sauron is REVEALED! Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/tQ45xB90Jsw EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John...
0310 » The Rings of Power Ep 7: The Eye » Reviewed!
In "The Eye", Elrond is denied access to Mithril, Galadriel and the NĂșmenoreans search for survivors, and The Stranger departs for Greenwood the Great. Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/6Lv9JqFcMTw ***THIS AUDIO AND...
0309 » The Rings of Power Ep 6: Udûn » Reviewed!
In "UdĂ»n", the Southlanders stay the Orcs, NĂșmenor comes to their aid, and something boils to a blow beneath the surface of Middle-earth. Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/ncrSx2IoF0M EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of...
0308 » The Rings of Power Ep 5: Partings » Reviewed!
In "Partings", a sinister new figure arrives at The Stranger's crater, Galadriel is addicted to fighting, Gil-galad makes a big deal about Mithril, and NĂșmenor's forces depart for Middle-earth. Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0307 » The Rings of Power Ep 4: The Great Wave » Reviewed!
In "The Great Wave", MĂriel is haunted by a prophetic dream, Galadriel touches a PalantĂr, and Arondir delivers a message from Adar! Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/kWoODn2MFJ8 ***AUDIO RELEASED 3 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR...
0306 » The Rings of Power Ep 3: Adar » Reviewed
In "Adar", we finally arrive in NĂșmenor, and we're introduced to a mysterious orc father-figure. Join us as we discuss it all! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/D78RkJzkx_E ***AUDIO RELEASED 2 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS*** EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS »...
0305 » The Rings of Power Ep 2: Adrift » Reviewed!
"Adrift" introduces Dwarves, Khazad-dûm, Eregion, Halbrand, and "The Stranger", and we're covering it all in Episode 305. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/v7f4fgjLUu0 ***VIDEO RELEASED 1 DAY EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS*** ***AUDIO RELEASED 3...
Rings of Power » Where's Celeborn???
Is Amazon erasing Galadriel's husband??? If so, this would be a HORRIFYING move on their part, as it has major implications for legendarium in terms of Lord of the Rings and the later history of Middle-earth. In this video, I ask: WHERE IS...
0304 » The Rings of Power Ep 1: A Shadow of the Past » Reviewed
The Rings of Power is upon us! What Would Tolkien Think??? Greta and I discuss Episode 1, A Shadow of the Past, and go into all of the things Amazon got right and wrong. Join us! WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0303 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 23 » Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin", the 23rd chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about Tuor's journey and Ulmo's efforts to save Turgon and his people from doom! WATCH THE VIDEO »...
Rings of Power » Trailer Review » One Week To Go » What Would Tolkien Think?
WIth one week to go before the release of Amazon's The Rings of Power, I talk about my expectations at this point, and review the latest trailer (8/24). RINGS OF POWER Controversies » Why Compressing The Second Age Timeline Is Wrong » LOTR on Prime...
0302 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 22 » Of the Ruin of Doriath
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Ruin of Doriath", the 22nd chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about Morgoth's twisted plot to defeat Thingol, and the role the Silmaril of Beren and LĂșthien plays in it! ***THIS...
0301 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 21 » Of TĂșrin Turambar
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of TĂșrin Turambar", the 21st chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the tragic tale of the ill-fated son of HĂșrin, one of the Great Tales of Middle-earth's First Age! WATCH THE VIDEO»...
0300 » How Tolkien Saved My Life
This is our 300th episode! Given that, I decided it was time to look back on this journey, and see how far weâve come, and reflect on everything behind us. It struck me that, especially in the last few years, Iâve been moving at such a hurried pace...
Rings of Power » Simon Tolkien, Conflicting Canon, Diversity, NĂșmenor, and Tar-MĂriel
Talking about this article » https://ew.com/tv/lord-of-the-rings-the-rings-of-power-numenor-first-look/ As I was researching the Rings of Power recently (for my trailer response), I came across this writeup on EW.com from July 13th. And well, let's...
Rings of Power Trailer Reaction » Don't Be Hasty Edition
So I am probably the last Tolkien fan channel to give my thoughts on the latest LOTRonPrime Trailer. All I can say is, this is a channel where we strive to live Treebeardâs motto: DONâT BE HASTY! Watch the video » https://youtu.be/DQpH6jx4cMc...
0299 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 20 » Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad", the 20th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the cataclysmic battle that brings the Noldor to ruin, and sets in motion the climax of the...
The Rings of Power » The Ents Arrive!
We react to the latest marketing video from The Rings of Power! Strange comets, Harfoots, Galadriel, Gil-galad, Celebrimbor, Elrond, and...ENTS! WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/8QrTbowIreM SUPPORT / FOLLOW: - tolkienroad.com -...
0298 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 19 » Of Beren and LĂșthien
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Beren and LĂșthien", the 19th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the story Tolkien called "the seed of Middle-earth", in which a forefather of the Men of the West sets out to...
0297 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 18 » Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin
Chapter 18 concerns the Battle of Sudden Flame and the aftermath thereof. It sets in motion the action-packed final third of The Silmarillion, in which many of the great stories of the First Age occur. WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/3RQYy0j4fT4...
Tolkien's New Book: The Fall of NĂșmenor Will Present The Legends Inspiring The Rings of Power
We're getting a new Tolkien book! "The Fall of NĂșmenor" was announced on June 22, 2022. In this bonus episode, we'll discuss what's in it and all of the other important info. LINKS: - Announcement from The Tolkien Society (contains the Press...
0296 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 17 » Of the Coming of Men into the West
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Coming of Men Into the West", the 17th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the early ancestors of Aragorn, Boromir, Faramir, and other Men of the West! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS...
0295 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 16 » Of Maeglin
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Maeglin", the 16th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading as we unpack this story of Elvish tragedy! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R,...
MIDDLE-EARTH: Christian Propaganda or Pre-Christian Mythology?
Are we imposing Christianity onto MIddle-earth? That's what one listener thinks... âThis show is Christian propaganda disguised as a discussion of Tolkien mythology. Itâs fine to be Christian, obviously Tolkien was a Christian, but Christianity...
THE RINGS OF POWER » Why the Details of Middle-earth Matter
"It is precisely the colouring, the atmosphere, the unclassifiable individual details of a story, and above all the general purport that informs with life the undissected bones of the plot, that really count." - On Fairy-stories Some have said that...
0294 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 15 » Of the Noldor in Beleriand
Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Noldor in Beleriand", the 15th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading as we unpack this story of the founding of Gondolin! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of...
Orcish Ideologies and The Rings of Power
"Yet this is held true by the wise of Eressëa, that all those of the Quendi who came into the hands of Melkor, ere Utumno was broken, were put there in prison, and by slow arts of cruelty were corrupted and enslaved; and thus did Melkor breed the...
The Rings of Power and the Long Defeat
"I am a Christian, and indeed a Roman Catholic, so that I do not expect âhistoryâ to be anything but a âlong defeatâ â though it contains (and in a legend may contain more clearly and movingly) some samples or glimpses of final victory." - JRR...
0293 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 14 » Of Beleriand and Its Realms
Join us for an in-depth discussion of "Of Beleriand and Its Realms", the 14th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of the map of Middle-earth's First Age. EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of...
0292 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 13 » Of the Return of the Noldor
Having arrived to Beleriand, Fëanor wastes no time in confronting Morgoth. WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/NfTQcLXGQHY EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "His prayer was answered...
0291 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 12 - Of Men
Join us for an in-depth discussion of "Of Men", the 12th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of the origins of Men. With the Sun having risen upon...
0290 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 11 - Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
Join us for an in-depth discussion of "Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor", the 11th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of the creation of the...
0289 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 10 - Of the Sindar
Join us for an in-depth discussion of "Of the Sindar", the 10th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this long-form exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of Beleriand's first war! WATCH THIS EPISODE...
0288 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 9 - Of the Flight of the Noldor
This is an in-depth discussion of "Of the Flight of the Noldor", the 9th chapter of The Silmarillion. Learn how to get the most out of your reading from this long-form exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of FĂ«anor's Oath! Chapter 9 brings...
0287 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 8 - Of the Darkening of Valinor
Chapter 8 brings us to the great catastrophe of the Blessed Realm. What happens in this chapter sets in motion tidal waves of tragedies whose effects are felt, for good and for ill, down to the years of Frodoâs journey. WATCH THE VIDEO »...
The God and Gods of Middle-earth feat. Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick
Is Lord of the Rings Christian, Pagan or, in some way, both? In the legendarium of Middle-earth, Tolkien connects the gods of the ancient world with the God of biblical Christianity in a manner that, somehow, he intended to be acceptable to "a...
0286 » The Silmarillion 2022 Ch 7 » Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor
What are the Silmarils and what is their significance? We finally reach the answer to these questions in Chapter 7, learn of the intrigue surrounding them, and how their existence becomes a curse for the Blessed Realm. WATCH THE VIDEO »...
0285 - All Things Tolkien March 2022 Livestream
Hey there, fellow travelers! You are about to listen to an audio recording of our MARCH 2022 YouTube livestream. For the video of this replay, including all of the chats from those who were live with us, check the show notes for the link. WATCH...
Tolkien and Man's Destiny » "All Tales May Come True..." » Tolkien Reading Day 2022
My choice for Tolkien Reading Day 2022. Enjoy! WATCH THIS VIDEO » https://youtu.be/ib-30vDvxxQ SUPPORT » https://patreon.com/tolkienroad TOLKIEN ROAD » https://tolkienroad.com/
Is the RINGS OF POWER Canon?
With The Rings of Power & The War of the Rohirrim coming soon, Iâm starting to wonder: whatâs going to be considered âcanonicalâ going forward? In simple terms, will the lore that the show creates be considered âauthoritativeâ going forward?...
0284 » Of Fëanor & The Unchaining Of Melkor » The Silmarillion Ch 6
With Melkor having been imprisoned, Valinor enters a long era of peace. To FinwĂ«, High King of the Noldor, a son is born: FĂ«anor, the âSpirit of Fireâ, whose destiny is bound up with the fate of many. And all the while, a perilous shadow grows upon...
0283 » Of Eldamar & the Princes of the Eldalië » The Silmarillion Chapter 5
With 3 groups of Elves - the Vanyar, Noldor, and Teleri - having arrived on the threshold of the Great Sea, they must make the final leg of their journey to the Land of the Valar, Aman, and will do so by extraordinary means. Once they arrive, they...
0282 » Of Thingol and Melian » The Silmarillion Ch 4 » Elwë, Grey-Elves
With Melkor imprisoned in Mandos and the Elves on the way to the Blessed Realm, we pause to consider a BRIEF love story that lays the groundwork for a considerably EPIC love story later in The Silmarillion. Like Chapter 2, Chapter 4 doesnât so much...
0281 » Rings Of Power Controversies, The Silmarillion, and more!
During our Feb 2022 Livestream, we discussed all of the controversies surround The Rings Of Power, our journey thus far in The Silmarillion, and a bunch of amazing correspondence from you, our amazing Fellowship! The audio of this episode was...
RINGS OF POWER Controversies » Why Compressing The Second Age Timeline Is Wrong » LOTR on Prime
Amazon plans to "compress" the 3,500 year timeline of the Second Age into a "single point in time". There are so many problems with this, and in this video I'm beginning to explore all of those problems. Let's talk about this in the comments!...
0280 » Of The Coming Of The Elves & The Captivity Of Melkor » The Silmarillion Chapter 3
Having taken a scenic detour in Chapter 2, in Chapter 3 we pick up where Chapter 1 left off. Though the Blessed Realm of Aman is now lit by the Two Trees of Valinor, the rest of Middle-earth lay in âtwilight under the starsâ. While the Valar and their...
RINGS OF POWER » Teaser Reaction & Analysis » Break Down of First Teaser Trailer » Super Bowl Ad
Good morning! We're breaking down the new teaser for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings Of Power. You can watch the video of this episode here » https://youtu.be/VbUS061qO2U It was revealed during the Super Bowl last night. If you haven't seen it,...
0279 » Of Aulë and Yavanna » The Silmarillion Chapter 2 » Dwarves, Ents, Eagles, and More!
After the epic span of Chapter 1, which culminated in the creation of The Two Trees of Valinor and introduced the juxtaposing natures of Elves and Men, Chapter 2 is something of an interlude, though one of great consequence. In it, we learn about the...
REACTION: The Rings of Power » First Photos & Details » Galadriel, Elrond, Dwarves, Hobbits, etc
Our reaction to the Vanity Fair article released on 2/10/2022. The best way to enjoy this BONUS episode is by watching it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/62dcR7XKVnc ARTICLE: "Amazon's Lord of the Rings Series Rises: Inside The Rings Of Power" »...
0278 » Silmarillion 2022 » Ch 1: Of the Beginning of Days - Part 2
Having established their home in Valinor of the Blessed Realm, the Valar begin a new work: the Two Trees of Valinor. What are the Two Trees and what is their significance for Middle-earth? Furthermore, how do they prepare the way for the coming of...
0277 » Silmarillion 2022 » Ch 1: Of the Beginning of Days - Part 1
Chapter 1 picks up the story where âAinulindalĂ«â left off. The Valar have entered the world created by their music, only to find it essentially UNFORMED, and in need of their labor to achieve the shape they had envisioned. And, ultimately, to set the...
0276 - Silmarillion, Ainulindalë, Valaquenta, and THE RINGS OF POWER! (Livestream Jan 2022)
Our January 2022 livestream, featuring discussion of The Silmarillion, Ainulindalë, and... THE RINGS OF POWER! Also, watch our reaction video here » https://youtu.be/xgLh1AS9hZc
0275 » In The House of Tom Bombadil » C.R. Wiley Interview » New LOTR-Focused Book » Extended Discussion
Who is Tom Bombadil? This is a topic we've covered several times on the Tolkien Road, but it's an undying enigma for Lord of the Rings fans, and we're always hungry for new insights into the mysterious nature of The Old Forest's Master. In...
0274 » Valaquenta » Silmarillion 2022 » Manwë, Ulmo, Aulë, Gandalf, and more!
In episode 274, we explore Valaquenta, the pantheon of Middle-earth's gods! "Valaquenta" introduces us to the Valar, the Maiar, and the main Enemies of Middle-earth. We get to know a few about figures like Manwë, Varda, Ulmo, and Yavanna, and...
0273 » AinulindalĂ« » Silmarillion 2022 » Music of the Ainur, Melkor, IlĂșvatar
In episode 273, we explore the Middle-earth Creation myth, "AinulindalĂ«", otherwise known as the Music of the Ainur. âAinulindalĂ«â is one of the most fascinating legends that Tolkien wrote, and it introduces key characters and themes into the...
0272 » Silmarillion 2022 » Introduction, Contents, Map, Waldman Letter
Hey there, FELLOW TRAVELERS! So you want to read The Silmarillion, eh? If you have any interest in Middle-earth, itâs only natural. Especially for those who have completed The Lord of the Rings (no small feat in and of itself), itâs the most...
0271 » Carl Hostetter » LOTR on Prime, Peter Jackson's Films, Tolkien's Catholic Faith, and more!
Hey there, fellow travelers! By far, the biggest thing to happen to Tolkiendom in 2021 was The Nature of Middle-earth, the latest collection of previously unpublished Tolkien writings. When we interviewed Carl Hostetter, the book's editor, back in...
0270 » Fly, You Fools! » LOTR on Prime, Silmarillion, Return of Haiku, Isildur, Gandalf, and more
We did a LIVESTREAM! So this one will feel a little experimental - not our normal open, and lots of banter with the patrons who joined us! We had a lot of fun doing it, and it will certainly be the first of many to come. It was mostly a pilot...
0269 » Tolkienâs Lost Christmas Poem âNoelâ
In 2013, Tolkien's lost poem "Noel" was discovered in the archives of an Oxfordshire school. With Christmas just around the corner, we take a close look at this 1936 poem, and discover the thematic seeds of Middle-earth's epic drama. Join us!...
0268 » The Goblin Wars!!!
Have you ever heard of Tolkien's GOBLIN WARS? (HINT: you won't find them in the Middle-earth legendarium). These are the stories of Goblins invading the North Pole and stealing gifts intended for the children of England from Father Christmas'...
0267 » Letters from Father Christmas
We take a look at Letters From Father Christmas, a collection of Christmas-themed illustrated letters that Tolkien wrote this children from 1920-1943. SPOILER: they're great! Join us! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk,...
0266 » Tolkien vs. Narnia!
The conventional wisdom says that JRR Tolkien didn't much care for his buddy C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia. Is this true? If so, what was so off-putting about the stories from Tolkien's perspective? In episode 266, John is joined by Holly Ordway...
0265 » NĂșmenorean Living & The Nature of Middle-earth » Important LOTR on Prime Details!
In episode 265, we're looking at life in NĂșmenor, as spelled out in The Nature of Middle-earth! Originally published 2021-11-15 05:00. WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEÂ EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk, Kaitlyn of Tea with...
0264 » Shocking Surprises from The Nature of Middle-earth » Gandalf, Hobbits, Eagles, Beards, more
In episode 264, we discuss some truly surprising new details from The Nature of Middle-earth. Seriously mind-blowing stuff here, including Gandalf's appearance, the race of hobbits, Aragorn's beard, the nature of Eagles, and more!
0263 » LOTR on Prime » The Most Important Question (Also, Our 2022 Plan!)
At the end of the day, ONE thing matters more than anything else when it comes to LOTR on Prime...
0262 » The Kings of NĂșmenor » Unfinished Tales » The Line of Elros » LOTR on Prime » Ar-PharazĂŽn
In this episode, we take a close look at "The Line of Elros: Kings of NĂșmenor" from Unfinished Tales! Itâs a brief and fascinating account of the 3000 year history of NĂșmenor, and contains a lot that needs to be unpacked! Join us!
0261 » The Silmarillion » A Tale of Two Endings » Keith Mathison » Middle-earth Eschatology
In episode 261, we're discussing Tolkien's ORIGINAL and far more detailed ending to The Silmarillion. We're delighted to be joined once again by Keith Mathison!
0260 » The Fool's Hope » Of Gandalf and Pippin in Minas Tirith
In episode 260, we discuss Gandalf's famous characterization of Frodo's quest: "a fool's hope". Why did he say that? Why is it significant he was saying that to Pippin? What is the broader significance of that line for the work and for Middle-earth...
0259 » Carl Hostetter » The Nature of Middle-earth » Theological and Metaphysical Themes
In episode 259, we sit down once again with Carl Hostetter, editor of the latest volume of JRR Tolkien's writings, The Nature of Middle-earth. We focus our attention on Appendix I: Metaphysical and Theological Themes. Join us!
0258 - Defeating Evil » A Middle-earth Guide
So Lord of the Rings, according to Tolkien, is Catholic. SO WHAT??? On this episode, we explain why this matters, and what Tolkien was getting at...
0257 - Guilty Pleasures » Athrabeth, Enya, Estel, The Shadow, Consolation, and more!
In episode 257, we discuss Athrabeth, Enya, Estel, The Shadow, Consolation, and more! Join us!
0256 - The Nature of Middle-earth, The Wheel of Time, LOTRonPrime, LOTR film flaws, Verisimilitude, Elendil, etc
In episode 256, we discuss The Nature of Middle-earth, The Wheel of Time, Robert Jordan / Carl Hostetter resemblance, LOTRonPrime theories, LOTR films criticisms, The Council of Elrond, and more!
0255 - Lord of the Rings "Religious and Catholic" » What Did Tolkien Mean?
Did Tolkien really say that the Lord of the Rings is âfundamentally religious and Catholicâ? What did he mean by that? Join us as we explore the topic.
0254 - NĂșmenor's Religion (and Purpose)
Why did NĂșmenor exist? Was it simply to reward the Edain and their descendants? Or was there some greater purpose that impacted the rest of Arda, and perhaps even the Cosmos? In episode 254, weâre exploring the Religion of NĂșmenor in order to better...
0253 - The Silmarillion: 3 Major Problems
In early July, I published an 8 minute video on our YouTube channel titled The Silmarillion: 3 Big Problems (and How to Fix Them). For many Tolkien fans, even asserting that there are problems with a work like The Silmarillion might be considered...
0252 - Birds of Middle-earth: Swans, Eagles, Crows, Thrushes - Interview with Ornithologist Jon Rice
Eagles, swans, thrushes, crows, gulls . . . We discuss the massive and iconic role that birds play in Middle-earth, with ornithologist and Tolkien-fan Jonathan Rice!
LOTR on Prime & the TWO TREES???
By the stars of Elbereth!!! Itâs the Two Trees of Valinor!!! On August 2nd, Amazon gave us a release date for LOTR on Prime plus the first official image for the show. And what an image it is! In this latest video, Greta and John break down the...
0251 - The Nature of Middle-earth: An Interview with Carl Hostetter
An interview with Carl Hostetter, editor of the newest Tolkien book, The Nature of Middle-earth!
The Music of the Ainur
This week, we treat you to the first chapter of John's book, Tolkien's Overture: Concerning the Music of the Ainur. To listen to the whole thing, head on over to Audible. You can also get the audiobook by supporting us on Patreon! For other ways to...
0250 - LOTR TV: Hobbits, Nudity, Silmarillion Rights, and more!
A ton of big news about Amazon's LOTR on Prime dropped on Tuesday (7/20/2021). In Episode 250, we discuss all of it, where it came from, how accurate it might be, and what it all means! Topics include the Tolkien Estate, Tolkien experts, nudity,...
The Seed of Middle-earth (Limited Time)
This week, we treat you to the first 2 chapters of John's book, Tolkien's Requiem: Concerning Beren and LĂșthien! Enjoy!
