The Prancing Pony Podcast
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Episoden (391)
385 â I Saw Her Standing There (in RĂłmenna)
Erendis arrives at a very important party, and is caught by Aldarionâs beauty and splendor of bearing; that never happens to Alan or Sara. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we continue our 10-part dive into the story of Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. Queen Almarian drops a hint that Aldarion just canât catch, Meneldur has wisdom for his son â even if he ignores it, and Aldarion canât stop looking at Erendis as he sails away⊠before too long, heâll fall in love with her. We math out the age gap relationship, discover Erendisâ connection to Tuor and Huor, and decide that this day, we sail. Also, Sara is in open rebellion. The Muster at Marquette link: https://youtu.be/QC-JkWDq7dk Donât forget to join the Oral History Project at https://www.marquette.edu/library/archives/Mss/JRRT/fandomoh.php Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
384 â Ticket to Ride
Tolkien writes about the difficulty of relating the legendarium without âexplanatory digressionsâ; Alan and Sara realize the PPP has a new subtitle. Join The Man of the West and the Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we begin â hold on to your headphones â a ten-part series on the story of Aldarion and Erendis, as the PPP begins its season-long look at Unfinished Tales of NĂșmenor and Middle-earth. Meneldur is a humble and wise king; VĂ«antur gives his grandson a ticket to ride; and Aldarion starts his cult of personality early on. We wonder if Tolkien would ever have been satisfied with The Silmarillion, challenge listeners to put âready to mirthâ on their dating profiles, and discover that what weâve got here is failure to communicate. Also, Alan sings too much. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
383 â Questions After Nightfall 32
Join us all in the Common Room here at The Prancing Pony Podcast as The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan answer listener questions again in our 32nd Questions After Nightfall! Sara welcomes you all to her Galadriel TED Talk, and we discuss the deep matters of loss in Tolkien and learning life lessons in the legendarium. But itâs not all serious: members of the Fellowship in a rock band, AulĂ«âs mistakes with Dwarven reproduction, and a strutting Glorfindel lighten the mood. Also, Sara admits sheâs not funny â when will Alan do the same? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
382 â We Are Those Fans: a Chat with WÄtÄ Workshop
The Lord of the Mark returns for a special episode to help get Season 10 of The Prancing Pony Podcast underway, as we chat with Dan Falconer and Leonard Ellis from WÄtÄ Workshop! From Falconerâs early days on the first Peter Jackson films to Ellisâ upcoming sculpt of Cirith Ungol, our conversation centers on all things Middle-earth. We learn the real meaning of the acronym CAD, find that even the people who make these things donât have room on their shelves for all of them, and officially put a visit to WÄtÄ Workshop on our bucket lists! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
381 â The Bywater Village Committee: an interview with WÄtÄ Workshopâs Darren Ormandy
Alan and James sit down with fellow Tolkien-nerd and lead writer for WÄtÄ Workshop's new game, Tales of the Shire. We discuss the depth of world-building by Tolkien and how to reflect that in a game set in the Shire, and celebrate the appearance of familiar names and places in the game. Darren tells us about an unbelievable meeting in Oxford, compares the Silmarillion to a dehydrated feast, and we all wonder about the lost company of Hobbit archers! Also, food is love, and we agree. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
380 â So Mind-Bogglingly Useful
Tolkien believes that his method of translation-by-sense âperhaps needs some defenceâ; Alan and James know their method of podcasting requires a lot of defense. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we misplace our Babel fish in the second half of Appendix F from The Lord of the Rings, on translation. Tolkien speaks to the reader directly, gives us a fantastic analogy with Arthur and Camelot, and provides comic relief in the form of Hobbit names. We wonder how âamusedâ Denethor really was, realize that someone just wasnât Goodenough, and speculate about Dwarvish interpolation again. Also, Odo from DS9 gets a mention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
379 â A Big Wide Sounding Name
The Elves speak in a more gracious and antique style; James thinks thereâs an old joke in there somewhere. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we begin our two-episode exploration of Appendix F to The Lord of the Rings, and the languages of Middle-earth take center stage. PengoloĂ° shows up again, someone is trying to gloss over Thingolâs linguistic genocide, and Galadriel has her scribes everywhere. We discuss Tolkienâs gripe with translations a week early, give another shout-out to CĂrdan and wonder (but not for long) about Entish pillow talk. Also, Weber bread makes an unexpected appearance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
378 â Donât Panic
Maybe Celebrimbor just has poor penmanship; and maybe Alan still canât pronounce things correctly. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we urge you to take the advice provided in the episode title when we dive into Appendix E to The Lord of the Rings on Writing and Spelling⊠but we know youâre here for the pronunciation humiliation! FĂ«anor stands on the shoulders of the giant Rumil, Tolkien retcons the Dwarvish âouter namesâ, and everythingâs absurd to the Elves. We try to rhyme âwereâ with âhairâ, get stressed about stress, and are just extending the fricative, man. Also, James sings a Sesame Street song. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
377 â This Must Be Thursday
The NĂșmenĂłreans altered the calendar of the Elves; Alan & James never could get the hang of Thursdays. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we practice only the best kind of pedantry in our exploration of Appendix D on the various intricate calendar systems in Middle-earth. The Elves are obsessed with sixes and twelves, the NĂșmenĂłreans have to fix a millennial deficit â which has nothing to do with spending too much on Starbucks â and the Hobbits always do their own thing. We wonder if days not belonging to a month feel lonely, agree that 30-day months are best, and discover that pigs fly on Friday the First of Summerfilth. Also, Jamesâ new nickname is optimistic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
376 â Questions After Nightfall 31
Grab a drink at the bar and step into the Common Room â itâs time to join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we answer listener questions again in our 31st quarterly Questions After Nightfall. From questions about Saruman, Ring-maker to the Dagor Dagorath; from the Forsaken Inn to awkward conversations in the Halls of Mandos, our listeners bring their best questions â and their worst puns. Alan is a middle-aged softy, James thinks IstarĂ arrive in meteors, and weâre glad Tolkienâs funny, âcause weâre not so sure about us. Also, Maiar as Project Managers. We're proud to partner with Oscha and their Middle-earth collection, and offer 10% off for new customers with code PONY! https://oschaslings.com/discount/PONY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
375 â If You Donât Know Me By Now
One of the greatest Elven loremasters finally gets his time in the spotlight; and in an ironic twist, James gets some time in the spotlight (or is that âunder the busâ?). Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as Alan hands the reins of the show over to James, who brings us a special episode on PengoloĂ° the Wise of Gondolin. From the development of the Eldarin languages to an explanation of lembas, if you donât know one of the greatest loremasters by now, you might never, never, never know him and his contributions to the collective knowledge of Middle-earth. So how and why did he disappear from the published stories? We chat about the Digital Tolkien Project, observe the blurred lines between Tolkien fans and scholars, and agree some subtitles are more like summaries. Also, totally tubular, dude. We're proud to partner with Oscha and their Middle-earth collection, and offer 10% off for new customers with code PONY! https://oschaslings.com/discount/PONY Learn more about ...
374 â Holding Back the Years
Tolkien is forced to shrink the Tale of Years to satisfy his publisher; James is forced to co-host a few episodes of the PPP to satisfy Alan. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we get to the sooner or later, flying through the history of the Second and Third Ages of Middle-earth in our look at Appendix B to The Lord of the Rings, known as The Tale of Years. Bias creeps in as historians change the Second Age record; Tolkien finds the limitations âprofoundly uncongenialâ; and Celebrimborâs publicist would like a word. We speculate about hobbit libraries, give another shout out to The Lord of the Rings Online, and get a little choked up. Also, we donât talk about PharazĂŽn-o. We're proud to partner with Oscha and their Middle-earth collection, and offer 10% off for new customers with code PONY! https://oschaslings.com/discount/PONY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
373 â Letâs Go Crazy (and Take a Hobbit)
Christopher Tolkien explains that âthe textual situation⊠is complex and hard to unravel.â Fortunately, the podcast situation is quite simple. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we conclude our time with the Dwarves - and our time with Sara for this season - in an in-depth look at The Quest of Erebor, including bits of the story youâve not likely read before. Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness Gimli getting a clue, Thorinâs haughtiness forcing him to take a hobbit, and Balin revealing himself to be the King of Misunderstanding. Alan and Sara reminisce about pre-cloud data storage, wonder if itâs foresight or are we merely crazed, and try to avoid speaking confidently without knowledge. Also, âold grey manâ is a reference to Gandalf, not Alan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
372 â Little Red Dragon
Gandalf worries that the dragon Sauron might use with terrible effect; Sara worries that the bad jokes Alan might use with terrible effect. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we begin our longer-than-expected look into The Quest of Erebor from Unfinished Tales, as a sidebar to our walk through Appendix A III on Durinâs Folk. Gandalf is overtaken by Thorin on the road to Bree (âThorin, youâre much too fast!â), underestimates how much damage 20 years can do to an adventurous hobbit, and reluctantly agrees to look after his darling. Alan and Sara discuss Gandalfâs fitness fashion, wish Dwarves would stop bequeathing vengeance, and speculate about Sauronâs new hobbies. Also, I got that reference! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
371 â When Dwarves Cry
A deep dive into Tolkienâs oldest stories about the Dwarves uncovers all sorts of interesting details, as Alan hands the reins of the PPP to Sara for her expertise on the Dwarves. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we explore the origin, awakening, culture, and language of Tolkienâs Dwarves as we take a sidebar into several volumes of The History of Middle-earth. From their early nature as evil creatures, to the fact that they all â women and babies, too â have beards, learn more about the Dwarves than you ever thought you could. Alan and Sara discuss recession-proof industries, dutifully avoid Disney jokes and figure Durin must have asked AulĂ«: âHow could you just leave me standing alone in a world so cold?â Also, Sneezy and Bashful were the hardest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
370 â Take Me With U, Legolas
They say that Gandalf is wise and knows more than any other of what goes on in the world; they say Alan can sometimes do math. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we continue our team in Appendix A III to The Lord of the Rings, on Durinâs Folk. Thorin is too proud to beg, Gandalf begins to worry about Smaug and Sauron becoming BFFs, and Gimli says he donât care where we go, he donât care what we do, just take me with U to the Undying Lands. Alan and Sara ask what Sauron would have actually done with the Seven, agree that bequeathing vengeance is not very kind to your descendants, and wonder what might happen if the Dwarves were just nicer to their women. Also, we knew Finrod â youâre no Finrod. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
369 â Party Like itâs (Third Age) 1999
ThrĂĄin escapes the Balrog in Moria and establishes Erebor; Sara canât escape Alan and the PPP quite yet, despite her best efforts. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we begin a five-part look at the Dwarves, starting with two episodes on Appendix A III to The Lord of the Rings on Durinâs Folk. Durin the Deathless lived a very long time, but still managed to die - for now; the Balrog drives Durinâs Folk out of Moria â there were people runninâ everywhere, tryinâ to run from the destruction; and Azog signs his own death certificate: on ThrĂĄinâs forehead. Alan and Sara wonder how new baby Durins are recognized, ask if cold drakes have air conditioning, and salute Azog for not using Comic Sans MS. Also, Nar the pirate dwarf from Somerset shows up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
368 â If You Leave Me Now
After a long reign as King, Aragorn finally takes his rest, and a great beauty was revealed in him; after a season of the PPP, Alan takes a week off, and⊠well, the comparison ends there. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan for an unexpected episode as we conclude the now three-part discussion of The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen from Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings. Arwen tries to convince Aragorn to wait (if you leave me now, youâll take away the very heart of me); Aragorn speaks no comfort to her, but offers hope; and Arwenâs death is even more tragic than at first glance. Alan and Sara ask why Elrond didnât stick around a bit longer, think through what âthe Elder Daysâ means now, and accuse Ar-PharazĂŽn of dining and dashing. Also, Alan asks Sara about The War of the Rohirrim. This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONY and get on your way to being your best self! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @s...
367 â Hard to Say Iâm Sorry
After years away doing errantry, Aragorn returns to Rivendell, looking like an Elf-lord. After a week away doing a few errands, Alan returns to the Common Room, looking much the same. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan for the second of three episodes on The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen from Appendix A of The Lord Of the Rings. Aragorn just couldnât stand to be kept away, Arwen renounces the Twilight, and Elrond sets the highest of bars. Alan and Sara discuss the importance of choice, renounce Twilight too, and advise you to get betrothed for the job you want, not the job you have. Also, Alan feels a pressing need to change his nickname. This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONYÂ and get on your way to being your best self! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (thatâs over 40% off) with promo code PONY at ShopMando.com! #mandopod Learn more about your ad choi...
366 â Youâre the Inspiration
Gilraenâs mom and dad have differing opinions on whether she should marry Arathorn; Alan and Sara just have differing opinions. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we begin a two-part series â which rapidly becomes three parts â on The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen as the PPP returns to Appendix A in The Lord Of the Rings. Aragorn strays into a dream and discovers sheâs the meaning in his life, sheâs the inspiration; Elrond seems to learn a lesson from Thingolâs error; and Aragorn has some errantry to run. Alan and Sara wonder what song Aragorn was singing, speculate about Aragornâs teenage angst, and decide that Aragornâs journeys must have taken him at least 500 miles from Arwenâs door. Also, Saraâs retirement dreams: bon-bons in the Hall of Fire. This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONYÂ and get on your way to being your best self! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off you...
365 â QAN 30
Itâs time to come into the Common Room with The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we answer listener questions again in our 30th Questions After Nightfall! From the necessity of real-world physics to whose brooch did Bombadil find; from FĂ«anorâs favorite games to Thingolâs quite-appropriate guilt, our listeners always bring their A game⊠or would that be their Q game? Alan is confusticated and bebothered, and Sara reminds us all of how Tolkien could do all that he did. Also, never disrespect librarians. This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONY and get on your way to being your best self! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (thatâs over 40% off) with promo code PONY at ShopMando.com! #mandopod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
364 â Tolkien Reading Day 2025
Join the Tolkien fandom and community â along with The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark â for the PPPâs 10th annual Tolkien Reading Day, observed every March 25 in honor of the destruction of the Ring and the downfall of Barad-dĂ»r. This yearâs theme, as chosen by the Tolkien Society, is Fellowship and Community â and not only do we have some incredible readings that showcase this yearâs them, the PPP is demonstrating its own fellowship by bringing in each of the co-hosts from the last two seasons! Matt stops the story of Beleg where it ought to have ended, Don sings a bath song, James prepares to say goodbye to Rivendell, Sara leaves the Quenya for Alan, and Shawn makes Alan feel at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
363 â Til You Find Your⊠Ancient & Military Historian?
The Man of the West bids farewell to The Nerd of the Rings, as they welcome everyoneâs favorite ancient and military historian back to the PPP: Dr. Bret Devereaux, author of A Collection of Unmitigated Pedantry returns to answer an absurd number of questions that Alan and Matt have come up with from their last ten episodes. We get our 40k references out of the way early, discover Bret doesnât read Old Norse, get an expert explanation of weregild, and have our eyes opened to Helm Hammerhandâs missteps. We also discuss peace through Black Death, wonder what the Quenya would be for âItâs all yours, buddyâ, and lament the fact that the tales, they are so unfinished. Also, the emperorâs name is spelled Pupienus, just to be clear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
362 â Follow Every Marshal
The Marshals of the Mark faithfully serve the King by leading their trained Riders in battle; Matt faithfully serves Alan by⊠well, weâre still figuring that one out. Join The Man of the West and The Nerd of the Rings as they dive into the inner workings of Rohanâs command structure in our final episode on The Battles of the Fords of Isen from Unfinished Tales. Turns out ThĂ©oden was pretty young as far as Kings of Rohan go, Ăomer gets all the duties of a job without its title, and it turns out keeping the key to a fortress hundreds of miles away doesnât work out so well. We spend more time with French than weâre comfortable with, issue extra pedantry points, and speculate about all the terrible things that would have happened had Gandalf stayed dead. Also, Alan alarmingly (and annoyingly) alliterates again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
361 â Ford Every Stream
Erkenbrand takes command of the West-mark after the death of ThĂ©odred; Matt makes it clear that, in the event of Alanâs death, he wants no such responsibility. Join us as there is a coincidence of calendars in our second episode on The Battles of the Fords of Isen from Unfinished Tales. Grimbold stands firm by the Fords, Elfhelm is the Admiral Ackbar of Rohan, and none of it really matters because quantity has a quality all its own. Matt breaks out his best Ent voice, we lament the adaptation fates of Erkenbrand, Tom Bombadil, and Glorfindel, and agree it would be a nice day for a white wizard. Also, in Bilboâs next book, he interviews Fingolfin on challenging Morgoth: âIâve had better days.â Finally, hereâs the link we promised for Tom Shippeyâs talk: https://www.swarthmore.edu/news-events/tolkien-book-to-jackson-script-medium-and-message Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
360 â Climb Every Eyot
The Rohirrim are loyal to ThĂ©oden, even in his dotage; Mattâs loyalty to Alan is in doubt. Join us as Saruman begins his assault on Rohan with a strategic faux pas in the first of three episodes covering The Battles of the Fords of Isen from Unfinished Tales. Wormtongue pits brother against brother, ThĂ©odred proves to be the Faramir of Rohan, and Grimbold and Elfhelm save whatâs left of a very bad day. We ask when a brother is like a father, wonder where Ăomer was when the Fords fell, and explain unfortunate sports analogies. Also, Alan changes his mind: will wonders never cease? Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/pony. ï»żThis episode of the PPP is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONY and get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
359 â Play the Tradition Tonight
Isildur counsels his successors to bring their heirs to the Hill of Awe to reveal the secrets of the realm; Alan and Matt wonder if thereâs a Gondorian equivalent to Area 51. Join us as we step back in time to the establishment of the Tradition of Isildur in our final episode on Cirion & Eorl. Isildur gets out a map and points to the middle (like putting a memorial to George Washington in the middle of Kansas), the Stewards play rules-lawyer to justify their going to the hallow and then hardly ever go, and Cirion makes a tough decision about exhumation. We discover that Tolkien thinks heâd squandered his best âmotifs and charactersâ in The Hobbit, discover that an absence of dead people means an absence of alfirin, and suggest that you talk to your doctor to see if Meneldil is right for you. Also, a Barrow-wight that sounds a little like Tom Bombadil. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/pony. ï»żThis episode of the PPP is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give onl...
