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

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It is time for the Second March of the Company through Moria. Things are trending up in the deadly dark.

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

The journey through the long dark of Moria finally begins -- after a stiff drink!

Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

01/11/2022, ELOTR Episode 213

Jenni (aka) Smaug-the-Mighty walks us through the ExLOTR Legacy Project. You can help too! Interested in volunteering? 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: Echad Dunann

01/04/2022, ELOTR Episode 212

Happy NEW YEAR! Today we’re celebrating 5 years of Exploring Lord of the Rings! Thank you for following us on this in-depth dive into Middle Earth and Tolkien’s Greatest work.

Interested in our ELOTRO archive project? Shoot an email to corey.olsen@signumu.org

Mythmoot dates have been announced! https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/ Join us June 23-26, 2022 for Mythmoot IX: Remaking Myth. It’s Hybrid again, so start thinking about those papers (papers are due March 25).

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! https://signumuniversity.org/space/

In which: In which we dissect the autumn-into-old winter stanza of Bilbo’s poem.

-Field Trip: Eregion, Echad Dunann

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

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

11/23/2021, ELOTR Episode 209

Anytime Audit specials are live! https://signumuniversity.org/news/anytime-audit-holiday-special. We have confirmed our Modules for winter term! Come check out all we have to offer at signumuniversity.org

In which: Frodo decides to hide his new mathoms and the two hobbits come very close to breaking their hobbity composure in an emotional (nearly) goodbye.

Field Trip: Echad, Eregion

“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.

11/09/2021, ELOTR Episode 207

Anytime Audit certificates are on sale! https://signumuniversity.org/news/anytime-audit-holiday-special. We have confirmed our Modules for winter term! Come check out all we have to offer at signumuniversity.org

In which: Bilbo and Frodo spend their last days together in Rivendell before the Ring Quest begins. What sort of poems and songs are in Bilbo’s book? Frodo is given the Hobbits’ version of “The Great Sword.”
Field Trip: Pend Eregion

~Monica Marier
“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

And now, it is time for a very low-key but powerfully mythic moment

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

Hey, who invited Boromir?

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

What, exactly, is the relationship between the Fellowship and the Ring?

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

09/28/2021, ELOTR Episode 201

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!

Tickets for Middle Moot in Waterloo Iowa are still available; attend in person or online!

Anytime Audit Special for the “Language Invention Through Tolkien” will be available until Sept. 30. signumuniversity.org

In which: We discuss how a wringwraith is “empty”. If they can be reembodied, does death matter to maiar? What are the nature of Sauron’s other servants and chattel?

Field Trip: Elderslades Drenghol, Dun Traikh

09/21/2021, ELOTR Episode 200

Announcements: Anytime Audit Special for the “Language Invention Through Tolkien” course! Join Andrew Higgins for this excellent exploration of Tolkien’s language invention process and legacy. -$75 (21% off!) off signumuniversity.org/classes/special/, New England Moot is this weekend ! Please join us in Durham, NH on Saturday, September 25th 2021. Event and Virtual tickets available: signumuniversity.org/event/new-england-moot-2021-second-breakfast/

In which: We learn the fate of the Black Riders’ wardrobe and mounts. How are ring wraiths disrobed?

Field Trip: Elderslades Drenghol, Dun Traikh

09/14/2021, ELOTR Episode 199

Announcements: Check out signumuniversity.org to see if there’s a regional moot coming up in your area. A new Mythgard Acadamy session on the new publication, “The Nature of Middle Earth” is forthcoming. Order your copy and await instructions.

In which: The scouts come back. Where did they go and what were their missions? What were the twins’ secret mission? Where is Radagast if he’s not at home?

*Field Trip: Elderslades Drengol

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

09/07/2021, ELOTR Episode 198

Announcements: Check out signumuniversity.org to see if there’s a regional moot coming up in your area. A new Mythgard Acadamy session on the new publication, “The Nature of Middle Earth” is forthcoming. Order your copy and await instructions.

In which: We discuss Bilbo’s published works, Frodo marks the passage of Time in Rivendell as winter approaches. What is the “virtue” that Rivendell is imbued with? What “Eye in the Sky” is Frodo watching and why is the “eye” already become so a prevalent theme?