0249 - AkallabĂȘth - 2021
In episode 249, we re-visit "AkallabĂȘth", Tolkien's beautiful account of the rise and fall of NĂșmenor.
0248 - Helm Hammerhand & The War of the Rohirrim
On episode 248, we explore the legend of Helm Hammerhand and the War of the Rohirrim, which is the subject of a forthcoming film from New Line Cinema. Â Join us!
0247 - The Good News of the Return of the King: An Interview with Michael Jahosky
John interviews author Michael Jahosky on his book The Good News of the Return of the King. Join us!
0246 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 12: The Peoples of Middle-earth
On episode 246, we complete our journey through The History of Middle-earth series as we survey volume 12, The Peoples of Middle-earth. Join us!
0245 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 11: The War of the Jewels
On episode 245, we continue our journey through The History of Middle-earth series as we survey volume 11, The War of the Jewels. Join us!
0244 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 10: Morgoth's Ring
On episode 244, we survey Morgoth's Ring, volume 10 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0243 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 9: Sauron Defeated - Pt 2
On episode 243, we survey the second part of Sauron Defeated, volume 9 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0242 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 9: Sauron Defeated - Pt 1
On episode 242, we survey the first part of Sauron Defeated, volume 9 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0241 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 8: The War of the Ring
On episode 241, we survey The War of the Ring, volume 8 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0240 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 7: The Treason of Isengard
On episode 240, we survey The Treason of Isengard, volume 7 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0239 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 6: The Return of the Shadow
On episode 239, we survey The Return of the Shadow, volume 6 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0238 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 5: The Lost Road and Other Writings
On episode 238, we survey The Lost Road and Other Writings, volume 5 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0237 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 4: The Shaping of Middle-earth
On episode 237, we survey The Shaping of Middle-earth, volume 4 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0236 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 3: The Lays of Beleriand
On episode 236, we survey The Lays of Beleriand, volume 3 in The History of Middle-earth series. Join us!
0235 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 2: The Book of Lost Tales II
On episode 235, we are continuing our tour of The History of Middle-earth series as we survey The Book of Lost Tales II. The Book of Lost Tales II contains the earliest versions of legends including "Beren and LĂșthien", "The Children of HĂșrin", "The...
0234 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 1: The Book of Lost Tales I - Pt 3
On episode 234, we continue our survey of The History of Middle-earth series, as we explore the last 6 chapters of the Book of Lost Tales I.
0233 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 1: The Book of Lost Tales I - Pt 2
On episode 233, we continue our survey of The History of Middle-earth series, as we explore the first 4 chapters of the Book of Lost Tales I.
0232 - The History of Middle-earth - Vol. 1: The Book of Lost Tales I - Pt 1
On episode 232, we commence our survey of The History of Middle-earth series, beginning with The Book of Lost Tales I.
0231 - Unfinished Tales - Part 2
On this episode, we are continuing our After The Silmarillion series by taking a look at the contents of Unfinished Tales.
0230 - Unfinished Tales - Part 1
ON THIS EPISODE, we embark on our journey through the post-Silmarillion landscape by taking a high-level look at Unfinished Tales.
0229 - The Next Great Journey
We discuss our journey for the foreseeable future, including our BIG PLAN with regard to tackling the remainder of Tolkien's Middle-earth works. Join us!
0228 - Tolkien's Modern Reading - Holly Ordway
Concerning Tolkien's Modern Reading, the new book from Dr. Holly Ordway...
0227 - Tea with Tolkien 2021
We catch up with Kaitlyn Facista of Tea With Tolkien about Hobbit Parties, Silmarillion Book Clubs, Middle-earth lore, and a whole bunch more!
0226 - The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 4: 1950 - 1973
Tolkien's life from the publication of Lord of the Rings to his death in 1973. Also, a bit about about Bombadil and the Blue Wizards!
0225 - The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 3: 1937 - 1949
The publication of The Hobbit, composing Lord of the Rings, and feedback on the Project Northmoor Controversy.
0224 - Tolkien & Middle-earth in 2021
A look at what's coming for the podcast and Tolkien fandom in 2021, from LOTRonPrime to The Nature of Middle-earth and more!
0223 - Lord of the Rings & Religion - Feedback
We talk what you all had to say about our Lord of the Rings & Religion and Is Middle-earth Pagan episodes...
0222 - Is Middle-earth Pagan?
From the very beginning of its history, it is clear that Middle-earth is brimming with great spiritual powers. From the kingship of Manwë to the Elvish love of Elbereth, Tolkien constructs a world where god-like figures seem to govern its affairs. Was...
0221 - The Project Northmoor Controversy
A deep dive into the ambitious Project Northmoor and The Tolkien Society's concerns in response to it...
0220 - The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 2: 1917 - 1936
A look at Tolkien's adult life immediately following World War I....
0219 - The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 1: 1892 - 1916
A look at Tolkien's early life, from his birth in South Africa to his World War I experience...
0218 - Lord of the Rings & Religion
Concerning the influence of Tolkien's religious views on the works of Middle-earth...
0217 - A Tolkien (& Lewis & Rowling) Tour!
On this episode we are psyched to be discussing an upcoming Tolkien Tour of England and Scotland! We are joined by writer and tour leader Solomon Schmidt, who will tell us all about the Tolkien tour he has planned for the Summer of 2021! By the way,...
0216 - The Bombadil Enigma - An Interview with Keith Mathison
Concerning the origin and meaning of Tom Bombadil...
0215 - Unfinished Tales - The Disaster of the Gladden Fields - Pt 2
The disaster of the Gladden Fields stands as a most notorious event in the history of Middle-earth: a conspiracy of bad fortune and lingering Sauronic malice. Yet what if, despite the doom of Isildur and his men, it can be rightly seen as the first...
0214 - Unfinished Tales - The Disaster of the Gladden Fields - Pt 1
Concerning Isildur's loss of the One Ring...
0213 - LOTR on Prime - The Sexxxy Age???
We're joined by Clifford Broadway of TheOneRing.net to discuss the recent "sexy scandal" surrounding LOTR on Prime...it's an epic convo, and you don't want to miss it!
0212 - The Dawn of NĂșmenor
A close look at the founding of NĂșmenor at the beginning of the Second Age...
0211 - The White Trees of Gondor
Concerning the White Trees of Gondor...
0210 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Pt 8: The Fate of the Fellowship
Concerning the later years of Sam, Pippin, Merry, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas...
0209 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Pt 7: 2942 - 3017
With Smaug vanquished, Erebor & Dale restored, and Dol Guldur abandoned, a new era of peace for Middle-earth seems to have arrived. However, loose ends abound, as Gollum begins his desperate search for the precious, and Sauron begins to execute his...
0208 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Pt 6: 2770 - 2941
Concerning the key events of the years TA2770 - TA2941...
0207 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Pt 5: 2480 - 2770
Concerning the years TA2480 - TA2770...
0206 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Pt 4: 1977 - 2480
Concerning the years TA1977 - TA2480...
0205 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Part 3: 861 - 1976
We explore the second millennium of the Third Age, from the division of Arnor to the return of the Shadow...
0204 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Part 2: SA3320 - TA861
Our journey through the Third Age continues as we explore its first millennium and the early history of Gondor and Arnor...
0203 - LOTR - History of the Third Age - Part 1: Three Millennia
We begin an extended journey through the history of the Third Age...
0202 - The Long Defeat feat. Conor Sweeney
Concerning Tolkien's idea of the long defeat...
Silmarillion Megaguide
A megaguide to the Silmarillion...
0201 - CS Lewis & Mythopoeia feat. David Bates
Concerning CS Lewis, his friendship with Tolkien, and the poem "Mythopoeia"...
0200 - What We've Learned from Tolkien (So Far)
"What we've learned is that we haven't actually learned what we thought we learned..." - GRETA
0199 - Tolkien the Anarchist - Pt 2
Tolkien's thoughts on Churchill, Stalin, America, Japan, the British Empire, the Roman Empire, and more!
0198 - Tolkien the Anarchist - Pt 1
A discussion of Tolkien's political ideology...
0197 - 6 Spiritual Insights from Tolkien That Will Change Your Life
A discussion of key spiritual insights from Tolkien...
0196 - Tolkien vs the Nazis
Concerning Tolkien's disdain for the Nazis and racialist ideology...
0195 - The Future of Middle-earth - 2020 Edition
Itâs a fascinating time to be a fan of Middle-earth. As we wait in eager anticipation for the new Second Age TV series, the future of storytelling in Middle-earth seems wide open. Yet so much hangs in the balance! Will the show be a rousing success,...
0194 - The Hobbit - The Lost Chapters - Pt3 - The Broken Bridge
Concerning Tolkien's unpublished 1960 revisions to Chapter 2 of The Hobbit...
0193 - The Hobbit - The Lost Chapters - Pt2 - A Well-Planned Party
Concerning Tolkien's unpublished 1960 revisions to Chapter 1 of The Hobbit...
0192 - The Hobbit - The Lost Chapters - Pt1
Concerning Tolkien's unfinished revision of The Hobbit from 1960...
0191 - Unfinished Tales - The Quest of Erebor - Pt 2
A discussion of the second part of "The Quest of Erebor" from Unfinished Tales.
0190 - Unfinished Tales - The Quest of Erebor - Pt 1
A discussion of the first part of "The Quest of Erebor" from Unfinished Tales.
0189 - The Tolkienian Spirit in a Time of Crisis
As fans of Tolkien, what part do we have to play in the Coronavirus pandemic crisis?
0188 - The Mariner's Mailbag
It's mail time! We tackle a bunch of questions and comments from our amazing listeners!
0187 - Unfinished Tales - Aldarion & Erendis - The Mariner's Wife - Pt 4 (Second Age Deep Dive)
Aldarion & Erendis: The Mariner's Wife - Part Four. Join us as we continue to explore this little-known tale of NĂșmenor!
Lord of the Rings Card Game - Our Interview on the Card Talk Podcast
Our guest appearance on the Card Talk Podcast, all about Lord of the Rings: The Card Game!
0186 - Unfinished Tales - Aldarion & Erendis - The Mariner's Wife - Pt 3 (Second Age Deep Dive)
Aldarion & Erendis: The Mariner's Wife - Part Three. Join us as we continue to explore this little-known tale of NĂșmenor!
0185 - Unfinished Tales - Aldarion & Erendis - The Mariner's Wife - Pt 2 (Second Age Deep Dive)
"Aldarion & Erendis: The Mariner's Wife" - Part Two. Join us as we explore this little-known tale of NĂșmenor!
0184 - In Memoriam: Christopher Tolkien (1924 - 2020)
Christopher Tolkien, youngest son of JRR Tolkien, passed away on January 15th, 2020. On this episode, we pay tribute to Christopher and the indispensable role he played in securing and expanding the literary legacy of his father.Â
0183 - Unfinished Tales - Aldarion & Erendis - The Mariner's Wife - Pt 1 (Second Age Deep Dive)
"Aldarion & Erendis: The Mariner's Wife" - Part One. Join us as we explore this little-known tale of NĂșmenor!