358 â Oath of No Return
The Steward of Gondor and the Lord of the ĂothĂ©od swear oaths to one another; Alan and Matt simply try not to swear at one another. Join us as Eorl knows itâs time to âshow the way and leave todayâ in the fifth of our six episodes covering Cirion & Eorl. The Prince of Dol Amroth discovers the reason for the awe on the Hill of Awe, Eorl swears such an oath that we can only ever know the translation, and Cirion returns the favor by invoking the name of Eru for the first time in 2500 years. We wonder if Eorlâs oath was in alliterative verse, speculate about when to celebrate Rohan Day, and agree that Cirion is highly underrated. Also, letâs make Christmas carols in Quenya a thing. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/pony. This episode of the PPP is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONY and get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
357 â Cirion, Wayward Son
Come on, you had to know it was coming. Everyone wonders how Cirion will reward Eorl; nobody wonders how Alan will reward Matt. Join us as Cirion and Eorl rise above the noise and confusion atop the Halifirien in our fourth of six episode covering Cirion & Eorl. Tolkien keeps hyping up the secret on top of the mountain, Cirion gives an amazing gift (but, like most men, leaves it unwrapped), and Eorl offers to seal their friendship with an unforgettable oath. We compare the Hill of Awe to the Hill of Awwwww, decide that the ĂothĂ©od deserve at least a pizza party, and visit with Trotter from Tolkien Collectorâs Guide about a fancy book. Also, Mattâs search for Bigfoot. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/pony. This episode of the PPP is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/PONY and get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
356 â Hold On
Cirion uses his Phone-a-Friend lifeline and, fortunately, Eorl picks up; Alan uses his Phone-a-friend lifeline and⊠Matt picks up. Join us as Cirion sees that the end of Gondor is âcloser than you think and youâre standing on the brinkâ in our third of six episodes on Cirion & Eorl. The Northmen contribute blood to Gondor, Borondir becomes a legend, and Galadriel runs interference for the good guys. We long to hear the unwritten songs, admire how Tolkienâs heroes do the right thing because itâs the right thing, and think that Ruckus in Rhovanion would be a great name for a fight. Also, hobbit strike zones and the new paladin ability: smell evil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
355 â Dust in the Wind
Ondoher learns that battlefield intelligence is crucial to survival; Alan and Matt learn that bad dad jokes are crucial to this podcast. Join us as King Ondoher closes his eyes, only for a moment, and the momentâs gone, in our second of six episodes on Cirion & Eorl. The Gondorian army remains in column formation too long, the vanguard of the Wainriders does their job almost too well, and an unexpected guest shows up to the battle. We do more word-nerdery, hope nothing happens to Faramir (oops), and offer to beta test Total War: Middle-earth. Also, we mock EĂ€rnur again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
354 â Fight Fire With Northmen
The story of Cirion and Eorl begins with an introduction to the Northmen; the story of Alan and Matt begins with Matt having to pronounce hard words. Join us as the Northmen have nothing to lose âcause itâs already lost, as we begin our six-episode sidebar on Cirion and Eorl and the Friendship of Gondor and Rohan â can we just call it Cirion & Eorl? Narmacil II loses badly, the Northmen form the ĂothĂ©od, and the Great Plague sets everyone back a century. We learn that about Tolkienâs trench fever, talk about the importance of rearguard actions, and explain the Undeeps. Also, Alan admits heâs pedantic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
353 â They Shouldâve Known
Gondor and Rohan honestly believed in Saruman, while Alan and Matt arenât sure what to believe anymore. Join The Man of the West and The Nerd of the Rings as we look at all the Kings of Rohan, and Matt gives Alan his new nickname. Sarumanâs gets the keys to his new place, Aldor the Old is what it says on the tin, and no one has anything good to say about Fengel. We start with a review of the new film, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, wish we could pronounce Old English, and wonder if kings should choose more peaceful hobbies. Also, we talk about Tolkien and AI (no AI used in the generation of this blurb). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
352 â White Horse
FelarĂłf pays Eorl back by surrendering his freedom, while Matt pays Alan back with poetic body shaming. Join The Man of the West and The Nerd of the Rings as we meet the first King of the Mark, and flashback to his naming of FelarĂłf, in our first of two episodes on Appendix A II - The House of Eorl. Fram kills Scatha, but earns the enmity of the Dwarves; Helm proves heâs the original One-Punch Man; and Wulfâs time as King of the Mark is short-lived. We discover a creepy poem about Scatha, make future predictions from the past, and come up with a disturbing origin story for Santa Claus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
351 â Questions After Nightfall 29
Join The Man of the West and The Nerd of the Rings as we answer listener questions once again in our 29th Questions After Nightfall! From NazgĂ»l backstories to chess in Middle-earth, from fantastic Middle-earth insults to the meaning of âcrownlessâ, our listeners once again challenge us with unexpected questions. Alan helps Matt with some music history, while Matt admits weâre clueless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
350 â Wanted Dead Or Alive
The Stewardship of Gondor became hereditary as a kingship; should the PPP co-hosts follow suit? Join The Man of the West and The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy on his last episode this season as the Stewards of Gondor harden their hearts against the return of a king, any king. Cirion looks for an answer, and decides to phone a friend; the Stewards keep Gondor the same, only the names will change; and Thorongil has good advice for Ecthelion. Alan finds another excuse to read Quenya, while Don looks for his copy of Parmesan Eggplant #17, and we realize we donât use âbereftâ enough. Also, Mount Doom has a funny start button. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
349 â Iâll Be There For You
The Wainriders strike Gondor, leaving them without a king for a time, while Donâs old jokes leave Alan to cry a thousand rivers. Join The Man of the West and the Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy as the arrival of the Wainriders triggers a series of Unfortunate Events. EĂ€rnil saves the day for Gondor, but not for Arthedain, Malbeth has some important words, and Glorfindel could afford to be more specific. We observe that if you knock Gondor down then it gets up again, note a little passive-aggressive âper my last emailâ tone from the Council of Gondor, and make our own Rings of Power prophecy. Also, is Don even old enough to go to a pub? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
348 â You Give Love a Bad Name
The waning of Gondor had already begun in Atanatarâs day; letâs hope Don brings better luck for the PPP. Join us as Gondor reaches the summit of its power in the first of two episodes on the Gondor and the Heirs of AnĂĄrion in Appendix A. Lazy kings and racist Gondorians lead to a civil war, Eldacar is shot through the heart and Castamirâs to blame, and the greatest evil is yet to come. We talk about poetry, war crimes, and all things Goth(ic). Also, we wonder what drives a king to marry a nefarious, solitary and loveless cat-lady. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
347 â Livinâ On a Prayer
Arvedui offers the Lossoth jewels they donât want; Alan and Don offer bad puns you donât want. Join us as evil comes to Arnor as we continue our time in Appendix A, this time on Arnor and the Heirs of Isildur. Rhudaur goes bad, the Barrow-downs get new residents, and Arvedui finds heâs not even halfway there. We speculate on the reason for Arnorâs breakup, challenge listeners to draw a map with a crayon while blindfolded, and brook no dissent about our praise for CĂrdan. Also, Don gets Rhudaur in the podcast split. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
346 â Already Gone
Tolkien gives us 3400 years of NĂșmenĂłrean history in just a few pages; Alan and Don make those few pages *feel* like a 3400-year long episode. Join The Man of the West and The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts guy as we walk through the line of Kings and Queens of NĂșmenor in our second episode on Appendix A I (i) on NĂșmenor. We wonder what would have happened if SilmariĂ«n had become the first Ruling Queen, talk about agnatic primogeniture again, and watch as Kings of NĂșmenor come up with âvery bad ideasââą. Also, Sara joins Alan to chat with the translator of the Welsh edition of The Hobbit, Tar-Atanamir says âhold my beerâ, and Alan gives some very depressing advice about mortality. Get 15% off your next gift at UNCOMMONGOODS.COM/PONY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
345 â Take It Easy
Shall I describe it to you, or would you like Alan and Don to find you a map? Join The Man of the West and The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts guy as Tolkien introduces us to his island paradise in the what-it-says-on-the-tin chapter, A Description of the Island of NĂșmenor, from Unfinished Tales! We have fun with Quenya pronunciations, decide that itâs best not to build the Meneltarma Visitor Center after all, and speculate that EldalondĂ« the Green smelled like a smoothie shop. Also, we stumble upon a great name for a rock band, make a joke about the⊠larch, and wisely choose not to laugh at dancing bears. Get 15% off your next gift at UNCOMMONGOODS.COM/PONY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
344 â Life in the Fast Lane
Tolkien regrets the âtruncated and compressed formâ of the Appendices to The Lord of the Rings, while Alan and Don regret the truncated and compressed form of this episode! Join The Man of the West and The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts guy as Tolkien gives us the fastest version of The Silmarillion ever in our first episode on the Annals of the Kings and Rulers. We beat the FĂ«anor piñata, visit the Hotel Thangorodrim and watch the Edain follow the second star to the right and straight on 'til morning to reach their new land. Also starring: grim grinning door handles and the avoided-for-that-cometh-anyway. Get 15% off your next gift at UNCOMMONGOODS.COM/PONY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
343 â Questions After Nightfall 28
Join The Man of the West and The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy as we answer listener questions in our 28th Questions After Nightfall episode! From the negative buoyancy of hobbits to how long the wait is for a new Elf body, from Elves in HDR to SilmariĂ«n and the laws of agnatic primogeniture (which still confuse Don), our listeners pose challenging and unexpected questions. Alan blows Donâs mind yet again, while Don reveals his Middle-earth power rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
342 â Paperback Writer
Sam answers all of Elanorâs questions, as Alan tries to dodge most of Donâs questions. Join The Man of the West and the Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy, as we look at what was almost Tolkienâs post-credit bonus scene. Samwise gets writerâs block, Elanor longs for the old days, and Rose remembers a moment of unexplained joy. We discuss whether Merry was Samâs ghost-writer, agree that one must stop somewhere, and look for our letter from the King. Also, Don leans into the mediocrity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
341 â Everyday I Write the Book
Well, weâre back. Join The Man of the West and Don Marshall, the Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy, as we begin Season 9 of The Prancing Pony Podcast with a deep dive into the first version of the Epilogue to The Lord of the Rings. We chat about elanor the flower and Elanor the young hobbit-lass, wonder when a prophecy isnât a prophecy, and get a few answers about Legolas, Gimli, and the rest. Also, we discover Ents are Alan's kinda people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
340 â Since Youâre Gone
Bilbo wakes up from his nap just in time to pass the Old Took; Alan and Shawn wake up from our nap just in time to pass the two-hour mark. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as Sam finally figures out where Frodo is going in the last of our three episodes on The Grey Havens - and the final episode of our six-season journey through The Lord of the Rings. Gildor makes an appearance; Frodo makes a sacrifice; Sam makes the long journey home in silence (where the nights are gettinâ strange since heâs gone). We fanboy over CĂrdan, discover there was room for Shadowfax, and talk about a most Anglo-Saxon ending. Also, Bilbo and Frodo have words for Celebrimbor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
339 â Youâre the Girl
Rosie is the girl that keeps Sam up at night, so they get married; we are the podcast hosts that keep you up at night - all we ask from you is to subscribe. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as anniversaries become dark days for Frodo in the second of our three episodes on The Grey Havens. Frodo suggests Sam and Rosie move in to Bag End with him; Merry and Pippin cut a great dash in the Shire; Sam receives a large book and a mandate to complete it. We suggest a new small business opportunity for Merry and Pippin, wonder precisely how Widow Rumble is looking after the Gaffer, and speculate about Arwenâs QR code. Also: no, you shouldnât name your child Frodito, no matter what Shawn suggests. From our intro, here is the link to the 2009 fan film The Hunt for Gollum, directed by our guest Chris Bouchard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H09xnhlCQU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
338 â Good Times Roll
Spring surpassed Samâs wildest hopes; Alan and Shawn are content just avoiding disappointment. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as the hobbits let the good times roll while rebuilding the Shire in the first of three episodes on The Grey Havens. Lobelia Sackville-Baggins finds redemption and popularity; the Gaffer shouts random proverbs as he moves into his new digs; and it turns out that every grain is sacred, every grain is good. We speculate about Sandymanâs future, feel sorry for the kids of Shire Reckoning 1419, and unanimously declare Rosie Cotton the Shire MVP. Also, Alan buys a copy of Fredegar Bolgerâs new book, The Lockholes Diet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
337 â Magic
Merry tells Sandyman that he is âdirty and insolentâ, and the obvious jokes about your podcast hosts write themselves. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark for one of the saddest hours in our heroesâ lives in the last of our five episodes on The Scouring of the Shire. Samâs heart is broken by the devastation in his hometown, the hobbits are met by a surprise visitor (thereâs magic in his eyes), and Wormtongue has finally had enough. We weep with Sam over the loss of the Party Tree, marvel at the mercy of Frodo towards Sharkey, and waffle on our opinion about Wormtongueâs possible diet. Also, Alan and Shawn concede to being monoglot clowns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
336 â Letâs Go
The Gaffer hopes that Samâs behaved hisself and given satisfaction; we hope weâve done the same for you. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as the ruffians hack, burn, and ruin everything they touch in the fourth of five episodes on The Scouring of the Shire. Flashbacks tell us about Lothoâs âbusiness dealingsâ, as well as his motherâs fierce umbrella-wielding skills (donât want to hold her down); the Gaffer misses his taters; and Merry has the high ground, Anakin. We wonder if Lotho should have invested in skin care instead, discuss the importance of battlefield intelligence, and lobby for a promotion for Merry. Also, we wonder whatâs so bad about biscuits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
335 â Just What I Needed
The voice is right, and your face is no worse than it was, Sam. Also true for Alan and Shawn. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as our hobbit heroes are just what the Shire needs in the third of our five episodes on The Scouring of the Shire. Sam gets a bit tongue-tied; Farmer Exposition, uh Cotton, acts as bait; and the big ruffian makes a fatal mistake. We watch Sam adore Rosie (itâs not the ribbons in her hair), conclude that the ruffians havenât read the Prologue, and learn how the Gaffer has been getting along. Also, we have no truck with Lotho. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
334 â Shake It Up
It is rather a comic cavalcade that hosts this episode, but at least weâre not under arrest. Yet. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as Frodo and friends drive the two-feather Shirriff to exhaustion in the second of our five episodes on The Scouring of the Shire. The hobbits donât let nothinâ get in the way as they deliver bad news to a ruffian, threaten to skewer him, and run him out of town. We discuss Frodoâs apparent pacifism, admire Tolkienâs love for trees, and meet the new boss: same as the old boss. Also, our resident cock-a-whoop swaggers it in a Philology Faire you never knew you needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
333 â Triple Nelson: The PPP Turns 333
Itâs time for yet another party of special magnificence as The Prancing Pony Podcast releases its third highlight episode: itâs almost time for our vinyl box set and reunion tour. Join The Man of the West and The Lord of the Mark as they play listener-selected moments from the last eleventy-one episodes! From our visit to the butt store to the Witch-kingâs visit to Minas Tirith, we review the funniest clips and the most dramatic readings. Despite the episode title, we still know nothing about cricket. Also, Darth Gollum finds your lack of fish disturbing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
332 â Hello Again
No admittance between sundown and sunrise; except for Shawn, he can come and go as he pleases. Join The Man of the West as he welcomes back The Lord of the Mark as Frodo and friends return to a much-changed Shire in the first of five episodes on The Scouring of the Shire. Merry calls out a fellow Bucklander, Sam recognizes an old friend, and the hobbits are taken downtown for mug shots. We watch as Bill Ferny leaves the scene without a trace, complain about high taxes, and redraw Tolkienâs map of the Shire. Also, Shawn apparently has a cop story to tell us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
331 â Questions After Nightfall 27
Tom talks in trochaic tetrameter today, triggering a trend. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South in his last episode (this season) as we answer listener questions in our 27th Questions After Nightfall! From popular misconceptions about Tolkien to keeping Gandalf on-task, from the nature of hope to the nature of Gothmog, our listeners pose questions â often in limerick form! Alan looks for any excuse to read Quenya, and we decide Norman Fell would have made a good Gildor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
330 â And Hereâs To You, Master Barliman
Dark shapes and dreadful things are terrifying Barliman; James and Alan will try not to make it any worse. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as the hobbits conclude their visit to Bree in the final episode on Homeward Bound. Barliman is deeply confused about this whole king thing, the hobbits wonder exactly what Barliman means by âfunny goings onâ, and Gandalf makes it clear the Shire isnât his circus and the hobbits arenât his monkeys. We discuss land-use plans near Bree, and wonder if we should invest in real estate nearby. Also, The Lord of the Mark joins for a Philology Faire â Italy called and wants to talk to him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
329 â Hello Pony, My Old Friend
Not all wounds can be healed, and not all episode descriptions can be clever. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we accompany Gandalf and the hobbits on their journey home from Rivendell in the first of our two episodes on Homeward Bound. Frodo provides an accounting of his wounds, Nobâs grammar skills nearly cause a tragedy, and Barliman puts on a brave (albeit talkative) face. We wonder if Erestor gets migraines, discover James is descended from Bill Ferny, and decide to write Barliman and Ioreth fanfic. Also, never ask a valet to park your Bugatti. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
328 â Alive and Kicking
Wormtongue wishes he could leave Saruman; James is stuck with Alan for a few more episodes: make of that what you will. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as we get to Rivendell in time for a party in the last of our three episodes on Many Partings. Saruman offers some parting words to the hobbits; the Keepers of the Rings offer total silence; Bilbo offers gifts heâs already given. We note that GrĂma and Zathras have something in common, discuss the items for sale on Middle-earth eBay, and agree wholeheartedly with Bilbo about packing. Also, James does a pretty good Aussie accent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
327 â Promised You a Miracle
Legolas is at a loss for words after visiting Aglarond with Gimli; Alan is at a loss for words after⊠well, never, really. Join The Man of the West and The Sage of the South as The Fellowship of the Ring head out on their farewell tour in our second of three episodes on Many Partings. Treebeard speaks his mind about orcs, gives excuses about Saruman, and offers Merry & Pippin just one more drink. Our simple minds speculate about poetry, revisit Gimliâs rizz, and wonder if Thranduil and Treebeard went to the same school for jailers. Also, one manâs treasure is our confusion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
326 â Donât You (Forget About Me)
Gimli offers to speedily fetch his axe, while James offers to speedily fetch his microphone. Join The Man of the West in welcoming back The Sage of the South as ThĂ©oden is laid to rest in our first of three episodes on Many Partings. Arwen offers Frodo a lovely parting gift, Aragorn gifts the Grey Wood to the DrĂșadan, and two kings struggle with gift ideas. We talk about Ăomer & Gimliâs deathmatch, wonder how you can give away what youâve already lost, and discover two long lost names for Frodo & Sam. Also, we all need to use plenipotentiary a lot more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
325 â When Love Comes to Town
The reign of Aragorn Elessar begins, as the reign of Sara ends - quite possibly with her sailing off on a ship filled with cats. Join The Man of the West and the Shield-maiden of Rohan as Gandalf and the new king go mountain-climbing in our last episode on The Steward and the King. Frodo tries to be patient, Aragorn looks for a sign, and Arwen arrives with an entourage. We reconcile questionable timelines, and do the math to figure out how tall Mindolluin might be. Shawn joins Alan for a Philology Faire on ye utĂșvienyes â which apparently means, âDid you know I broke my toe when I kicked that helmet?â Also, Sara considers making apple crumble⊠from the fruit of the White Tree. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
324 â A Sort of Homecoming
Itâs the moment weâve all been waiting for: The Return of⊠Ioreth. Join The Man of the West and The Shield-maiden of Rohan as Faramir tenders his resignation in our third episode on The Steward and the King. Ioreth educates her kinswoman, Faramir uses his Ask the Audience lifeline, and Aragorn gives Beregond a fright. We wonder why Dol Amroth harpers are the most skillful, agree that ânever accept single combat with the Witch-kingâ is good advice, and relish some more beautiful Quenya. Also, we observe the difference between the Rod of the Stewards and Rod Stewart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
323 â Tolkien Reading Day 2024
Put your own priorities aside and get ready to do the hard thing as you join us for the PPPâs ninth annual celebration of Tolkien Reading Day, observed every March 25 in honor of the destruction of the Ring and the fall of Barad-dĂ»r. This yearâs theme, as chosen by the Tolkien Society, is Service and Sacrifice â and wow, there are lots of great passages to choose from! The Man of the West and The Shield-maiden of Rohan join forces to highlight this powerful theme seen throughout Tolkienâs writing: from Ăowyn and her frustration with âdutyâ, to the obvious HĂșrin moment; from Galadrielâs diminished joy, to a wet bicycle ride. Plus, Amandilâs private island is now head canon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
322 â Questions After Nightfall 26
The Man of the West welcomes people who fanboy⊠about Sara, the Shield-maiden of Rohan, as we answer listener questions in our 26th Questions After Nightfall! From Dr. Brownâs TED talk to Alanâs improving sarcasm, from creation mythologies to the frat bros of the Valar, our listeners remind us we can always go lower. Alan guesses wrong, we apply the Prime Directive to the Valar, and decide that we donât talk about TĂșrin, no no no. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
321 â Something to Talk About
Ăowyn is afraid that Darkness Unescapable is coming; Sara is afraid that Dad-Jokes Unescapable are coming. Join The Man of the West and the Shield-maiden of Rohan to find out which fear is most justified â as if you didnât already know. Ăowyn wears a pretty cloak, Faramir (i.e., Tolkien) shares his Atlantis dream, and the Eagles sing an encore. We watch as Ăowyn finally swipes right on Faramir, agree that Aragorn is too old for her anyway, and decide that all men should be like Faramir. Also, itâs going to be a bright, bright, sunshiny day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
320 â Love Sneakinâ Up On You
The women can tell Ăowyn nothing; thatâs only because Sara wasnât there. Join Alan and Sara as Ăowyn seeks to avoid yet another cage in our first episode on The Steward and the King. The Warden canât envision a warrior-healer, Ăowyn canât endure five more minutes in this place, and Faramir canât imagine another day without her. We talk about restraining orders in Rohan, reject Saraâs suggestion for a new segment (âMeanwhile, in Alan Knows Betterâ), and speculate about Ăowyn and Boromir. Also, if you canât be with the one you love, love the one youâre with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
319 â Big Damn Heroes, Sir
The minstrelâs voice rises like silver and gold, and all men were hushed; except for The Man of the West who just wonât stop talking. Join Alan and Sara as we find a golden ring that canât be melted in our second episode on The Field of Cormallen. Frodo and Sam have done the impossible, and that makes them mighty; Aragorn is humble; and Pippin is⊠well, Pippin. We talk about this being the eucatastrophe, peer into Legolasâ future, and listen to the best song youâll never hear. Also, Alan butchers some Old English. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
318 â Burn the Land and Boil the Sea
The Realm of Sauron is ended, and the realm of Sara has begun. Join The Man of the West as he welcomes back Dr. Sara Brown as we visit the vulcanology lab once more in our first episode on The Field of Cormallen. Sam wonât let Frodo quit just yet, The Host of the West prepares for their imminent demise, and the Eagles play one more show at the Morannon. We talk about virtuous pagans, look for our invites to Gandalfâs retirement party, and compare Thorondor to an Airbus. Also, Sara sets herself up for singing disappointment. (CW: discussion of Denethorâs suicide.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
317 â Curse Your Sudden But Inevitable Betrayal
Mount Doom threatens to burn the land and boil the sea; Matt threatens more âwhere thereâs a whipâ references. Join us as weâre joined by Tom Hillman to talk about his book Pity, Power, and Tolkienâs Ring just in time for said ring to be destroyed in our final episode on the chapter Mount Doom. Sam finally feels pity for Gollum, the Phial of Galadrielâs batteries die, and Frodo thinks he has a better idea for the Ring after all. We discuss the many alternate endings that Tolkien envisioned here, speculate about how quickly the NazgĂ»l could arrive, and confirm that Santa Claus is EĂ€rendil. Also, Matt coins a new word which is really just an old word. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
316 â I Swear By My Pretty Wheel of Fire, I Will End You
Frodo understands that when you canât crawl, you find someone to carry you; Matt understands that when you canât get a reference, you find someone to explain it to you. Join us as we offer a brief lesson on vulcanology in our third episode on the chapter Mount Doom. Frodo crawls towards a road, Sam wonders how it got there, and an old friend drops by to say âWicked massterâ. We talk about talking objects, put skill points in Domination, and debate at length about the height of Barad-dĂ»r. Also, where thereâs a whip, knock it off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
315 â Sometimes A Thing Gets Broke, Canât Be Fixed
Sam naively offers to âshare the loadâ with Frodo, while Matt naively offers to do a few more episodes of the podcast. Join us as Sam goes full Marie Kondo for the last steps of their journey in the chapter Mount Doom. We remember the Host of the West, Sam remembers the oliphaunt, while Frodo is naked in the dark, unable to remember much of anything. We observe that when you canât run, you crawl; and we speculate about Gollumâs possible post-Ring life. Also, our new favorite hobbit name is Nick Bowman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
314 â Everybody Dies Alone
Sam decides to trust to luck again, while Alan and Matt decide to back the GrĂshnakh-UglĂșk 2024 ticket. Join us in examining the virtue of cloaks as we begin the chapter Mount Doom. Sam considers the difficulty of the route, evaluates the remaining supplies, and carries on an inner dialogue about Bywater and Rosie Cotton. We learn what Tolkien thought about scientification, look for an excuse to read Ăowyn dialogue, and admit weâre going to receive emails from football fans. Also, Matt denies making an old joke, and probably misses another Firefly reference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
313 â Breakfast in Mordor
Sam suggests that Frodo and he should trust to luck, while Alan and Matt suggest they might want to reconsider. Join us as we spot that stinking villain â no, not FĂ«anor â sniffing around Frodo, as we wrap up the chapter on The Land of Shadow. Sam gives until it hurts, Frodo falls asleep, and they somehow find themselves participating in the 10k Run to Mordor despite their not having paid an entry fee. We observe that even the big orcs like to file reports almost as much as they like to whip small orcs. Also, Matt completely abandons Alan when singing Where Thereâs a Whip, Thereâs a Way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
312 â Take the Long Way âRound
Two orcs engage in a spirited debate about Gollum, while two other orcs engage in a spirited debate about⊠oh, who am I kidding? Alan and Matt never debate. Join us as we discover that orcs prefer tattling on their peers rather than just killing them, as we keep moving deeper into The Land of Shadow. A tracker orc fails to track two very nearby hobbits, a soldier orc fails to shoot Gollum, and Sam fails to remember all those dead orcs in the Tower. We speculate about how Sam might tell his own story, and talk about the Eye of Sauron. Also, Matt is too young to recognize a reference to The Who. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
311 â When All the Worldâs Asleep
Sam insists on drinking first to protect Frodo, while Alan and Matt ruin any chance they have at a couple of bottled water sponsors. Join us for our discovery that Mordor is only mostly dead, as we continue our long and unpleasant way north in The Land of Shadow. We take a closer look at the geography of Mount Doom, while Frodo and Sam take a closer look at the extent of Sauronâs branding efforts. We linger on the highlight of Sam being given hope by the appearance of EĂ€rendil, while no appearance of the famous mariner is complete without a brief visit from The Lord of the Mark himself. Also, donât tell OromĂ« that Matt thinks heâs a diet Ulmo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
310 â Give a Little Bit (of Your Cloak to Me)
Frodo and Sam get out of the predicament in the Tower only to have to head further into Mordor, as Alan and Matt get out of their QAN predicament only to have to⊠well, do this. Join us as Sam exaggerates the lengths of thorns while we begin our four-part walk through The Land of Shadow. NazgĂ»l cries just donât hold the same terror anymore, Shagrat is not delivering water despite Samâs professed interest, and we spend way too much time talking about the wind. Also, we laugh at the Rankin-Bass RotK Witch-king. Again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
309 â Questions After Nightfall 25
Weâre known for our short and concise answers, says The Nerd of the Rings, as he joins The Man of the West just in time to answer listener questions on our 25th Questions After Nightfall! From Ainur bowling leagues to light bulb moments, from Farmer Maggot to our favorite head canon, our listeners keep us on our toes. Matt whiffs on a Firefly reference, and we agree that the Valar are less murdery than most pantheons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
308 â Boy, Youâre Gonna Carry That Weight
Frodo declines to acquiesce to Samâs request to share the burden of the Ring⊠means ânoâ. Join Alan and Don as Sam becomes Frodoâs personal shopper in the worst clearance sale ever in our final episode on The Tower of Cirith Ungol. Sam forgives Frodo for his Ring-induced thievery allegation; we discuss the origin of orcs (again!); and the Watchers canât stop Frodo and Sam. Also, The Lord of the Mark returns to speculate on Tolkienâs favorite Indiana Jones film. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
307 â I Want to Hold Your Hand
In the middle of his darkest moment, Sam sings; in the middle of this episode, Don and Alan sing. One of these two was a good decision. Join Alan and Don as Sam longs for Frodo, and refuses to say goodbye to the Stars in our third episode on The Tower of Cirith Ungol. Snaga loses a hand and rolls a natural 1; Sam finally finds his beloved Frodo; and Frodo is convinced the Quest is over. Also, Don offers questionable bear advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
306 â We Canât Work it Out
Sam finds a way past the Watchers to rescue Frodo, as Don finds a way past Alanâs bad jokes to rescue the episode. Join Alan and Don as Sam continues his search for Frodo in a place absolutely filled with Orcs in our second episode on The Tower of Cirith Ungol. Sam is relieved to find nearly all of the Orcs are dead; we discuss the nature and origin of those creepy Watchers; and Shagrat ends Gorbagâs singing career. Also, Snaga will be presenting a TED Talk on cooperation in the C-suite. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
305 â All You Need is Love
Sam hesitantly takes what he sees as an irrevocable step down into Mordor; Don Marshall hesitantly agrees to do one more chapter with The Man of the West. Jon Alan and Don as Sam forgets his peril and bravely ventures into Mordor to rescue Frodo as we begin Book Six with The Tower of Cirith Ungol. Sam gets his first glimpse at Mount Doom; resists the temptation to become Samwise the Strong, Hero of the Age; and finally descends into Mordor. Finally, get out your shocked face as Don makes Alan feel old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
304 â Not Your Father's Hobbit
Frodo has been a prisoner of the Orcs for more than a year in podcast time, but whatâs another episode between friends? Before Alan and Don Marshall start our read through of Book VI of The Lord of the Rings, we take a look back at the previous books as we discuss the themes and events of the story so far - maybe with a special eye towards Frodo and Sam, who weâll spend a great deal of time with during the first half of this season. We discuss the composition of Book VI, thankful that Bingo is no longer Frodoâs name-oh. Also, what would Tolkien do with a Google Drive? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
303 â Questions After Nightfall 24
The FĂ«anor piñata takes some more hits as The Man of the West welcomes Don Marshall, the Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy, to the Prancing Pony Podcast just in time to answer some really obscure questions! From Naryaâs chain-of-custody to Goldberry growing tired of trochaic tetrameter, our listeners do their best to trip us up. Alan gets choked up over a HĂșrin passage - surprise - and we agree that this Tolkien fellow is pretty good at writing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
302 â Live at Oxonmoot 50!
