We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. 

(00:05) Author's Analysis of "Flight to the Ford"
(14:06) Paths of Hope and History

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

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Do you want to know the key to the Narnian universe?

Today, on Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker take a quick tour around the seven heavens as they discuss C.S. Lewis's book The Discarded Image, as well as the Medieval model, Michael Ward's groundbreaking study, Planet Narnia, and so much more. What other scientific model inspirations have writers found, and where would it be best to live within a Medieval universe? Join the conversation as we find out!

Among the books mentioned is Ted Chiang’s Stories of Your Life and Others, available at: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/ted-chiang/stories-of-your-life-and-others/9781035038596 as well as Cixin Liu’s Three Body Problem: https://torpublishinggroup.com/the-three-body-problem/

 (00:05) CS Lewis and the Discarded Image
(16:51) CS Lewis and Science
(25:22) Planetary Imagery in Narnia
(37:07) Lewis
(53:30) Fantasy Reimaginings of Medieval Worlds
(58:41) Rethinking the Discarded Image

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

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In a perfect fit for the Mythmakers podcast, join us for today’s episode where Julia Golding meets illustrator and author John Hendrix to talk about his entertaining graphic novel: The Mythmakers. This is the story of the friendship between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and not only is it a biography of their fellowship, but it also explores in the company of our guides, a lion and a wizard, what the story is and where it comes from. Julia and John conclude by pondering where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place for a cartoonist (and also discuss some of the worst!).

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers

1:21 Childhood Influences and Fantasy Beginnings

4:21 The World of Comics and Graphic Novels

5:28 Journey to Writing Mythmakers

8:33 Exploring Mythmakers Structure

10:31 Visual Inspiration from Oxford

13:23 Mythologizing the Friendship of Lewis and Tolkien

14:46 The Inklings: A Literary Life

18:33 Tension and Dynamics of Creative Friendships

21:39 Perceptions of the Inklings in Academia

23:24 Religious Differences and Their Impact

28:28 The Mythos-Logos Division in Storytelling

31:04 Cartoons in Fantasy Worlds

34:42 Future Projects and Farewell

Come to our book launch celebration for James Nicol The Spell Tailors https://jamesnicolbooks.com A fun part of our online courses is that you get to be friends with fantasy writers who are publishing in today's market. We celebrate the arrival of the next book from one of our tutors - James Nicol. Listen to how he was inspired by the secret content of biscuit boxes and developed an original line of magic as a result. You can also hear his journey to being a writer and his process. Where in all the fantasy worlds do you think is the best place to be a tailor?

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Join us for our first reactions to the Amazon Prime The Rings of Power series. It's useful to orientate ourselves at the start of a series so Julia Golding takes us through what the four ages of Tolkien and where the Second Age fits. She then outlines the headline differences between the Tolkien material and how they've adapted it - suited to a general listener. Next, we go on to our discussion under three main headings of story, performance and creative realisation. Stay tuned for our rating. And to neatly sum up, we conclude that the dwarves are Scottish, the hobbits Irish, the elves Welsh, the Men English, and the money...American. If you want to join one of our Inklings groups, please check out our courses at https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org - Next online course starts in October.

We will know very soon what choices the showrunners for the upcoming Amazon series Rings of Power have taken but let's look at what we can glean about the story choices already. How do you cope with such a big gap in the timeline? Do you know your Celebrimbors from your Ar Pharazons - and what has Sauron got to do with it all? What about the featured characters - how do they relate to the original material? Julia Golding looks at the story patterns and the character arcs and makes some predictions. Find out if you agree - and if she gets it right!

What are the myths and legends of the place where you live? Julia Golding meets Claire Fayers, author and reteller of Welsh myths and legends, also a tutor on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy Novel-in-a-Year course. Claire tells us about dragons and tappers in mines, as well as the stories that grow up about local landmarks. It is a process that can be seen even within a generation. Where does the dragon on the Welsh flag come from? Are Welsh dragons nasty or nice? Claire talks about using local stories to inspire new writing, making sequels. We also hear about Claire's journey to being a writer and tips on entering competitions for that first contract. To conclude, Claire and Julia discuss the best place in fantasy to be a miner. Where would you pick? You can find out more about Claire's books here http://clairefayers.com

What are the myths and legends of the place where you live? Julia Golding meets Claire Fayers, author and reteller of Welsh myths and legends, also a tutor on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy Novel-in-a-Year course. Claire tells us about dragons and tappers in mines, as well as the stories that grow up about local landmarks. It is a process that can be seen even within a generation. Where does the dragon on the Welsh flag come from? Are Welsh dragons nasty or nice? Claire talks about using local stories to inspire new writing, making sequels. We also hear about Claire's journey to being a writer and tips on entering competitions for that first contract. To conclude, Claire and Julia discuss the best place in fantasy to be a miner. Where would you pick? You can find out more about Claire's books here http://clairefayers.com

Responding to a listener's question about stone-giants in The Hobbit and more generally, Julia Golding, and friend of the OCF, Jacob Rennaker take a deep dive into all things gigantic. Did you know that ent originally meant 'giant'? Is there something about elemental giants going on in Middle Earth? Taking in Greek, Norse and Celtic traditions, as well as folklore, fairytale and fiction, we wander far and wide in the land of the giants. CS Lewis and Charles Williams take a different approach and we get to discuss these in-depth, waking Father Time to end the world. Last we have a look at our favourite contemporary versions of giants, ranging from transformers, Harry Potter, Marvel and DC, with a nod to Roal Dahl. It is a gigantic subject so will come in two parts!

Responding to a listener's question about stone-giants in The Hobbit and more generally, Julia Golding, and friend of the OCF, Jacob Rennaker take a deep dive into all things gigantic. Did you know that ent originally meant 'giant'? Is there something about elemental giants going on in Middle Earth? Taking in Greek, Norse and Celtic traditions, as well as folklore, fairytale and fiction, we wander far and wide in the land of the giants. CS Lewis and Charles Williams take a different approach and we get to discuss these in-depth, waking Father Time to end the world. Last we have a look at our favourite contemporary versions of giants, ranging from transformers, Harry Potter, Marvel and DC, with a nod to Roal Dahl. It is a gigantic subject so will come in two parts!

Part 2 of 2. Fantasy has been dominated by English language books - from LotR to Game of Thrones, you could be forgiven to thinking fantasy was some medieval other place in northern Europe. In this episode of Mythmakers Julia Golding talks to Daniel Seton, commissioning editor at the very interesting publishing house, Pushkin Press, winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year 2022 in the UK, who have a remit to bring the best books from other languages into English. This includes a lot of fantasy, particularly for children, making classics from countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, and Japan accessible for new audiences. What are the best books Daniel has read from other countries - we get lots of recommendations so bring a pencil! Can you discern different dominant flavours from different origins? We also meet mermaids and gorillas - so there is something for everyone! If you want to find out more about Pushkin Press, you can visit https://pushkinpress.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Part 1 of 2. Fantasy has been dominated by English language books - from LotR to Game of Thrones, you could be forgiven to thinking fantasy was some medieval other place in northern Europe. In this episode of Mythmakers Julia Golding talks to Daniel Seton, commissioning editor at the very interesting publishing house, Pushkin Press, winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year 2022 in the UK, who have a remit to bring the best books from other languages into English. This includes a lot of fantasy, particularly for children, making classics from countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, and Japan accessible for new audiences. What are the best books Daniel has read from other countries - we get lots of recommendations so bring a pencil! Can you discern different dominant flavours from different origins? We also meet mermaids and gorillas - so there is something for everyone! If you want to find out more about Pushkin Press, you can visit https://pushkinpress.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Ever wondered how to turn your college education into a best-selling series? Lisa Edmonds, once an English major who took courses in forensic criminology, has done just that, writing the wonderful Alice Worth Series. An Urban fantasy series with a mage PI, Alice moves in a world of magic, vampires and werewolves with her ghost sidekick Malcolm. Julia Golding Lisa discuss the path to publication, the advice Lisa has on world-building, character development, and plotting. Lisa also has some top tips on how to approach a publisher once you're manuscript is finished. You can visit Lisa's website here to find out more https://www.lisaedmonds.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. 

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:05 Introduction to Fellowship of the Ring

1:07 The Pace of Dialogue

4:08 Strider's True Nature

7:29 Trust and Instinct

9:30 Barleyman's Comic Relief

12:14 The Letter from Gandalf

16:19 Insights into Strider

19:31 The Quest and Its Stakes

22:18 The Power of the Black Riders

24:58 Preparing for the Night

28:44 Safe for the Moment

Ever wondered how to turn your college education into a best-selling series? Lisa Edmonds, once an English major who took courses in forensic criminology, has done just that, writing the wonderful Alice Worth Series. An Urban fantasy series with a mage PI, Alice moves in a world of magic, vampires and werewolves with her ghost sidekick Malcolm. Julia Golding Lisa discuss the path to publication, the advice Lisa has on world-building, character development, and plotting. Lisa also has some top tips on how to approach a publisher once you're manuscript is finished. You can visit Lisa's website here to find out more https://www.lisaedmonds.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Part 2 - How can you find an original voice in fantasy? Discount code available. You wait for a listener to the podcast to suggest one to you, of course! Julia Golding is in conversation today with Victoria Goddard, a Canadian author who has imagined a big world of Astandalas and Zunidh and gone on to set different connected series in it. Each series has its own genre flavour. Victoria was influenced by the Inklings and Dorothy L Sayers and speaks about how they encouraged certain aspects of her writing. Julia and Victoria discuss Hands of the Emperor and the fabulous character of Cliopher (Kit) who is an unconventional hero in fantasy - a government bureaucrat making fiery change from within the system. That doesn't do justice to this book - it has so much heart. In honour of Stargazy pie, they conclude by picking which fantasy worlds have the best use of signature dishes. Victoria has kindly offered a discount for her books. Please go to https://www.victoriagoddard.ca/discount/OXFORD20 - the one-off code of 20% is OXFORD20

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

How can you find an original voice in fantasy? Discount code available. You wait for a listener to the podcast to suggest one to you, of course! Julia Golding is in conversation today with Victoria Goddard, a Canadian author who has imagined a big world of Astandalas and Zunidh and gone on to set different connected series in it. Each series has its own genre flavour. Victoria was influenced by the Inklings and Dorothy L Sayers and speaks about how they encouraged certain aspects of her writing. Julia and Victoria discuss Hands of the Emperor and the fabulous character of Cliopher (Kit) who is an unconventional hero in fantasy - a government bureaucrat making fiery change from within the system. That doesn't do justice to this book - it has so much heart. In honour of Stargazy pie, they conclude by picking which fantasy worlds have the best use of signature dishes. Victoria has kindly offered a discount for her books. Please go to https://www.victoriagoddard.ca/discount/OXFORD20 - the one-off code of 20% is OXFORD20

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

In today's podcast, Julia Golding is in conversation with Australian writer, Michelle Diener https://www.michellediener.com. Michelle tells her story of starting out as a historical novelist and now writing sci-fi and fantasy. They discuss her early influences and get some book recommendations and then go on to debate the place of music in our culture and the threat posed by AI. Michelle has some great tips for worldbuilding and other craft tips. Finally, they debate where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a sentient droid. The answers should please some big fandoms!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

What are the secrets of success as an animator? In this podcast, Julia Golding talks to Butch Hartman, best known for his series The Fairly Odd-Parents and Danny Phantom. We hear how he got into animation from sketching in the classroom to college and then into the industry. How does the creative process happen when working with other animators, voice actors, and studio executives? What changes have new technologies brought to cartoons? What ingredients are needed for successful character creation? Butch ends by telling us about his new cartoon The Garden and the live-action Fairly Odd Parents now on Paramount Plus. And finally, Julia and Butch debate where in all the fantasy worlds is it best to be a fairy godmother figure (bringer of magical gifts)!

