In today's episode, the hosts examine the issue of mortality (life and death) in Middle-earth. How did spector of death (or the lack thereof) affect elves, men, and dwarves? The story of Glorfindel and the Balrog became a test case for elven death. The knowledge of, and the fear of, death, shaped the story of Numenor. The consequences of death beyond Middle-earth had a lasting impact on Elrond. Finally, what happened to Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam when they journeyed into the west?