Join both The Man of the West and the Lord of the Mark as they celebrate the release of their new book by recording a LIVE episode at The Tolkien Societyâs 50th Oxonmoot in Oxford! Guests include Kristine Larsen, John Rateliff, Brian Sibley⊠and 135 of our closest friends!Recommended Reading: include Letters from FC, Fall of NĂșmenor, and The History of the Hobbit, along with our own book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
301 â A Little Bit Me, A Little⊠Nah, itâs All You
Sauron smells a trap, and sends his lieutenant to open the door and see whoâs there; Matt smells a sidebar, and sends Alan to find out more. Join us as the Mouth of Sauron says too much, but doesnât lose his head, as we conclude The Black Gate Opens â and Season 7 of the PPP! We meet perhaps the scariest steed ever to walk the earth, discuss the absurdity of killing ambassadors, and decide we know how about how old the Mouth of Sauron is. Matt wants to read the edited Letters of Alan and Shawn; Alan just wants to see a bear on a hell-steed; both of us want to see White Horse and Silver Swan in concert. Finally, we realize just what a terrible cliffhanger Tolkien can write. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
300 â Another Unpleasant Valley Sunday
Some of Aragornâs followers are told how they might âkeep what honor you mayâ; The Nerd of the Rings returns to the Common Room to keep what honor HE may. Join Matt and Alan as Aragorn heads out to knock on the door of the scariest house on the block as we begin The Black Gate Opens. Merry stays behind to heal as Pippin goes with Beregond to follow Aragorn to almost-certain doom; the army wisely avoids Minas Morgul; and Aragornâs mercy rules the fate of many. Finally, The Lord of the Mark returns as we visit with Tom Hillman about his new book, and Alan confuses guerrillas with gorillas. Maybe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
299 â Not a Trace of Hope in My Mind
Gimli says heâs near the end of their tale; Alan and Shaun arenât convinced. Join us as we discuss how hard it is to look at your watch when youâre in battle, as we complete The Last Monolog⊠er, Debate. The Lords of the West conclude they have only a choice of evils; long-term weather forecasting isnât a thing in Middle-earth; and counting to 7,000 seems pointless. Shaun explains how palantĂri are like social media algorithms, while The Lord of the Mark returns to explain why the guy in the van is smoking a cigarette and eating cheese. Finally, not all unsheathed swords are a euphemism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
298 â Take the Last Train to Harlond
Legolas and Gimli reunite with Merry and Pippin, telling them stories about the last few days. Shaun Gunner (not Shawn) reunites with Alan, telling him how much he hates seagulls. Join us as we learn just how wrong everybodyâs been about beards as we begin The Last Debate. Legolas and Gimli play SimCity; we read the tragic story of Nimrodel and Amroth; and discover just how differently we feel about seagulls than Legolas. We argue about who âthe eldest of our raceâ is (hint: itâs not Alan after all), and discuss whether men are more like cockroaches or rats. Finally, a tepid pile of code appears in the mailbag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
297 â Questions After Nightfall 23
Join Alan and Sara, as we send Sara back to more civilized realms by joining some of our listeners in the Common Room for our latest Q&A episode. We rely on our shelves and our brains - because the latter alone would make for a short episode - as we answer questions about Amazonâs plans for a LotR MMO, why Legolas was sent with the Company when they had a perfectly good Glorfindel available, and why Gil-galad didnât just phone home for some help. We work out a collective noun for a group of balrogs (and a group of FĂ«anors), examine Saraâs head canon - though not too closely - and wonder just how badly Aragorn beat up Gollum. Finally, Alan is promoted to head coach of Thorin & Coâs basketball team and needs to make a roster, while Sara tries to make the most of Ancient Sumerian. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
296 â A Farewell to Kings (For Now)
Hobbits use light words and fear to say too much; we use light words and clearly donât fear saying too much. Join Alan and Sara, and the many fragrances of athelas, as we conclude our visit to The Houses of Healing. Ăowyn gets a delivery of brand-new air, while Merry gets a bunch of bees; Aragorn reveals his sarcastic humor, prompting Merry to get a little philosophical; Imrahil seems to have been forgotten. Also: Sara offers apologies to beige-lovers, compares Aragorn to cake, and sings. Finally, a piece of advice: donât fight your nature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
295 â Itâs Good to Be King
It turns out Aragorn has a LOT of names; itâs good that none of them are Herbert or Alan and Sara would argue about the leading âhâ for (h)ours. Join us as Gandalf threatens to show Ioreth the meaning of haste in the second of three episodes on The Houses of Healing. Imrahil wonders why Aragorn has such a vulgar name, but itâs just one of a dozen; Iorethâs boss is just as verbose as she is, but with a sprinkle of mansplaining; and we get the first of three powerful healing scenes as Faramir wakes up to meet his new boss. Also: Gandalf runs out of spoons, Sara rolls her eyes, and Christopher Tolkien makes jokes about his fatherâs handwriting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
294 â King of Pain (Relief)
Merry and Pippin meet again after Merryâs agelong ascent; Alan and Dr. Sara Brown meet again after Alan climbs some stairs - nowhere near as dramatic. Join us as everyoneâs favorite old woman (not named Dennis) talks about plants as we begin our visit to The Houses of Healing. Merry wonders exactly where Pippin plans to take him; ThĂ©oden lies in state; and Ăowyn is only mostly dead. We learn that Sara was given books to keep her quiet, and that she digresses like a pro. Finally, Aragorn really knows how to make an entrance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
293 â Weâve Got to Have Some Bears In Here: An Interview with Brian Sibley
Alan and KnewBetta roll out the red carpet â and put away the Hawaiian shirts â for Brian Sibleyâs return to the Common Room! A prolific and talented writer, Brian is the force behind some of the most beloved adaptations of Tolkienâs work, including the BBC radio adaptations of The Lord of the Rings and Tales from the Perilous Realm, but weâre here to talk with him today about his Tolkien Society-award winning book, The Fall of NĂșmenor. Bronze dragons, dancing bears, book destruction, and Pauline Baynesâ owls all make an appearance, along with Alanâs alleged sartorial brilliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
292 â (Goodness, Gracious) Great Ball of Fire
Youâve heard of âquiet quittingâ, right? Well, Denethor clearly wants nothing to do with such a trend. Join Alan and KnewBetta as the steward resigns his position quite loudly indeed, in the second of two episodes on The Pyre of Denethor. Gandalf wants to rule the world; Denethor and logic have parted ways; and, letâs be honest, Pippin would make a terrible spy. We learn a few things about KnewBetta: he got in trouble on purpose to read Tolkien, questions Uinenâs fidelity, and just might be the Witch-king (or wishes he was). We speculate on the what-if of Denethorâs survival, and compare Denethor to Usain Bolt. Finally, one more serious content warning as suicide is discussed at length in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
291 â Whole Lotta Heathen Goinâ On
Authority is given to you, listener of The Prancing Pony Podcast, to order the hour of your listening! Join Alan and KnewBettaDoBetta as Beregond saves the day, and Faramir, in our first episode on The Pyre of Denethor. Pippin explains â no, there is too much â Pippin sums up the madness of Denethor, leaving Gandalf with an impossible decision; Imrahil is that guy; and Denethor takes his ball and goes home. The Tolkien Professor joins us to discuss a book 18 years in the making, and Alan invites KnewBetta back even after their Gandalf v. The Witch-king debate. On a serious note, this episode comes with a content warning: suicide is discussed at length. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
290 â Beautiful Day
Ăomer forms a final shield-wall and thinks of songs that will never be sung; Alan and Shawn offer to gladly butcher, uh, sing those songs. Join us as the appearance of black sails thrills the forces of Sauron right up until it doesnât, on the last of our episodes on The Battle of the Pelennor Fields. We cry at the sudden joyous turn, discuss Rohirric aphorisms, and admire Tolkienâs rolled âRâs. We spend way too long on a sidebar about the Elendilmir and say goodbye to Shawn again. Finally, we decide to call the legal specialists at 1-800-OATHS4U to negotiate our way out of Middle-earth oaths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
289 â Stuck In a Moment You Canât Get Out Of
The king is dead, long live the king! Meet was ThĂ©odenâs ending; will meat be Alan and Shawnâs ending? Join us as Ăomer receives an unexpected promotion in our second episode on The Battle of the Pelennor Fields. We learn about Merryâs blade, Ăomerâs fey mood, and Imrahilâs shiny armor, while we speculate if Gandalf mightâve managed a modicum of mighty Maia medical magic. We cry in our bier, discuss elephant pedicures, and talk about dream-team Tolkien adaptations. Finally, Variag revenge is a dish best served cold in Pelennor Trek II: The Wrath of Khand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
288 â Pride (In the Name of Hindering)
The Witch-king arrives on the battlefield; Alan and Shawn also arrive, presumably with less stink. Join us as we finally arrive at the moment that weâve been waiting for for more than seven years as we begin The Battle of the Pelennor Fields! Merry vomits from terror, the Witch-king mansplains the prophecy to Ăowyn, and she stabs him in his invisible face. What do meat that comes in a drum, ManwĂ«âs birthday cake, and Wormtongue in a sequined teddy have in common? We donât know either. Thankfully, weâre also joined once again by Dr. Bret Deveraux who helps us get a handle on the hostilityâs happenings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
287 â Questions After Nightfall 22
It always comes back to Rush, at least when The Lord of the Mark returns! Join Alan, and a few of our listeners, as we celebrate Shawnâs return to the common-room with our latest Q&A episode, this time with more Star Trek than Shawn knows what to do with. We answer questions about scary book scenes, Melkorâs role in the Music, and the real meaning of âNauglamirâ. We speculate about Berenâs presence at the Dagor Bragollach, and what-if our way into a world without EĂ€rendil, much to Shawnâs dismay. Also, we crew our Federation starship with Elves, and agree that EĂ€rendil is the Ford Prefect of the legendarium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
286 â Sometimes You Canât Make It On Your Own
Now is the hour come⊠for us to read one of our favorite passages in all of The Lord of the Rings! Need brooks no delay, so join Alan and Marcel now as the time has come for ThĂ©oden and Rohan to ride to the rescue of Minas Tirith in the second half of The Ride of the Rohirrim! The wind is changing for the better, ThĂ©oden gives the best pre-game speech, and we talk about the ânoble savageâ trope as best we can. Alan interviews Marcel, whoâs been talking Tolkien on the internet for a very long time indeed. And Alan gamely tries to read part of the VöluspĂĄ - in Old Norse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
285 â In GhĂąnâs Country
Merryâs obsession with luggage continues, as Alan and Marcel discuss whether he should be put in the overhead compartment or checked at the counter. Join us as we are introduced to one of the more unique characters in Middle-earth in todayâs episode, as we begin The Ride of the Rohirrim! Merry misses Pippin and Dernhelmâs no help, Ăomer asks a stupid question, and ThĂ©oden gets some local directions. The Lord of the Mark returns for another Philology Faire, as Saeros is asked the Middle-earth equivalent of âYou mad, bro?â Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
284 â Tolkien Reading Day 2023
Pack your bags and renew your passports as you join us for the PPPâs eighth annual celebration of Tolkien Reading Day, observed every March 25 in honor of the destruction of the Ring and the fall of Barad-dĂ»r. This yearâs theme, as chosen by the Tolkien Society, is Travel and Adventure! Alan and his new co-host Marcel, the Tolkienist, go through some of their favorite Tolkien passages to highlight the theme, from the Great Elven Road Trip to the Fellowshipâs Final Journey. Plus, a correction about Dol Goldur and #ambitiousorc starts trending. Also, there may be singing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
283 â He Wonât Back Down
The forces of Mordor begin their assault on the city of Minas Tirith, as Alan and Matt begin their assault on your patience. Join us as The Heathen Kings of Old open for us in todayâs episode, and we finish The Siege of Gondor! Denethor seeks an end to his despair, Pippin seeks Gandalfâs help, and Grond seeks a door to smash. We are joined one more time by Bret Devereaux, who reminds us that war elephants are âhmmmmm⊠yikes.â We review The Fall of NĂșmenor, say farewell to the Nerd of the Rings, and bring you a very special treat from Jordanâs âA Long-Expected Soundscapeâ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
282 â Runninâ Down a Rout
Imrahil and Gandalf save the day, along with Faramirâs body; who will ride out to save Alan and Matt? Join us as we follow Gandalfâs Magic Flashlightâą, as we near the end of The Siege of Gondor! Gandalf is unveiled, Imrahil has words for Denethor, the Witch-kingâs forces prepare, and Denethor abdicates his role. Once again, we are joined by our favorite pedant and military historian, Bret Deveraux, who teaches us all we could ever want to know about siege warfare (which is a lot). Finally, we spend far too much time working out what Denethor saw in the palantĂr, and what Barad-dĂ»râs HR department is like. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
281 â Donât Come Around Here No More
Faramir goes off to earn his fatherâs grudging admiration, while Alan and Matt continue to work to earn yours. Join us, and all the captains, as we continue The Siege of Gondor! Read along as Pippin pesters patiently, Denethor dissuades diligently, and Faramir flies fatefully. Also, we are joined by special guest Dr. Bret Deveraux, a military historian and author of A Collection of Unmitigated Pedantry, who shines Gandalfâs magic flashlight on our lack of knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
280 â Donât Do Him Like That
Denethor submits his application for Father of the Year, making Alan and Matt feel great about their parenting skills in the process. Join us as we celebrate the seventh anniversary of The Prancing Pony Podcast, and Mattâs first digression as co-host, as we continue The Siege of Gondor! Faramir speaks of Frodoâs peril, Gandalf freaks out a little bit, and we learn that Denethor wasnât always this way. Alan interviews the Nerd of the Rings - conveniently, since heâs already here - and we donât talk about NazgĂ»l no, no. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
279 â You Got Lucky
Pippin is asked to sing by the Steward of Gondor; Alan and his new co-host, Matt from The Nerd of the Rings are begged not to sing by everyone else. Join us as we commiserate with Pippin over the lack of second breakfast, as we begin The Siege of Gondor! Pippin gets to wear silver and black without having to play for the Las Vegas Raiders, Beregond explains the darkening skies, and we talk about pterodactyls - thrilling 8-year old boys everywhere. The Lord of the Mark returns for a Philology Faire once again, while Matt and Alan agree with a listener that FĂ«anor is still a jerk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
278 â The Lion & Unicorn: Another Visit with John Garth
Alan and James welcome John Garth in his return to the Common Room here at The Prancing Pony Podcast! We talk about everything in this one: his landmark work Tolkien and the Great War, his essay in The Great Tales Never End, his talk at the J.R.R. Tolkien: The Art of the Manuscript exhibition, his thoughts on The Fall of NĂșmenor, and more. Bonus bits: A lion and unicorn provide convincing proof, John stops James from snoring, Tolkien falls down the stairs, and the expert misspells a headline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
277 â I Will Follow
Merry is given his pink slip, but refuses to pack up his desk and leave: a security guard by the name of Dernhelm will escort him out. Join Alan and James as we marshal the riders â and Jamesâ humble singing talents â for the concluding episode on The Muster of Rohan! We speculate about the extent of Ăowynâs secret plans, welcome the Professor for a special reading, and point out another of Tolkienâs wonderful spoilers. Alan talks to James about his classes on The History of Middle-earth, and we ever so slightly bash the French. Again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
276 â With or Without You, Rohan
The Red Arrow arrives: do we turn right after coming to a complete stop, or wait? Join Alan and James as we continue The Muster of Rohan (ignoring the Mayonnaise of Rohan, as itâs been left out too long). Ăowyn brings news of Aragorn, ThĂ©oden buries the lede, and Alan likes old drafts. We take a close look at This Week in Tolkien History, and discover that the folk of Harrowdale become extreme introverts when the grim grinning ghosts come out to socialize. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
275 â Whoâs Gonna Ride Your War Horses?
Merryâs not big enough to ride one of the Rohirrimâs steeds, while Alan and his co-host, James Tauber, arenât exactly keen to try. Join us as we ride into Harrowdale with ThĂ©oden to find a host of men - and one determined woman - ready to ride off to war as we start the Muster of Rohan! Merry recognizes some words in slow sonorous speech, ThĂ©oden dismisses his nephewâs advice, and we notice some old statues on the side of the road. The Lord of the Mark returns for a Philology Faire on those old statues, and James and Alan talk about the other condiments of Rohan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
274 â Live from PPP Moot!
Join Alan and Shawn and an all-star panel of guests in an episode recorded live at PPP Moot 2022! Matt from Nerd of the Rings, Luke Shelton from The Tolkien Experience Podcast, and Corey Olsen ,the Tolkien Professor, all join our hosts on stage to talk about their favorite moments from the legendarium that reflect perseverance, boldness, and courage in the face of impossible odds and waning strength. Or, as we finally decided to call it, âincredible stubbornnessâ. âWhat-ifâ scenarios, Viking invasions, and a mithranium sighting â all in this very special live episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
273 â Questions After Nightfall 21
Join Alan and Don, as we send Don back (for now, at any rate) to TikTok, where they apparently need their Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy. But before Luke leaves Vader in charge, itâs time to welcome some of our listeners to join us in the common-room for our latest Q&A episode, now with less perishing! We answer questions about fading in Valinor, the Doors of Night, and Malbethâs first prophecy. We discover that one need not boggle about certain things, and decide that - for the most part - the Vanyar donât have to worry about getting stepped on. Finally, Alan makes a grievous error in agreeing to let Don take him clothes shopping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
272 â Bad Company
They say bad company corrupts good character; weâll leave it to you to decide whether the title refers to the Dead Men of Dunharrow, or your hosts, Alan and Don, as we finish our journey through the Paths of the Dead! We talk about Tolkienâs ability to write genuinely terrifying moments, Alan wonders why the Grey Company didnât bring more torches, and Gimli thinks about raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens â anything to get him through this dark place. Alan letâs Don try his hand at writing an intro sequence, and, finally, the King of the Dead leaves you with this chilling challenge⊠to find a way out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
271 â Feel like Breakinâ Love
Alan has walked this podcast land ere Don was born to grace it â just getting the old jokes out of the way, folks. Join Alan and Don as we listen in on a difficult conversation: Aragorn breaks hard news to Ăowyn; Ăowyn debates and argues, but eventually breaks down in tears; finally, Ăowyn breaks with tradition in her forms of address. Alan chats with Don about TikTok and possibilities for the PPP, and we take a moment to compare Ăowyn with a famous Valkyrie. Finally, we answer a fun question about adaptations! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
270 â Run With the Pack
So much alike are Elladan and Elrohir that few could tell them apart; not so with Alan and his co-host, Don Marshall! Join us as Aragorn breaks hard news to ThĂ©oden, has a moment of foresight about Ăomer, and bids farewell to Merry, who misses Pippinâs unquenchable cheerfulness. The Lord of the Mark returns to bring us a Philology Faire (which might also mean a random Pooh sighting), and we take a close look at Malbeth the Seer. Finally, we learn what a rascal of a rebel dwarf is worth in trade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
269 â Itâs All Part of My Gondorian Fantasy
Here come the jesters, one, two⊠well, two. Alan is joined by Don Marshall, The Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy from TikTok, as we join Aragorn and his friends in Rohan. An hour long prepared approaches, we meet 30 guys that look a lot like Aragorn, and definitely get the message that the days are short. We offer our intro segment to The Tolkien Professor to talk about a book, while Merry offers his sword and service to Théoden. Finally, Alan yada-yada-yadas the Tale of Aragorn and Arwen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
268 â Waiting for the Son
Alan and Shaun finish their time in Minas Tirith waiting for Bergil to decide whether to take Pippinâs lunch money. Hard, bold, and wicked, Pippin canât choose between âPrince of the Halflingsâ and âDevil of a Hobbitâ; Minas Tirith orders its troops from a catalog, and we offer up a sidebar on the Thain of the Shire. We take some time to see whatâs going on with the rest of the Fellowship, and spend a bit of time on WW2 blackouts. Finally, Shaun and Alan agree on something: 29 isnât really old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
267 â This is the End, My Hobbit Friend
Alan and Shaun continue their extended visit to Minas Tirith, spending most of their time with a fellow named Beregond. Pippin asks good questions, the man of Gondor gives good answers, and we give big sidebars on the history of Osgiliath and the origin story of the Corsairs of Umbar. A very special guest (to Alan, at any rate) brings back Questions Before Bedtime, and we debate Aragornâs ability to disguise himself. Finally, we find out what Pippin and the Black Knight have in common. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
266 â People Are Strange When Youâre a Halfling
Shaun Gunner of The Tolkien Society begins his service to the PPP, just as Pippin begins his service to Denethor in what is clearly an unacceptable analogy. Gandalf reminds the Steward what it means to really be a steward, Pippin seeks a little validation for his choice, and we meet a valiant man of Gondor. The Lord of the Mark returns for a tasty, and hilariously inappropriate, Philology Faire, and Pippin enjoys a picnic with a view. Finally, Alan agrees to stop booing the Norman Invasion â eventually. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
265 â Hello, I Loathe You
Alan and Corey tread carefully as they walk with Pippin and Gandalf into the Hall of Kings to meet the Steward. We watch as Denethor plays a rhetorical game with Gandalf, weep as we remember Boromir, and smile as Pippin shocks both old men by offering his sword to the grumpier of the two. More time is spent on the palantĂri, and we say farewell to The Tolkien Professor. Finally, we discuss how âor the world endâ is either an unnecessary redundancy, or a great addition to wedding vows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
264 â Riders on the Storm
Alan and Corey continue their journey towards Minas Tirith, riding with Gandalf and Pippin on the wings of the storm. We study the architecture of the White City, do maths, and begin the inevitable comparisons between Denethor and Théoden - even before we meet the Steward of Gondor. The Lord of the Mark makes the first of his guest appearances - and there was much rejoicing, and questionable jokes. Finally, what does the Tower of Ecthelion have in common with the Swamp Castle? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
263 â Come on Gondor, Light That Fire
Alan and Corey introduce Book Five, and with no time to wallow in the mire, journey with Gandalf and Pippin towards Minas Tirith, as the beacons try to set the night on fire. Pippin is scared of the moon, the beacon fires, and the dragons - especially the dragons. It turns out Strong Bad might just be a hobbit. Oh, and Alan manages to leave Corey speechless, so thereâs a reason to come back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
262 â Questions After Nightfall 20
Alan welcomes The Tolkien Professor himself, Corey Olsen, to the Prancing Pony - just in time for us both to join our listeners in the common-room for our latest Q&A episode! We discuss the choices made by Elrond and Elros, whether the Three Hunters would have made good ultramarathoners, how artwork and film impacts our reading imagination, and much more. Oh, and TĂșrin and Nienor because we can't always be happy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
261 â Drinking the Cup of Farewell
The time has come for Shawn to drink the cup of parting, but not before we take a moment to celebrate his time in the Common Room! We look back on how this thing got started in the first place, talk about some of the amazing guests that have joined us, honor our community of listeners, and commemorate six years of friendship, hard work, learning, and laughter. Alan shares his exciting plans for this season of the PPP (think âall-star co-hostsâ), and Shawn gives an unexpected answer to one last mailbag question. Farewell now, Lord of the Mark! Ride to good fortune, and ride back soon to our welcome! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
260 â Hanging Out with Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan
Real hobbits arrive at the Prancing Pony, as Alan and Shawn welcome Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan (better known as Pippin and Merry) for our season finale! We talk about their time working on Peter Jacksonâs The Lord of the Rings movies, their new podcast The Friendship Onion, and everything in between. They digress along with us on friendship, favorite podcasts, tinned oysters, cowboy hats, and a lot more. All this plus hilarious stories from their many years as friends, and experienced advice for the cast of Amazonâs The Rings of Power series. Warning: some mature language. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
259 â Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)
Sam desperately tries to get through the blocked passage while the Orc captains â oblivious that their eaves are being dropped â continue complaining about their bosses (side note: weâre seriously creeped out by the fact that the NazgĂ»l actually give Orc officers the creeps). But when one of the captains reveals some new information, Sam suddenly realizes that getting to Frodo is more urgent than he thought. All this, plus Orc dialogue delivered with increasingly sore throats, a long sidebar on the moral code of Orcs, and an excerpt from our recent interview on the Rings of Power Wrap-up podcast with dialect coach Leith McPherson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
258 â We Can Be Heroes, Just for One Day
Letting logic guide him rather than emotion, Sam has made up his mind to leave Frodoâs body where it is and take the Ring to Mount Doom all by himself⊠except that he hasnât, and soon the arrival of Orcs in the passage spurs him to go back and protect his fallen master from the defilements of Sauronâs servants or die valiantly in the attempt. We see the Ring find a new bearer, offer word-nerdery on a slightly less vulgar Orc insult, and discuss parallels in this chapter to HĂșrinâs last stand (and Beorhtnothâs). Plus, who really put the words in Samâs mouth to invoke Elbereth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
257 â Thereâs a Star, Man
Samwise returns to where he left Frodo in the pass of Cirith Ungol, only to discover his master already defeated and being dragged away by Shelob. Acting on instinct, Sam leaps into action, armed with his guts, the elven-blade, and the Phial of Galadriel â which proves to be a valuable weapon for bringing actual starlight into the darkness of Shelobâs Lair. We see Sam go through his darkest moment yet, discuss how spiders are not like dragons, and power through lots of talk of spider-stench (and spider droppings, because of course we did). [Trigger Warning: this episode includes discussion of suicide.] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
256 â Questions After Nightfall 19
Alan and Shawn welcome listeners once again to join us in the common-room for our latest Q&A episode! Dwarf-fans rejoice as we answer questions about the Book of Mazarbul, and the other kindreds of the Dwarves besides the Longbeards of Durin. We tackle a few what-if questions such as how Faramir would have fared in the Fellowship instead of his brother, and revisit the Witch-king, the giants of The Hobbit, and more. Also, what positions would each of the Fellowship play on, uh, a different kind of fantasy baseball team? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
255 â She Never Begs, She Knows How to Choose Them
The appearance of the biggest cobwebs heâs ever seen gives Sam some hope that heâs at least dealing with something he understands, and fortunately cutting through them is easy enough with the right tools (such as an ancient Elvish sword from Gondolin). But soon Frodo is wild with (false) hope of his own, and rushes headlong into what Sam knows can only be more danger. We dig deeper into Shelobâs history and her mutual understanding with Sauron, learn how much of an arachnophile Gollum really is, and discuss how the One Ring is â and is not â like a palantĂr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
254 â Sheâs Got (Eight) Legs, She Knows How to Use Them
Frodo and Sam follow Gollum into the tunnel, but theyâre greeted by a stench and a palpable darkness that are far from welcoming. Soon they are lost in a maze in the dark, unsure how long theyâve been there or how to get out⊠and something seems to be watching them with more than the usual number of eyes (and following with more than the usual number of legs). All this, plus medieval ideas on the nature of good and evil revisited, and Alan and Shawn each weigh in on the question of which Middle-earth character their co-host most resembles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
253 â âŠThat Leads to Mordor