Follow Butch on Facebook, Insta and TikTok! https://www.instagram.com/butchhartman https://www.tiktok.com/butchhartman https://www.facebook.com/realhartman

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As we celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's platinum Jubilee, we are wondering who are your favourite fantasy royals? Author and Director of OCF, Julia Golding, has had a go at picking her top ten favourites. See if you agree with her. Is there anyone who should have made the list and been left out? And which is your favourite Middle-earth royal?

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Joining Julia Golding in this episode is Dr. Gabriel Schenk, an expert on Tolkien, fantasy writing, and Arthurian legends. Gabriel co-founded the annual Tolkien Lecture at Pembroke College Oxford (one of the colleges associated with the writer). You can see this year's lecture with acclaimed fantasy author Rebecca F Kuang as well as previous ones at https://tolkienlecture.org They go on to take a deep dive into the long story of Arthurian literature. Did he exist? Why was he so popular in the later medieval period? Where is the Shakespearian play on this theme as it seems a big gap in the bard's output? Who are the main writers who picked up the baton in the 19th and 20th centuries? In fact, this podcast provides you with a succinct summary of what you need to know to navigate Arthurian stories, ending up at the top tips for which series you might like to watch on TV. Gabriel and Julia end by choosing their favourite enchanted swords from the fantasy armoury. Do you agree with their picks and what would yours be?

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

As our Fellowship of the Read Readathon drew to a close, we invited all who participated to an event of special magnificence. We tested their Lord of the Rings book knowledge with some questions that stumped even the most hardcore fans and engaged in a lively conversation with some of the Readathon "Gandalf for a day" guides about the experience. Listen along and see how many of these 50 Lord of the Rings questions you would have gotten right.

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There has been a flourishing of audio versions of books. In today's episode, Julia Golding talks to Andrew Head, a creative writer and fantasy fan from Australia. Andrew is blind so accesses many of his stories through the audio version so is something of an expert on the subject. Listen for his top five and see if you agree! Jim Dale or Stephen Fry? Which version of the Narnia Chronicles? And much more!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

It's not often you get to interview one of your heroes but Julia Golding today is in conversation with one of hers. Meet T A White, American writer of some wonderful series that cross the fantasy genres. Listen to her journey into writing, including an unusual background that gives her insight into authority and combat. Tobey explains her writing process, gives tips on creating strong characters and how to handle a slow-burn romance. In conclusion, Tobey and Julia pick the best fantasy world for maps. It's a must listen to aspiring writers and listeners wanting to find their next favourite series. http://www.tawhiteauthor.com/home.html

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Mermaids come with some watery baggage, which raises the question: just how does one do a fresh take on this iconic mythical creature?

This was the challenge facing Berlie Doherty and Tamsin Rosewell - a writer and illustrator team. Find out their answers to this question in today’s episode of Mythmakers where they’ll be diving into the reinvention of mermaids in their fascinating conversation with Julia Golding. Did you know there are legends of inland mermaids? And where exactly is the best place to be a mermaid in all the fantasy worlds?

If you want to find out more about this intriguing topic after listening to the discussion, you can visit Berlie's website at https://berliedoherty.com/new-book-the-seamaidens-odyssey/ and follow Tamsin on Instagram at @hobs_lantern.

If you want a signed copy of their book, check out the wonderful https://www.madhatterbookshop.co.uk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

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0:10 Underwater Kingdom Journey

2:47 Childhood Inspirations

4:20 Illustrative Styles

7:27 Story Overview

11:43 Sea Maiden Concept

14:12 Evolution of the Sea Maiden

17:39 Themes of Sisterhood

20:44 Collaboration Process

25:27 Artistic Techniques

34:49 Tips for Aspiring Creatives

39:21 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

Julia Golding talks to New Zealand independent fantasy writer, AJ Lancaster, whose four-book Stariel series is cutting through the competition with her unique vision of a half-fay half-human land. They discuss New Zealand as Middle-earth and AJ's relationship with Tolkien's fantasy, before coming to Oxford to where Stariel began. Other topics covered include using historical settings, research, non-binary characters and social mores. AJ then gives a fascinating account of her path to making a success of independent publishing and the importance of professionalism. There's another story to how she got an audio version that is also of interest to writers wanting to branch into audiobooks! To find out more about AJ please visit https://ajlancaster.com

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We've not yet talked about the biggest fantasy series of the last twenty years and now Mythmakers takes a look at Harry Potter and the Wizarding World through a review of the latest film in the Fantastic Beasts franchise - the Secrets of Dumbledore. Have a listen to find out what Julia Golding thinks is right (and wrong) about this series, then join her as we go back to look at the Harry Potter phenomenon in the early 2000s and hear her verdict on the strengths of the first eight films. Do you agree? Let us know your thoughts and also if you agree with her pick for the best fantasy world in which to be a fantastic beast!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Where would you rate The Return of the King in the trilogy? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they take a deep dive into the script and movie-making choices of the adaptation of the concluding part of The Lord of the Rings. What are your perfect moments - and your fails? Julia and Jacob disagree over one big scene - whose side are you on? Where are the opportunities for future filmmakers if they want to put their own stamp on the material? To conclude we pick our best fantasy world to be a king. For more information and a chance to get a limited-edition Mythmakers Podcast mug, visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Mythmakers is devoting this episode to humanity's best friend: dogs! Julia Golding is joined by filmmakers SQuire and Louise DuArt Rushnell to talk about their latest project, Rescued by Ruby, due to be released on Netflix on March 17th. Ruby has the distinction of being a real dog with a real-life story to tell but before we get to her, we do a survey of fantasy dogs in film and TV. SQuire reveals his big part in the best of all cartoon dogs (Scooby-Doo!). We talk about how dogs are used in fiction to comment on or reflect upon human society. We hear the story of the real Ruby and her amazing canine actor, who has his own story to tell. What are the problems and responsibilities of working with trained animals on screen? And are there any training tips for dog owners? (Julia's asking for a friend, you understand - a four-footed one.) And of course, we end with deciding where is the best place to be a dog. Watch Rescued By Ruby today on Netflix by visiting https://Netflix.com/RescuedByRuby

Middle films are always the most difficult. In this episode Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker continue their reconsideration of the Peter Jackson trilogy, turning their attention to The Two Towers. They consider the perfect moments and the fails, with one serious criticism which could definitely to revisited if a filmmaker takes it on again. Remember with them the wonder of Rohan, the storming of Isengard, and the introduction of Gollum. What was the big fail? It jarred at the time but now seems even more inappropriate. Listen and find out! Let us know if you agree.

For more information and a chance to get a limited edition Mythmakers mug, visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

20 years on someone somewhere will surely be considering having another go at The Lord of the Rings on film. In this episode Julia Golding is joined by academic and Tolkien fan Jacob Rennaker to look back at the Peter Jackson adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, considering the script choices and casting, the cuts and the visual realisation. What were the moments that could not be bettered, and where is the room for a new creative to have another go? Have a listen and see if you agree!

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information!

The oddest Inkling - that's Charles Williams, poet, playwright, novelist, editor, theologian, and occult practitioner. If you think the Inklings are summed up by Oxford dons, Lewis and Tolkien, think again, because Williams added an extraordinary influence to the group. Today Julia Golding is joined by a world expert on Charles William, Dr. Sørina Higgins, who has edited a modern edition of Williams Arthurian cycle of poems and is working on his connections to other writers of the period. This episode is everything you needed to know about Williams and was too afraid to ask! Did he influence Tolkien and Lewis and in what way? What's it like to read his poetry? We gallop through his many genres so you get a sense of what there is to read - there's a lot! And to conclude we take a bow towards Arthur and decide where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a knight.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information!

The past is another country, but what happens when you make it a magical one? In today's episode, Julia Golding is in conversation with British children's author, Lucy Strange, author of The Secret of Nightingale Wood, and other titles that blend historical fiction with fantasy. Lucy talks about her journey to being a writer, through acting and then teaching. She discusses how what might start as an escape into fiction can also be used to think about contemporary issues in unexpected ways. Lucy and Julia recommend and touch on some of the best historical fantasy novels they have read, particularly the ones which established their own subgenres in the field. As a special treat, Lucy reads a story within her bigger story of Sisters of the Lost Marsh before they go on to discuss where in all fantasy is the best place to be a merperson. https://www.lucystrange.org. You can find Lucy's books sold by independent bookstores on https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/lucy-strange-children-s-books.

In today's podcast Julia Golding is in conversation with James Nicol, author of The Apprentice Witch series (Chickenhouse) and one of our tutors on the creative writing courses. What are your favourite witches in fairy tales and in novels? See if you agree with James' and Julia's picks. They go on to discuss the problem of the history of witches in our world, how women labelled as witches were marginalised, persecuted and sometimes killed. What should you do with that real-world inheritance when writing in your own fantasy world? Find out James' solution. They discuss the issue of black magic and evil. Some readers won't touch books with witches in, seeing them in this bracket. However, fantasy witches come from many more backgrounds. James and Julia discuss the rare occasions of getting banned from some shelves for tackling this subject. To conclude, they decide in which fantasy world it is best to be a witch.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information on today's podcast. For a full transcript, visit https://podcast.oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Who are Bingo, Odod and Frodo? We'll give you a clue when we say that when Tolkien first started work on The Lord of the Rings he had a very different idea about his story and where it might be going! In this episode, Julia Golding considers how the writing process happens. Did Tolkien have a carefully tended allotment, or was he slashing a path through the wild? Was Lewis driven only by pictures that became stories, or did he have a greater plan? Julia also draws on her own experience as a fantasy writer to consider how planning and spontaneity combine when writing. And at the end, we choose where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a shapeshifter. Watch out for the werewolves!

For more information please visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. 

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:09 Introduction to Bree and the Prancing Pony

5:24 The Journey to the Prancing Pony

12:42 Meeting the Gatekeeper

17:40 Entering the Prancing Pony

20:32 Pippin's Tales and the Stranger

26:34 Frodo's Song and the Ring's Power

30:26 Suspicion Lingers

Following the trailer reveal for the Amazon Prime TV series title - Rings of Power - Julia Golding and Paula Kalamaras discuss what we've learned about the direction in which they are taking the series. We now also have a date for the first season and release dates for subsequent episodes. Which well-known characters are likely to return? Who is Celebrimbor? Did you know elves had secret societies? Was it a good idea to give the young Galadriel the voice-over (if it is her)? How does the story of the forging of the ring intersect with the story of Numenor? What are the challenges faced by the scriptwriters? These and many other questions are discussed. Let us know your theories in the comments.

In 2021 Harper Collins published The Nature of Middle-earth by JRR Tolkien, edited by Carl F Hostetter - a fascinating collection of Tolkien's working materials. In this episode Julia Golding reviews the book, looking under the bonnet/hood of Tolkien's creativity. Is this worth reading if you are a Tolkien fan? Listen to find out. Particular highlights are the connection between free will and creativity, what to do with flaws of imperfections in your work, and Hostetter's appendix on Tolkien philosophical and religious themes. And finally, Julia picks the fantasy world with the best rivers. Where would yours be located?

Spiderman No Way home ended the year with over $1 billion at the box office and has joined the top ten highest-grossing films. In this episode (contains spoilers), Julia Golding is joined by Ed, our resident Marvel fan at the centre, to discuss all things Spidey. Where did Spiderman the film come from? We go back in time to look at the Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield films, discussing what went wrong with the Amazing Spiderman series. They then look at the Tom Holland trilogy and discuss the themes, role of women characters, and debate the success (or not) of the multiple villains. Which is the best Spiderman film of them all? Find out if you agree with Julia and Ed. And in conclusion, they decide where is the best fantasy world for Spiderman to go if not New York.

In today's podcast, Julia Golding is joined by internationally renown composer, Richard Blackford. Starting with his early community opera of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, to working with Maya Angelou on a piece for the inauguration of President Clinton, and more recently writing a piece based on a survivor's COVID diary, Richard is a man of incredible creativity. Join Julia and Richard as they discuss how composers use music to tell stories and how he collaborates with directors to provide the soul of a film in the score. In what way is fantasy defined in musical composition? Listen to find out! And stay tuned for the end when Richard and Julia pick the best place to be a composer.

'This is the Great story of the North, which should be to all our race what the Tale of Troy was to the Greeks.' This isn't a quote from Tolkien about what he hopes to do with his legendarium but his fantasy writing predecessor William Morris, writing about the Saga of the Volsungs. The Mythmakers podcast is delighted to welcome special guest, Dr. Ingrid Hanson, lecturer in English Literature at the University of Manchester. Learn about this towering genius who revolutionised the world of design, literature, politics, and much more! He also pioneered interest in the legends of the north with his translations and travel writing on two trips to Iceland. If you want to understand what made the Inklings possible, William Morris is a very good place to start. To conclude Ingrid and Julia where is the best place in fantasy to be a craftsperson.

Tolkien is a rich inspiration for so many of us so when Julia Golding found that one of the online fantasy course students, Stanley Hanna, had taught a seminar series on him for the Ottawa School of Theology and Spirituality, she thought he would make a great guest for the podcast. Join Stanley, a semi-retired Presbyterian minister from Quebec, and Julia as they discuss the nature of good and evil in Tolkien's Middle-earth, the role of temptation in his works and that of C.S. Lewis, stopping by with a final thought about where in all the fantasy worlds it is good (and bad) to be a religious leader.

For more information visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Oxford is a story hotspot so it is wonderful that there is a Story Museum in the city. Julia Golding is joined in this week's episode by the director of the museum, Caroline Jones, to hear the tale of how the museum came to be. From medieval monks in the basement to telephonists in the halls, the space has had an eventful history. Caroline takes you on an imaginary tour and we call in on Narnia and His Dark Materials in the exhibition space, ending up in the cafe. Caroline also talks about making the story museum reflect the diverse populations of the city through oral storytelling, as well as featuring new writers as they come along. To conclude, Caroline and Julia pick their favorite fantasy museum. If you'd like to find out more visit https://www.storymuseum.org.uk

Today Julia is joined by Nariel, a representative of the minority language community of Elfdalian. Nariel, who recently completed our Online Fantasy Course, has put all of us right about some misconceptions about Nordic culture so we invited her to share her story on the podcast. In early 2021 the European Council declared Elfdalian a minority language that should be protected and urged Sweden to do the same, but Sweden has so far been silent on the topic. It is older than English! Have a listen and find out about the origin of wargs and Gandalf. And just who really is a Viking? What fake symbols have seeped into Western culture to represent Vikings? Don't pass up this chance to listen to a lady who writes her shopping list in runes because it is quicker! We love Nariel's insight into the worlds that inspired Tolkien and hope you do too. If you want to find out more, you can visit http://www.ulumdalska.se/

What else is there to listen to beyond Andy Serkis' reading of The Lord of the Rings? Julia Golding takes us on a tour of the main audiobooks of Tolkien's works, first of all calling in on The Hobbit and then going to the Unfinished Tales and other works. Where can you find Saruman (aka Christopher Lee) as your reader? Or Sir Derek Jacobi? Did you know Brian Blessed, your favourite 'shouty' actor (Gordon's alive!), also took a role. The BBC Radiophonic Workshop, famous for the Doctor Who theme, also gets involved. Hats off to the father and son duo, Timothy and Sam West, for their reading of the works edited by Christopher Tolkien, making a really enjoyable listening experience. And who comes away with the prize for the best audiobook? Well, Julia admits to a childhood crush on the actor so listen to find out! You will also find out where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a singer.

Are you a re-reader of your favourite fantasy books? Join Julia Golding as she recalls the first time through the wardrobe and into Middle-earth. This leads to thoughts on the power of fantasy and why some dislike it. She goes on to look at Margaret Atwood, Terry Pratchett, and others as they defend the genre. Next is a deep-dive into why LotR in particular works as a book to return to again and again, then take a little side journey with the Equal Opportunities Commission... She ends by deciding where is the best place in fantasy to be a woman.

Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined by Professor Simon Horobin who has stepped into C.S. Lewis's shoes at Magdalen College, Oxford, and now he has written a beautiful book detailing Lewis's relationship with the iconic city. Join us as he discusses with Julia the peculiarities of college life in Oxford, the move to Cambridge later in life, Headington and the Kilns, as well as C.S. Lewis as a poet. The discussion ends off by venturing through the wardrobe into different fantasy lands…

Simon's book is available for purchase at https://bodleianshop.co.uk/products/c-s-lewiss-oxford

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0:10 Welcome to Mythmakers

3:38 The Legacy of C.S. Lewis

6:12 Exploring C.S. Lewis's Oxford

9:56 Oddities of Magdalen College

12:15 Women in Lewis's Life

15:00 Life at The Kilns

17:04 Lewis's Academic Journey

19:05 Surprising Discoveries in Archives

24:54 Transition to Cambridge

29:41 Oxford's Influence on Fantasy

35:08 Best Fantasy Worlds to Explore

In today’s episode, Julia Golding is joined by Lisa Coutras, author of Tolkien’s Theology of Beauty: Majesty, Splendor, and Transcendence in Middle-earth. Lisa is a theologian with an interest in beauty as it appears in the works of Tolkien. We discuss how this quality underpins his world, a reflection of the values of his Catholic faith but written so as to be accessible to all as it is not narrowly allegorical or theological. For Tolkien, true beauty was the radiance of God’s glory so we discuss where this is seen in The Silmarillion, and in the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Lisa explains how the first is from the elven perspective where the gods are much more present, whereas the last two are from the Hobbit’s eye view and Providence is less obvious but still infused in the world. At the end, in Lisa’s honour, we ask, where in what fantasy world is the best place for transcendent beauty?

Ever wondered about the link between fantasy writers like Tolkien and the multitude of subcultures they inspired, from Dungeons and Dragons to LARPing, and video gaming. In this episode, we discuss these worlds with special guest Ethan Gilsdorf, author of Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks. We discuss Ethan’s quest to rediscover the world that enchanted his teenage self before such things became ‘cool’. He explains exactly what D&D is and how the game sits alongside fantasy fiction both influenced and influencing. We discuss his visits to LARP (Live Action Role Play) camps and conventions, and the limitations and possibilities of video games. We dig into some of the possible negatives and positives of a role-playing habit and what it might have to teach people IRL (in real life). And finally, we pick where is the best fantasy world to be a geek. There’s a surprise revelation as to who is the Shire’s geek so stick around for that!

What was it like to be behind the scenes as the very first Star Wars films were made? What was it like to be in the room to hear John Williams' soundtrack for the first time? What were the differences working with George Lucas and James Cameron (Avatar)? And what Starwars memorabilia has our special guest got saved up for his retirement - and on which planet will that be? In this special edition of Mythmakers with a friend of the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, Joe Gallagher, we discuss the last half-century of filmmaking, with a focus on fantasy films. Joe, who held senior positions at ILM (George Lucas' special effects workshop), Fox studios and also worked for Universal, was there for many of the major films from Starwars to Avatar via Alien. We discuss the role of creatives in the industry, the evolution of special effects, and whether anything is now unfilmable. Watch out for his tips as to what studios are looking for in a script and his advice for those wishing to break into the industry.