Field Trip: Elderslades Drengol

“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.

Tonight we will talk more about Frodo's state of mind than about people's backsides. Probably.

07/27/2021, ELOTR Episode 194

Announcements: Regional moots are starting to take form. Check out signumuniversity.org to see if there’s one in your area, and if not, each moot will be hybrid so you can attend virtually.

In which: Bilbo proves unwilling to rehash The Council and turns the conversation to Frodo and Sam’s potential companions and the deployment of elven spies. Are they spies or are they red herrings to bait Sauron? More Hobbitry.

Field Trip: Elderslades (eventually)

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

07/06/2021, ELOTR Episode 193

If you are interesting in volunteering the Exploring Lord of the Rings Multimedia Project, send an email to info@signumu.org subject: Exploring Lord of the Rings

In which we discuss “what defines an Elf Friend?” Pippin and Merry Probe Frodo for a recap and Bilbo describes the Council of Elrond as “talking.” Was the Council of Elrond even necessary?

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Lyndelby

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

06/29/2021, ELOTR Episode 192

If you are interesting in volunteering the Exploring Lord of the Rings Multimedia Project, send an email to info@signumu.org subject: Exploring Lord of the Rings

In which Frodo berates Sam for getting roped into the Ring quest and speaks about his dream to stay in Rivendell. His cousins refuse to let their spirits be dampened by his dour predictions. Merry and Pippin insist, as only hobbits can, that they are coming too.

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Lyndelby

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

06/22/2021, ELOTR Episode 191: Council of Elrond Session 67

Mythmoot is this week! It 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 Sam forgets his place and makes a bold statement and Elrond engages in more hobbitry. Sam channels Gaffer in an aside to his Master. Will we actually get to lunch?

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Framsburg

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

06/15/2021, ELOTR Episode 190: Council of Elrond Session 66

Our schedule for Mythmoot 2021 is live. It 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 Frodo is again named, “Elf Friend” along with other notable Middle Earth heroes. How is Frodo similar to these Men? How is his path different?

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Framsburg

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

06/01/2021, ELOTR Episode 189: Council of Elrond Session 65

Our schedule for Mythmoot 2021 is live. It 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 by Frodo’s disinclination to adventure forth, he demonstrates that he is the best candidate for Ringbearer. Is the Ring influencing his or is the Divine? Elrond answers Frodo’s unspoken cry for assistance. The hour of the shirefolk is proclaimed.
Homework: Tolkien often describes many glances as “keen.” To whom does he give this trait and under what circumstances?

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Misthallow, Hilthsheld

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

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

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

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

05/18/2021

Episode 186: Council of Elrond Session 62

A new Mythgard book discussion is coming up! You can sign up for our newest offering: The Moon is a Harsh Mistress here: https://mythgard.org/academy/the-moon...

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 Elrond broadly hints that small hands will do “the work.” Bilbo appears to jumps to a very hobbity conclusion. What was Bilbo’s thought process in volunteering? Is his happily-ever-after ending in jeopardy or Bilbo attempting to protect the small-hand crew? (Boromir, read the room!)

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood, Thokvist

But what about those Elf Rings? What are they good for?

It's episode 300 of Exploring the Lord of the Rings! Let's celebrate by actually entering Moria.

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04/20/2021

Episode 183: Council of Elrond Session 59

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 Boromir is rebuked but then assured that his idea was understandable if misinformed. Gloin shows off his own misinformation by suggesting the remaining rings of power be rounded up and combined. He then asks the Elves of the remaining Dwarf Ring and if the 3 Elf Rings are still at large. Was Thror’s Ring the last of the Dwarven rings? Who has it now? Gandalf recounts the fate of Thror’s Ring.

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood Skerabrygg, Sundergrot

04/13/2021

Episode 182: Council of Elrond Session 58

Mythmoot 2021 will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. 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 the “Orc Problem.” Boromir and Elrond face off concerning the bravery of men and elves. Boromir then takes a poke at Aragorn’s role in the coming strife, and whatever mysterious errands the Rangers of Ithilien are doing. Aragorn makes a point that there are more than one front to this war.

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

04/06/2021

Episode 181: Council of Elrond Session 57

Mythmoot 2021 will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. Dates are June 24-27! Registration updates are coming this week hopefully, so stay tuned for more info.

In which Elrond explains why using the ring is a bad idea. What are the dynamics of ring ownership? Is the nature of the ring that of a tool or an entity? How then does it work on others?

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

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

03/30/2021

Episode 180: Council of Elrond Session 56

Mythmoot will be a hybrid convention this year with both in person and digital options. Dates are June 24-27! Registration updates are pending, so stay tuned for more info.

In which a decidedly unelven plan to unmake the ring is proposed by Elrond. Did Elrond always want to destroy the ring after it was taken by Isildur? Boromir has a moment with his horn before asking why the council doesn’t’ want to use “The Great Ring” to their advantage.

Field Trip: Wells of Langflood

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

03/09/2021

177: Council of Elrond Session 53

Mythmoot will be June 24-27! Registration for our annual literary conference is now open. For information registration and a list of guests visit https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/​

In which we consider why the Valar refuse to help/take the ring. Were the 3 elven rings a mistake? A discussion on how the Valar work and the role of provenance. Is Glorfindel bringing up hypothetical talking points re: ring disposal, or are his ideas terrible? Why can’ there be a Third Alliance of the Free People?

Field Trip: Bridge of Hadhodiant

03/02/2021

176: Council of Elrond Session 52

Mythmoot will be June 24-27! Registration for our annual literary conference is now open. For information registration and a list of guests visit https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/​

In which Glorfindel points out that hiding the ring only delays the inevitable, even if Bombadil could be trusted with the task. Galdor agrees and adds that no one in Middle Earth has the strength and will to keep it hidden. What is the Night (capital N) and where have we heard stories of The Darkness before? Are Elrond’s All-Stars up to the challenge ahead?

Homework: Why would the Valar refuse to help/take the ring?

Field Trip: Vales of Anduin

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

ELOTR 175: Council of Elrond Session 51
Mythmoot will be June 24-27! Registration for our annual literary conference is now open. For information registration and a list of guests visit https://signumuniversity.org/mythmoot/​

In which we discuss what the “change of days,” is for Tom Bombadil. Chief Councilor, Erestor has a suggestion about leaving The Ring with Tom. Gandalf says it’s a bad idea, but would that actually be the case? Could any Free Person be a completely perfect ringbearer?

Field Trip: Vales of Anduin

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien

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

Tonight we return to the Watcher in the Water, whatever it is, and see Sam saving the day, as usual.

Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

173: Council of Elrond Session 49 02/02/21

TexMoot online is coming up! Check out https://signumuniversity.org/event/te...​ for details!

In which we break down Gandalf’s path post-Weathertop back to Rivendell. Was it a wild-goose chase into the Ettenmoores? What did he hope to accomplish and what of the riders? Providence, doublespeak and more as Gandalf finishes his narrative. Why did Gandalf keep this long narrative until the Council instead of telling Frodo in his room?

172: Council of Elrond Session 48 01/26

TexMoot online is coming up! Check out https://signumuniversity.org/event/te...​ for details!

In which Gandalf recounts the Nazguul’s infiltration of Bree, and their “starting lineup” and travel itinerary. We debate the Nazguul’s “Plan Bree” and their ultimate goal, Gandalf’s wild ride to Weathertop and The Witch King’s perspective of Frodo’s flight to Rivendell. Also, how unlucky are the Nazguul that they keep running into the Noldorin?

Field Trip: Duskenvale Glandin

171: Council of Elrond Session 47 01/19

TexMoot online is coming up! Check out https://signumuniversity.org/event/te... for details! We’ve also launched our Signum Clubs program for kids! https://signumuniversity.org/academy/

In which we discuss the evolution of Butterburr’s name, and we learn the fate of the forgetful innkeeper. The nature of Gandalf’s blessing that made his beer fit for a King. And we contemplate Aragorn’s alter-ego Strider,

Field Trip: Gladdenmere

“Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.” ~J.R.R. Tolkien