0182 - Mathoms - 2020 Plans, Mailbag, and More!!!
2020 plans, mailbag, LOTRonPrime News, and more!!!!
0181 - A Long Expected Mailbag
Our overdue mailbag episode, featuring discussions of all kinds of wonderful Tolkien miscellany...
0180 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive: AkallabĂȘth Re-read Pt 4
AkallabĂȘth re-read concludes: Ar-PharazĂŽn attacks Valinor and NĂșmenor is destroyed!
0179 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive: AkkalabĂȘth Re-read Pt 3
AkallabĂȘth re-read continues: concerning Sauron's NĂșmenorean Vacation!
All Tales May Come True - Concerning Tolkien's Creative Mysticism
What does Tolkien mean when he says "All Tales May Come True"?
0178 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive: AkkalabĂȘth Re-read Pt 2
"AkallabĂȘth" re-read continues: the return of Sauron and the rise of Ar-PharazĂŽn!
0177 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive: AkkalabĂȘth Re-read Pt 1
Second Age Deep Dive continues - re-reading AkallabĂȘth!!!
0176 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive: Key Themes of the Second Age
Our Second Age Deep Dive continues! This time we examine the key themes of the Second Age using Tolkien's 1951 letter to publisher Milton Waldman. If you like The Tolkien Road, you can support us for only $1 per episode via Patreon! For more on this...
0175 - September 2019 Mailbag
Our first monthly mailbag in the hizzouse!!!
0174 - LOTR TV / Second Age Deep Dive - A Description of NĂșmenor
An exploration of NĂșmenor's geography and culture, as found in Unfinished Tales!
0173 - LOTR TV Second Age Deep Dive - The Tale of Years Pt2
We continue our Second Age Deep Dive with the Tale of Years Pt 2 from LOTR Appendix B.
0172 - LOTR TV / Second Age Deep Dive - The Tale of Years Pt1
Second Age Deep Dive Part 1! An examination of the LOTR Appendix B timeline.
0171 - Tolkien on the Meaning of Life (Letter 310)
We discuss Tolkien's surprising insights on the meaning of life, as found in a 1969 letter.
0170 - Lord of the Rings TV: The Creative Team
We discuss the recent Creative Team announcement from the Amazon LOTR TV show!
0169 - Concerning The Hobbit (Animated Film)
On this episode, we discuss the animated Hobbit film from 1977. Enjoy!
0168 - Concerning Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies"
On this episode, we discuss the final film in Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, The Battle of the Five Armies!
0167 - The Hobbit - Ch19 - The Last Stage
Concerning "The Last Stage", the 19th and final chapter of The Hobbit...
0166 - The Hobbit - Ch18 - The Return Journey
Concerning "The Return Journey", the 18th chapter of The Hobbit...
0165 - The Hobbit - Ch17 - The Clouds Burst
Concerning "The Clouds Burst", the 17th chapter of The Hobbit...
0164 -The Hobbit - Ch16 - A Thief in the Night
Concerning "A Thief in the Night", the 16th chapter of The Hobbit...
0163 - The Hobbit - Ch15 - The Gathering of the Clouds
Concerning "The Gathering of the Clouds", the 15th chapter of The Hobbit...
0162 - The Hobbit - Ch14 - Fire and Water
Concerning "Fire and Water", the 14th chapter of The Hobbit...
0161 - The Hobbit - Ch13 - Not At Home
Concerning "Not at Home", the 13th chapter of The Hobbit...
0160 - Concerning TOLKIEN (the film)
A discussion of the recent Tolkien biopic...
0159 - Concerning Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug"
Concerning Peter Jacksonâs âThe Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaugâ⊠If you like The Tolkien Road, you can support us for only $1 per episode via Patreon! Topics discussed (film discussion starts at 21:00)... Beorn Mirkwood / Spiders Woodelves / Barrels...
0158 - The Hobbit - Ch12 - Inside Information
Concerning "Inside Information", from a stealthy scout to a seething serpent... If you like The Tolkien Road, you can support us for only $1 per episode via Patreon! Topics discussed (chapter discussion begins at 11:00)... Bilbo Still Proving Himself...
0157 - The Hobbit - Ch11 - On the Doorstep
Concerning "On the Doorstep", from mountain mists to enchanted entrances... If you like The Tolkien Road, you can support us for only $1 per episode via Patreon! Topics discussed (chapter discussion begins at 6:30)... Sorry for the absence First By...
0156 - The Hobbit - Ch10 - A Warm Welcome
Concerning "A Warm Welcome", from apple aversions to royal returns... If you like The Tolkien Road, you can support us for only $1 per episode via Patreon! Topics discussed... @LOTRonPrime Update (Amazon TV Show) Bilbo's 51st Birthday! The Long Lake...
0155 - The Hobbit - Ch09 - Barrels Out of Bond
Concerning "Barrels Out of Bond", from Elvish ensnarement to Bilbo's boldness... Book discussion begins at 15:55 in the episode. Topics discussed... The Wood-Elves Bilbo's use of the Ring The Elvenking's palace Mr. Baggins, alone and unaided... Bilbo...
LOTR on Amazon = Numenor and the Second Age!!!
On this special episode of The Tolkien Road, we discuss the big news from the @LOTRonPrime Twitter account this past week, and what it means for the future of the show. You can watch the video of this show on our Facebook page:...
0154 - The Hobbit - Ch08 - Flies and Spiders
Concerning "Flies and Spiders", Chapter 8 of The Hobbit! Ugggg...giant spiders. And more digs at Bombur (poor Bombur). Plus a new segment! Lord of the Rings on Prime on Twitter on the Tolkien Road. Or LOT-Ron-Prime!!! So much more fantastical...
0153 - The Hobbit - Ch07 - Queer Lodgings
Concerning "Queer Lodgings", from Beorn's manor to the borders of Mirkwood... Topics discussed... We try out some new theme songs! What do y'all think? - 1:00 You gotta support the things you love! Support the show financially if you are able! - 7:45...
0152 - Is there a future for The Tolkien Road?
The Tolkien Road has now been on the air for 4 years, and it's time for us to be completely transparent with you all as we face some hard truths...
0151 - Concerning Gollum
On this episode, we consider everyone's favorite strangely lovable wretch, Gollum (aka Smeagol), and specifically, the nature of the tragedies that surrounds his life. For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit...
0150 - Concerning Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey"
Concerning Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey"...we discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of Jackson's first Hobbit film. Topics include Guillermo del Toro (the original director), the philosophy of literary adaptation, the dwarf...
0149 - The Hobbit - Ch06 - Out of the Frying-Pan Into the Fire
Concerning "Out of the Frying-Pan Into the Fire", from fir-tree firebombs to eagle-eyed escapes... Catching Up With the Gang - 3:00 The Landslide - 14:30 Wargs! - 19:00 Eagles! - 28:00 Bilbo's Dream - 37:00 Haiku - 41:00 For more on this episode and...
0148 - The Hobbit - Ch05 - Riddles in the Dark
Concerning "Riddles in the Dark", from random rings to perilous pity... Bilbo Wakes Up - 2:00 Old Gollum - 8:30 The Riddle Game - 28:00 Bilbo's Escape - 47:00 Haiku - 57:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit...
0147 - The Hobbit - Ch04 - Over Hill and Under Hill
Concerning "Over Hill and Under Hill", from giants and Goblins to Bilbo bonked... Intro - 2:00 Terrains! - 5:00 The Stone Giants - 14:00 Goblins - 21:00 Goblin Songs & Mimesis - 32:00 Goblin Culture - 43:00 The Chase - 45:00 Haiku Time - 52:30 For...
0146 - The Hobbit - Ch03 - A Short Rest
Concerning "A Short Rest", from over-merry elves to a fortnight with Elrond... Intro - 2:00 The Problem of the Annoying Elves - 7:00 Elrond & the Last Homely House - 16:00 Haiku Time - 26:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast,...
0145 - The Hobbit - Ch02 - Roast Mutton
Concerning âRoast Muttonâ, from bumbling burglary to trolling Trolls... Bilbo Catches Up - 2:00 Landscapes & Verisimilitude - 19:00 Trolls! - 22:00 Looting the Looters - 36:00 Haiku Time - 41:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast,...
0144 - The Hobbit - Ch01 - An Unexpected Party
Concerning "An Unexpected Party", from Gandalf's gamble to Dwarvish designs... We're Back! - 1:00 First Time I Read The Hobbit - 6:30 "In a Hole in the Ground..." - 11:00 Bilbo & Gandalf - 18:30 The Dwarves - 31:30 "Far Over the Misty Mountains...
The Hobbit - Journey to the Misty Mountains
Hey there fellow travelers! John here to let you know that it's time to get on the road again! Beginning in September, we will begin our journey through The Hobbit. This 8 episode podcast series will include in-depth, chapter-by-chapter discussions of...
0143 - Concerning Peter Jackson's "Return of the King"
Concerning Peter Jackson's cinematic adaptation of "Return of the King", from mucky mouths to western ways... For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com or Facebook.com/TolkienRoad. Also, follow us on Twitter...
0142 - The Lord of the Rings - The Epilogue
Concerning The Lord of the Ringsâ Epilogue, from Samâs stories to the sigh of the sea⊠Why Wasn't It Included? - 4:00 Version 1 - 18:00 Version 2 - 33:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com or...
0141 - The Lord of the Rings - Concerning Dwarves (Appendix A.III)
Concerning the Dwarves, from Durinâs dawn to Gimliâs glory... Durin the Deathless Erebor, the Arkenstone, and Smaug Thror, Thrain, and the Last Dwarf Ring Azog & the Battle of Azanulbizar Thrain & the Ring Thorin Meets Gandalf DĂs, Dwarf-woman Gimli...
0140 - The Passion of Frodo (Letter 246)
For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com or Facebook.com/TolkienRoad. Also, follow us on Twitter via @TolkienRoad. Finally, please send correspondence to TolkienRoadPodcast@gmail.com.
0139 - The Lord of the Rings - Concerning Rohan (Appendix A.II)
Concerning Rohan, from Eorlâs oath to Eomerâs ascension... Origins of the Rohirrim / Eorlâs Triumph - 3:00 Eorl, Horsetamer / FelarĂłf - 11:30 Helm Hammerhand vs. the Dunlendings - 17:45 Sarumanâs Dawn - 29:30 ThĂ©oden & EĂłmer - 34:00 Correspondence -...
0138 - The Lord of the Rings - Concerning Aragorn and Arwen (Appendix A.I.v)
Concerning the Tale of Aragorn and Arwen, from Arador and Arathorn to Elessar and the Evenstar... Tolkien's Overture - Coming Soon! - 3:00 Background (Arathorn, Aragorn, & Arnor) - 7:00 Arwen, Gilraen, Elrond - 12:00 Aragorn in the wilderness - 24:00...
0137 - The Lord of the Rings - The Appendices - An Overview
Concerning the Appendices of The Lord of the Rings, from the Annals of AnadĂ»nĂȘ to the lineage of the Zaragambas... Appendix A - Annals of the Kings and Rulers - 9:00 Appendix B - The Tale of Years - 17:30 Appendix C - Family Trees - 25:00 Appendix D...
0136 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch9 - The Grey Havens
Concerning âThe Grey Havensâ, from sowing seeds to sails of sorrow... Restoring the Shire - 1:30 Galadrielâs Gift - 6:30 Frodoâs Wounds - 12:00 The Red Book - 18:30 "Saved, but not for meâŠ" - 29:00 "Well, Iâm backâŠ" - 53:00 Haiku / Correspondence -...
0135 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch8 - The Scouring of the Shire
Concerning âThe Scouring of the Shireâ, from surly Shiriffs to snarky Sharkey... At the Gate - 2:00 The Shiriffs - 16:45 Shock in Bywater - 25:00 Farmer Cottonâs Ambush - 34:00 Sharkey and Pimple? - 37:30 The Battle of Bywater - 45:30 Hobbiton / Ted...
0134 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch7 - Homeward Bound
Concerning âHomeward Boundâ, from banter with Butterbur to goodbyes for Gandalf... The 6th of October / Passing Weathertop - 7:20 The State of Bree / A Chat with Butterbur - 17:00 Goodbye to Gandalf - 33:30 Haiku / Correspondence - 38:50 For more...
0133 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch6 - Many Partings
Concerning âMany Partingsâ, from ThĂ©odenâs burial to Bilboâs twilight... Frodo Begs Leave - 2:30 ThĂ©odenâs Burial - 6:00 A Chat with Treebeard - 16:00 Catching Up with Saruman - 30:00 Rivendell & Bilbo - 40:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 51:00 For...
0132 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch5 - The Steward and the King
Concerning âThe Steward and the Kingâ, from Ăowynâs angst to Elessarâs ascension... Ăowyn & Faramir - 9:00 The Coronation - 53:00 Beregond & Ăomer - 59:00 Nimlothâs Sapling - 1:04:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 1:08:00 For more on this episode and The...
0131 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch4 - The Field of Cormallen
Concerning âThe Field of Cormallenâ, from eaglesâ wings to minstrelsâ songs... The Eagles Are Coming! - 2:30 Rescuing Frodo & Sam - 12:00 âIs everything sad going to come untrue?â - 17:30 Long live the Halflings - 28:00 The Fellowship Reunited -...
0130 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch3 - Mount Doom
Concerning âMount Doomâ, from last legs to the end of all things... LOTR Amazon TV - Coming in 2020? - 2:00 The Long and Winding Path to Mt. Doom - 20:00 Sauronâs Folly - 29:00 Climbing Mount Doom - 39:00 Gollumâs Return - 52:00 The Crack of Doom -...
0129 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch2 - The Land of Shadow
Concerning âThe Land of Shadowâ, from the Morgai march to Samâs star... What a Week! - Amazon, LOTR, Christopher, etc - 1:30 The Lay of the Land - 19:00 The Escape from Cirith Ungol - 23:30 Hope Out of the West - 29:00 Along the Morgai - 33:30 A...
Amazon Announces a LOTR Prequel TV Series! What We Know...
BOOM! Tolkien fans got big news yesterday with the official announcement from Amazon that they will be producing a "LOTR Prequel" TV series with the blessing of The Tolkien Estate and Trust. On this special episode, Greta and I discuss the details of...
0128 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk6 - Ch1 - The Tower of Cirith Ungol
Concerning âThe Tower of Cirith Ungolâ, from finding Frodo to offing Orcs... Sam Outside the Gates - 6:30 The Landscape of Mordor - 15:00 Sam & the Ring - 24:00 The Two Watchers - 28:00 Sam the Elf-Warrior - 35:30 Shagrat vs. Snaga - 40:30 Sam Sings...
0127 - The Future of Middle-earth - Part 2
WE'RE BACK!!! Sorry for the delay... We pick up where we left off in Episode 125 with a discussion of the BREAKING NEWS that the Tolkien Estate is apparently in talks with Amazon (and perhaps other studios) about a Middle-earth TV show. SAY WHAT!?!?...
0126 - Tolkien, Miracles, and the Way Things Really Work
What was Tolkien's view on miraculous events? What did he believe about the supernatural realm of our own reality? On this episode, we explore Tolkien's Letter 89, written to his son Christopher during World War II. It's a letter that reveals...
0125 - The Future of Middle-earth - Part 1
What is the future of our beloved Middle-earth? This is a huge and timely question, and we need your help to explore it!
0124 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch10 - The Black Gate Opens
Concerning âThe Black Gate Opensâ, from Elessarâs return to Sauronâs trap... The March to Mordor - 5:00 The Daunted - 18:30 The Black Gate - 27:00 The Mouth of Sauron - 31:00 The Trap Is Sprung - 45:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 49:00 For more on this...
0123 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch9 - The Last Debate
Concerning âThe Last Debate", from Legolasâ longing to baiting Barad-dĂ»r... Legolas and Gimli - 3:00 The White Gulls Crying - 5:45 Beyond the Paths of the Dead - 18:00 Baiting Suaron - 27:00 The 7000 - 39:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 43:30 For more...
0122 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch8 - The Houses of Healing
Concerning "The Houses of Healing", from Merry's malaise to Aragorn's alchemy... The Aftermath - 4:00 In The Houses of Healing - 10:00 The Kingâs Delay - 16:00 Athelas - 27:00 Faramir Awakens - 31:00 Ăowynâs Emptiness - 36:30 Merry Healed & The King...
0121 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch7 - The Pyre of Denethor
Concerning âThe Pyre of Denethor", from Beregondâs bravery to Denethorâs despair... Backtracking a bit⊠- 4:00 Denethorâs Madness - 11:00 Heathen? - 19:00 Denethor's PalantĂr - 26:00 A New Hope - 39:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 42:00 For more on this...
0120 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch6 - The Battle of the Pelennor Fields
Concerning "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields", from Ăowynâs valor to Aragornâs victory... The Battle is Joined! - 9:00 ThĂ©oden Falls / Ăowyn Rises - 16:00 The Battle Continues - 32:00 Hope from the South! - 42:00 The Toll of the Fallen - 51:00 Haiku...
0119 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch5 - The Ride of the Rohirrim
Concerning âThe Ride of the Rohirrimâ, from distant drums to righteous riders... Distant drums - The Woses - 4:00 GhĂąn-buri-GhĂąn - 11:00 âNow is the hour come!â - 30:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 44:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road...
0118 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch4 - The Siege of Gondor
Concerning "The Siege of Gondor", from the flight of Faramir to Grond at the gate⊠Pippin, Prince of Halflings - 5:30 Gandalf vs. the NazgĂ»l - 9:00 Faramirâs Return - 14:30 Calculating Hope - 26:00 Osgiliath Overrun - 30:00 The Siege Begins - 36:00...
0117 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch3 - The Muster of Rohan
Concerning "The Muster of Rohan", from arcane artifacts to an urgent summons... Merryâs Weariness - 15:00 White Rider, Black Rider - 21:00 The PĂșkel-men & the Firienfeld - 30:00 Legends of the Paths of the Dead - 37:30 The Red Arrow - 47:00 "From...
0116 - Poetry in The Lord of the Rings
On this episode, weâd like to introduce you to some of the bonus content that weâve been creating over on our Patreon site. Greta and I have been going through the various poems contained in The Lord of the Rings and having a focused discussion on...
0115 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch2 - The Passing of the Grey Company
Concerning âThe Passing of the Grey Companyâ, from Ăowyn's entreaties to the oathbreakers' obligations... From Isengard, the Road Goes On... - 8:00 Halbarad, Elrohir, and Elladan - 14:00 Merry and ThĂ©oden - 22:30 3 Days to the Muster! - 27:00 Aragorn...
0114 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk5 - Ch1 - Minas Tirith
Concerning "Minas Tirith", from Pelennor Principalities to Pippin's Pledge... The Amazing Minas Tirith - 8:00 The Beacons Are Lit - 16:00 The Pelennor Fields / The Peoples of Gondor - 20:00 The Shape of Minas Tirith - 29:30 Denethor, Steward of...
0113 - Tea With Tolkien: An Interview with Kaitlyn Facista
Concerning Tea With Tolkien, from hobbitish hearts to travelogues for Tolkienites... On this episode we interview superfan Kaitlyn Facista of TeaWithTolkien.com about the various ways in which she is building community amongst Tolkienites. For more on...
0112 - Concerning Peter Jackson's "The Two Towers"
Concerning Peter Jacksonâs cinematic version of The Two Towers, from Faramirâs faults to Osgiliath offerings... The Good - 13:00 The Bad - 48:45 The Ents - 1:25:00 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com...
0111 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch10 - The Choices of Master Samwise
Concerning "The Choices of Master Samwise", from Samâs onslaught to Shagratâs orders... Sam vs. Shelob - 8:00 A Elbereth Gilthoniel - 15:30 Sam's Choices - 26:30 Shagrat and Gorbag - 34:00 Haiku / Correspondence - 50:00 For more on this episode and...
0110 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch9 - Shelob's Lair
Concerning âShelobâs Lairâ, from a stifling stench to a salvific starlight⊠The Lair - 10:00 The Phial - 16:30 The Hobbits Escape - 28:00 Shelob's Story - 34:00 Sam vs. Gollum - 43:30 Haiku / Correspondence - 47:00 For more on this episode and The...
0109 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch8 - The Stairs of Cirith Ungol
Concerning âThe Stairs of Cirith Ungolâ, from Morgulâs march to hellish hues⊠Minas Morgul - 19:00 The Stairs - 37:00 Of Beren, Of Frodo, of Samwise - 44:00 Smeagol's Scheme - 1:03:30 Haiku / Correspondence - 1:09:00 For more on this episode and The...
0108 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch7 - Journey to the Cross-Roads
Concerning âJourney to the Cross-Roadsâ, from Faramirâs farewell to a conquered kingâs crown... Farewell to Faramir - 3:00 Landscapes - 10:00 Samâs Dream - 17:00 At the Cross-roads / The king of Argonath - 21:00 Haiku Time / Correspondence - 24:00...
0107 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch6 - The Forbidden Pool
Concerning âThe Forbidden Poolâ, from snaring SmĂ©agol to mutterings of Morgul... The Waterfall - 10:00 Too Much Like Trickery - 20:00 Minas Morgul and Cirith Ungol - 30:00 Haiku Time / Correspondence - 37:30 For more on this episode and The Tolkien...
0106 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch5 - The Window on the West pt2
Concerning âThe Window on the Westâ, from nostalgia for NĂșmenor to the praise of the praiseworthy... Blindfolded / The Black Squirrel - 11:30 A Moment of Silence - 24:00 Concerning the Rohirrim and others - 32:00 Samâs blunder - 38:00 Haiku Time /...
0105 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch5 - The Window on the West Pt1
Concerning âThe Window on the Westâ, from Faramirâs inquiries to Frodoâs dilemma... Prophetic Inquiries - 7:00 Stern Samwise - 20:00 Faramir Gets Frank - 30:00 Gandalf and Gondor - 44:30 For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please...
0104 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch4 - Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit
Concerning âOf Herbs and Stewed Rabbitâ, from coney controversy to gallant Gondorians... The landscape of Ithilien - 15:00 The eye rune: whatâs the significance? - 21:00 Samâs view of Frodo - 29:30 Conies & po-ta-toes! - 40:30 Faramir & the Men of...
0103 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch3 - The Black Gate Is Closed
Concerning âThe Black Gate Is Closedâ, from murderous mountains to alternative avenues... The Teeth of Mordor - 8:00 Smeagolâs Way - 20:00 The Tower of the Moon - 30:00 Samâs Oliphaunts - 45:00 Haiku/Correspondence - 49:00 For more on this episode...
0102 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch2 - The Passage of the Marshes
Concerning âThe Passage of the Marshes", from freaky fens to Smeagol split... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 Stuck between a marsh and a hard place⊠- 13:45 Gollumâs foibles - 17:00 Frodoâs doomed outlook - 27:00 The Dead Marshes - 40:00 The...
0101 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk4 - Ch1 - The Taming of Sméagol
Concerning âThe Taming of SmĂ©agolâ, from rocky ravines to Gollumâs guarantees... On the road again... - 1:00 Frodo's Regrets - 8:00 An All-Too-Familiar Voice - 20:00 Rope! - 29:30 Capturing Gollum - 37:00 Trusting Gollum? - 46:30 Haiku &...
0100 - Tolkien, the Universe, and Everything
Well, we're back! It's the long-awaited 100th episode, wherein we discuss where we've been, where we're going, and why we started this thing in the first place. For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com,...
0099 - Christianity and LOTR - An Interview with Joseph Pearce
Concerning Christianityâs influence on and illumination of The Lord of the Rings...  For more on this episode and The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com, TrueMyths.org, Facebook.com/TolkienRoad, or follow us on Twitter: @TolkienRoad.
0098 - Unfinished Tales - The PalantĂri
Concerning Unfinished Tales' "The PalantĂri", from visions in the distance to the vanquishing of Denethor... Announcements, Correspondence, etc - 1:00 The Locations of the Stones - 17:30 The Lore of the Stones - 30:00 The History of the Stones -...
0097 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch11 - The PalantĂr
Concerning âThe PalantĂr", from the ways of Wizards to the strides of Shadowfax... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 Setting out from Isengard - 15:00 Do not meddle in the affairs of wizards - 23:00 Pippin and the PalantĂr - 28:00...
0096 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch10 - The Voice of Saruman
Concerning âThe Voice of Sarumanâ, from Sarumanâs semantics to Treebeard's trust... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 Confronting Saruman - 21:00 ThĂ©odenâs Response - 42:00 Gandalf vs. Saruman - 48:00 Conversation with Treebeard - 1:13:00 Haiku...
0095 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch9 - Flotsam and Jetsam
Concerning âFlotsam and Jetsam", from longbottom leaf to enraged Ents... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 Longbottom Leaf - 13:00 Ents & Huorns - 26:00 The Order of Battle - 36:00 The Baptism of Isengard - 50:00 Wormtongue - 58:00 The Mystery of...
0094 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch8 - The Road to Isengard Pt2
Concerning "The Road to Isengard", from mournful mists to happy hobbits... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 On the Road Again - 20:00 At the Isen Fords - 32:30 The Mist? Meanwhile⊠- 42:00 The Region of Isengard - 45:30 The Tower of Orthanc -...
0093 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch8 - The Road to Isengard Pt1
Concerning âThe Road to Isengardâ, from wondrous woods to glittering caves... Announcements/Correspondence/etc - 1:00 Aftermath/The Mystery of the Trees - 21:00 To Isengard! - 28:00 Burying the Dead/The Dunlandersâ Fate - 32:30 The strange woods -...
0092 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch7 - Helm's Deep Pt2
Concerning "Helm's Deep", from darkening hopes to a new day's dawning... Announcements/Correspondence/Etc - 1:00 Dimming Hopes/Gimli's Joy in Battle - 25:00 "That old hatred Saruman has inflamed." - 32:00 The Deeping Wall is Taken - 40:00 Aragorn's...
0091 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch7 - Helm's Deep Pt1
Concerning "Helm's Deep", from a heaviness upon the land to heavy blows in Helm's Deep... Announcements, Correspondence, etc. - 1:00 A heaviness upon the land... - 20:00 "All Isengard must be emptied..." - 29:00 Helmâs Deep - A description - 37:00...
0090 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch6 - The King of the Golden Hall Pt2
Concerning "The King of the Golden Hall", from the strange paths of hope to the happy warriors of Rohan... Announcements, Correspondence, etc. - 3:30 ThĂ©odenâs Hope - 16:00 GrĂmaâs last slither - 38:00 Sarumanâs treachery - 55:00 The Fate of Eorlâs...
0089 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch6 - The King of the Golden Hall Pt1
Concerning "The King of the Golden Hall", from distant views of Edoras to Théoden's throneroom... Announcements, Correspondence, etc. - 1:00 A distant view of Edoras - 26:00 "Where now the horse and the rider?" - 31:30 Unfriendly greetings - 39:00...
0088 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch5 - The White Rider Pt2
Concerning "The White Rider", from Gandalf's demonslaying to Galadriel's tidings... Announcements, Correspondence, etc. - 1:00 Concerning Boromir - 23:30 Saruman and the Ring - 27:30 Treebeard and the Ents - 35:00 War Is Upon Us - 46:30 Gandalf vs....
0087 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch5 - The White Rider Pt1
Concerning "The White Rider", from Merry and Pippin's fate to Gandalf's return... Announcements, correspondence, etc - 1:00 More on Ents - 8:30 Who was the old man? - 17:30 Trying to piece together Merry and Pippinâs fate - 24:45 Caught in the Net -...
0086 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch4 - Treebeard Pt3
Concerning "Treebeard", from Entmoot to legendary Ent-march... Announcements, correspondence, etc - 1:00 An important matter - 10:30 Entmoot - 13:00 Merry and Pippin Discuss Isengard & the Ents - 21:00 Bregalad the Hasty - 24:45 The Ents on the...
0085 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch4 - Treebeard Pt2
Concerning "Treebeard", from strange beverages to legendary Entwives...  Announcements/Correspondence/Etc - 1:00 Wellinghall/Ent-Draught - 17:30 "Nobody is altogether on my side..." - 23:30 Saruman's Goals - 30:30 Ents and Entwives - 40:00 The Song...
0084 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch4 - Treebeard Pt1
Concerning "Treebeard", from an intro to Ents to Treebeard's song... Announcements & Correspondence - 1:00 What Fangorn Is Like - 23:00 Introducing Treebeard - 27:00 The Lore of Living Creatures - 32:00 Off to Treebeards' Home - 38:00 Appendix F:...
0083 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch3 - The Uruk-Hai
Concerning "The Uruk-Hai", from Orcs up close and personal to relentless Rohirrim... Announcements, correspondence, etc - 1:00 Getting to know the orcs... - 20:00 The Halflings: Wanted Alive - 24:00 Orcs vs. Orcs - 29:30 The Orc-draught - 35:30...
0082 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch2 - The Riders of Rohan
Concerning "The Riders of Rohan", from Ăomer and the men of the Mark to the burnt bones of Orcs... Announcements, correspondence, etc (1:00) The Lay of the Land/Gondor Poem (7:50) In Pursuit of Orcs (13:15) Riders! (18:55) Ăomer, the Rohirrim, and...
0081 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk3 - Ch1 - The Departure of Boromir
Concerning "The Departure of Boromir", from elegies for Boromir to Aragorn's decision... Announcements, correspondence, etc (2:00) The Death of Boromir (11:00) The White Hand (21:30) Elegies for Boromir (26:00) Aragornâs Decision (33:30) Haiku Time...
0080 - The Silmarillion in 1
One Episode to Rule Them All!!! Having completed a chapter-by-chapter walkthrough of The Silmarillion (which spans over 30 hours of content), we decided to do an episode where we cover the whole of The Silmarillion in less than an hour. With this one...
0079 - Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age - Pt2
Concerning "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age", from Isildur's Downfall to the triumph of the Little People... notes from listeners & news (4:30) The Beginning of the Third Age (14:30) The Fall of Isildur (17:00) The Decline of Arnor (24:00)...
0078 - Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age - Pt1
Concerning "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age, from the found of Lindon to the Last Alliance of Men and Elves... Correspondence, etc (1:30) First Age and AkallabĂȘth recap (12:30) Lindon, Gil-Galad, and Elrond (20:00) Sauron, Lord of the Gifts...
0077 - AkallabĂȘth Pt2
Continuing with "AkallabĂȘth", the chronicle of NĂșmenĂłr's downfall... Topics include: Note from a Listener: more March 25th connections (2:30) Sauron's Assault Upon Nimloth the Fair (10:00) The Worship of Melkor (13:00) Ar-PharazĂŽn's Unholy Crusade...
0076 - AkallabĂȘth Pt1
Concerning "AkallabĂȘth", the chronicle of NĂșmenĂłr... On this episode, we begin our look at "AkallabĂȘth", or "The Downfallen", the story of NĂșmenĂłrâs rise and fall in the Second Age. Josh Sosa on Jackson's Fellowship... (3:00) What "AkallabĂȘth"...
0075 - Concerning Galadriel
Concerning Galadriel, from her name to her hair to the reasons behind her exile... Her Name - 14:00 Her Lineage - 18:00 Her Exile - 24:30 A Penitent? - 32:00 For more on this episode or The Tolkien Road podcast, please visit TolkienRoad.com.
0074 - Concerning Peter Jackson's Fellowship of the Ring
Concerning Peter Jackson's cinematic version of Fellowship of the Ring, from what we loved to what we loathed... On this episode, Greta and I are fresh off of reading âFellowship of the Ringâ and so we thought it would be fun to go back and watch...
0073 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch10 - The Breaking of the Fellowship
 Concerning "The Breaking of the Fellowship", from Boromir's fall to Sam's unfailing friendship... A Brief Note on Lembas and Melian - 3:30 A Note on Tolkien's Requiem - 7:00 Frodoâs Decision - 9:30 The Temptation of Boromir - 15:30 Frodo in the...
0072 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch9 - The Great River
Concerning "The Great River", Book2 Chapter 9 of The Lord of the Rings...
0071 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch8 - Farewell to LĂłrien
In episode 71, we discuss "Farewell to LĂłrien", Book 2, Chapter 8 of The Lord of the Rings. Join us!
0070 - Concerning Gandalf and the Istari
Concerning Gandalf and his wizard brethren the Istari: Saruman, Radagast, and the Blue Wizards. Topics of discussion: Haiku from Mary Grace - 3:30 Spoiler Alert - 7:30 Valaquenta on OlĂłrin - 9:30 Letter 181 - Gandalf the Incarnate Angel - 15:30...
0069 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch7 - The Mirror of Galadriel
In episode 69, we discuss "The Mirror of Galadriel", Book 2, Chapter 7 of The Lord of the Rings. Join us!
0067 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch6 - LothlĂłrien
In episode 67, we discuss "LothlĂłrien", Book 2, Chapter 6 of The Lord of the Rings. Join us!
0066 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch5 - The Bridge of Khaza-dûm
A discussion of "The Bridge of Khaza-dûm", Book 2, Chapter 5 of The Lord of the Rings...
0065 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch4 - A Journey in the Dark
Concerning "A Journey in the Dark", Chapter 4 of Book 2 of The Lord of the Rings...
0064 - Tolkien's Languages
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we interview Gabriel Blanchard, a fellow Tolkien enthusiast, about Tolkienâs languages. Gabriel really knows his...
0063 - Star Wars The Force Awakens: A Tolkienite's Take
We're back! On this episode, we discuss the merits of Star Wars: The Force Awakens using Tolkien's On Fairy-Stories as a guide. Enjoy! And SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!
0062 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch3 - The Ring Goes South
Concerning "The Ring Goes South", from the forging of the Fellowship to the treachery of Caradhras...
0061 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch2 - The Council of Elrond
Concerning "The Council of Elrond", from the story of the Ring to strategies for victory...
0060 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk2 - Ch1 - Many Meetings
Concerning "Many Meetings", from the ways of Rivendell to Bilbo's song of EĂ€rendil...
0059 - Our Silmarillion Top 5's
On this episode, having completed The Silmarillion with 29 episodes, we round it off to 30 by taking a victory lap, wherein we discuss our Top 5 things about The Silmarillion as a whole. We also discuss where the Tolkien Road should go next. And yes,...
0058 - The Silmarillion - Ch24 - Of the Voyage of EĂ€rendil and the War of Wrath
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we discuss the final chapter of The Silmarillion, "The Voyage of EÀrendil and the War of Wrath", wherein EÀrendil...
0057 - Concerning March 25th: Frodo's Quest, the Annunciation, and the Crucifixion
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this special Good Friday episode, we take a moment to consider the place of March 25th, a date of major significance, in...
0056 - The Silmarillion - Ch23 - Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. Â On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 23, "Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin", wherein Tuor...
0055 - The Silmarillion - Ch22 - Of the Ruin of Doriath
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. Â On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 22, "Of the Ruin of Doriath", wherein HĂșrin is...
0054 - The Silmarillion - Ch21 - Of TĂșrin Turambar - Pt2
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we continue discussing Chapter 21 of The Silmarillion, Of TĂșrin Turambar. Itâs a pretty tragic tale, only...
0053 - The Silmarillion - Ch21 - Of TĂșrin Turambar - Pt1
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we begin our discussion of Chapter 21 of The Silmarillion, "Of TĂșrin Turambar". The tale of TĂșrin is a long one,...
0052 - The Silmarillion - Ch20 - Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we discuss Chapter 20 of The Silmarillion, "Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad". Itâs an action-packed...
0051 - The Silmarillion - Ch19 - Of Beren and LĂșthien - Pt 2
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. This week, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion Chapter 19, the story of Beren and LĂșthien. Â By the way, if you havenât...
0050 - The Silmarillion - Ch19 - Of Beren and LĂșthien - Pt 1
Concerning "Of Beren and LĂșthien", Chapter 19 of The Silmarillion... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. Â Itâs our 50th episode! And it also just so happens to be the...
0049 - The Silmarillion - Ch18 - Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin
Concerning "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin", Chapter 18 of The Silmarillion... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we continue...
0048 - The Silmarillion - Ch17 - Of the Coming of Men Into the West
Concerning "Of the Coming of Men Into the West", Chapter 17 of The Silmarillion... Â Hey there fellow travelers! On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 17, Of the Coming of Men into the West, wherein we learn of...
0047 - The Silmarillion - Ch16 - Of Maeglin
Concerning "Of Maeglin", Chapter 16 of The Silmarillion... Hey there fellow travelers! On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 16, Of Maeglin, wherein we learn the story the dark elf Eöl and the Noldorin princess...
0046 - The Silmarillion - Ch15 - Of the Noldor in Beleriand
Concerning "Of the Noldor in Beleriand", Chapter 15 of The Silmarillion... Hey there fellow travelers! On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 15, "Of the Noldor in Beleriand", wherein we learn of the founding of...
0045 - The Silmarillion - Ch14 - Of Beleriand and Its Realms
Concerning "Of Beleriand and Its Realms," Chapter 14 of The Silmarillion... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 14, "Of Beleriand and Its Realms." In Chapter 14, we get a detailed run down of the geographical...
0044 - The Silmarillion - Ch13 - Of the Return of the Noldor
Concerning "Of the Return of the Noldor," Chapter 13 of The Silmarillion... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 13. In this chapter, the Noldor arrive in the north of Beleriand after their mass exodus from...
0043 - The Silmarillion - Ch12 - Of Men
Concerning "Of Men", Chapter 12 of The Silmarillion... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 12, "Of Men". In this short chapter, we learn a bit about the early history of Men in Tolkienâs secondary world and how...
0042 - The Silmarillion - Ch11 - Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
We're back! We apologize for our absence; it's time to move on down the road... On this episode of The Tolkien Road, we continue our discussion of The Silmarillion with Chapter 11, Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor. We cover topics ranging...
0041 - Tolkien's Letters - Letter 250 - Concerning Tolkien's Faith
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this episode, we begin a discussion of Tolkienâs Letters by considering a 1963 letter he wrote to his son Michael. In this...
0040 - The Silmarillion - Ch10 - Of the Sindar
Concerning "Of the Sindar", Chapter 10 of The Silmarillion, wherein we find out what's been happening back in Beleriand... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this...
0038 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch12 - Flight to the Ford
Concerning "Flight to the Ford," Book 1 Chapter 12 of The Lord of the Rings, wherein Strider and the hobbits deal with the aftermath of the Black Riders' attack... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works...
0036 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch11 - A Knife in the Dark
Concerning "A Knife in the Dark," Book 1, Chapter 11 of The Lord of the Rings, wherein the hobbits Strider set out on the long road to Rivendell... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy...
0033 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch10 - Strider
Concerning "Strider", Book 1, Chapter 10 of The Lord of the Rings, wherein we learn more about the mysterious Ranger... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On this...
0031 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch09 - At the Sign of the Prancing Pony
Concerning "At the Sign of the Prancing Pony", Book 1, Chapter 9 of The Lord of the Rings, in which the hobbits visit Bree... Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome to The Tolkien Road, a long walk through the works and philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien. On...
0030 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch08 - Fog on the Barrow-Downs
Concerning "Fog on the Barrow-Downs", Book 1, Chapter 8 of The Lord of the Rings, in which the Barrow-wight attacks... What is a Barrow-wight? Who are the men of Carn-DĂ»m? Is there any connection between them and the Black Riders? Whatâs up with...
0029 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch07 - In the House of Tom Bombadil
Concerning "In the House of Tom Bombadil", Book 1, Chapter 7 of The Lord of the Rings, in which we ponder all things Bombadil... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Book 1, Chapter 7 of Fellowship, "In the House...
0028 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch06 - The Old Forest
Concerning "The Old Forest", Book 1, Chapter 6 of The Lord of the Rings, in which Frodo and company enter the Perilous Realm... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Book 1, Chapter 6 of Fellowship, "The Old...
0027 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch05 - A Conspiracy Unmasked
Concerning "A Conspiracy Unmasked", Book 1, Chapter 5 of The Lord of the Rings, in which our heroes decide to take a bath and the road less travelled... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Book1, Chapter 5...
0026 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch04 - A Shortcut to Mushrooms
Concerning Book 1 Chapter 4 of The Fellowship of the Ring, âA Shortcut to Mushroomsâ... On this episode of The Tolkien Road, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Book 1, Chapter 4 of Fellowship, "A Shortcut to Mushrooms." This is a...
0025 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch03 - Three Is Company
Concerning Book 1 Chapter 3 of The Fellowship of the Ring, âThree Is Companyâ... On this episode, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Book1, Chapter 3 of Fellowship, Three Is Company. In this chapter, Frodo sets out from Hobbiton...
0024 - The Lord of the Rings - Bk1 - Ch02 - The Shadow of the Past
Concerning Book 1 Chapter 2 of The Fellowship of the Ring, âThe Shadow of the Pastâ... On this episode of the Tolkien Road, we continue our discussion of The Lord of the Rings with Chapter 2 of Fellowship, "The Shadow of the Past." While consisting...
0023 - The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring - Bk1 - Ch1 - A Long Expected Party
Concerning Book 1 Chapter 1 of The Fellowship of the Ring, âA Long Expected Partyâ...  On this episode of The Tolkien Road, we finally launch into Chapter 1 of The Fellowship of the Ring, "A Long Expected Party". Among other things, we discuss the...
0022 - On Fairy-Stories - Tolkien's Literary Manifesto
On this episode of The Tolkien Road, we examine and discuss Tolkienâs influential essay On Fairy-Stories. While both Greta and I are hungry to start our read-through of The Lord of the Rings, I felt it was important to consider the ideas Tolkien lays...
0021 - The Lord of the Rings - Prologue (Concerning Hobbits)
On this episode of Tolkien Road, we continue with The Lord of the Rings by discussing the Prologue, the section that begins with "Concerning Hobbits." We cover the origin and nature of hobbits, pipeweed, the structure of hobbit society, and Bilbo's...
0020 - The Lord of the Rings - Tolkien's Foreword
On this episode of Tolkien Road, we turn to The Lord of the Rings and begin our journey through the Third Age of Middle-earth with Tolkien's foreword to the Second Edition. This is an important section, because in it Tolkien discusses his reasons for...
0019 - The Silmarillion - Ch09 - Of the Flight of the Noldor - Pt 2
On this episode of Tolkien Road, John & Greta continue their chapter-by-chapter walkthrough of The Silmarillion with the second part of Chapter 9, "Of the Flight of the Noldor", wherein Fëanor leads the Noldor on a hell-bound quest to attack Morgoth...
0018 - The Silmarillion - Ch09 - Of the Flight of the Noldor - Pt 1
On this episode of Tolkien Road, John & Greta continue their chapter-by-chapter walkthrough of The Silmarillion with the first part of Chapter 9, "Of the Flight of the Noldor", wherein the Valar must determine what to do after the attack on the Two...
0017 - The Silmarillion - Ch08 - Of the Darkening of Valinor
Welcome to the 17th episode of The Tolkien Road podcast (formerly known as Talking Tolkien). On this episode, John & Greta continue their chapter-by-chapter walkthrough of The Silmarillion with Chapter 8, Of the Darkening of Valinor, wherein Melkor...
0015 - The Silmarillion - Ch07 - Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor
Only 15 episodes in, and we finally find out what a Silmaril is and where they came from! On this episode, John & Greta continue their chapter-by-chapter walkthrough of The Silmarillion with Chapter 7, Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor....
0014 - Mythopoeia - Tolkien's Poem for C.S. Lewis
Tolkien addresses his philosophy-poem "Mythopoeia" to C.S. Lewis, who said that myths were "lies breathed through silver." In this episode, we discuss the meaning of "Mythopoeia" and how it serves as a sort of spiritual and creative manifesto for...
0013 - The Silmarillion - Ch06 - Of FĂ«anor and the Unchaining of Melkor
Who is FĂ«anor and why is he important? And who thought it was a good idea to let Melkor out of the dungeon?!?! C'MON MAN!!! Way. On this episode, John & Greta discuss Chapter 06 of The Silmarillion, Of FĂ«anor and the Unchaining of Melkor. Plus, we...
0012 - The Silmarillion - Ch05 - Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Eldalië
How did the Elves get to Aman? Whatever became of Thingol? Where does Galadriel come from? And why did we forget a critical Wayne's World reference in the Thingol and Melian episode? We explore all these issues and more in Episode 12. Plus, Greta...
0011 - Leaf By Niggle - Pt 2 - The Story
Join us as we discuss "Leaf By Niggle", my favorite non-Middle-earth Tolkien story. "Leaf By Niggle" is a mythical story about creativity and love of neighbor with a wonderful conclusion. In the second of a two-part series, we discuss the profound...
0010 - Leaf By Niggle - Pt 1 - Introduction
"Leaf By Niggle" is one of Tolkien's lesser known works, but it yields a ton of insight into his own creative vision. In the first of a two-part series, we discuss what Tolkien himself had to say about the story he wrote one morning in the late 30's....
0009 - The Silmarillion - Ch04 - Of Thingol and Melian
Tolkien's first story of inter-species love concerns Thingol and Melian. Find out why the shortest chapter in The Silmarillion is one of the most important in the history of Middle-earth as we explore the 4th chapter of The Silmarillion proper, Of...
0007 - The Silmarillion - Ch03 - Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor
Where did the Elves come from and what is their doom? What should the Valar do about Melkor? We explore these questions and more in our discussion of the 3rd chapter of The Silmarillion proper, Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor....
0008 - Evan Palmer interview
We sit down with illustrator Evan Palmer of EvanPalmerComics.com to discuss his graphic interpretation of Ainulindalë. It's an illuminating interview for a fascinating work! You can find Evan's work at EvanPalmerComics.com/Ainulindale. Come get lost...
0006 - On Enjoying Tolkien or Reasons Why
Why spend so much time talking and writing about Tolkien? What does it mean to fully enjoy something? We discuss these matters, with a little help from C.S. Lewis, on our first non-Silmarillion episode. Come get lost in Middle-earth and explore the...
0005 - The Silmarillion - Ch02 - Of Aulë and Yavanna
Where did Dwarves, Ents, and Eagles come from? We explore these questions and more in our discussion of the 2nd chapter of The Silmarillion proper, Of Aulë and Yavanna. Come get lost in Middle-earth and explore the history of The Hobbit and The Lord...
0004 - The Silmarillion - Ch01 - Of the Beginning of Days
On the 4th episode of the Talking Tolkien podcast, co-hosts John & Greta Carswell examine the 1st chapter of The Silmarillion proper, Of the Beginning of Days. Come get lost in Middle-earth and explore the history of The Hobbit and The Lord of the...
0003 - The Silmarillion - Valaquenta
On the third episode of the Talking Tolkien podcast, co-hosts John & Greta Carswell examine Valaquenta, the second section in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Come get lost in Middle-earth and explore the history of The Hobbit and The Lord of the...
0002 - The Silmarillion - Ainulindalë
Concerning "Ainulindalë", the Music of the Ainur, the first part of The Silmarillion...
0001 - The Silmarillion - Introduction
On the first episode of the Talking Tolkien podcast, co-hosts John & Greta Carswell provide an introduction to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion and introduce some of the many themes they will be covering as they move through The Silmarillion...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 8 » "The Life of the NĂșmenoreans" (Ep 332 Redux)
In this episode, we continue our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor as we explore âThe Life of NĂșmenoreans.â In this section, weâll learn about the every day life of the men and women of the Star-Land, according to Tolkien! Join us! And as a...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 9 » The Founding of Moria and The Death of Elros (Ep 334 Redux)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by considering the state of Dwarf-dom at the beginning of the Second Age, the founding of Moria / Khazad-dĂ»m, and well as the death of NĂșmenorâs first king. Join us! And as a...
John's Interview on Tolkien with Catholic Studies Academy
I was recently interviewed by Dr. Ben Smith of Catholic Studies Academy on "Philosophical and Theological Themes in Tolkien". It was a great discussion! You can listen to the episode here. Better yet, you can subscribe to the Catholic Studies Academy podcast on your preferred app. Enjoy!!!
BIG NEWS!!!
We have exciting news to share with you, our faithful listeners. Head on over to Patreon.com/TolkienRoad to learn more.
The Tolkien Road will return next week!
No episode this week! We'll be back on 2/20 with Chapter 20 of The Silmarillion. If you'd like to submit a haiku for that episode, please send it be 2/17. The road goes ever on my friends, the road goes ever on!
0016 - Talking Tolkien is now The Tolkien Road!
Talking Tolkien is now The Tolkien Road podcast. On this episode, Greta and I discuss the reasons behind the name change as well as what the future will hold. The Road goes ever on! For more info, please visit TrueMyths.org!
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 10 » Sauron Stirs In Middle-earth (Ep 335 Redux)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by examining the return of Sauron around the year 500 of the Second Age! Join us! And as a reminder: Iâve got a brand-new book on the way, Tolkienâs Tragedy: Concerning NĂșmenor,...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 11 » SilmariĂ«n, Elendil, & The Lords of AndĂșniĂ« (Ep 336 Redux)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by considering the curious case of SilmariĂ«n and the origin of the Lords of AndĂșniĂ«, the forebears of Elendil, Isildur, and eventually Aragorn himself. Join us! And as a...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 12 » NĂșmenor Returns To Middle-earth (SA600) (Ep 337 Redux)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by examining NĂșmenorâs return to Middle-earth in the year 600 of the Second Age, led by the intrepid sea-captain VĂ«antur. Join us! And as a reminder: Iâve got a brand-new book...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 13 » Aldarion and Tar-Meneldur (SA600) (Ep 338 Redux)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring The Voyages of Aldarion, the grandson of VĂ«antur, and future King of NĂșmenor. This will begin a multi-episode arc on this important figure in NĂșmenor's history -...
Tolkien's Letters from Father Christmas » Episode 267 Revisited
Well, Thanksgiving 2025 has come and gone, and now the big lead up to Christmas is upon us! To that end, in the next few episodes, we're taking a look back at our series on Tolkien's Letters from Father Christmas, a compilation of Christmas-themed...
The Goblin Wars » Letters from Father Christmas Pt 2 » Episode 268 Revisited
In this episode, we're concluding our two part journey through Tolkien's Letters from Father Christmas, focusing on The Goblin Wars! Join us as we explore how the âOther Fellowshipâ of Father Nicholas Christmas, the North Polar Bear, the Red Gnomes,...
Noel » Tolkien's Christmas Poem » Episode 269 Revisited
Hey there fellow travellers! This week we'll be revisiting episode 269, which focused on Tolkien's EPIC Christmas poem NOEL. Visit TolkienRoad.com/noel for plenty of resources related to it! Also, visit TrueMythsPress.com to for Tolkien Road gear like...
Lord of the Rings, Christmas, and Catholicism
Hey there fellow travellers! As we get closer and closer to Christmas, I thought it would be a great time to return to one of my favorite topics: Tolkien's controversial assertion that Lord of the Rings is religious and Catholic! Just what did he mean...
The Fall of NĂșmenor » Pt 14 » Eregion Founded By The Noldor (EP339 Revisited)
In this episode, weâre continuing our journey through The Fall of NĂșmenor by exploring the founding of Eregion, the Elvish city that eventually gives birth to the Rings of Power! 750 years into the Second Age, things are relatively peaceful. NĂșmenorâs...
Silmarillion 2026 » Episode 1 » Introduction (The Waldman Letter) (EP272 Revisited)
Hey there, Fellowship! Welcome to The Tolkien Road. Every new year brings new resolutionsâand for many Tolkien readers, one challenge stands above the rest: The Silmarillion. Itâs a book admired, feared, and often postponed. But here at The Tolkien...
The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 1: 1892 - 1916 (Youth and World War I) (Ep219 Rerun)
Tolkien was born on January 3, 1892, so given we are in his birth month, weâll be revisiting our four-part series on his life story over the next few Fridays. In this episode, weâll revisit part one, as we explore his early life, from his birth in...
The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 15 » Aldarion & Erendis » Uinen, OssĂ«, Tar-Meneldur (EP340 REVISITED)
Over the next 3 episodes in our Fall of NĂșmenor series, weâll return to the story of Aldarion, whom we met 2 episodes ago. Â Â Aldarion is the son of Tar-Meneldur and the expectant heir to NĂșmenorâs throne. But as we will learn, he is a man torn between...
Silmarillion 2026 » Episode 2 » Ainulindalë (EP273 REVISITED)
In episode 2 of our epic, chapter-by-chapter Silmarillion journey, weâll explore the creation story of Middle-earth, AinulindalĂ«, aka The Music of the Ainur. In this chapter, weâll meet the powers behind the great events of Middle-earthâs history,...
The Life of JRR Tolkien - Part 2: 1917 - 1936 (Family Life, Scholarly Pursuits, and The Hobbit) (Ep220 Rerun)
Tolkien was born on January 3, 1892, so given we are in his birth month, weâll be revisiting our four-part series on his life story over the next few Fridays. In this episode, weâll revisit part two, as we examine Tolkien's adult life immediately...
The Fall of NĂșmenor Pt 16 » SA870 » The Wedding of Aldarion & Erendis » Gil-galad, Tar-Meneldur (EP341 REVISITED)
This chapter continues the story of Aldarion, destined to be NĂșmenorâs 6th King. While it begins with the wedding, long-expected, of Aldarion and Erendis, it concludes with many events unexpected, including word from Gil-galad to the King of NĂșmenor...
Silmarillion 2026 » Episode 3 » Valaquenta (EP274 REVISITED)
In episode 3 of our epic, chapter-by-chapter Silmarillion journey, weâll explore Valaquenta, an account and description of the gods of Middle-earth, including the first inklings of Gandalfâs origin story. LINKS: - Show Notes:...