Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings (Mythgard Institute)

Tonight we come to the end of the second Moria March in comparative comfort, underneath the unseen sky. Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/rings-and-realms-season-2 Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Tonight Corey looks at what Gandalf emphasizes about Moria-silver. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Annual Fundraising Campaign started. https://youtube.com/live/6F9RlxP9ljQ Signum Studios just launched another Kickstarter for a new project: Rings & Realms:The Lord of the Rings-The War of the Rohirrim https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/ringsandrealms-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim?ref=user_menu

Tonight we think through some of the company's final thoughts about the Caradhras incident.

05/11/2021 Episode 185: Council of Elrond Session 61 Mythmoot 2021 will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. If you have already registered for the online moothub, you will be given the opportunity to upgrade. Dates are June 24-27! Registration for both virtual and in-person tickets are officially open on https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/ In which we discuss how the 3 Elven rings are actually fighting Sauron. Erestor tries to bring the meeting back on topic and brings up concerns about Elrond’s hopeless plan. Gandalf points out that it’s only hopeless to people with no hope. What is the difference between Amdir versus Estel in this instance? What is the false hope which Gandalf warns us of? When is folly the perfect disguise and when is folly just…stupid? Homework: Where in Tolkien’s Other Translations does he use the word “Quest?” Field Trip: Wells of Langflood Sundergrot, Stramvarth

11/30/2021, ELOTR Episode 210 Signum is hosting an Open House session for Homeschooling Families on Dec 7! Check our events page to find out more! https://signumuniversity.org/event/signum-academy-open-house/ Our December modules are up and running now. We’ll soon be posting our confirmed modules for Signum’s January sessions. Make sure to check out our offerings and take advantage of our token sales. They make great holiday gifts! In which: We examine Bilbo’s Poem on the morning of Frodo’s departure from Rivendell. Field Trip: Barad Morlas, “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Corey returns just in time for the introduction of central character in the LOTR! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Thank you for your support for our Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you missed the campaign event broadcasts, you can watch the recordings here. • https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLasMbZ4s5vIW4X6biE7MLLGssLtApH8P Thank you for your support for our project. Rings & Realms:The Lord of the Rings-The War of the Rohirrim https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/ringsandrealms-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim?ref=usermenu

Corey returns, once more with the assistance and advice of the inimitable Chad Bornholdt, to the Book of Mazarbul. Tonight, we examine Ori's script! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Thank you for your support for our Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you missed the campaign event broadcasts, you can watch the recordings here. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLasMbZ4s5vIW4X_6biE7MLLGssLtApH8P Thank you for your support for our project. Rings & Realms:The Lord of the Rings-The War of the Rohirrim https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/ringsandrealms-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim?ref=user_menu

Council of Elrond Session 19: 05192020 In which the professor discusses Galdor’s intent again, and the word “trove.” Elrond introduces Gandalf and it is discussed why he uses the name “Gandalf” instead of “Mithrandir.” It’s discussed why Gandalf took so long to decipher the identity of Bilbo’s ring. Gandalf acknowledges that it did take too long, but at least Sauron was even slower on the uptake. Gandalf talks about his consultation with Saruman and his trip to Dol Guldur and facing the necromancer. Saruman refuses to believe that Bilbo’s ring is the One Ring. Does Saruman blame/credit Ulmo for the “disappearance” of the ring into “the sea” in his passive conjecture? Field Trip: Imlad Balcorth “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Legolas speaks to the trees, but the rocks aren't interested.

What are the consequences of the failure at Caradhras? What does it mean?

Council of Elrond Session 20: 05/26/2020 In which the professor discusses Gandalf’s investigation into the ring’s identity and history and the tracking down of Gollum. Field Trip: Barad Gularan ~Monica/Vilori “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

What is the meaning of the birds? Let's discuss Aragorn's reaction.

What do we learn about how Gandalf and Aragorn are choosing their road? What matters most to them?

01/18/2022, ELOTR Episode 214 Announcements: Interested in taking part in the ExLOTR Legacy Project? Go to: https://forums.signumuniversity.org/i... Tickets are on sale for Mythmoot IX! Early bird pricing ends at the end of January. Both hybrid and in-person tickets available. https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot... IN WHICH: We continue to discuss Bilbo’s Poem on the morning of Frodo’s departure. Field Trip: Mirabel

Council of Elrond 21: 06/02/2020 In which the Professor deconstructs Galdor’s reference to the “long-debated ring,” Sauruman’s comment about hope cheating Sauron, and Gandalf’s account of chasing Gollum and researching the ring. Sauruman’s study of the rings and his connection to the White Council (and 2 elven ring bearers) is discussed. “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Let's savor another deliciously alliterative descriptive passage: the Walls of Moria! It's time for Signum University Annual Fundraising campaign. • Signum University's Fall Fundraising ... We are doing weekly drawings for giveaways to celebrate the campaign. You can sign up for the drawing through Google forms. For this week’s Exploring the Lord of the Rings drawing, here is the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA... https://signumuniversity.org/support/ 2023 Fundraising Campaign Webathon, at 1pm, Saturday, December 9 Join us for the culmination of our 2023 Fundraising Campaign! / signumuniversity / signumu We will celebrate Signum and its programs, checking in on what’s going on around the university. We will have some fun together, celebrating our weekly broadcasts. And most importantly, we will announce and launch our newest program: Signum’s big new publishing endeavor! Schedule for the day: 1pm What’s up at Signum 4pm Announcement: Official Launch of Signum’s new Publishing System. 6pm Broadcast fun and gaming

It is time for the Company to confront their unattractive travel options.

It's the seventh anniversary of ExLOTR! Let's celebrate the friendship of dwarves and elves. Special guest: Thomas P. Hillman https://www.kentstateuniversitypress....

Gandalf explained what the fire should do. This evening, we see the fire's response.

What is the hobbit view of this new road trip? How does it differ from the other two?

What do we learn from Gandalf's attempt to open the door? Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Tonight we look at the description of the moon letters on the gate.

06/01/2021 Episode 188: Council of Elrond Session 64 Mythmoot 2021 will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. If you have already registered for the online moothub, you will be given the opportunity to upgrade. Dates are June 24-27! Registration for both virtual and in-person tickets are officially open on https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/ In which the noon bell finally rings but the council doesn’t adjourn, preoccupied with who will take the ring to Mordor. Frodo feels pressure to declare his geas. There’s an internal struggle within Frodo, but which voice speaks for him? Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Misthallow and Grazad-Gropor “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Gandalf proceeds, through word and deed, to answer the question that Boromir mutters to himself. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

07/19/2022 ELOTR: EPISODE 233 Announcements: The Tolkien Professor will be a guest at the SDCC panel on the Amazon series: The Rings of Power. Check available listings for con schedules and media releases. Registration for Buckeyemoot in person has expired but you can still go to https://signumuniversity.org/event/ for details on how to attend BuckeyeMoot virtually on MootHub. IN WHICH: We discuss Gimli, son of Gloin a dwarf of honor, and the Misty Mountains that lie ahead. Field Trip: Yondershire Long Cleeve

Episode 187: Council of Elrond Session 63 Announcements: A new Mythgard book discussion is coming up! Moon is a Harsh Mistress will be every Wednesday night now! Sign up here: https://mythgard.org/academy/the-moon-is-a-harsh-mistress/ Mythmoot 2021 will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. If you have already registered for the online moothub, you will be given the opportunity to upgrade. Dates are June 24-27! Registration for both virtual and in-person tickets are officially open on https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/ In which Gandalf assures Bilbo that Sauron’s weapon is not his fault nor his responsibility. He delivers a message of hope and tells Bilbo not to give up on his “happy ending.” Gandalf alludes to “messengers” and we learn their role in this mission. Bilbo hints that everyone should come to the point and start naming names. Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Floodfells “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Council of Elrond Session 17: 05052020 Bilbo calls for a lunch break, but Elrond asks him to relate his account of taking the ring from Gollum and shows again his remarkable grasp of hobbitry. Bilbo refers to his dislike of being labeled “thief” and the implications of that. Field Trip: Himbar and discussing the hierarchy of the Angmar forces. “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Which mighty heroes shall we choose to round out the Company of the Ring? On what basis shall we choose?

Let's go back to Aragorn's foretelling, and then return to Aragorn's interruption of a tense moment.

168: Council of Elrond Session 44 12/15 In which we disambiguate Tolkien's use of "try and" and "try to." Rohan bursts into the narrative, and we discuss the potential source of the rumor that the Rohirrim are selling horses to Mordor. Field Trip: Blómgard (Vales of Anduin) “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Join as Gandalf and Bilbo tag-team on the uphill task of keeping Frodo in good spirits.

Council of Elrond 23: 06/16/2020 In which The Professor discusses Gandalf’s recounting of his meeting with Denathor and his “hoard” of books. Boromir’s interjection is discussed and we begin Isildur’s written account of The Ring. Field Trip: Angmar, Kusle Lannan & Gorothlad “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Bilbo passes along to Frodo an old mathom that someone else gave to him, once.

174: Council of Elrond Session 50 Mythmoot will be June 24-27! Stay tuned for future announcements on registration and presenters and check out the link: https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/​ In which we backtrack to Gandalf’s description of his relationship with Shadowfax. As his narrative come to an end, Gandalf announces that “The Tale is told from first to last.” Again, we’re reminded that the hand of Fate and Providence is at play that all the players have arrived just before curtain up. Gandalf asks what is to be done with the Ring. Elrond misses his cue and starts on a non sequitur, or could it be something else? Field Trip: Rhosgobel “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

10/05/2021, ELOTR Episode 202 Announcements: Our Fall Fundraiser Campaign is live now and off to a great start! We set an all-time record last year, so let’s see if we can break that this year! You can dontate here: https://signumuniversity.org/fund Tickets for Middlemoot are live you can check it out here: https://signumuniversity.org/event/middlemoot-philology-love-of-words-friend-of-words/ In which: Elrond has a formal meeting with the Hobbits and Frodo confirms that he will take up the mantel of Ringbearer. Elrond conceives of the Fellowship. Elrond has the gift of foresight, but why is it not working? Field Trip: Elderslades Drenghol, Dun Traikh “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Gandalf upgrades from pine cones to trees.

Tolkien equals Bilbo himself today, and ExLOTR turns six!

Tonight we look at Frodo's description of the darkness around them, and the obstacles and noises that fill it. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

It's episode 300 of Exploring the Lord of the Rings! Let's celebrate by actually entering Moria. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Boromir interrupts Elrond again, and Elrond retaliates. What do we learn about Boromir, here?

In what way, exactly, do you think elves are most like otters?

Leaving on a journey with a sinking feeling you have forgotten something. I feel you, Sam.

Let's do some metainterpretation of Moria gate!

Join the Tolkien Professor as he kicks off year five of the most in-depth Lord of Rings class of all time. Tonight, we watch as Boromir interrupts the Council of Elrond once more!

As the howls on the wind close in around the hilltop, the hobbits reflect on their history.

Tonight we will look at the logic underlying the suggestions of various (Elvish) Council members.

Council of Elrond Session 18: 14052020 In which The Professor dissects Bilbo’s recounting, and it’s debated why Elrond is allowing the Ring’s Story to be told in this haphazard manner. Did he have a set agenda or is he winging it? Frodo’s account is given and it’s debated who interrupted his story for more detail. Bilbo comments that Frodo’s retelling is a good story and enthuses about putting Frodo’s account in writing. Galdor, like Boromir, demands more proof that Frodo’s Ring is Isildur's ring, claiming that only the wise could follow this train of logic. Field Trip: Imlad Balchorth “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

Join us as we listed to Gandalf telling Boromir he told him so.

Tonight we discuss (at least!) our first slide of the new chapter, examining the Chamber of Mazarbul. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Thank you for your support for our Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you missed the campaign event broadcasts, you can watch the recordings here. • https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLasMbZ4s5vIW4X_6biE7MLLGssLtApH8P Thank you for your support for our project. Rings & Realms:The Lord of the Rings-The War of the Rohirrim https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/ringsandrealms-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim?ref=user_menu

In which Elrond finally lays down some counsel which is at least 45% stronger than the average Morgul spell.

Tonight we return to Gimli's poem one more time, finding the third poetic dimension in the middle stanzas. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Tonight we return to Gandalf's laughter-filled interlude in between the Watcher's approach and his attack. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

So, what's up with the birds? What does it mean?

Tonight we get Gandalf's first official Pippin moment, followed by Gimli's first big speech!

It is time for the first and least desperate remedy against the storm.

The Council Near the Knees of Caradhras continues, and the Vague Fear is revealed!

Tonight we look at Tolkien's Book of Mazarbul illustrations, putting ourselves in Gandalf's shoes and puzzling out the text, with the help of special guest Chad Bornholdt! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Thank you for your support for our Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you missed the campaign event broadcasts, you can watch the recordings here. • https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLasMbZ4s5vIW4X_6biE7MLLGssLtApH8P Thank you for your support for our project. Rings & Realms:The Lord of the Rings-The War of the Rohirrim https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/ringsandrealms-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim?ref=user_menu

12/07/2021, ELOTR Episode 211 Announcement: Mythgard 2022 dates have been announced! Mythmoot: An Annual Speculative Literature Conference Join us June 23-26, 2022 for Mythmoot IX: Remaking Myth. It’s Hybrid Again, so start thinking about those papers! Mythmoot: An Annual Speculative Literature Conference: https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/ We’ve announced new class modules for our Signum University Space Portals. Purchase your space token and place your votes for upcoming modules. Tokens make great holiday gifts and never expire! SPACE - Signum University: https://signumuniversity.org/space/ In which: We continue to examine Bilbo’s Poem, and it’s charming assonance and alliteration. Field Trip: Eregion, Low Hollin and Echad Dunann “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

On the morning after the battle with the wolves, the full strangeness of the situation is revealed.

As of last week, our discussion has officially entered Moria. But before we set out, we look back at the tentacular Thing in the water one more time. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv