Exploring Tolkien

Jonathan and Michael dive into a deeper discussion of Episode 1 of The Rings of Power, "A Shadow of the Past". They look at how much of Tolkien's work is in the show, if the show is standing up to the excellence Tolkien's work demands, and where the show channels its inner Michael Scott :).

Jonathan, Michael, and Dan discuss why Tolkien is worth defending--and defending ardently. If Tolkien's work is truly excellent, how much excellence should we demand from those sub-creating in his world?

In "Of the Flight of the Noldor", the ill choices of Fëanor are finally brought to bear as we watch the grievous opening to a long and tearful tale.

This week we dive right in and get deep into Ungoliant, what she does, who she might be, and how even Morgoth fears her.

As we dive further into Fēanor's story and the Silmarils, Dan realizes that the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

This week, Jonathan quizzes Dan and Michael on some important numbers, Dan sees similarities between the two big characters, Jonathan realizes Melkor was a nice guy, and Michael takes a deeper look at Fëanor's fire.

Reading Of Thingol and Melian, Dan realizes that love can make you do stupid things, then wonders what in the world is going on in Of Eldamar and the Coming of the Eladië.

Michael and Jonathan review the new Rings of Power teaser trailer, looking through the entire 2+ minutes, and discussing what is Tolkien (a little), what isn't Tolkien (a lot), and why the Hobbits are waddling.

In this week's episode, Jonathan poses some trivia questions to Michael and Dan, Michael puts together a great diagram to explain ALL the different types of elves, and we confirm the existence of female orcs!

Dan, Jonathan, and Michael are taking the week off to be with friends and family.  So if you're looking for a little more Tolkien commentary this week, be sure to checkout our YouTube channel at https://www.theonering.com/youtube