The hobbits take a quick rest stop before the last leg of the journey down into Mordor, and in a moment of contemplation, Sam imparts some newfound wisdom about the nature of adventures and the stories that inspire us. But while he recaps the first season of the Prancing Pony Podcast, Gollum slips away unnoticed for some reason that canât be good. All this, plus we consider Frodoâs pity towards Gollum as a parallel to Bilboâs, offer word-nerdery on âmanâ and âhumanâ, and break down Samwise Gamgeeâs biggest mistake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
252 â The Long and Winding StairâŠ
Overcome by despair at the sight of the Witch-kingâs army, Frodo fears that his quest has already failed. But ever-practical Samwise snaps him out of it, and Frodo continues on with determination despite his lack of hope. Gollum leads them up two sets of stairs that are definitely not up to code, and finally to a passage that⊠uh, might not be watched. After cooling off from this cardio session with Middle-earthâs least motivating personal trainer, we investigate Elvish pronunciation â and a Biblical allusion found in the Phial of Galadriel â in Barlimanâs Bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
251 â Donât Stop and Donât Smell the Flowers
When the lights go down near the city of the Ringwraiths, Gollum is anxious to continue east as quickly as possible. Frodo and Sam follow, heedless of the danger â which is all around in this place where even the flowers are twisted and foul, the watchtower inexplicably revolves, and an evil army is about to issue from the gates any minute now. All this, plus weather-nerdery about lightning, nightmare-inducing word-nerdery about charnel houses, and your hostsâ presumptuous ideas for changes to Tolkienâs books and the movies based on them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
250 â In the Sunshine of Your Love
A new day begins, but doesnât quite âdawnâ, and Gollum leads the hobbits down to the cross-roads. They clearly arenât in decent places anymore, with loud noises and orc graffiti keeping them all on edge (not to mention no decent tea house for miles). But a ray of sunshine at the right time and place reminds them that not all hope is lost. We discuss Samâs actual pipe dream and the Gafferâs old belief that where thereâs hunger, thereâs hope⊠but first, a new installment of our collecting segment Kingly Gifts, with guest Chad High. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
249 â Down to the Crossroads
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum leave Henneth AnnĂ»n and continue on their quest with Faramirâs blessing and two (not three) shiny new hobbit-sized walking sticks. Gollum is totally over that betrayal business at the pool and surely isnât planning any kind of revenge, which is nice; and thereâs nothing at all creepy about the fact that they have to stay off the road because, yâknow, invisible things may be watching. Also in this episode: blindfolds, wood-nerdery (not a typo), plus, what special object would we want for our Tolkien collections if money was no object? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
248 â Much More Than Skin Deep: An Interview with Clifford Broadway
Be hasty to tune in as Alan and Shawn welcome Clifford Broadway to The Prancing Pony Podcast! Clifford (also known as Quickbeam) has been on staff at TheOneRing.net since 1999, nearly from the beginning. We catch up with him for a conversation about the history of TORn, his work co-writing and co-producing the documentary film Ringers: Lord of the Fans, and the enduring legacy of Peter Jacksonâs adaptations. Plus, a look ahead to Amazon Primeâs The Rings of Power series and the changing face of Tolkien fandom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
247 â Everybody Out of the Pool
Frodo convinces Gollum to leave the Forbidden Pool, not without some feelings of regret at his betrayal of the wretched creature. After a brief interrogation, Faramir is satisfied that Gollum knows nothing and wonât come back to this secret place, and hands him into Frodoâs keeping along with a decree that Frodo himself may walk free in Gondor for a year and a day. But the news of where the party is going next is not good, for the name âCirith Ungolâ is one of dread among Gondorâs loremasters. For the life of us, we canât figure out why Faramir doesnât explain this more clearly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
246 â Return of the Giant Squirrel
Frodo is awakened by Faramir in the middle of the night to be treated to a sight he did not expect: a familiar-looking creature fishing in the pool below the waterfall. After Faramir pokes more gentle fun at Anbornâs inability to distinguish an emaciated hobbit from a squirrel or kingfisher, Frodo asks for mercy for the creature, whom he reveals to be his guide on the way to Mordor. We also speculate on the question âWhat if Faramir never met Frodoâ and share highlights from TexMoot 2022, Alan and Shawnâs first in-person moot appearance in over two years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
245 â Questions After Nightfall 18
Alan and Shawn once again welcome listeners to the common room for our latest Q&A episode! This time we answer questions about themes in Tolkienâs legendarium, talk about favorite niches in Tolkien fandom, and even discuss what keeps characters going when hope fails. Also, why did it take so long for the king to return to Gondor? Why do some characters get better results out of the palantĂri than others? And why are the Elves of the First Age always getting lost? All this, plus an exciting what-if about Faramir going to Rivendell instead of his brother. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
244 â Tolkien Reading Day 2022
Bring a friend and come along with us for our seventh annual celebration of Tolkien Reading Day, observed every March 25 in honor of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r. This yearâs theme chosen by the Tolkien Society is Love and Friendship. Weâve selected some of our favorite passages from the legendarium to showcase the theme, including friendship that spans generations, romantic love that blooms in wartime, the loyalty of lifelong companionship, and the unlikely love between would-be enemies. Plus, a reading from outside the legendarium reminds us that itâs never too late to reach out to another in friendship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
243 â Just a Little Bit of Peril
Faramir continues wowing the hobbits with his knowledge of Gondorian history, prompting Sam to one-up him with a recitation of his new spoken word piece âFifty Things I Love About Galadrielâ. But the talk of LĂłrien opens the door to a conversation about the lesser qualities of Faramirâs brother, and Sam (disarmed by the freely flowing wine) lets slip what really happened between Boromir and Frodo at Parth Galen. All this, plus Faramir reveals heâs already got a thing for the Rohirrim⊠and we speculate on whether Gollum robbed graves as well as cradles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
242 â And the People Did Feast
Itâs supper time at Henneth AnnĂ»n, and Faramirâs men set out the evening meal. Soon the plates and the goblets are full (then empty, then full again) and Frodo and Faramir are chatting away about ancient history and current events, minus one or two topics that are best avoided at the dinner table. We observe the only real religious ceremony in The Lord of the Rings â and sidebar on why Tolkien left it that way â and Anbornâs poor eyesight (or judgment) raises serious questions about whether he should be allowed to carry a ranged weapon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
241 â There Are Some Who Call Me⊠TharkĂ»n
Frodo learns the identity of the wandering wizard Faramir calls the Grey Pilgrim, and itâs exactly who he thinks (which is to say itâs not John Cleese in horned headgear). But that just means thereâs more bad news to share, this time the news of Gandalfâs fall in Moria. As Faramir learns more, he gets closer to the dark secret carried by the halfling⊠but will Frodo be able to trust him with the full truth, or is the memory of Boromirâs betrayal still too near? All this, plus more blindfolds for Frodo and Sam, and an interview with composer and guitarist Dave Brons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
240 â Bereft of Life, He Rests in Peace
Too soon? Probably so, because Frodoâs just learned that Boromir is dead â oh, and the guy interrogating him is the brother of the deceased. He questions Faramirâs vision of the funeral boat, but Faramir has no doubt of what heâs seen⊠fortunately, over the course of their conversation, he manages to dispel all doubts about Frodoâs honesty as well. We revisit the Perilous Realm, learn which of Denethorâs sons actually paid attention in school, and cover the history of the Stewards of Gondor. Also, some killer word-nerdery on the word bane. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
239 â Nobody Expects the Mannish Inquisition
Sam awakens from his nap (honestly, the guy can sleep anywhere) to find Frodo standing before the Rangers of Ithilien, as if on trial. Faramir presses the witness for information about his quest, but the conversation keeps coming back to Boromir as Sam listens in steadily rising anger at the implications being made towards his master. We see what happens when a hobbit gardener gets his fill of âsauceâ, discuss Faramirâs quality (not for the last time), and learn just how special the wild Kine of Araw really are⊠but are their horns actually that loud? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
238 â Gondor Calling
With Gollum missing in action, Frodo and Sam get ready to flee from whoever is making the mysterious bird-calls. Soon theyâre trapped by tall men with tall spears and tall bows, and explaining themselves is going to be a tall order. But before the hobbits can give the Rangers of Ithilien a full account of who they are, what theyâre doing, and whether they know anything about the skinny, toothless guy in the area fishing without a license, a skirmish begins with a passing regiment of Haradrim. All this, plus Sam reflects poignantly over the body of a fallen foe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
237 â Should I Stew or Should I Go Now
While Frodo rests, Gollum is away hunting for something to eat besides lembas. He returns with two rabbits, which Sam is happy to make a meal out of â but two cooks in this kitchen is too many, and Gollum objects to Samâs plan to stew the rabbits instead of eating them raw... not to mention build a fire to do so, and make Gollum do all the grocery shopping. We discuss Samâs love for Frodo (not for the last time), learn the fascinating history of the word coney, and recount the unfortunate tale of Lalia Took. But first, author Simonetta Carr joins us to talk about her new book, J.R.R. Tolkien for Kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
236 â Go Straight to Smells, Boys
After the sun sets on the Black Gate, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum set out and take the road south towards Minas Morgul. They soon find themselves in the âgarden of Gondorâ: Ithilien, a land of fragrant herbs and other exotic flora that even Sam does not have names for in the horticultural word-hoard of his mind. We let the sensory imagery wash over us as Tolkien mentions one new plant after another, many of which never appear anywhere else in the legendarium. But Gollum thinks something stinks, and itâs not just the pits of Orc filth to be found along the road. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
235 â All Along the Watchtower
There must be some kind of way out of here⊠and in fact, itâs right down the road to the south, to the side door into Mordor near Minas Ithil (which Gollum doesnât seem to realize has been renamed under the new management). But it is guarded, of course â and not just by Orcs. We investigate an apparent discrepancy in Gollumâs recollection of where the Silent Watchers actually are, get a description of Sauronâs very physical hand, and feel Gandalfâs mind as it seeks for Frodo. Also, Samâs pachyderm poem makes Frodo cheer and Gollum fear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
234 â Knockinâ on Sauronâs Door
Move over, Saruman! Thereâs a new contender in the running for Worst Curb Appeal in Middle-earth, and heâs got noise coming out of the place at all hours to boot. But after taking in the awesome unpleasantness of Sauronâs front porch and the utter certainty of capture and death, Frodo realizes with grim determination that he has to continue with his quest, and that this is the only way in⊠unless Gollum has something heâd like to tell him? Explore more word-nerdery on Mordor place names than you thought possible, and does Frodo finally go too far with a threat? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
233 â Questions After Nightfall 17
Just in time for the holidays, itâs the gift that keeps on giving: a new Q&A episode! We answer timely questions about Frodo, Sam, and Gollum as they make their way to Mordor, and offer up our brutally honest opinions about whether every member of the Fellowship actually did something important (weâre looking at you, Legolas). Plus many more, including questions about the history and future of the PPP, and a question we canât believe itâs taken so long for someone to ask: why does Shawn like EĂ€rendil so much? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
232 â Don't Stand So Close to Me
The wraith on wings is gone, and our heroes appear not to have been noticed. But as the marshes come to an end and the walls of Mordor loom closer, SmĂ©agol is at odds with himself â literally â on what to do next. Sam watches quietly as the two personalities within SmĂ©agol-Gollumâs mind argue with each other, and intervenes just in time to ensure Frodoâs safety⊠but itâs likely he wonât be fully closing his eyes around Gollum anytime soon. All this, plus Alan and Shawn weigh in on their favorite background noises of Middle-earth in Barlimanâs Bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
231 â Spirits in the Material World
Frodo and Sam follow their travel guide Gollum through the Dead Marshes â itâs not the tour package we would have chosen, but who are we to judge? â and are far more shaken up than Gollum is by the fact that the marshes actually have, yâknow, dead in them. But never mind the terrifying things below, because thereâs a new terrifying thing above making its appearance, and that one is going to get Gollum pretty shaken up indeed. Also, just in time for the holidays, a new installment of Kingly Gifts, with Tolkien Collectorâs Guide moderator Andrew Ferguson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
230 â Choking on a Crust of Bread
SmĂ©agol proves to be willing and able to show Frodo and Sam the way to Mordor, now that his promise on the Precious keeps him from running away (though Sting is still at hand to police him if necessary). But Gollum proves heâll always be king of pain when he totally overreacts to the elf-smell coming off the lembas his companions are eating. Once his diva moment passes, though, theyâre back on the road⊠but thereâs a much worse smell than Elvish cooking ahead. Plus, a look into the Gafferâs paternal word-hoard has us wondering if Sam is really okay, deep down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
229 â Always Reaching: An Interview with John Howe
Alan and Shawn welcome John Howe to the Prancing Pony Podcast! Over the past several decades John has established himself as one of the most enduringly popular Middle-earth artists, and his work has appeared in numerous books and calendars (including the Tolkien Calendar 2021), and earned him a role as a conceptual artist for Peter Jacksonâs The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings movies. We talk to him about artistic inspiration, capturing reality through fantasy, and his new not-a-how-to book, John Howeâs Ultimate Fantasy Art Academy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
228 â Where SmĂ©agols Swear
Gollum is disinclined to acquiesce to Frodoâs request to lead them to Mordor, and he tries to escape when he thinks the hobbits arenât looking. Sam has thirty ellsâ worth of good reasons for Gollum to stay put, but the Elvish rope burns his skin (as of publication, LothlĂłrien Ropeworks has not issued a recall, and neither Haldir nor âOne of Those Folkâ could be reached for comment). Finally, SmĂ©agol comes up with a promise that Frodo can trust⊠for now. All this, plus a closer look at swearing (not that kind) and a Middle-earth/Marvel mashup in the mailbag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
227 â Where SmĂ©agols Dare
Three episodes into the chapter, we finally meet SmĂ©agol⊠and the other fellow sharing his brain. Sam jumps the creeping, crawling creature at the bottom of the cliff, which goes about as well for Master Gamgee as one might expect. Fortunately, Frodoâs got his back, and the sight of Sting convinces Gollum that if he loves some precious, he should set Sam free. We take a closer look at pity and mercy for the most wretched creature in Middle-earth, wonder about the truth of the worst stories about him, and dive into word-nerdery on his original name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
226 â Places High
The shrieking cry of what might sound like a Ringwraith if they werenât destroyed forever at the Ford of Bruinen (They were, right? Right!?) makes Frodo lose his grip and his sight while climbing down a cliff. He manages to land on his feet on a ledge not far below, but he canât get back up or down without a rope, which Sam just so happens to have, and knows how to use. We ponder (and worry slightly about) Alanâs fondness for ropes, Shawnâs fondness for booze, and Samâs therapy bills thanks to the Gafferâs old-fashioned parenting methods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
225 â Strangers in a Strange Land
We finally begin our readthrough of Book IV of The Lord of the Rings with âThe Taming of SmĂ©agolâ! All alone after fleeing Parth Galen, Frodo and Sam are lost among the barren slopes of the Emyn Muil, seeking a way down to the stinking bog below (zero stars for this hiking tour). But how alone are they, really? Are the two eyes following them attached to the head they think, and will Sam be able to get a tight enough grip on the neck below it to, uh, âhandle the situationâ? All this, plus a new segment welcoming our youngest listeners: Questions Before Bedtime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
224 â Whose Story Line Is It Anyway?
One does not simply walk into Mordor without a recap, so before we start our readthrough of Book IV of The Lord of the Rings, weâre reviewing previous chapters to reacquaint ourselves with a couple of characters we havenât seen for a while (no one special; just Frodo and Sam, the guys whose mission really matters here). After a look back at the story so far, we look ahead to the themes weâll explore in the coming season. But first, dragons rejoice! We welcome Jeremy Edmonds of the website Tolkien Collectorâs Guide to the common room for a little Tolkien Collecting 101. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
223 â Questions After Nightfall 16
Itâs our first live Q&A episode of the season, which means Alan and Shawn have got our speculating caps on for another round of questions from our guests! We field questions on the married life of the Valar (but not in the way youâre thinking), the size of Hobbit feet, and an almost forgotten fight between Galadriel and Dol Guldur. Plus, opinions on The Nature of Middle-earth, a booth review of the cutting of the Ring from Sauronâs finger⊠and wings, schmings! We want to know: do Balrogs have the power of speech? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
222 â Double Nelson: The 222nd Episode Extravaganza
For the second time in history, Alan and Shawn throw a party of special magnificence to celebrate a milestone: 222 episodes of the PPP! Once again, we look back at some of our best moments from the past eleventy-one episodes, as chosen by our listeners. From foolish digressions to inappropriate pop culture references, smart observations to great readings, relive them all on this trip down memory lane with a few surprises along the way (and some bits youâll see coming a mile away). Plus, what did Tolkien really think of cricket? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
221 â Dancing Bears: An Interview with Carl F. Hostetter
We start our sixth season in style by welcoming Carl F. Hostetter to the podcast! In addition to his role as chief editor of Vinyar Tengwar, Carl has authored articles on Tolkienâs languages for decades. We catch up with him about his lifetime of scholarship and his highly anticipated new edition of unpublished manuscripts by Tolkien himself: The Nature of Middle-earth. Learn how the new volume came to publication as well as a sneak peek of whatâs inside from Elvish biology, to the metaphysical nature of Arda, to â yes, you read correctly â dancing bears. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
220 â The Worst of Times
While Gandalf and Aragorn ponder the eveningâs events and finally identify the object of Pippinâs affections as the palantĂr of Orthanc, a NazgĂ»l flies overhead â which means itâs time for Gandalf and the sticky-fingered Took to exit, stage east. And as Shadowfax carries them over the plains at breakneck speed (not that any necks will be broken, we hope) we bring Book III of The Lord of the Rings to a close. But before we wrap the fifth season, a mailbag question about the podcast and listener expectations gets Alan and Shawn into introspective mode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
219 â Crystal Ball
With the Saruman situation handled, Gandalf settles in for a leisurely journey back to Helmâs Deep with Merry dangling behind him. Pippin, however, is obsessing over the shiny, round and apparently indestructible object Wormtongue threw out the window⊠and when nightfall comes, his Fool-of-a-Tookishness gets the better of him. We begin to investigate the palantĂr, word-nerd out on its (not yet used) name, and discuss its powers and limitations. Plus, what is the airspeed velocity of a winged NazgĂ»l⊠and why would a Dark Lord use the word âdaintyâ? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
218 â Renegade
Unable to persuade ThĂ©oden, Saruman now tries to sway Gandalf, not realizing his former underling has gotten a promotion and executive sponsorship for his project since the last time they touched base. As before, Saruman totters between slick sweet-talking and explosive rage until finally Gandalf â amused/not amused â strips him of his staff and place on the White Council. We read Treebeard dialogue for almost the last time; unpack, hang, and whack the FĂ«anor piñata; and ponder what good Saruman might still have done for the war effort⊠if only. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
217 â Fooling Yourself (The Angry Old Man)
Fully fed, fully caught up, and fully reeking of pipe-weed, our heroes enter Isengard, where Gandalf demands to speak with Saruman at the foot of Orthanc. The Until-recently-white Wizard refuses to come down or let visitors in, but the White-now-and-check-out-my-new-skills Wizard manages to get his attention, and the parley begins. But although Saruman has lost his armies and devices, he still has some weapons left: his voice, bitter anger, and possibly some kind of Vorlon powers (because itâs been too long since we got in a Babylon 5 reference). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
216 â Questions After Nightfall 15
Itâs time for another live Q&A episode, this time with more questions than ever before heard on a single episode of the Prancing Pony Podcast! Join Alan and Shawn as we field questions on Entish names, thralldom in Valinor, the unbearable vagueness of Gandalf, and the powers of the Elven Rings. A conversation about the importance of refuge in Middle-earth stirs our hearts, and a thought-provoking question about Rivendell in the Fourth Age gets us into speculation mode. Plus, another chance to look back on PPP Moot 2021⊠and much, much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
215 â (Flash)Back in Black
The epic flashback continues as Pippin and Merry continue their story with a play-by-play account of the destruction of Isengard, expertly managed by their new partners at Fangorn, Bregalad and Associates. We catch up on Wormtongueâs whereabouts since being forcibly relocated, and see why Treebeardâs not giving up his day job to be a swim instructor for exiled traitors anytime soon. All this, plus a famous lecture, a celebrated biography of the Professor, and the Battle of the Somme in This Week in Tolkien History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
214 â Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
The reunited members of the Fellowship of the Ring (minus Gandalf, whoâs off hobnobbing with kings and trees) get some valuable bro time amid the flotsam and jetsam of Isengard. Merry and Pippin have a lot to account for â and an angry Dwarf to appease â so they ply their friends with salted pork and pipe-weed while catching them up on the story since Parth Galen⊠glossing over the dirty deeds done to them by the Uruk-hai. Before this episode goes up in smoke, though, we get into the etymology of Huorn: a word as mysterious as the creatures themselves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
213 â Let There Be (Lots of Broken) Rock
The company reaches Isengard and discovers that property values have tanked in recent months, and itâs no wonder why when they see how poorly Sarumanâs been maintaining his yard. Holes in the ground fume and glow with unnatural light, the place is flooded, and piles of stone and broken masonry hint at some recent battle. But strangest of all to the Rohirrim is what looks like two small people smoking on a rubble-heap. Are they some new monsters? A reason to call child protective services? Maybe we can ask who they are, if Gimli doesnât strangle them first. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
212 â Highway to Dell
As the company exits the mysterious forest, Legolas looks back and is enchanted by the trees and their eyes â a perfectly ordinary thing for trees to have, obviously. Before Gimli makes a run for it out of pure self-preservation, Legolas is snapped out of it by Gandalf, who offers no real explanation (again) and urges them to press on along the road to Isengard. We speculate on what Middle-earth would be like if there were no Dwarves, dust off our Gollum voices, and prove once again that weâll grasp at any flimsy excuse to make a Rush reference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
211 â For Those About to (Rave About a) Rock, We Salute You
After a long night, the heroes of Helmâs Deep reunite on the grass by a stream near a forest that, uh, wasnât there yesterday⊠but weâll get to that later. Legolas and Gimli check the final score of Uruk Slayfest 3019, showing the Dwarf ahead by a head, but less interested in bragging rights than in the Glittering Caves he found in the Deep. Gandalf has returned, and â oh, right! â that forest that appeared overnight is not his doing, but he wonât say whose it was. Plus, a Tolkien Fun Fact about recovery, escape, and consolation among POWs in the 1970s. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
210 â Live from PPP Moot 2021
If you missed out on the PPPâs first-ever digital moot, hereâs a chance to hear what you missed â or relive it, if you were there â in this episode recorded live during the second day of the moot! Alan and Shawn invited all attendees to join and ask any question, and they did⊠from fate and free will in Tolkienâs works (again), to underwater SPBMI, to the future of the podcast, and much, much more! Thereâs even a surprise question from a familiar guest who now holds the new record for most appearances on The Prancing Pony Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
209 â Pyromania
An explosion rocks the Deeping Wall, and soon there are more as Sarumanâs blasting fires make what little hope the heroes had go up in smoke. But as dawn approaches, Aragorn still believes that victory may come with the new day, and ThĂ©oden realizes itâs better to burn out than fade away. We see Gimliâs martial prowess on display, investigate what makes a parley a parley, and hear the horn of Helm Hammerhand sound in the Deep (and keep sounding and soundingâŠ). Plus, Legolas defies the laws of physics in a new mailbag question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
208 â White Lightning
The Rohirrim, led by ThĂ©oden and Ăomer (with lots of help from Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli), man the Deeping Wall and the Hornburg as Sarumanâs assault on Helmâs Deep begins. A quick flash of lightning in the darkness reveals overwhelming odds, but Aragorn and Ăomer draw swords together and keep morale high, even while rammers nearly break through the Hornburg gates. Also, Gimli and Legolas begin a contest to see who can take down the most Orcs. Legolas starts out strong, but our moneyâs on Gimli, who is deadly when heâs bored. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
207 â Rock of Ages
ThĂ©oden and Gandalf lead the host of the Rohirrim towards the fords of the Isen to strengthen the forces holding back Sarumanâs army. But when they meet a rider coming back from the front line with news of defeat, ThĂ©oden takes Gandalfâs counsel and changes course for Helmâs Deep and the mighty fortress of the Hornburg. We look at Unfinished Tales for an account of the recent battle, learn way too much about military supply chains, and discuss Tolkienâs visits to Cheddar Gorge⊠which leads to far fewer cheesy jokes than might be expected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
206 â I Saw Her Standing There
ThĂ©oden offers Wormtongue one last chance to redeem himself, but the counsellor is disinclined to acquiesce to his lordâs request. As GrĂmaâs stain is (literally) washed away, Gandalf and the king catch up on the history of Sarumanâs treachery and the damage already done in Rohan before riding out to do something about it, leaving the fearless and high-hearted Ăowyn in charge. All this, plus we discuss Rohirric lines of succession, close the book on the color of Shadowfax, and investigate the meaning of pity in a new Philology Faire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
205 â Here Comes the Sun
Upon entering the Golden Hall, Gandalf is challenged once again; this time by Wormtongue, the kingâs counsellor who may not exactly have Rohanâs best interests in mind. Gandalf puts the worm in its place (before Gimli can dissect it for smack-talking Galadriel) and then leads ThĂ©oden out into the light, to healing and hope for victory against Isengard, without a single exorcism. We watch and learn as Tolkien takes down criticisms of his archaic style, revisit an Old English greeting, and discuss an alternate draft in which Tolkien shipped Ăowyn and Aragorn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
204 â The Long and Winding Road
Our heroes ride up the long and winding road that leads to ThĂ©odenâs door, but first they have to get through two sets of guards. Fortunately, Gandalfâs polyglottal talents get them through the first gate into Edoras, and theyâll be allowed into Meduseld itself just as long as they check their weapons at the door⊠their ancient, irreplaceable, priceless weapons. Inspired by Tolkienâs skill with Latin and Greek, Shawn takes a stab at speaking Old English; and a sidebar on Helm Hammerhand sends a chill down our spines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
203 â Questions After Nightfall 14
Before we return to The Lord of the Rings for the further adventures of The White Rider and Friends in Rohan, we spend some time in the common-room with listeners for another quarterly live Q&A episode! Current events with Saruman at Isengard are clearly on the minds of many, as we field questions about Olâ Many Colors himself and the Ents whoâve unexpectedly shown up on his doorstep. We take another look at the Secret Fire and Tolkienâs theological inspirations for it, opine on some mysterious words to Aragorn from his new in-laws, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
202 â Tolkien Reading Day 2021
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year â the date of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r â Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading the Professorâs works. A theme is chosen by The Tolkien Society every year, and for 2021 the theme is Hope and Courage. Join us for our sixth annual celebration of this international event, as Alan and Shawn courageously battle their way through readings on the topic from The Children of HĂșrin, The Lay of Leithian, and The Lord of the Rings... and find hope in a non-legendarium reading like nothing weâve done before, brought to life with a little help from our producer, Jordan Rannells. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
201 â A Nice Day for a White Wizard
The newly-minted Gandalf the White advises the Three Hunters to leave the Hobbits in the strong, twiggy hands of Treebeard and go to Edoras. They agree, but Legolas still wants to know how Gandalf is â yâknow, not dead â launching the wizard into a brief account of his fight with Durinâs Bane, and your hosts into an epic series of sidebars about Gandalfâs resurrection, mythology, and religion. All this, plus a Tolkien Quote of the Day about sacrifice, and a couple of mailbag stumpers that make Alan question the wisdom of letting Shawn pick the questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
200 â A Whiter Shade of Grey
The old man is revealed to be an old friend: Gandalf the (Formerly) Grey, returned beyond hope from death in battle with the Balrog of Moria. Enhanced in power and in insight, Gandalf gets caught up on the news he missed while he was out; and then offers some wisdom to his companions about Sauron, Saruman, and the power hidden in the forest. Danger is all around, not least in Barlimanâs Bag where we pull a hardball question about the inevitably of marring in Tolkienâs world⊠and also in a surprising connection back to C.S. Lewis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
199 â Pretty Spry (For a Grey Guy)
Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli follow the trail of the missing hobbits, gradually drawing closer to the forbidding fringes of Fangorn Forest. They find new signs that give them hope, but the Dwarf canât forget about the mysterious old man, and the trees donât seem to be taking too kindly to his axe. Soon the old man appears again, leading to a surprisingly nimble confrontation. We revisit The Silmarillion for a look at Sauronâs phantom-conjuring skills, wonder if the Eagles are Gandalfâs personal charter bus, and ask the improbable question: do Hobbits have wings? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
198 â Never Enough Tolkien: An Interview with Ted Nasmith
We welcome the acclaimed illustrator Ted Nasmith back to The Prancing Pony Podcast for his first full-length interview! We catch up with Ted about life, art, and everything else since we last spoke to him at Tolkien 2019, including the recent publication of the illustrated edition of Unfinished Tales and teasers about the new illustrated edition of The Silmarillion. Ted also shares the encouraging (and entertaining) story of his first big break⊠and the unfinished Middle-earth tale heâd love to know more about. Plus, an unexpected bit of word-nerdery that connects Tolkien with classic cars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
197 â Birnam Wood as It Should Have Been
Waiting for the Ents to make a decision turns out to be an exercise in patience for Merry and Pippin, until Treebeard mercifully excuses them from the proceedings. He leaves them in the company of Quickbeam: a younger, hastier Ent whoâs about as hobbitish as they come (admittedly, a low bar). We get to the rocky bottom of the relationship between Ents and Trolls, revisit the marital strife of AulĂ« and Yavanna, and see the Ents get barking mad about Sarumanâs destruction of the forest. Plus, Ent-versions of classic rock songs you never knew you wanted. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
196 â Branch Managers' Meeting
At Wellinghall, Merry and Pippin learn more about the Entsâ hope for the future (in song form!) and get some sleep â horizontally â before leaving in the morning for Entmoot under the protective bough of Treebeard. Ents soon arrive in a startling variety of shapes, sizes, and likenesses, and begin a meeting to get to the root of the Saruman problem. We call The Council together as we dig deeper into the irreconcilable differences between the Ents and the Entwives, ponder mysterious evergreens, and engage in idle speculation (again) about Mrs. G. Bombadil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
195 â The Birches and the Beeches
After hearing Merry and Pippinâs account of their recent adventures, Treebeard starts talking (and doesnât stop) about wizards, ecopolitics, and âthe one that got awayâ. Unfortunately, spokesplants for Fimbrethil and the Entwives have not responded to requests for comment, and we wonât hold our breath waiting for them to. But at least now Treebeard seems motivated to do something about Saruman, if only he can find enough Ents to form a posse. Plus, a letter to Barliman offers possible alternatives to the *cough* old-fashioned way of making baby Ents. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
194 â Treeâs Company
Merry and Pippin travel deeper into Fangorn Forest with a guided tour (really more of a picked-up-and-carried tour) provided by Treebeard. Their host may be more wooden than Alan and Shawn, but heâs both informative and entertaining, singing songs and telling stories about the forest and the Ents themselves. Soon they arrive at Wellinghall, where he sets them down and offers them jars of some potent drink that we can only hope he has a license to make and distribute. Hopefully, the ent-draught wonât have any long-term effects on the young hobbits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
193 â Out on a Limb
Escaping from mortal danger into deadly peril, Merry and Pippin wander into Fangorn Forest. The place seems more strange than scary, but itâs far from welcoming; and an offhand comment by Pippin about almost liking the forest attracts the attention of the local plant life. Is the mysterious Ent all bark and no bite? Or will it tear the hobbits limb from limb, mistaking them for little Orcs? We discuss the importance of real names, offer a sidebar on the late appearance of the Ents into Tolkienâs legendarium, and Pippin branches out into writing his own lyrics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
192 - Race, Tolkien, and Middle-earth, Revisited
Following up on our previous examination of race in Tolkienâs work in Episode 114, today we welcome listeners of different racial and ethnic backgrounds to join us and share their experiences of Tolkienâs works and fandom. By looking beyond the author's own views and intentions, we hope to gain a better understanding of the actual impact of Tolkienâs treatment of race from people who have experienced racism directly. We urge all listeners to tune in for this special, which challenges our assumptions while keeping at heart the love of Middle-earth that unites us all.Alan and Shawn wish to sincerely thank our listeners who came forward to let their voices be heard for this episode. Your stories have inspired us and opened our eyes. 'Eglerio! A laita te!' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
191 - A Trick of the Took
Now ringed in by the Rohirrim, the Orcs wait for reinforcements, all the while continuing their civilized parliamentary deliberations. On the committee agenda: 1. Youâre a maggot. 2. That guyâs an ape. 3. Consideration of a motion for a vote of no confidence in UglĂșk. GrishnĂĄkh seizes an opportunity â and the prisoners â but Pippin thinks quickly and devises a Tookish (and very, very dangerous) ruse to take advantage of the Mordor Orcâs secret plot. Whoâs a fool now, Gandalf? All this, plus a Tolkien Christmas surprise, in our last episode of 2020! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
190 - Follow Uruks, Follow Me
The Hobbits continue their zero-star walking tour of Rohan, trudging along with the Orcs in an endless tunnel of misery with nary a pub nor a B&B in sight. But the feel of wet grass between his hairy toes gives Pippin an idea, and he breaks away from the beaten path for just long enough to leave a message for any friend who may be following them: a token that may or may not idly fall. We wonder about Orc parentsâ baby naming practices, revisit The Fall of Gondolin, and imagine Ulmo talking like a Cockney street tough in a Victorian melodrama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
189 - Supperâs Ready
Looks like meatâs back on the menu as we pick up the tale of Pippin and Merry and their delightful hosts: an army of Orcs on their way to Isengard. Merry is apparently down for the count, but Pippin takes in their surroundings and gradually begins to piece together an escape plan. We learn way more about Orkish medicine than we ever wanted to, offer a sidebar on the history of the Black Speech, and speculate about whether there are some things even Orcs wonât eat (probably not). Plus, how to make a holiday Orcmanbit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
188 - Questions After Nightfall 13
While Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli look for their horses, we welcome listeners to the common-room for our last live Q&A episode of 2020! As always, the questions are unrehearsed, so hearing us muddle through head-scratchers like âDo Orcs have free will?â is as entertaining as expected. We speculate on what Lobelia might have done if the One Ring had fallen into her hands along with Bilboâs spoons, get into chains and bondage with Beren and LĂșthien, and more. Plus, what were the guys hoping to do if they actually caught up to the Uruk-hai? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
187 - The Old Man and the Coconuts
Ăomer bends the rules âjust this onceâ to let the wanderers go free in Rohan, and even lends them coconâ uh, horses* to ride, on the condition that after they find the bodiesâ uh, their friends*, they return the rentals to Edoras in good condition and hand the keys back directly to ThĂ©oden King. They ride quickly to the Entwash and camp near the edge of Fangorn Forest, where a mysterious visitor appears and makes them wish theyâd sprung for the loss damage waiver. (*We apologize for the fault in the blurbs. Those responsible have been sacked.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
186 - A Man That Has No Coconut
Ăomer, Third Marshal of the Riddermark, demands proper identification from the Three Hunters, and Aragorn gives it to him by name-dropping a lineage going back three thousand years and unsheathing a sword even older than that. In one of the greatest âokaayyyâ moments in Tolkienâs legendarium, Ăomer accepts their explanation and proceeds to catch them up on current events in this region where Sarumanâs betrayal is more than just a rumor. Also, word-nerdery on another Old English word for a horse⊠hint: itâs not coconĂŠtt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
185 - Proud Riders on Proud Coconuts
The Three Hunters continue their pursuit across the plains, their hearts growing wearier due to the physical effects of Sarumanâs opposing will. A new sunrise brings new counsel, and a chance meeting (if chance you call it) with an Ă©ored of Rohanâs finest; but the Riders are strong and bold, much like the coconâ er, horses they ride, and they donât take too kindly to strangers in Elvish cloaks. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at our character voices, a sidebar on the history of Rohan, and a closer examination of just what Legolasâ elf-eyes see. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
184 - The Land of the Coconut-Lords
Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli pursue the Orcs taking Merry and Pippin through Rohan, where the folk of Eorl raise the greatest coconâ uh, horses. Real-life horses. But the Orcs are moving quickly, not stopping by night or by day; and for the three weary hunters to stop and rest might mean losing their trail. We pause to remember some late-October dates in a new This Week in Tolkien History, and pick out Halloween costumes for the Fellowship. Plus, no African or European swallows here, just an eagle⊠and why is Aragorn lying down on the job? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
183 - Wind and Brothering
The three remaining members of the Fellowship of the Ring (as far as they know) prepare Boromir for his last journey down the Anduin, and as the son of Denethor floats away they eulogize their fallen comrade⊠in song form! Then itâs back to business as they solve the riddle of what happened to the hobbits, and as they weigh their decision of which way to go, Aragorn steps into the leadership role he was born for. Plus, how to write a touching elegy for a friend in just a few minutes, and we beat Tolkien to the punch with a little interlacing of our own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
182 - And Then There Were Three
Still searching for Frodo after the chaotic events of the previous chapter, Aragorn is interrupted by the sound of Boromirâs horn. He arrives on the scene just in time to bid farewell to the fallen hero, and for Shawn to atone for all the Boromir-bashing he did last season. Soon Legolas and Gimli arrive, and the trio investigate the scene to determine their next move. We talk about Tolkienâs use of interlacing as a narrative technique (not for the last time), root for Aragorn to get his groove back, and delve into an early Prancing Pony Pondering for thoughts on repentance and redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
181 - Two Shall Be the Number of the Towers
And the number of the towers shall be two. Or three. Or⊠five? If itâs not clear yet, weâll clear it up in this introduction to Book III of The Lord of the Rings, and the second volume of the not-really-a-trilogy that happens to be named after some arbitrarily chosen pair of very tall buildings. We also look back at the story so far and learn that Tolkien himself was the first person to leave Tom Bombadil out of an adaptation of his work. Plus, what we did over our summer break: including favorite moments from this yearâs online Oxonmoot and Mythmoot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
180 - Questions After Nightfall 12
Before we return to The Lord of the Rings with Book III, we welcome guest listeners to the common-room for our first Q&A episode of the season! As always, we donât know the questions ahead of time, but we get a timely look ahead with questions about Ents and the Hobbits who love them. Also: Galadriel unfriended FĂ«anor, but was Gandalf a new friend or some guy she remembered from high school? We get metaphysical about Sauron, Ringwraiths, and Gollum⊠and wonder if Aragorn ever considered settling for a nice mortal girl instead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
179 - A Pandemic of Moots
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations like the Tolkien Society and Signum University have held their annual gatherings (Oxonmoot and Mythmoot) online in 2020. Alan and Shawn begin the new season by interviewing some of the people who made those moots possible â including Tolkien Society chair Shaun Gunner, Signum University President Corey Olsen, and more â to learn about the challenges and advantages of bringing these events into the digital space, glimpse the changing face of Tolkien fandom, and remember the importance of fellowship in difficult times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
178 - Hard Choices and Strange Voices: An Interview with Verlyn Flieger
Alan and Shawn welcome Verlyn Flieger back to The Prancing Pony Podcast to finish out our fourth season! We catch up with her on Beowulf, free will, and the mistakes of TĂșrin (because who can resist?). We also ask her thoughts on some of our favorite moments from Book II of The Lord of the Rings, like LothlĂłrien, Galadriel, and the âtra-la-la-lallyââfree version of Rivendell. Finally, we discuss â and are treated to a sneak preview reading from â her new book Arthurian Voices, a series of monologues from the characters of Camelot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
177 - Exit... Stage Left
While Frodo and Boromir are away âtalkingâ, the Company (still not officially called âthe Fellowship", but that wonât stop us) attempt to reach a decision about where to go â or rather, whoâs to go where. Each member of the party speaks his piece, and Samwise explains to them all whatâs on Frodoâs mind⊠but when Boromir returns, Aragorn realizes that it may be too late to influence events at all. Join us as we finally close the book on The Fellowship of the Ring with word-nerdery, hope, despair, and a little bit of Madness. Plus, is The Lord of the Rings too long? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
176 - Grace Under Pressure
The Fellowship stop at Parth Galen to rest and make the decision theyâve been putting off since LĂłrien: to go west to Minas Tirith, or east to Mordor. Frodo asks for an hour alone to make his decision, but Boromir (not taking the hint, or not wanting to) follows him, and manages to persuade him that he needs to get as far away from Boromir as possible. All this, plus we push the limits (again) on how many music references we can squeeze into a single podcast, and we background check Sauronâs resume to confirm his Necromancer credentials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
175 - Time Stand Still
Gimli gives mad props to Legolas for shooting down the â whatever that thing was â while Frodo (who knows exactly what that thing was) deals with some stuff. Samâs perplexed at having lost count of days in LĂłrien, leading to a debate about the nature of time that would make Doc Brown proud, while Boromir is getting creepier by the day. All this, plus a look ahead to The Two Towers with a news report from the Fords of Isen, and a look back into the history of Gondor as the Fellowship pass by everyoneâs favorite riverside rocks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
174 - Drifting by the Limlight (The Universally Creepy Dream)
Floating down the Anduin, the Fellowship put off their next move for a few days after leaving LĂłrien. Samâs not sure if heâs most scared of the trees, the lack of trees, or the curiously Gollum-shaped log thatâs following them down the river (which Aragorn has known about, like, forever). Before anyone can say âfailure to communicateâ, the Company are attacked by Orcs⊠and something worse. We talk Entwives, vehemently defend Tolkienâs use of the word âeyotâ, and watch what happens when a wood-elf trades his slender bow for a great one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
173 - Questions After Nightfall 11
Join us once again as we welcome guest listeners to the common-room for our eleventh unscripted Q&A episode! Looks like Elves are back on the menu (that came out way weirder than we meant it to) as we answer live questions about Galadriel, the fading of the Eldar, and whether Elrond has Thranduil on his speed dial. Also, Alan and Shawn read favorite passages from The Lord of the Rings to shine a light of hope through the darkness, and go deep into the dictionary and Tolkienâs works to discover the difference between and âoathâ and a âvowâ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
172 - Bye, Company (Till the Day You Die)
Galadriel says farewell with a few extra-special gifts for the extra-special members of the Fellowship while the others sit back and grumble about their belts and stuff. Gimli â unfazed by Celebornâs presence â sweet-talks the Lady into giving him something incredibly personal, and Frodo and Sam receive gifts that seem nice, but arenât something theyâll be using every day. We remember our painful teenage years with some weepy â80s love songs, whack the FĂ«anor piñata again (because why not), and interview James Tauber of the Digital Tolkien Project. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
171 - Can't Get Enough of Your Leaves
Now outfitted with boats, travel gear, and road snacks, the Fellowship leave LothlĂłrien. They make it just a little way down the river before theyâre attacked by a gargantuan swan (which is just a big boat! Whew. And obviously we all totally knew that... whoâs freaked out? Weâre not freaked out) and invited to finally have a meal with the Lord and Lady of the Galadhrim. After an epic picnic on the grass, Celeborn â typical dad â gives directions, and Galadriel gives the Company âpersonalizedâ gifts that prove exactly who her favorites are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
170 - Feel Like Bakin' Loaves
Galadriel and Celeborn test the Fellowship once again by kindly inviting them to leave LothlĂłrien and not let the light plaited screen hit them on the way out. The Company are all ready to move on, but not sure where to go â fortunately, a few boats delay the need to make a decision for at least another week. Pippin gets confused looks for saying the M-word around Elves; Sam might have warned him if he wasnât so busy geeking out on ropes. And your hosts get word-nerdy on lembas and the ladies who make it (warning: this podcast may contain gluten). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
169 â The Grand Illusion
Galadriel welcomes Frodo and Sam to come on in and see whatâs happening with her Mirror. Sam receives a vision of some devilry at work in the Shire; but the Mirror is dangerous as a guide of deeds, and Sam is forced to choose between going on and going home. Frodo catches a glimpse of someone who fortunately canât see him just yet, and Galadriel faces a temptation of epic proportions. EĂ€rendil shows up to shine a little light on the situation, and we speculate about everything from ring resizing to Irish linguistics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
168 - Too Much Time on Their Hands
The Fellowship pass âsome daysâ in LĂłrien as guests of Galadriel and Celeborn (though not the kind of guests who actually get to see or speak to their hosts), and get plenty of recovery, escape, and consolation from their travels and their grief. With nothing to do but eat, drink, rest, and walk, they are content â but life in a time bubble canât last forever, and even Sam knows theyâll have to be leaving soon. Frodo remembers Gandalf in song, Pippin gets awfully protective about his blankets, and your hosts graciously accept corrections offered by actual experts in their fields. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
167 - You're My Lady
The Fellowship comes to Caras Galadhon â the city of LothlĂłrien â where lights twinkle like stars in trees as tall as skyscrapers. After climbing to a high a and enormous flet they are greeted by Middle-earthâs #1 power couple: Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel. Celebornâs welcome is warm at first, but cools when he learns the Company awoke something very warm (and wingless) in Moria. But when the Lady comes to their defense, even Gimli starts to feel all gooey inside. All this, and a sidebar illustrates the dangers of research in the murky waters of Tolkienâs unfinished material. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
166 â Inspiration in Unlikely (and Likely) Places: An Interview with John Garth
Alan and Shawn are pleased to welcome John Garth back to the podcast to talk about his upcoming book, The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien. It gives us an unprecedented look at the places that inspired Tolkien, from locations close to home in England to cultural traditions around the world. Listen in as Garth explains the origins of the book and his approach to the topic, shares surprising connections between the legendarium and the real world, and even debunks a few myths. We close with a look back at Christopher Tolkien and legacy owed to him by fans of his father. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
165 - Just a Little Bit of Peril
The Fellowship are led through LothlĂłrien blindfolded, and yes, Legolas is still complaining. Deprived of his sight, Frodoâs heightened senses take in the sounds, the smells, and the feel of the world around him; and we bask in the beauty of Tolkienâs prose all the way to Cerin Amroth â the heart of elvendom on earth â where the blindfolds are finally removed. We ease up on our criticism of Haldir (once he finally does the right thing), contemplate Galadrielâs punk phase, and offer up word-nerdery on the Elvish name of Samâs (and Alanâs) favorite flower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
164 - Nobody Expected the Elvish Insinuation
Haldir of Lórien greets the Fellowship (the less beardy fellows, at least) as friends and invites them to spend the night in his magic treehouse. Poor Gimli is deemed a spy just for being a Dwarf in an Elvish forest, but nobody tells him. And while the others sleep, Frodo awakens in the middle of the night to the sound of Orcs⊠and something else. We expose the casual racism of the Galadhrim, discuss surprising connections to a recently unearthed Tolkien Christmas poem, and go back to the Bovril well (trying hard not to fall in) for more jokes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
163 - Strange Women Singing in Streams
No basis for a system of government, maybe, but itâs a perfectly good reason for an Elf to wax poetic about the good old days (or the bad ones⊠but itâs not the Dwarvesâ fault). After Legolas tells the story of Nimrodel and Amroth, the Fellowship continue through the Golden Wood until they are halted by mysterious voices from above. We get word-nerdy on the language of the Silvan Elves, contemplate Wizard staffs (staves?), and run off after Thorinâs dad in This Week in Tolkien History. Plus, Amazon series predictions that will be hilarious in a few years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
162 - 'Tis but a Scratch
The Fellowship mourns Gandalf quickly before moving on to put as much distance as possible between themselves and Moria. Gimli makes a quick stop at a legendary Dwarvish tourist attraction, but Aragorn leaves the car running, hoping to make it to LothlĂłrien before dark (heâs got rewards points, and all the rooms are Orc-free). Legolas suddenly remembers that, oh yeah, Frodo almost died⊠so Aragorn pulls over to tend to the wounded, and to deliver an alarming joke about Hobbit-poaching which must draw at least four slightly terrified stares. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
161 - Questions After Nightfall 10
Pull up a seat near the log-fire as we welcome a few guest listeners to our tenth quarterly unscripted Q&A episode! Itâs a small gathering in the common-room tonight, and we take our time answering some deep and nuanced questions about Tolkienâs legendarium. Letâs get metaphysical as we speculate about the Ainur, the limits of their power, and their lasting impression on the physical world. We geek out on Old English (no surprise there) and eucatastrophe (ditto), and more... including a brave attempt to answer a one-word question.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
160 - Tolkien Reading Day Special 2020
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year â the date of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r â Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading the Professorâs works. A theme is chosen by The Tolkien Society every year, and for 2020 the theme is: Nature v. Industry. Join Alan and Shawn for more reading and less talking than usual as we read some of the best-known passages on the topic, and hopefully a few curve balls too. All that, plus a Barlimanâs Bag question that may not be appropriate for young Entings (par-Ental discretion advised). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
159 - A Farewell to Wings
On a very special episode of the Prancing Pony Podcast, we come to the most divisive question in Tolkien fandom: are Balrogs left-handed? No, wait, itâs the other one about Balrog physiology, and we finally, definitively* answer it here. The answer we land on may surprise you... but only if youâve never listened to us before. But first, thereâs a chapter to finish! Join us for a free-for-all of fear, foes, and fellowship for Frodo and his friends, before a fiery face-off with a (flightless) First Age fiend and the fatal fall of a fan favorite, and his final âFly, you fools!â * Not definitively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
158 - Troll the Bones
Gandalf discovers a damaged book documenting the Dwarvesâ doomed attempt to retake Moria. They read with growing horror about the fates of Balin, Ori, and others; but at least they now know where they are and how to get out. Before they can leave, though, a killer drum solo begins in the depths far below, and soon they are attacked by Orcs, bigger Orcs, and even (say it with us) a cave-troll. Also: bad-luck names for library buildings, Tolkienâs commitment to realistic illustrations, and adventuring undergarments that offer more than just comfort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
157 - Don't Stop Believin'
Following an insensitive remark about the âdarksomeâ halls of Khazad-dĂ»m by Samwise at bedtime, Gimli delivers an impassioned defense of his peopleâs lifestyle choices â in verse â and Gandalf gives a history lesson about Moria and mithril. Safe in his (really valuable) mail-shirt, Frodo takes the first watch⊠and starts to believe he may not be the only one doing the watching. We revisit the ill will of Caradhras, spoil Gimliâs family reunion plans, and terrify our vegetarian listeners (and Alan) with way too much talk of meat extract. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
156 - Any Way You Want It (Just Not the Middle Way)
Frodo feels a sense of growing dread â and hears faint footsteps behind them â as the Fellowship marches across the long dark of Moria, navigating the twists and turns with only Gandalfâs memory as their guide. But when they reach a fork in the road that the wizard canât remember, what then? Maybe throwing a rock down this well will help. A passing reference to Middle-earthâs most notorious cat lady gets us chasing our tails in a screeching good sidebar, but before any of that, an interview with the acclaimed Tolkien artist Jenny Dolfen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
155 - Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'
The Fellowship has found the Hollin Gate! But before they can enter Moria, they need to figure out the password. Merry stumbles upon a clue quickly, but no one notices, and Gandalf proceeds to shout spells at the door while something in the water waits for a chance to get handsy (tentaclesy?) with Frodo. Impulse control, Lovecraftian horrors, and an unusually high number of Monty Python references lie within (recorded prior to the passing of the great Terry Jones). Plus, word-nerdery about the worst password a Tolkien fan can use, friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
154 - Separate Ways
After the warg attack the weather changes again, becoming sunny and clear. Thatâs terrible news, of course, since now the Fellowship is visible to any unfriendly eyes that may be watching. They must get under the mountains quickly, but first they have to find the Elven Door into Moria; and someone still needs to tell Sam that he canât take his little pony underground. We examine the implications of separate doors for guests, talk about Tolkienâs flexibility with moon phases, and call a lifeline for a question about Dwarvish word-nerdery that is beyond our skill to nerd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
153 - When the Lights Go Down
Defeated by Caradhras, the Fellowship regroups and discusses what to do next. Going back â though supported by the second-breakfast faction â is not a viable option. Boromir, who was apparently napping through that part of the Council, continues to push for the Gap of Rohan. Finally, Gandalf makes a motion to go through Moria, and is seconded by a pack of hungry wargs. Amazingly, we do not revisit the whole warg/wolf/werewolf thing again (just kidding; we totally do). Plus, a heartwarming letter from the Professor to the Tolkien Society in This Week in Tolkien History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
152 - Trampled Under Snow
The crossing of cruel Caradhras is hindered by snow, wind, and falling stones that seem to be sent by some supernatural force. Who or what is against them is unclear, but it is clear that continuing on is not an option⊠and going back is not going to be easy. Fortunately, a few members of the company arenât quite as short as the rest, and Gandalf has something in his flask that will keep their spirits up. Also: the 1911 hiking trip that inspired Tolkienâs perilous mountain crossings, Elf-jokes, and profound listener insights about the varying tones in the Red Book of Westmarch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
151 - Misty Mountain Hop
The Fellowship is forced to leave Hollin early when âno sign of life nearbyâ turns into âgiant evil crows filling the skyâ. Certain they are being watched, they get moving as soon as possible and make for the Misty Mountains, but Gandalf and Aragorn bicker like an old married couple about the best way to get across â if youâre more familiar with the movies, Gandalfâs choice may surprise you. Barliman brings us a welcome follow-up on a listenerâs question about the friend who dismissed Tolkien as ânerdyâ, and we seriously try to make âbrupperâ a thing, because the alternative is far worse. In memory of Christopher Tolkien, 1924 â 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
150 - Time to Ramble On
On a cold grey winter evening, Frodo sets out on the Quest of Mount Doom with eight companions. Boromir blows his horn to make sure everyone for miles around knows about their âsecretâ departure, and Gimli debates the value of oaths with Elrond before the Fellowship of the Ring says goodbye to the Last Homely House. We get knee-deep in Dwarvish word-nerdery, investigate Tolkienâs (unintentional?) symbolism in choosing Christmas Day as the start of the quest, and pass ourselves off as a couple of hoopy froods who really know where our towels are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
149 - Good Times Bad Times
We resume the narrative with the first part of âThe Ring Goes Southâ, as Frodo and his friends come to terms with the decisions made at the Council of Elrond. But the Ring isnât going anywhere for a couple of months; and that leaves time for scouts to scout, smiths to smith, and Bilbo to get all nostalgic. As the roster of the Fellowship is filled and Frodo and Aragorn get (not really) new swords, we take another look back at the âincidentâ in the Hall of Fire, and lament the endless abuse piled onto Pippin by everyoneâs favorite wizard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
148 - Questions After Nightfall 9
Alan and Shawn once again open the doors of the common-room to our listeners for live, unscripted Q&A! We shoot from the hip on questions about âwild menâ, Frodoâs mental resilience, and whether FĂ«anor really is just too melodramatic (spoiler: yes). Also, what is it that makes Tolkienâs work so enduringly popular, and does Tom Bombadil have a personal teleportation device? Answers to these questions and more inside⊠plus, great ideas about where to wear your Prancing Pony Podcast T-shirt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
147 - Tales from the Perilous Green Room: An Interview with Brian Sibley
Alan and Shawn are thrilled to welcome back Brian Sibley for his first full-episode interview! A writer and broadcaster, Brian has been responsible for beloved adaptations of Tolkienâs work such as the BBC radio dramatizations of The Lord of the Rings and Tales from the Perilous Realm. Heâs also written several books on Peter Jacksonâs films, for which he had rare access behind the scenes during production. We talk to Brian about the history behind these projects, hear inside stories about your favorite hobbit actors, and learn why producers try (and often fail) to keep the writers out of the studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
146 - Bring It on Home
The Council of Elrond draws to a close, and options are finally debated about what to do with the One Ring. But the easy way is obviously the wrong way, the hard way seems impossible; and frankly, you know the committee is running out of ideas when âgive the doomsday weapon to the guy in the yellow boots who sings all the timeâ is a proposal under serious consideration. But in Tolkienâs world, small hands often move the wheels of the world⊠and fortunately, there are a lot of small hands going up around the table.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
145 - What Is and What Should Never Be
Frodo finally learns why Gandalf never came as promised: Saruman the (Until Recently) White has turned to the dark side! The betrayal sinks in as the wizard tells the tale of his imprisonment at Orthanc and his rescue by Gwaihir, swiftest of the Great Eagles. With the Council finally caught up, they turn to the real question: what to do with the Ring? (And no, Gwaihir isnât taking it anywhere.) We celebrate an important Tolkien birthday, go on tour with the Dreadful Nine, and wonder what lucky person in Rivendell got picked to hang the Ring on Frodoâs neck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
144 - Nobody's Fault but Mine (and Yours, and Isildur's)
Gandalf and Elrond come to terms with their own past mistakes while Aragorn reveals the lengths to which heâs gone to repair the faults of Isildur. As the story continues to unfold, the truth becomes clear to all at the Council of Elrond: Frodoâs ring is the One Ring cut from the hand of Sauron, and Gandalf isnât afraid to use strong words â in the Black Speech â to prove it. We meet Radagast (in flashback), get word nerdy on a rather condescending name for Hobbits, and look for eucatastrophes in our favorite non-Tolkien stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
143 - Whole Lotta Lore
The Council of Elrond continues with a brief history of Arnor and Gondor since Isildurâs time, and Boromir begins to learn the meaning of the riddle that brought him to Rivendell. He takes the revelation of Aragornâs identity surprisingly well; but he still has questions, prompting another tale from Bilbo about the finding of the Ring. We hear back from some listeners we met at Tolkien 2019, revisit a meaningful comment by Elrond from last episode, and learn disturbing truths about the teenage preoccupations of one of our hosts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
142 - Confustication Breakdown (with special guest Corey Olsen)
The Council of Elrond begins, and to help us bring the meeting to order, we welcome Corey Olsen â the Tolkien Professor himself â to the Prancing Pony Podcast! We start with a conversation about the nature of Rivendell itself, then dive into the text to untangle the various accounts at a pace none of us are quite used to. Along the way, we revisit the making of the Rings of Power, the Last Alliance, and Elrondâs less-than-exemplary committee chairing skills. Plus, what really happened when Frodo showed Bilbo the Ring? And what's up with Boromir's hair?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
141 - Starship Trooper
With his friends all gone, Frodo stays in the Hall of Fire listening to the minstrels of Rivendell. The Elvish singing speaks to him in sweet accustomed ways, and he wanders enchanted for longer than time can remember... returning only when he hears a familiar voice chanting. We give Bilboâs Song of EĂ€rendil the full Prancing Pony Podcast treatment, explore its origins in an earlier Tolkien poem, and start assembling our best playlist as the starship mariner goes sailing on by. But first, Shawn takes the helm in an intro segment that heâs way too excited about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
140 - I've Seen All Good People
Now taking a straight and stronger course to recovery, Frodo feels itâs time for food, drink, and merrymaking. He has a brief reunion with Sam, then with Merry and Pippin before theyâre all moved on to the hall for a feast. Â Each way he turns his head, Frodo is surrounded by fair and powerful folk; but he has a pleasant (if cautious) dinner conversation with GlĂłin, after which heâs on his way to the Hall of Fire for a very merry meeting in the corner of the room. Plus Elves are singing! Dwarves are blinging! And Elrond makes a claim for the title of Best Elf Father-in-Law to a Man (your move, Thingol). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
139 - Close to the Edge
We return to the text of The Lord of the Rings with the first chapter of Book II! Frodo awakens in Rivendell after the incident down by the river to find Gandalf beside him. Now that itâs all over and done, Frodo is relieved to find that he and his friends are alive and whole, but as he learns more about events since Weathertop, he realizes how close he came to becoming a wraith himself. We get up to a Tolkien Quote of the Day about children, and get down to why the Barrow was âthe most dangerous moment of allâ. Also, another chance to talk about werewolves? Yes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
138 - Questions After Nightfall 8
Alan and Shawn welcome a cozy group of listeners to the common-room for another round of live, unscripted questions about Tolkien, the podcast, and more! We return to the Ford of Bruinen to figure out exactly what happened, and even look back on the early adventures of the Hobbits in Book I of The Lord of the Rings. We court controversy with questions about Balrog wings and whether we really are too hard on FĂ«anor (spoiler: no). Plus, what happened to the greatest Elvish poets of the First Age, and wouldnât it be nice if they were still around? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
137 - Go Back to the Beginning
Thatâs what Vizzini told us to do, so we have. As we shake off the jet lag and learn to live again without full English breakfasts and a steady supply of fish and chips, we look back at Book I of The Lord of the Rings, revisiting the recurring themes in the story so far. Then we look ahead to Book II, and the new themes and tone that will emerge as Frodo continues on the ever-darkening road to Mordor. We shake the dust off Barlimanâs Bag with a few questions from our summer hiatus, finally put Tolkien 2019 behind us with a brief discussion of our favorite moments, and explore the answer to the burning question: Whoâs more goth than Morgoth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
136 - Live from Tolkien 2019
Alan and Shawn reunite in person for a live recording from Tolkien 2019 in Birmingham, England! We interviewed several special guests at the conference, including returning guests (Marquette University archivist Bill Fliss, authors Dimitra Fimi and John Garth) and some first-timers: legendary artist Ted Nasmith, Richard Medrington â the man behind the one-man theatrical production of Leaf By Niggle â and dramatist Brian Sibley of the Lord of the Rings BBC radio play! Plus live questions from our panel audience, questionable wardrobe choices, and some other unquestionably good stuff! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
135 â Things You Donât Want to Say No To: An Interview with Wayne Hammond & Christina Scull
We end Season 3 by welcoming Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull to the podcast! This renowned husband-wife team have co-authored some of the most essential books in Tolkien studies. In addition to several volumes on Tolkienâs art (such as J.R.R. Tolkien: Artist and Illustrator) theyâve given the world The Lord of the Rings: A Readerâs Companion, the recently-expanded J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide, and much more. We talk about their many award-winning publications, hear how it feels to be given a special project by Christopher Tolkien himself, and receive a comforting reminder that anyone can make a mistake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
134 â White Horses Could Drag Me Away
Strider is remarkably not disappointed that the Elf whoâs overtaken them on the road is not his girlfriend. Itâs Glorfindel of Rivendell; and for listeners who remember our episodes on the fall of Gondolin, weâll not only answer the question of whether this Glorfindel is really that Glorfindel, weâll also delve into Tolkienâs essays to understand what makes him so special. Plus, more questions about Elvish rebirth, a booth review on who attacked the Prancing Pony in the previous chapter, and hip-but-casual footwear options for the discerning demiurge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
133 - It's Only Rock (Not Trolls) But I Like It
Striderâs path to Rivendell leads the hobbits through rough terrain; all the while, the days get colder and Frodo gradually succumbs to the evil effects of the Witch-kingâs blade. A bad situation starts to look even worse when Pippin and Merry catch a glimpse of three trolls ahead â and if that sounds familiar to you, then you scored higher than they did. Sam surprises everyone again with a bit of his own poetry, we talk about the power of textual ruins with a Tolkien Quote of the Day, and Shawn once again wonders about the smells of Middle-earth. Â Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
132 - Ranger's Little Helper
Frodo awakens, wounded and bewildered, after the attack on Weathertop. Believing theyâve been led into a trap, Sam is certain (again) that Strider is not to be trusted, but the Ranger proves himself useful (again) by treating the wound with athelas, a healing herb of the DĂșnedain. The wonder drug doesnât work wonders, but it eases Frodoâs pain enough to resume the journey to Rivendell. We ponder the possibilities of troll architecture, celebrate a podcast milestone, and consider how Sauron is like a cell phone battery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
131 - Visualizing Middle-earth: An Interview with Greg Hildebrandt
Alan and Shawn are pleased to welcome Greg Hildebrandt to the Prancing Pony Podcast! An iconic artist and illustrator, Greg (together with his twin brother Tim as the Brothers Hildebrandt) helped a generation of readers visualize Middle-earth in the Ballantine Books J.R.R. Tolkien Calendars from 1976 to 1978, and continues to create fantasy and sci-fi art to this day. Greg talked to us about his art and shared some incredible stories from his long and celebrated career, including the story behind the poster for some obscure 1970s movie called Star Wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
130 - Questions After Nightfall 7
Itâs our most Bombadilicious episode yet! Once again, Alan and Shawn open the common-room to listeners for live, unscripted questions that we answer on the spot as best we can. This time around we tackle several questions about Rings of Power (and the people who wear them), the optics of invisibility, and how not to purloin poultry. Also, some pre-finale Game of Thrones predictions that will seem absolutely hilarious now⊠and move over, Carolinas and Texas: Tuckborough-style barbecue might just be the next hot culinary trend.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
129 - Fooled on the Hill
Evening falls on Weathertop, and our heroes make camp beneath the stars with the Black Riders not far away. Strider tells stories to chase away their fears, covering most of The Silmarillion in a lot less time than we did. But in the darkest night, the Black Riders sneak up on the camp, and Frodo is suddenly overcome by a desire to disappear. We revisit the story of Beren and LĂșthien, Alan alliterates again, and we solve several surprisingly similar listener questions about Ringwraiths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
128 - Magical Mystery Tour
Strider leads the hobbits through the mysterious (and not entirely comforting) ruins of ancient kingdoms of Men along the road to Weathertop, with the hope of meeting Gandalf there. The Rangerâs knowledge of ancient lore surprises the hobbits nearly as much as Samâs does; and as they roll up to the hill, they discover theyâre not the only ones to have been here recently. Plus, Strider still needs to lighten up, a listener shares a pro tip about reading Tolkien to kids at bedtime, and we see how many quotes from The Princess Bride we can squeeze into a short amount of time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
127 - Twelve-Penny Lane
Black Riders attack the inn during the night, so Strider opts for an early check-out to get out of Bree quickly. They soon discover that Merryâs ponies are missing, delaying their departure; but Barliman, uh, ponies up the money to compensate their losses and buys them one underfed beast of burden for the road. Bill Ferny (now twelve silver pennies richer) sees the heroes off on their way out of town, and Sam repays his kind gesture with an apple. Also: more listener questions on the Rings of Power, and word-nerdery on the itchiest place name in Middle-earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
126 - Noble Enough to Know What's Right
Frodo reads Gandalfâs letter, more concerned than ever at the wizardâs absence and the delay caused by Barliman. But at least the letter confirms Striderâs identity, and Frodo is wise enough to choose to trust him. Samâs continued protests give the Ranger a chance to be tempted by the Ring, but he keeps his self-control; and before long Merry returns with a report that the Black Riders are much closer than they think. Also, we welcome Marquette University archivist Bill Fliss to talk about his exciting new project: the J.R.R. Tolkien Fandom Oral History Collection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
125 - A Writer and a Ranger
We begin with a review of the new biographical film Tolkien (spoilers: see below) before moving on to the first half of Book I, Chapter 10. Frodo, Sam, and Pippin retire to their parlor after the âaccidentâ in the common-room, only to find the mysterious Ranger called Strider there with them. Strider seems to know a lot about their errand, but before Frodo can find out how, Barliman comes in with a not-exactly-rush delivery. We investigate the peculiar names of inns, mock the poverty of bards, and reveal thereâs more in our CD collections than just classic Rush albums. SPOILER ALERT: Our review of the new biopic film Tolkien is (of course) full of spoilers, and (also of course) went longer than we planned. If you haven't seen the film and don't want it spoiled, skip ahead to just before the 59-minute mark for our chapter discussion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
124 - Living in the Limelight
Cast in his unlikely role as âMr. Underhillâ, Frodo tries to keep a low profile at the Prancing Pony. But the attention heâs getting from a shady-looking Ranger approaches the unreal, and someone has to distract the room from the loose-lipped Pippin. Frodo handles the situation with insufficient tact, delivering a speech and a song that offer the Ring an opportunity to keep itself intact. Shawn gets on with the fascination of etymology, and Alan has way too much fun using sound effects to announce a Double Sidebar on an underlying theme in Tolkienâs poetry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
123 - Be Cool or Be Cast Out
Frodo and his friends make their way to Bree, and to an inn with a strangely familiar name, in the first half of âAt the Sign of the Prancing Ponyâ. The Men of Bree are an independent people, cheerful and friendly as a rule⊠but Sam is nervous with all these Big Folk and bigger buildings about, and Frodo stays on his guard while Pippin makes friends with the Little Folk among the locals. We revisit the role of forests in the legendarium, offer tips on which Tolkien moot is right for you, and walk in the Professorâs footsteps to the nearest pub.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
122 - The Digital Mead-Hall: TexMoot 2019 Keynote Presentation
In January, Alan and Shawn were honored to be the keynote speakers at Signum Universityâs second annual Texas Literature & Language Symposium (âTexMootâ) in Waco, Texas! Our talk, recorded live, explored podcasts as modern-day mead-halls providing a virtual place for communities to come together around a work of literature. We shared our experience of seeing a community of Tolkien fans build up around our own podcast, cracked the kind of jokes that can only happen in front of a live audience, and even trotted out a few old favorites. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
121 - Comfortably Tom
In the final pages of âFog on the Barrow-downsâ, the hobbits â now armed with nice, shiny daggers â reluctantly take their leave of Tom Bombadil. Before we say goodbye to Tom, we give the greatest enigma in Middle-earth the full Prancing Pony Podcast treatment! We answer listener questions, respond to popular theories, and assemble a councilâs worth of comments from our favorite scholars (including an unpublished letter by Tolkien himself) before making our final conclusions about what Tom Bombadil really is. A day may come when your hosts have an epic disagreement⊠is it this day? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
120 - Wish You Weren't Here
As we resume âFog on the Barrow-downsâ, Frodo comes to and finds himself trapped in a barrow with his friends unconscious beside him, arrayed eerily in the buried treasures of long-dead lords. For a moment, Frodo is tempted to flee with the Ring and leave his friends behind, but there is a seed of courage hidden in the heart of every hobbit, and Frodo isnât just any hobbit. Also: halfling streaking, a listener question about Sauronâs massive blind spot, and weâll take âUnflattering Names to Call Your Ponyâ for $200, Alex.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
119 - The Dark Side of the Tomb
We begin the chilling chapter âFog on the Barrow-downsâ on the hobbitsâ last morning in the house of Tom Bombadil and Goldberry. Soon they must be off again and into the haunted hills beyond; but they should be safe if they just keep to the west side of the barrows and get out of the downs before sunset, so letâs just see how that works out for them. Plus, more about wights than you ever wanted to know, another prophetic dream for Mr. Frodo Baggins, and a pair of incredible The Lord of the Ringsâinspired parody songs that deserve better singers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
118 - Tolkien Reading Day Special 2019
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year â the date of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r â Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading the Professorâs works. A theme is chosen by The Tolkien Society every year, and for 2019 the theme is Tolkien and the Mysterious. Join Alan and Shawn as we read favorite passages from The Lord of the Rings and Unfinished Tales about mysterious people and places in the legendarium. Weâll even investigate one of Middle-earthâs great unsolved mysteries with a question from Barlimanâs Bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
117 - Questions After Nightfall 6
Alan and Shawn once again welcome several of our listeners to the Prancing Pony Podcast for live, unscripted âAsk Me Anythingââstyle questions. In this episode, we give our best on-the-spot answers to questions about the power of the Elven Rings, Tolkienâs maps of Middle-earth, Gandalf, Sauron, and even the dreaded Watcher in the Water, with nothing more than our memories and a few hasty ebook word searches to help us along. Plus the answer to a question weâve never considered before: would FĂ«anor and Eöl have been buds?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
116 - Does Goldberry Float in Water?
The hobbits experience a rain delay the morning after their first night in the house of Tom Bombadil, and Frodo couldnât be happier. While Goldberry does her âwashingâ, Tom regales his guests with stories, but after supper Frodo starts telling his own tale, even the parts about the Black Riders and the Ring. What will happen when the âEldestâ crosses paths with the most dangerous weapon of the Third Age? Well, not that much, actually, and weâll discuss why. Plus, why did Tolkien use the name âTomâ so often, and just what is Goldberry washing anyway?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
115 - Fetch the Comfy Chairs
Frodo and friends get comfortable in the first half of âIn the House of Tom Bombadil,â and Alan and Shawn finally begin to unwrap the enigma that is Tom and his wife Goldberry. While the hobbits eat and drink as only famished hobbits can, we dive into Tolkienâs letters, poetry, and more for clues to the nature of our mysterious hosts and their relationship; but donât hold your breath for any conclusions just yet. We also answer a listener question on why Tom has been cut out of every screen adaptation so far, and get word-nerdy on one of Gandalf's most memorable lines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
114 - Race, Tolkien, and Middle-earth
For the first time ever, the Prancing Pony Podcast is proud to release one of our patron-exclusive episodes to our general audience. In this special originally released in October 2018, we take a serious look at a topic thatâs not always easy to address. Tolkienâs work has occasionally been labeled as racially insensitive or (in some cases) outright racist. Itâs something no Tolkien fan wants to hear, but is there any truth to it? We take a close look at the texts and Tolkienâs letters to attempt to dispel some myths⊠and confront some real concerns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
113 - Trouble with the Trees
Itâs nap time in the Old Forest as our heroes gradually succumb to the power of an ancient and angry willow. Sam rolls a natural 20 to resist the spell and manages to save Frodo, but Merry and Pippin are trapped inside the enormous tree. Just when all seems hopeless, a merry old fellow comes hopping along with a unique fashion sense and some very delicate lilies. We remember J.R.R. Tolkienâs brother Hilary and speculate about Old Man Willow; weâll also answer all your questions about the enigmatic figure in the blue jacket and yellow boots⊠just not today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
112 - Unrest in the Forest
Frodo and his companions enter into the Old Forest in the first part of Book I, Chapter 6 of The Lord of the Rings. Merry has been beyond the Hedge before and does his best to guide them, but itâs hard to navigate a forest when the trees wonât stop moving. Something or someone is making a path before them, leading them inexorably into the deepest, strangest part of the forest. We answer more questions about the One Ring from Barlimanâs Bag, discuss the Hobbitsâ ruthless deforestation campaign, and get schooled by a listener on basic fractions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
111 - Eleventy-first Episode Extravaganza
Alan and Shawn are celebrating their eleventy-first episode with a party of special magnificence! But instead of inviting you to a feast and risking a possible appearance by the Sackville-Bagginses, weâre looking back at a few dozen of our best clips from the first three seasons of the PPP, nominated by our listeners. From the silliest jokes to the most tragic readings, from great insights and character voices to the most ridiculous mistakes imaginable, itâs all here in a special that goes ever on and on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
110 - With a Little Help from My Friends
A conspiracy is finally unmasked in the second half of âA Conspiracy Unmaskedâ! Frodoâs dread turns to relief when he learns his friends already know much more than he gave them credit for. They insist on leaving with him and promise to stick to him through thick and thin â all except for Fredegar, who finds those creepy, sniffing Black Riders far less scary than⊠uh, trees. We take time to analyze Frodoâs mysterious dream, wax poetic about the importance of fellowship, and get our hearts full of hobbitry with an uplifting Tolkien Quote of the Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
109 - Hello, Goodbye
In the first half of Book I, Chapter 5 of The Lord of the Rings, the Hobbits cross the Brandywine and come to Frodoâs new digs at Crickhollow, where a hot bath and all the comforts of home await them. Frodo does his best to enjoy a well-earned second supper and good company, but a dark cloud hangs over him as he dreads having to tell his friends he wonât be staying. Also in this episode: architectural musings, more mushrooms, and speculation on why ordinary Hobbits like Maggot and the Gaffer donât go all Sir Robin when face-to-face with a Ringwraith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
108 - Ain't Gonna Walk on Maggot's Farm No More
The second half of âA Short Cut to Mushroomsâ finds Frodo almost as scared of Farmer Maggot as he is of the Black Rider following him. His fears are quickly eased, however, and he finds a good friend in an unexpected place. We discuss the hospitality of hobbits (and their mistrust of outsiders), talk with our North Wing guest about the value of finding oneâs tribe among the Tolkien community, and answer questions from Barlimanâs Bag about Sauronâs tactical decisions. Also, how to make mushroom soup sound even less appetizing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
107 - The Nazgûl is Wailin' in the Wind
We begin the new year with a Tolkien Fun Fact in honor of the Professorâs birthday before starting on Book I, Chapter 4 of The Lord of the Rings, âA Short Cut to Mushrooms.â Frodo, Sam, and Pippin wake up after the Elf-party refreshed and encouraged, and soon fall into a false sense of security⊠but a piercing cry on the wind reminds them that danger is still very near. We discuss the Ringwraiths in an extended sidebar, and go back to all our old wells of pop culture referentiality. Admit it: you totally expected the Spanish Inquisition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
An Evergreen PPP Holiday Event - The Father Christmas Letters
In what has officially become an annual event, join Alan and Shawn as they use the wayback machine to revisit episode 028 in this special director's cut re-release of our episode on Letters From Father Christmas. Marvel at how far we've come since our early days, but mostly enjoy the charming adventures of Tolkien's creations at The North Pole! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
106 - Questions After Nightfall 5
Itâs time once again for Alan and Shawn to welcome several visitors to the Prancing Pony! Hear us stay mostly on topic as we attempt to answer live, unscripted âAsk Me Anythingââstyle questions about The Lord of the Rings and much more. We revisit recent mailbag questions on Bilboâs wealth and the Dead Men of Dunharrow, say a few premature words about Tom Bombadil (whom weâll be getting to soon enough, we promise!), and demonstrate that the only thing worse than Alanâs Tom Hanks impression is Shawnâs Tim Allen impression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
105 - Who Wants to Leave Forever?
Now with more Elves â for a limited time only! Book I, Chapter 3 of The Lord of the Rings concludes with a meeting between our hobbit heroes and the company of Gildor Inglorion in the Woody End. We reach back into The Silmarillion for a recap of the Elf kindreds, and turn to one of Tolkienâs letters (guess which one!) for a reminder of their destiny: to fade and leave Middle-earth to Men. We also take a look at This Week in Tolkien History, and our extended discussion about the stars may send you venturing into the attic to find your old telescope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
104 - I See a Little Silhouetto of a Man
We return to Book I, Chapter 3 of The Lord of the Rings to find Frodo, Sam, and Pippin still in high spirits as they stroll through the Shire. Before long, though, they realize that theyâre being followed by a shadowy, sniffing black rider. We talk about the âunpremeditated turnâ that transformed Tolkienâs Hobbit sequel into something darker and more adult, investigate trouble with the Big People, and even receive alarming news about Lobeliaâs questionable plantation income. Oh, and if you hear surf guitars, get to high ground immediately. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
103 - Goodbye Everybody, I've Got to Go
We begin Book I, Chapter 3 of The Lord of the Rings, âThree is Companyâ. After months of preparation, Frodo sells Bag End. He leaves home with Sam and Pippin on a pretense of moving back to Buckland, but before they even get to the bottom of the Hill, there are already hints that he is being followed. A new installment of Meanwhile, Elsewhere in Middle-earth uncovers why Gandalf ran off in such a hurry, and a listener question about Sauron's motives gives us a chance to meet the new Dark Lord (not quite the same as the old Dark Lord). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
102 - Arthur of the Century: An Interview with SĂžrina Higgins
Draw the sword from the stone and light the grail-shaped beacon as we welcome SĂžrina Higgins â editor of the award-winning book The Inklings and King Arthur â to the Prancing Pony Podcast! We discuss the various ways each of the Inklings adapted the Arthurian legend for the twentieth century, including Tolkienâs incomplete poem The Fall of Arthur. We learn more about Tolkienâs relationships within the famous literary group and even get an up-close look at Charles Williams, whom SĂžrina writes about at her blog The Oddest Inkling. Warning: some mature content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
101 - Now I Need a Place to Hide Away
In the final pages of Book I, Chapter 2, âThe Shadow of the Pastâ, Gandalf recounts how he found Gollum and filled in the gaps in the Ringâs history. Frodo begins to understand what he must do; and while heâs not exactly eager to do it, he wonât have to do it alone. We spend some time on Gandalfâs words to Frodo about the importance of pity, and flip ahead to Book IV of The Lord of the Rings for a chilling account of Gollumâs torture at the hand of Sauron. Plus, a listener question leads us into a conversation about magic, Morgoth, and MacGuffins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
100 - There's a Shadow Hanging Over Me
In the second of three episodes on Book I, Chapter 2, âThe Shadow of the Pastâ, Gandalf gives Frodo a brief history of the Rings of Power and the tragic tale of how the One Ring came to SmĂ©agol, better known as Gollum. But Frodo finds some parts of the story hard to swallow, especially the one that wanders around making a gurgling sound in its throat. We answer a question about Middle-earthâs walking dead just in time for Halloween, talk with Shaun Gunner of the Tolkien Society about Oxonmoot, Tolkien 2019, and reveal a big announcement about the PPP! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
099 - Yesterday, All My Troubles Seemed So Far Away
Years have passed since the farewell party, and as the first part of Book I, Chapter 2, âThe Shadow of the Pastâ unfolds, Frodo has come into his own as the new resident oddball at Bag End. But rumor begins to reach the Shire about a growing shadow in the East, and soon Gandalf returns (after not quite seventeen years) with foreboding news about Bilboâs magic ring. Tolkien meets Jane Austen in an eye-opening mailbag submission, and a brief but most excellent appearance is made by Messrs. Preston and Logan of San Dimas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
098 - Questions After Nightfall 4
Once again, Alan and Shawn are joined live by several visitors to the Prancing Pony for some âAsk Me Anythingâ-style unscripted questions! Topics include the representation of women in Tolkienâs works, SPBMI in the Third Age, Tom Bombadil, and more! Plus, corrections to our first The Lord of the Rings chapter discussion just keep piling up⊠and we breathe a sigh of relief over a welcome softball question about the enduring appeal of Monty Python. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
097 - A Hard Day's Night
Book I, Chapter 1 of The Lord of the Rings concludes with the aftermath of the birthday party. Bilbo has left behind gifts for friends and family ranging from the sincere to the brilliantly snarky, but no trace of gold or âjoolsâ. As the Sackville-Bagginses come to terms with their meager inheritance, Frodo settles in as master of Bag End⊠and owner of a certain magic ring. We name unnamed dwarves, speculate wildly about the DĂșnedain of the North (despite Tolkienâs best efforts), and remember another legendary hero with the initials F.B.: Ferris Bueller.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
096 - I Don't Want to Spoil the Party, So I'll Go
As Book I, Chapter 1 of The Lord of the Rings continues, the Baggins binary birthday bash begins with food, fireworks, and no unwanted poetry. Bilbo actually has something far more noteworthy in mind: a dramatic and immediate departure. As the flabbergasted guests eat and drink away their confusion, Gandalf confronts Bilbo about⊠well, you know. We discuss Tolkienâs comments on the longevity of Ringbearers, bring out the FĂ«anor piñata once again, and introduce a brand-new segment: Meanwhile, Elsewhere in Middle-earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
095 - They Say It's Your Birthday
In the first pages of Book I, Chapter 1 of The Lord of the Rings, âA Long-Expected Partyâ, we see Bilbo Baggins through the eyes of the hobbits of the Shire, not all of whom view him kindly. Seeming eccentric to some and suspicious to others, Bilbo is nevertheless the chief topic of conversation as the occasion of his eleventy-first birthday approaches. While the Gaffer gabs in the Ivy Bush, we discuss the secret ambitions of the Sackville-Bagginses, admire Tolkienâs intractability towards proofreaders, and have fun with numbers in Old English. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
094 - This Shire is Your Shire
Never ones to skip over the pages with Roman numerals, we begin reading The Lord of the Rings at the famous Foreword, where Tolkien offered his most well-known comments on his own work, including his thoughts about allegory. Next, the Prologue explains in rich detail the history of the Shire, pipe-weed, and the sticky story of how Bilbo found his ring. Along the way, we discuss the origins (and, uh, the 'final destination') of Hobbits, the Red Book of Westmarch, and lob more classic movie references than your best friend from high school on a Saturday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
093 - We're In the Same Tale Still!
At long last, we finally⊠really this time⊠begin The Lord of the Rings! In this episode, we introduce the novel (not a trilogy) with the epic story of its composition and publication. Almost immediately after The Hobbit was published, Tolkienâs publishers demanded a sequel; but the road from idea to publication took the Professor seventeen long years, with more twists and turns than a goblin-tunnel. Plus, the story of the Professorâs appearance at a hobbit-themed dinner in 1958 in a combined Tolkien Quote of the Day / Tolkien Fun Fact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
092 - We're Not Saying It's Monsters, But It's Monsters
Before turning to The Lord of the Rings, Alan and Shawn gain some needed insight with a look at Tolkienâs influential essay âBeowulf: The Monsters and the Critics.â Tolkienâs response to the prevailing theories of his day about the Old English poem ushered in a new era in Beowulf scholarship; and like âOn Fairy-Stories,â its concepts help us better understand the Middle-earth legendarium. As the battle rages between humanity and the forces of darkness, some beloved childrenâs characters enter the fray⊠and we remember a key lesson from Galaxy Quest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
091 - Laughing Shall We Die: An Interview with Tom Shippey
Season 3 is here, and we begin by welcoming Tom Shippey to The Prancing Pony Podcast! We discuss his classic works The Road to Middle-earth and J. R. R. Tolkien: Author of the Century, and the remarkable story of his personal meeting with Professor Tolkien in 1972. We also talk about his new book Laughing Shall I Die, an exploration of the Viking heroic mindset and their grim (often inappropriate) sense of humor. Plus, the shocking link between Beowulf and a young woman searching for the perfect bowl of porridge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
090 - Between Light and Dark: An Interview with Verlyn Flieger
Alan and Shawn are honored to welcome Verlyn Flieger, author of There Would Always Be a Fairy Tale, to The Prancing Pony Podcast! We discuss her new book, her work co-editing the annual journal Tolkien Studies, and of course, her classic study of the legendarium, Splintered Light. We also learn about the best way to read Tolkienâs letters, drool over reports from the recent Bodleian Library exhibition, and applaud the way Dr. Flieger turns the tables and interviews us for a change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
089 - Questions After Nightfall 3
Itâs time for the latest Prancing Pony Podcast Q&A episode! This time around, Alan and Shawn attempt to answer live questions from guest patrons on life lessons in Tolkienâs works, symbolism in the story of Beren and LĂșthien, The Lord of the Rings Online, and more! We revisit a recent Barlimanâs Bag question about Middle-earth heroes breaking into song, and boldly try to work out whether the most memorable line in Bilboâs birthday speech is a compliment. Plus, a recent comment about Thorin Oakenshield incites one listener to school us on ancient history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
088 - Live From Mythmoot Five
Alan and Shawn finally draw swords together in person for a live recording from Mythmoot V in Leesburg, Virginia! We interview this yearâs special guests, including Signum University president Corey Olsen, Tolkien and the Great War author John Garth, The Annotated Hobbit editor Douglas A. Anderson, and Klingon conlanger Marc Okrand. We look back at the history of the podcast, answer questions from the audience (many of whom have never had to suffer through our jokes for an entire podcast before), and finally revisit pantsless bears, Schrödingerâs Dwarf, and âwhen to swipe leftâ in our first-ever live trivia competition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
087 - No Shrubberies: The Hobbit Retrospective
Oh, what sad times are these when Tolkien podcasters can make it through an entire season without a single reference to shrubberies? For our final episode on The Hobbit, we return with a retrospective: one that sounds nice (of course!) and not too expensive. First, we cut down the mightiest themes in the story wiiith⊠a revisiting! Then we answer your questions in an extra-long Barlimanâs Bag segment, placed beside the first segment, so we get the two-segment effect with a little path running down the middle. You must listen or else you will never pass through this season⊠alliiive! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
086 - Not Quite Dead
Having survived trolls, goblins, wolves, spiders, riddles with Gollum and Smaug, the horror of battle, and the rude awakening of Elvish singing, Bilbo Baggins makes it back home again in the last chapter of The Hobbit. All of his neighbors are surprised to find him alive, some are disappointed; and even Gandalf knows Bilbo is not the hobbit he was. We discuss the âmere luckâ of âa little fellow in a wide world,â discover Tolkien's philological hint at the snobbery of the Sackville-Bagginses, and sing way too many classic rock radio hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
085 - Bilbo "Two Chests" Baggins
Bilbo wakes up after the Battle of Five Armies in Chapter 18 of The Hobbit, dazed, confused, and very much invisible. Returning to camp, he has a bittersweet reunion with Thorin Oakenshield and realizes that his adventure has finally come to an end. He bids a fond farewell before turning back for home with the friendship of both Elves and Dwarves, and a pretty decent retirement lined up. We estimate the value of Bilboâs take-home pay, investigate the limits of the One Ringâs invisibility effect, and speculate on AulĂ«âs possible resemblance to his most bearded creations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
084 - The Violence Inherent in the System
As Chapter 17 of The Hobbit begins, the Lonely Mountain is under siege. Thorin â hanging on to outdated imperialist dogma which perpetuates the economic and social differences in Middle-earth â refuses to negotiate, knowing Dain is on his way. When Bilboâs plot is revealed, Thorin goes into a rage and orders him gone (ââOrderâ, eh? âOo does âe think âe is?â); but just as all looks hopeless, goblins attack, and we see the⊠well, you know. The Battle of Five Armies begins, and we look back at Tolkienâs famous essay âOn Fairy-Storiesâ to explain the sudden turn of events.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
083 - Oh Yes, Ees Very Nice-uh
In Chapter 16 of The Hobbit, little Bilbo takes matters (and the Arkenstone) into his own hands and makes a deal with Bard and the Elvenking, who presumably donât already have one, in an attempt to end the standoff peacefully. We consider just how short-sighted Thorinâs position really is, discuss how Bilbo totally owns the whole âhonest burglarâ thing, and finally welcome the return of one of Tolkienâs most beloved characters. Plus still more raven voices, and a question from Barlimanâs Bag about Gandalfâs D&D character sheet that makes us reach for a lifeline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
082 - What is the Airspeed Velocity of a Decrepit Old Raven?
In Chapter 15, birds again show that their value in The Hobbit far outweighs their inability to carry a coconut. Bilbo and the Dwarves learn of Smaugâs death from the wise old raven RoĂ€c, but they also learn that a host of Elves and Men is on its way to the Lonely Mountain âprobably not to help redecorate. Will Thorin give charity to those in need, or has the dragon-sickness already taken root? We discuss the surprising similarities between Thorin and some of Tolkienâs greatest villains, and croak our way through more avian dialogue than ever before (or again, we hope). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
081 - Always Look on the Bright Side of Life
We cut away to Lake-town for Chapter 14 of The Hobbit, as the people of Esgaroth slowly realize that the lights coming from the Lonely Mountain are not the triumphant King Thorin flooding the river with gold, but a very angry dragon. The town worrier turns town warrior and leads the people in a valiant defense, but the cost is high⊠and everyone looks to the Mountain for compensation. We discuss how Bard the Bowman narrowly escaped death by a stroke of Tolkienâs pen, and try one last time to resolve the question of thrush-language.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
080 - And There Was Much Rejoicing
Trapped in the side-door tunnel at the beginning of Chapter 13 of The Hobbit, âNot at Home,â Bilbo leads the party in the only direction they can go: down. At the bottom they find no sign of Smaug, and the Dwarves rejoice at the recovery of their lost treasure. Only Mr. Baggins realizes that the celebration is premature and wonders where the dragon is. We examine the Arkenstone and the many meanings of a deceptively complex chapter title, and if you thought cram was hard to eat, wait until you hear how hard it is to figure out its etymology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
079 - Smaug Gets Quite Irate
In the second half of Chapter 12 of The Hobbit, Bilbo returns to Smaugâs lair to find the dragon waiting for him. Luckily he has on his ring, but the dragon senses his presence, and soon he is locked in a battle of wits with the wily worm. Bilboâs Tookish side comes out as he plays at riddles, but Smaug quickly turns from cunning to cranky, and looks for someone to take out his aggression on. Before any of that, however, we have a little fun with young Tolkienâs first dragon story, explore a rare biblical reference in Middle-earth, and engage in some wild speculation on the identity of the mysterious King Bladorthin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
078 - Every Worm is Sacred
As we begin Chapter 12 of The Hobbit, Bilbo the burglar is finally ready to enter Smaugâs lair alone, if only to get away from yet another self-important speech by Thorin. Braving the sleeping dragon, he manages to remove one piece of treasure from the hoard. But one piece at a time wonât cut it, and Smaug knows when something has been stolen. We delve into a Middle English proverb, Tolkienâs translation of Beowulf, and the life expectancy of dragons. Plus, we get to know another special guest in our second-ever North Wing segment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
077 - Questions After Nightfall 2
In our second Prancing Pony Podcast Q&A episode, Alan and Shawn answer live questions from guest patrons on diverse topics, from the fate of Dwarves after death to which character weâd cosplay as⊠if either of us ever left the house, of course. Hear your hosts attempt to pronounce Eorl and wax philosophical about who the true hero of The Lord of the Rings really is (hint: not Eorl). Plus, a friendly warning that some of the youngest Tolkien fans are not happy with a recent answer to Barlimanâs Bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
076 - The Ministry of Silly Locks
In Chapter 11 of The Hobbit, Bilbo and the Dwarves finally reach the Lonely Mountain, but they donât know where the hidden door is. Then they find the door, but they donât know how to open it. Fortunately, they do have an ancient map and a very lucky Hobbit with them, and theyâve arrived just in time. While Bilbo looks back to the west, missing his hobbit-hole, we talk once again about how he is the only person keeping this quest afloat. Plus a foolish Tolkien Fun Fact, and astronomical calculations to confusticate your average Dwarf⊠or podcast host. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
075 - Tolkien Reading Day Special 2018
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year â the date of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r â Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading the Professorâs works aloud. The theme for 2018 is Home and Hearth: the many ways of being a Hobbit. From the Shire to Cirith Ungol and back again, Alan and Shawn rattle on like Gaffer Gamgee at the Ivy Bush, reading passages from The Lord of the Rings that illustrate Hobbit ways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
074 - A Mandate From the Masses
Please keep your arms and legs inside the barrels at all times, until the ride comes to a complete stop in Lake-town where our heroes arrive, barely, in Chapter 10 of The Hobbit. Most of the Lake-towners have forgotten the past, but some still sing about the return of a nigh-legendary King under the Mountain. While Thorin soaks up the townâs adoration, only Bilbo seems to realize that the Mountain has not been won yet, and the most dangerous part of the journey is yet to come. We take a moment to appreciate the vast improvement in the depiction of Dwarves from Tolkienâs earliest writings, and look again at fate and free will. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
073 - Some Farcical Aquatic Ceremony
Itâs the worldâs worst whitewater rafting trip in the second half of Chapter 9 of The Hobbit! Bilbo reveals his plan for escaping the Elvenkingâs halls. His friends are, quite understandably, less than enthusiastic, but with both time and ideas running out, itâs into the barrels they go! As they float away to freedom (or death), we learn more about Elvish wine, Dwarvish claustrophobia, and Hobbitsâ legendary fear of water. Also, an excuse to talk about EĂ€rendil (as if Shawn needed one), and historic moments from the War of the Ring remembered in a special Tolkien history segment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
072 - King Name-Not-Appearing-In-This-Book
The rest of the Dwarves are taken by the Elves in the first half of Chapter 9 of The Hobbit. Bilbo avoids capture thanks to his ring, only to get stuck hiding for weeks in the Elvenkingâs halls. Fortunately, Mr. Invisible Baggins keeps busy with more than just pilfering food, and soon an escape plan begins to take shape in the kingâs impressive wine cellars. A listener question leads us to consider the difference between burglars and thieves, and Tolkienâs unfinished poetry offers another classic tale of Elves under the influence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
071 - Fortress Around Your Hoard
In our final episode on Chapter 8 of The Hobbit, Bilbo dispatches the Mirkwood spiders and rescues his friends, though it must be said that one beard sadly perishes in the effort. Thorin, however, has already been taken prisoner by the Elvenking, whose name is conspicuously missing from the pages of this book. We revisit the early chapters of The Silmarillion for a quick reminder about the difference between Wood-elves and the High Elves of the West, and finally learn why baby Tolkien was tougher than our kids will ever be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
070 - If You Love Somebody, Cut Them Free
The second of three episodes on Chapter 8 of The Hobbit. As Mirkwood continues with no apparent end, our heroes get desperate and stray from the path when they see Elves feasting in a clearing nearby. They try three times to crash the party, but each time chaos ensues, and soon Bilbo finds himself alone in the dark with several Spiders of Unusual Size. We witness Bilboâs most Tookish moment yet, learn about several games of the aiming and throwing sort, and rack up a number of reasons to apologize to Mr. Gordon Sumner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
069 - Be Still My Fleeting Hart
In the first episode of our trilogy on Chapter 8 of The Hobbit, Bilbo and the Dwarves enter Mirkwood and quickly learn the true meaning of the term "pitch-dark.â As the days drag on, their hunger and desperation grow, and there seems to be no end to the forest⊠but at least the spiders here are just small ones of Ordinary Size. We discuss Tolkien's folklore inspirations for the dark wood on the edge of the world, the enchanted stream, and more, then lighten the mood with an imaginary photographic tour of Middle-earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
068 - Exit, Pursued by a Bear
We resume Chapter 7 of The Hobbit. Bilbo and the Dwarves spend a few days as the guests of Beorn, comfortable despite the occasional late-night sounds of a hungry bear on the other side of the door. After verifying their story personally, Beorn agrees to help the party with food, advice, and more⊠but he still doesnât trust the Dwarves completely. We go further into the nature of Beorn and his place in the overall legendarium, and a Tolkien Fun Fact gives us a much-needed reason to revisit our favorite ursine from the Father Christmas letters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
067 - Forget About Your Worries and Your Strife
Chapter 7 of The Hobbit begins with a rude awakening in an Eagleâs eyrie. But our heroes are soon off on their way again, and find themselves at the home of Beorn the skin-changer. Is he a man that changes into a bear, or a bear that changes into a man? Find out as we explore the linguistic and mythical inspirations for one of Middle-earth's most enigmatic characters. We also remember a poignant letter J.R.R. once received from a friend on This Week in Tolkien History, and ask you to bear with us as we discuss our favorite music inspired by the legendarium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
066 - A Slaying Song Tonight: An Interview with Michael Drout
Alan and Shawn are delighted to welcome Michael Drout to The Prancing Pony Podcast! As co-founder and co-editor of the journal Tolkien Studies and multiple books on the Professor, Drout is one of the most prolific Tolkien scholars in the field today. We talk to him about his personal discovery of Tolkien, the future of Tolkien studies and fandom, and Beowulf. Plus, we discuss the very highest quality of The Lord of the Rings Online players, and how to write a new Old English poem more well-known than some of the originals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
065 - Lobbest Thou Thy Holy Pine Grenade
We pick up Chapter 6 of The Hobbit with our heroes literally up a tree. Gandalf keeps the wolves at bay by playing with fire, but when the goblins arrive, things quickly heat up for Bilbo and his friends. Just as the situation begins to go up in smoke, unexpected help comes from above. We talk about the Eagles, their role in the legendarium, and the dangers Tolkien saw in using them too much in his stories. We also do a quick background check on Gandalf and recite some more goblin poetry bad enough to make a Vogon (and your hosts) cringe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
064 - And Now, the Larch
As Chapter 6 of The Hobbit opens, Bilbo emerges from the mountains and soon hears the familiar voices of Gandalf and the Dwarves. He sneaks up on them with the help of his new ring, and finally wins some respect with his stealth and the tale of his escape. But the happy reunion proves short-lived; the company move on, coming to a clearing in the woods⊠and find themselves surrounded by howling wolves. We revisit the nature of wargs, showcase our limited botanical knowledge, and enjoy yet another philological joke from Professor Tolkien. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
063 - How Not to Be Seen
We conclude our trilogy of episodes on Chapter 5 of The Hobbit. Gollum begins to realize that Bilbo has his ring, and Bilbo begins to realize what it does. He uses its power of invisibility to escape from Gollum, but stops short of killing the wretched creature: an act of pity that will have great implications for Bilbo and for Middle-earth. We turn again to the first edition to see how Tolkienâs minor edits changed the ring from a magical trinket into an artifact of power with a will of its own, and your hosts thankfully retire their Gollum voices until The Lord of the Rings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
062 - Ere the Other Side He See
Our second episode on Chapter 5 of The Hobbit. Tension mounts as the riddle contest between Bilbo and Gollum continues, with Bilboâs life at stake. His luck saves him in the final round, but when Gollum accuses him of not playing fair, heâs still very much in danger. We compare the current text to the first edition to see how Tolkien transformed Gollum from a hungry, but honest, monster into a âmiserable wicked creatureâ corrupted by the One Ring. And we welcome a listener to The North Wing of the Prancing Pony in a new segment! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
061 - Answer Me These Questions Five...
The first of three episodes on Chapter 5 of The Hobbit. Bilbo wakes up in the darkness below the mountains, and soon finds himself in a life-or-death riddle-game with one of Tolkien's most infamous creations: Gollum. We begin to discuss the changes made to this chapter during the composition of The Lord of the Rings, as Tolkienâs understanding of Gollum and the ring changed. Also, we look to the Professorâs own words for context about the newly announced Amazon series in a new segment: The Tolkien Quote of the Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
060 - Questions After Nightfall 1
Itâs our first ever Prancing Pony Podcast Q&A episode! Alan and Shawn answer live questions from our very special guests, ranging from the fun to the philosophical. Topics include our favorite villains, the surprising similarities between goblins and dwarves, and the importance of reading Tolkien's poetry aloud. Also Entwives, and the uncanny ability of goblins to recognize millennia-old Elvish swords. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
059 - Run Away!
As we resume Chapter 4 of The Hobbit, Bilbo and friends are captured by goblins. Thorin Oakenshieldâs name and reputation are known in these parts, and the Great Goblin does not take kindly to his arrival. Gandalf comes to the rescue with his shining Elven-sword, allowing our heroes a chance to escape⊠maybe. We get word-nerdy to explain Tolkienâs use of the terms âgoblinâ and âorcâ, have fun with goblin voices, and a Tolkien Fun Fact reminds us how different the Professorâs school days were Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
058 - There Lies a Cave
In Chapter 4 of The Hobbit, our heroes begin the crossing of the mountains under threat of stormy weather and rock-hurling stone-giants. They seek shelter in a cave, but caves up in the mountains are seldom unoccupied, and this one is no exception. We investigate the nature of the mysterious stone-giants, a new Philology Faire segment unveils surprises in Tolkienâs original conception of Treebeard, and we get a little spooky for a listener question about the Dead Marshes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
057 - 'Tis a Silly Place
In Chapter 3 of The Hobbit, Bilboâs story takes its first steps into Tolkienâs greater mythology, but these arenât your grandfatherâs Eldar. We uncover the hidden secrets of the notorious âsilly Elvesâ of Rivendell, introduce Elrond, and discuss the incredible luck of arriving at the Last Homely House at precisely the right time. Also, a listener question sends us searching for the reason why Gandalf didnât seem to know where his new sword came from. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
056 - Heâs a Burglar and Heâs OK
In Chapter 2 of The Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins wakes up to the pleasant lack of Dwarves. Heâs beginning to think that heâs escaped adventure after all when Gandalf pushes him out the door. Immediately, little Bilbo misses the comforts of home, but the trouble is just beginning⊠and before they even reach the dangerous part of the road, he must test his burglarious skills on a trio of hungry, if illiterate, trolls. Plus, we let the Professor make the bad puns for once in a new Tolkien Fun Fact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
055 - Pining for the Hoards
We wrap up Chapter 1 of The Hobbit, âAn Unexpected Partyâ, where Bilboâs Tookish side is awakened by the mysterious dwarf-song filling his home, but his Baggins side is less enthusiastic once Thorin and Gandalf lay out the details of the dwarvesâ quest. Will Bilbo stay safely in his comfortable hole, or will he rise to the challenge like his great golfing ancestor Bullroarer Took? Also: more word-nerdery as we talk about Tolkienâs use of the plural form âdwarvesâ in the first installment of another new show segment: Philology Faire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
054 - Nobody Expects the Dwarvish Inquisition
We begin our reading of The Hobbit with the famous first line and meet Bilbo Baggins, living a predictable life of luxury and ease until Gandalf comes by one Tuesday morning. Soon Bilboâs world is turned upside down by an unexpected party of hungry dwarves, and his comfortable life is threatened. Along the way, we discuss the enduring courtesy of hobbits, the dangers of saying âGood morningâ to wizards, and offer fashion tips for homeless dwarves. Plus, the first installment of our new segment: Today in Tolkien History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
053 - A Hole New World
Itâs the start of Season 2 here on The Prancing Pony Podcast as we start discussing the book that first introduced Middle-earth to the world: J.R.R. Tolkienâs The Hobbit! In this episode, we look at the novelâs composition, publication and lasting legacy. Alan and Shawn share their personal stories about reading The Hobbit for the first time, and talk about the Professorâs surprising genealogy in a welcome return of the Tolkien Fun Fact segment. Plus, learn how young Christopher Tolkienâs attention to detail tended to confusticate and bebother his father. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
052 - Exploring The Hobbit and More: An Interview with Corey Olsen
In honor of the 80th anniversary of the publication of The Hobbit, Alan and Shawn are excited to welcome Corey Olsen, the Tolkien Professor himself, to The Prancing Pony Podcast! We talk about Coreyâs work as a Tolkien podcaster â and get the latest news about Signum University, Mythgard Institute, and more â before jumping into a discussion of his book Exploring J.R.R. Tolkienâs The Hobbit. Plus, sage advice for parents seeking to raise the next generation of Tolkien-loving fantasy geeks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
051 - Why Does It Hurt So Much?: The Hobbit Film Trilogy
Itâs there and back again at the movies with the Prancing Pony Podcast! After talking about The Lord of the Rings films in our last episode, Alan and Shawn dive into Peter Jacksonâs The Hobbit film trilogy. Once again, we watch clips of the changes we liked (and just a few of the ones we didnât) and discuss them, returning to Tolkienâs own observations about film adaptation to assess the films fairly. Luck lost, love found, dragon-sickness⊠and how will we ever know if four-legs got some? Video version available on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
050 - You Have Kept Your Honor: The Lord of the Rings Film Trilogy
Put aside the books and join us at the movies! In this episode, Alan and Shawn discuss Peter Jacksonâs The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. We watch clips of our favorite (and not-so-favorite) changes and go back to Tolkienâs own words about film adaptation to understand why some worked and others didnât. Blazing beacons, tragic deaths, Elves where Elves have no business being⊠theyâre all here in this action-packed, star-studded, Oscar-winner-watching episode of the Prancing Pony Podcast! Video version available on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
049 - The First Age Strikes Back: The Silmarillion Retrospective
A long time ago, in a galaxy not so far away, Alan and Shawn started discussing The Silmarillion. Now, witness the power of this fully armed and operational retrospective episode! First, we open Barlimanâs Bag and stay on target to answer as many questions about the First and Second Ages as we can. Then we search our feelings for our favorite recurring themes in The Silmarillion and discuss Morgothâs playbook for evil, the greatness of Finrod, the enduring importance of hope in Tolkienâs works, and more. And we make use of our Star Wars referencing skills for the first time in a long time⊠a long time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
048 - People Are People
In the second half of "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age,â Isildur refuses to destroy the One Ring when he has the chance, keeping it as his prize from the vanquished Sauron. But he is stripped of the Ring, and his life, when he's ambushed by Orcs on his way home. Itâs only a question of time before the Ring is found centuries later by one of the fisher-folk living near the river, and eventually comes to the hand of some creature called a Hobbit from some place called the Shire. Think you've heard this one before? Not so fast! We go back to Tolkien's Unfinished Tales to learn more about Isildur's death at the Gladden Fields and the origin of the Istari or Wizards. We also dig up some blasphemous rumours about the origins of Orcs to answer a listener question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
047 - Never Let Me Down Again
Alan and Shawn rewind to the end of the War of Wrath to begin "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age." Sauron refuses to beg the Valarâs pardon for his misdeeds, and remains in Middle-earth to follow in Morgothâs footsteps as the new Dark Lord. Men prove easy to sway with pleasure and a little treasure, but itâs the Elves that Sauron wants now, courting them with secret knowledge. He soon finds ready pupils in Celebrimbor and the Noldorin smiths of Eregion, who use their new knowledge to make the Rings of Power; but Sauron is really behind the wheel, and in secret he makes another ring to have and to hold in domination over the others: One Ring to⊠well, you know the rest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
046 - Master and Servant
The second of two episodes on the AkallabĂȘth, Tolkien's story of NĂșmenor. Ar-PharazĂŽn is offered no resistance by Sauron, and gets the bright idea to take him as a hostage. Soon, you-know-who has wormed his way into the Kingâs trust and turned the NĂșmenĂłreans to the worship of Melkor. As Sauronâs cult gains power in the kingdom, the Faithful led by Amandil and Elendil are persecuted; the aging Ar-PharazĂŽn prepares his armada to sail to the Undying Lands to take immortality by force, and the Valar respond with a disaster of biblical proportions. Also, Alan and Shawn finally disagree about something: Genesis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
045 - Just Canât Get Enough
The first of two episodes on the AkallabĂȘth, the story of NĂșmenor. At the outset of the Second Age, the Valar reward the Edain with wisdom, long life and their own private island in the Great Sea. The NĂșmenĂłreans become legendary seafarers, sailing east to the edge of Arda and bringing knowledge back to Middle-earth. But the Valar forbid them to sail west in search of the Undying Lands, and soon the NĂșmenĂłreans begin to yearn for the one thing they cannot have: immortality. We look into Tolkien's essays and letters to see what happens to mortals who do come to Aman, and dabble in genealogy with questionable results. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
044 - The Threshold of Middle-earth: An Interview with John Garth
Alan and Shawn are honored to welcome John Garth, the award-winning author of Tolkien and the Great War and Tolkien at Exeter College, to The Prancing Pony Podcast! Johnâs work as a biographer and researcher offers a rare glimpse into the early life of J.R.R. Tolkien, and the experiences and ideas that helped shape the Middle-earth legendarium. We discuss war, friendship, sorrow, and tales of college tomfoolery that may surprise you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
043 - The Final Frontier
Join Alan and Shawn as they don red shirts for the final chapter of the Quenta Silmarillion, the voyages of the star-ship Vingilot. Its continuing mission: to bring EÀrendil and Elwing into the West, to seek the pardon and aid of the Valar, and to become a beacon of hope for Elves and Men forever after. The ensuing War of Wrath leaves behind a strange new world, and each of the Silmarils boldly goes where no one has gone before⊠or ever will again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
042 - Resistance is Futile
We return to Chapter 23 of The Silmarillion with our second episode on Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin. Tuorâs star rises in the realm of Turgon, and soon he finds himself wedded to Idril Celebrindal, becoming the second Man ever to marry one of the Firstborn. But Maeglin is bitter at his cousinâs rejection, and soon Morgoth seizes on his discontent to fulfill some long-laid plans of his own. We trek with you through the flames, the fights, and the frights of the fall of the last Elven stronghold in Beleriand, and hint at the hope to come. Plus, donât miss Alanâs impression of a beloved Hollywood icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
041 - Make It So
In the first of two episodes on Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin, we go beyond The Silmarillion into Tolkien's Unfinished Tales to tell the story the way it was meant to be told. The son of Huor and RĂan survives capture, thraldom, and life as an outlaw to follow the footstep of doom, and soon finds himself face-to-face with Ulmo, the Lord of Waters. Tuor is offered a quest to find Gondolin and bring a message of warning from Ulmo, in fulfillment of a plan laid centuries ago. Also, answers to a listener question about Elven sleeping habits reveal gaps in both Shawn's research⊠and his knowledge of Star Trek. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
040 - He's Dead, Gem
In Chapter 22 of The Silmarillion, HĂșrin is released from Angband to finish his sonâs work of destroying everything he touches, and his visit to Thingol starts a chain reaction leading to war between Doriath and the Dwarves of Nogrod. As Menegroth falls, the Silmaril comes through the hands of Beren and LĂșthien to their son Dior, and is noticed by seven guys we havenât heard from in a while. Plus, a look at Tolkien's explanation of the kinship of Celeborn and Nimloth tells us how to get to Sesame Street. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
039 - Exit the Warrior
We conclude our trilogy of episodes on Chapter 21 of The Silmarillion, "Of TĂșrin Turambar." After Glaurung sacks Nargothrond, Morwen pulls a Thingol and ignores Melian's advice. She leaves Doriath, Nienor secretly follows, and the dragon ensnares another child of HĂșrin. We witness a fateful reunion of brother and sister, and the final showdown between hero and dragon. We close the sad tale with a discussion of fate, free will, pity and mean, mean pride in a marathon podcast that challenges popular opinions about Tolkien's tragic hero... and the stamina of your hosts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
038 - I Will Choose Free Will
We continue our trilogy of episodes on Chapter 21 of The Silmarillion and Tolkienâs tragic hero TĂșrin Turambar. TĂșrin comes to Nargothrond with Gwindor, then quickly surpasses his friend in the favor of the king and the love of the kingâs daughter. TĂșrinâs military advice brings early victory, but his deeds soon draw the attention of Morgoth, who responds with a massive army led by the dragon Glaurung. We begin examining TĂșrinâs choices, tally up his many name changes, and earn the wrath of Hugo Weaving fans everywhere. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
037 - No Man's Land: An Interview with Simon Tolkien
Alan and Shawn are thrilled to welcome Simon Tolkien, novelist and grandson of J.R.R. Tolkien, to The Prancing Pony Podcast! Simon's new novel No Man's Land tells the story of a young man's journey from a class-divided coal mining town to the Battle of the Somme in World War I. We talk about the novel, its vivid depiction of the war, and the experiences of J.R.R. Tolkien that inspired it. Plus, childhood memories of young Simon and his grandfather certain to bring you unbridled geek joy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
036 - Fly By Night, Away From Here
Alan and Shawn begin yet another trilogy of episodes â this time on The Silmarillion Chapter 21, âOf TĂșrin Turambar.â The son of HĂșrin of Dor-lĂłmin is fostered by the King of Doriath, but an awkward dinner party drives him to a life among outlaws. Fleeing from his own fate, he manages to bring disaster wherever he goes, and heâs headed to Nargothrond next. We give an overview of the history of the story Tolkien called the âgermâ of his mythology and â surprise! â we quote Monty Python. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
035 - Tolkien Reading Day Special 2017
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year â the date of the fall of Barad-dĂ»r â Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading the Professorâs works aloud. The theme for 2017 is Poetry and Songs in Tolkienâs Fiction, so Alan and Shawn read their favorite poems and songs from the legendarium, discuss the ways in which Tolkien used poetry to shape his world, and quite possibly make fools of themselves. Again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
034 - Let It All Out
Shout for joy with Fingon as day breaks on the morning of the Fifth Battle, Nirnaeth Arnoediad, in Chapter 20 of The Silmarillion. Shout for outrage at the treachery and brutality of Morgothâs forces (these are the things we can do without). Elves and Men will shed Unnumbered Tears after Morgothâs fears of defeat are turned into victory when the Dark Lord unleashes an army more terrible than any ever before seen in Middle-earth. We dig deep into Tolkienâs early drafts to answer a listener question about Elvish agriculture, Alan goes out of his way to insult several states, and Shawn ignores a simple request from his co-host and reads what he wants, when he wants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
033 - The Princess Bride
The last of three episodes on The Silmarillion Chapter 19, âOf Beren and LĂșthien.â After putting the Dark Lord down for a nap, the lovers succeed in prying a Silmaril from Morgothâs iron crown. Beren needs a helping hand to escape from Carcharoth, and Thingol figures out entirely on his own something everyone around him already knew. Our favorite hound meets his doom, and LĂșthien is offered a profound choice about the future. We wrap up by discussing the way this romance impacts the rest of Tolkienâs legendarium, and shamelessly crack left-handed jokes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
032 - Lady and the Tramp
The second of three episodes on The Silmarillion Chapter 19, "Of Beren and LĂșthien." Man's best friend has a soft spot for Elf-maidens too, as Huan the hound of Valinor befriends LĂșthien and assists in her quest to fetch Beren from the dungeons of Sauron. We find two sons of FĂ«anor off their leash, bury the bones of a beloved Elf-king, and dig up some of Tolkien's essays and letters to determine the difference between wolves, wargs, and werewolves. As it turns out, not all dogs come from heaven. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
031 - Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
The first of three episodes on The Silmarillion Chapter 19, "Of Beren and LĂșthien." The fugitive son of Barahir comes to Doriath and has a fateful meeting with the daughter of Thingol. Unimpressed with LĂșthien's new boyfriend, Thingol sends Beren on an impossible quest to win her hand. We discuss the personal significance of the story Tolkien called "the kernel of the mythology" and compare excerpts from the epic poem The Lay of Leithian. Plus, what do Thingol and Archie Bunker have in common? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
030 - Another One Bites the Dust
In Chapter 18 of The Silmarillion, Morgoth breaks the Siege of Angband with a sneak attack, beginning the Battle of Sudden Flame. As the fires die down, Fingolfin responds by challenging the Dark Lord to single combat. Meanwhile, displaced survivors of the Edain start down paths that will forever intertwine the fates of Men and Elves. Plus, Tolkien's best-known villain moves into the fortress next door with his annoying pets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
029 - Tolkien's 125th Birthday Special
We celebrate the twelfty-fifth birthday of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien with tributes from our listeners and our own thoughts on what Tolkien has meant to us. We also give the traditional birthday toast to the Professor, and we announce the winners of our giveaway drawings for The Art of the Lord of the Rings and the Facsimile First Edition of The Hobbit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
028 - Father of the Century: a PPP Christmas Special
Alan and Shawn call for a Christmas truce on the Beleriand battlefront to enjoy Tolkienâs letters from Father Christmas to his children John, Michael, Christopher, and Priscilla. Not content to write about just toys and reindeer, Tolkien filled his letters with the charming misadventures of a host of North Pole residents, including elves, goblins, and a trickster bear with poor spelling. Youâll never feel good about your parenting skills again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
027 - Go West, Young Edain
Men arrive in Beleriand in Chapter 17 of The Silmarillion, and Middle-earth will never be the same. The Elves' reaction to the newcomers varies, but Morgoth's goal is clear: to keep the two races from forming an alliance. We introduce the Three Houses of the Edain, discuss one of Tolkien's great mythological puns, and expose the terrible manners of string instruments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
026 - You're The One That I Want
In Chapter 16 of The Silmarillion, Aredhel of Gondolin shacks up with the Dark Elf Eöl and bears a son whose coming may spell doom for the last hope of the Noldor. We revisit Elvish marriage customs and answer a question about rejected lovers in Tolkien's world. Plus, Alan completely forgets how to tell time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
025 - Watch Your Language
In Chapter 15 of The Silmarillion, Turgon heeds Ulmo's warning and begins the construction of the hidden city of Gondolin. The truth finally comes out about why the Noldor returned to Beleriand, and Thingol is not pleased. Plus a special announcement about our Tolkien's 125th Birthday Giveaway, and tips for goodlier speaking from a teenage Tolkien. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
024 - Territories
Itâs a small world, after all. Take a trip around the map with Alan and Shawn in Chapter 14 of The Silmarillion, Tolkienâs extensive description of the geography and realms of the Elves in Beleriand. Also, we receive a lesson in Dwarvish pronunciation from a listener and get up close and personal with a personal pronoun. And whatâs that voice in the distance? Sounds like a very deep woodwind instrument. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
023 - Distant Early Warning
A great feast is held in the conclusion of Chapter 13 of The Silmarillion, but not all is well in Beleriand, and two Elf-princes receive important messages about taking action before itâs too late. The Noldor successfully place Angband under a siege that will last for centuries, but Morgoth has a new secret weapon in development. A question from Barlimanâs Bag gives us a chance to revisit FĂ«anor - and Tolkienâs own thoughts about the character - one last time, and we stretch the limits of pop culture reference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
022 - Subdivisions
In Chapter 13 of The Silmarillion, Fëanor's host arrives in Middle-earth shortly before Fingolfin's, leading to an awkward family reunion that just gets more awkward when somebody calls Uncle Thingol. Fëanor's dream of revenge goes up in flames, and we tally up his good-or-evil score including Tolkien's own thoughts from his letters. We also read the inspiring story of Fingon and Maedhros, and have way too much fun with the new toy in Alan's studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
021 - New World, Man
In Chapter 12 of The Silmarillion, the Second Children of IlĂșvatar - the Atani, or Men - awake, and we quickly learn precisely what the Elves think of them. We revisit the differences that Tolkien created between Elves and Men in both life and death, along with the ominous portent this new race holds for the Firstborn. Plus, the monotony of ManwĂ«âs wardrobe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
020 - Tolkien's Secret Vice: An Interview with Dimitra Fimi and Andrew Higgins
Alan and Shawn welcome Dr. Dimitra Fimi and Dr. Andrew Higgins as the first guests to The Prancing Pony Podcast! They are the editors of the new critical edition of Tolkienâs A Secret Vice. We turn the word-nerdery up to 11 to talk about Tolkienâs approach to language invention and the lasting impact his work had on the Middle-earth legendarium and the fantasy genre itself. Our inner geeks get the vicarious thrill of handling manuscripts written in the Professorâs own hand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
019 - How to Get the Celestial Body You Want
In Chapter 11 of The Silmarillion, the Valar put forth their power to help the Trees bear one last fruit and flower, and then place them in the sky as celestial lights to illuminate all of Arda: the Sun and Moon. We also delve into some of Tolkienâs own concerns about his astronomical myth. Finally, the Valar go shopping for a home security system, but instead opt for a really, really big wall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
018 - Menegroth: Love It or List It
Returning to Middle-earth from Aman, we cover thousands of years in just a few pages in Chapter 10 of The Silmarillion, "Of the Sindar." The remnant of the Teleri in Beleriand ruled by Thingol and Melian befriend the Dwarves and delve underground to build the fairest dwelling this side of the Sea. But soon Morgoth's beasts and Orcs move in next door, and the neighborhood goes downhill quickly. Plus, Elvish beauty secrets and a surprise visit from an old friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
017 - ...Don't You Come Back
In the second half of Chapter 9 of The Silmarillion, âOf the Flight of the Noldorâ, the exiles continue down the road to certain doom, spurred on by FĂ«anorâs oath. We witness the terrible Kinslaying at AlqualondĂ«, hear what Mandos has to say about that, and see the straw that broke Fingolfinâs back. Also, we date ourselves terribly with some appropriate music references. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
016 - Hit the Road, Jack...
In the first half of Chapter 9 of The Silmarillion, âOf the Flight of the Noldorâ, Melkor and Ungoliant leave the dead Trees behind them and continue their crime spree in Formenos. FĂ«anor goes full-emo and rallies the Noldor to pursue his Black Foe back to Middle-earth, swearing a terrible oath in the process. We revisit MĂriel in Mandos, and also discuss how a Silmaril is like a bite of ribeye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
015 - Along Came a Spider
Doom falls on Valinor in Chapter 8 of The Silmarillion. Manwë hosts a feast to reconcile the estranged sons of Finwë, but Melkor chooses that moment to get his revenge with a little help from the mother of all evil spiders (literally), Ungoliant. We bring back the 'Tolkien Fun Facts' segment with a young Professor's trek through the Swiss Alps, and wonder about Valarin bug spray. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
014 - Trouble in Paradise
In Chapter 7 of The Silmarillion, Fëanor crafts the most renowned jewels in the history of Middle-earth - the Silmarils - and conflict is immediately kindled between the sons of Finwë while Melkor stokes the fire. Meanwhile, a listener question about the crafting of weapons leads Alan and Shawn down a nerdy pop culture reference path from which there is no turning back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
013 - The Blame Game
In Chapter 6 of The Silmarillion, MĂriel chooses death over the labor of living, so FinwĂ« remarries to the displeasure of his eldest son FĂ«anor (and half the Valar). Amid the strife in FinwĂ«'s house, Melkor is granted parole and begins to gain influence in Valinor. But FĂ«anor is a spirit so fiery, not even Melkor can sway him. Cue the foreboding music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
012 - All in the Family
In Chapters 4 and 5 of The Silmarillion, one Telerin lord settles down with a lady way out of his league while the rest of the Eldar migrate across the Great Sea to Aman. We see the founding of the great cities of Eldamar - Tirion upon TĂșna and AlqualondĂ« - and meet the family of FinwĂ«, King of the Noldor. And Ulmo actually does what the Valar tell him to, until he doesn't. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
011 - Elves and All! Hooray!
In Chapter 3 of The Silmarillion, we take a trip to CuiviĂ©nen for the awakening of the Firstborn Children of IlĂșvatar - the Quendi or Elves. Along the way we discuss the kindling of the stars, the origin of the Orcs, and the capture of Melkor. We also raise the bar on nerdy pop culture references from The Princess Bride all the way up to Get Smart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
010 - It Is A Gift
In this special spoiler-filled episode, we delve into Tolkien's letters and The History of Middle-earth to examine Tolkien's concept of mortality as "the gift of the One to Men." We discuss the fates of Elves and Men and how they illustrate a central theme in the legendarium, and demonstrate that anything in life can be improved with a reference to The Princess Bride. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
009 - The Odd Couple
In Chapter 2 of The Silmarillion, AulĂ« and Yavanna demonstrate the principle of âopposites attractâ even among the Valar, we witness the power of humility, and learn the origins of some of Middle-earth's most mysterious creatures: Dwarves, Ents, and Eagles. We also speculate about the materials AulĂ« uses to build his own couch to sleep on when Yavanna goes to bed angry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
008 - And So It Begins
Finally reaching Chapter 1 of the Quenta Silmarillion, we behold an Arda too perfect to last, offer a brief geography lesson, and shamelessly poke fun at as many Valar as possible before stopping to admire the beauty of the Two Trees of Valinor. Also, we almost answer a question about death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
007 - The Powers of Arda
In the second part of The Silmarillion we laugh with Tulkas, cry with Nienna, gaze on the starlit face of Varda and meet the rest of the Valar and Maiar who entered into the world at its beginning. We also answer the age-old question: which of the Valar would be the most fun at parties? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
006 - Tolkien Reading Day Special 2016
Happy Tolkien Reading Day! On March 25 every year - the date of the fall of Barad-dûr - Tolkien lovers worldwide celebrate by reading and promoting the Professor's life and work. For this special, Alan and Shawn read and discuss favorite passages related to this year's theme of Life, Death, and Immortality, and indulge in a little inter-fandom rivalry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
005 - The Music of the Ainur
Reunited in the common-room and finally beginning their discussion of The Silmarillion, Alan and Shawn tackle nothing less than the creation of the universe, check out IlĂșvatarâs playlist, observe a cosmic toddler tantrum, and learn what SPBMI means. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
004 - The Great War
This time, Alan flies solo over the battlefields of World War I and discusses both the explicit and the implied influences that the Great War had on Tolkienâs writings, while Shawn is safely away in the officers' club in Edoras with a refreshing drink. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
003 - The Origins of Quenya and Sindarin
Shawn takes a solo look at the real-world linguistic inspirations that shaped Tolkien's invented Elvish languages, Quenya and Sindarin, while Alan is away doing whatever a Man of the West does on his day off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
002 - The Myth-lover
We continue our introduction to J. R. R. Tolkien's ideas on fantasy and myth with a look at his short poem dedicated to C. S. Lewis, "Mythopoeia" - a thematic companion piece to "On Fairy-Stories". Also, polar bears. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
001 - In Defense of Fantasy
In the first episode, get to know your hosts, Alan and Shawn, and learn about why we started The Prancing Pony Podcast. We also discuss favorite moments from the life of J.R.R. Tolkien as told in Humphrey Carpenter's biography, and introduce Tolkien's ideas about the nature and purpose of fantasy as described in his famous essay "On Fairy-Stories". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
386 â Got to Get You into My Life
Aldarion runs headlong into contentment and doesnât even recognize it; Alan and Sara run headlong into more bad jokes and donât particularly care. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we find ourselves moving swiftly through our 10-part series on Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. Meneldur takes Aldarionâs cell phone, turns off the Wi-Fi, and stops giving him in allowance; Erendisâ name might be a little on the nose, but weâre sure it will have no effect whatsoever on every single day of her life; and Valandil accidentally puts his foot in his mouth. We offer relationship advice, dive deep into a discussion of duty and desire, and wonder about the differences between Tar-Red Flag and Tar-Restraining Order. Also, Alan fights his self-control and loses baaaadly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
387 â We Can Work it Out
Erendisâ mom gives her some pretty questionable relationship advice; Alan and Sara give you a pretty questionable podcast episode. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we near the halfway point of our 10-part series on Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. Aldarion tells Erendis to try to see it his way, but Erendis reminds him life is very short, and thereâs no time; the stars of this rom-com finally get betrothed; and Meneldur gives his wayward son some hard truths. We talk about Tolkienâs incredible ability to write two sides to a debate, discuss the importance of contentment and agree that once youâre 300, youâre too old for wheelbarrows at dawn. Also, we spot a Temu Elendilmir. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
388 â All You Need is Love (Maybe)
Away from the Sea, Aldarion finds little peace or joy; away from the podcast, Alan is just fine, thank you very much. Join The Man of the West and The Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we reach the halfway mark in our 10-episode run through the walking billboard for premarital counseling that is Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. Aldarion wants to build Erendis a big, shiny boat because he doesnât listen; Erendis proves sheâs the bigger person (give her time, folks, sheâll catch up); and the Elves bring amazing gifts as always. We interview a real pinball wizard, consider the Dunlendings in a whole new light, and talk about new titles for these episodes. Also, Sara endures Alanâs singing yet again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
389 â Nowhere Man
Aldarion claims to ask for only two years, but takes a lot more; Alan and Sara ask for only two hours, and only take a little bit more. Join The Man of the West and the Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we begin to discover that maybe we should have asked for more than 10 episodes in the story of Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. AncalimĂ«, the daughter of Aldarion and Erendis, is born just in time for Aldarion to let her down; the Kingâs Heir proves to be as blind as he can be, just sees what he wants to see; and NĂșneth once again proves that motherly advice is not always good advice. We decide to stop long enough to smell the OiolairĂ«, note that guile is the last thing we want the Valar to send our children, and wonder if Aldarion just used the NĂșmenĂłrean version of âcalm down, womanâ. Also, weâd buy tickets to see Turuphanto in concert. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
390 â Hello, Goodbye
Aldarion offers the usual assortment of excuses for his shortcomings, and delivers the mail to Meneldur; Alan and Sara offer no excuses for the PPPâs shortcomings, and wonder why Gil-galad hasnât written to us. Join The Man of the West and the Shieldmaiden of Rohan as we continue our close readings in the story of Aldarion and Erendis in Unfinished Tales. ZamĂźn has âthe talkâ with AncalimĂ«; Erendis says âstopâ, Aldarion says âgoâ; and Erendis looks for signs of regret in a man proving himself incapable of it. We wonder how much trouble ZamĂźn is in for naming Aldarion, express our appreciation of Meneldurâs counsel for his son, and note how incredibly easy it is to irk Aldarion. Also, Alan aspires to be a Sheep Lord. Soundscape: https://jordanrannells.com/shop Use code PPP25 for 25% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices