Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings

Session 372: Stooping and Looking in Mirrormere

26 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This evening we will stoop and look in Mirrormere and see what, if anything, appears. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discor...

Session 371: Pausing for Wonder

16 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we join Gimli on a brief sight-seeing expedition in the Dimrill Dale. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/i...

Session 370: Dwarven Tourism

10 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Now that Aragorn has stepped up as leader of the Company, let's look around Azanulbizar. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https:...

Session 369: Aragorn's Leadership

01 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Time to begin a new chapter. Today we start wandering towards Lothlorien, where we might possibly lose track of time... Join us on the Signum Univer...

Session 368: Grief in the Sunlight

31 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We have come at last the end of the chapter, and a pause in the hectic escape from Moria. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://di...

Session 367: Flying Fools

23 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we watch as the Company continues to obey Gandalf's last command and sees the sunlight again. Join us on the Signum University Discord se...

Session 365: His Staff Was Broken on the Stone

13 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we discuss the final action in Gandalf's confrontation with the Balrog, as things take a sharp downward turn. Join us on the Signum Unive...

Session 366: Aftermath

13 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Doom has come, and Gandalf has fallen. What do we do now? Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Session 363: The Fight on the Bridge

14 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We return to the epic conflict on the Bridge of Khazad-dum, already in progress.

Session 364: The Balrog Attacks

14 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, the conflict between Gandalf and the Balrog gets physical. Probably.

Session 362: Gandalf on the Bridge

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We have arrived, on our 9th Anniversary Class, at Gandalf's speech on the Bridge of Khazad-dum! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https...

Session 361: The Confrontation

07 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we discuss the (first) description that has led so many readers to think that Balrogs have wings.

Session 360: Crossing That Bridge

07 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we examine the crossing of the Bridge of Khazad-dum, as the Balrog approaches. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://disco...

Session 359: Boromir's Response to the Balrog

07 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We've seen Legolas's terror, Gimli's grief, and Gandalf's resignation. But how does Boromir respond to the Balrog? Interest Form on Exploring the Lor...

Session 357: Doom, Doom

14 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Corey as we discuss approaching Doom: Durin's Bane appears at last. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/...

Session 358: Recognizing Doom

14 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Corey tonight, for "A Balrog! A Balrog is come!" Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Session 356: The Bridge of Khazad-dûm

14 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we actually arrive at the Bridge of Khazad-dum. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv

Session 354: The Floor is Ghâsh

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we join the Company of the Ring in peering out into the Second Hall of Old Moria to discover what, exactly, is on fire. https://signumuniversi...

Session 355: Looking Behind

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This evening we will look over the Company's shoulders as the orcs catch up to them in the Second Hall, at the edge of the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. http...

Session 353: Maybe We Can Get Out After All

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In which Gandalf opines that they might get out after all, for all the Drums in the Deep. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://dis...

Session 352: On the Skewering of Hobbits

28 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Corey for some final reflections on the confrontation in the Chamber, followed by some commentary on the skewering of hobbits. Join us on the Sig...

Session 351: The Beater of the Drums

21 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join us as we finally hear from Gandalf about his encounter at the door of the Chamber of Mazarbul. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: h...

Session 350: The Final Darkness

14 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join us while we grope our way in the dark with Gandalf and the Company. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/s...

Session 348: He “Sang in Answer a Song of Staying”

24 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In which a real magical duel is fought, though we can't quite tell what is happening. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord...

Session 346: Frodo Is Injured Again

24 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In which Corey returns to the Chamber of Mazarbul for the penultimate time, and in which Frodo is skewered like a wild boar. Join us on the Signum Uni...

Session 347: Gandalf Proposes a Solution

24 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In which Gandalf reveals his plan for enabling the Company to escape their predicament. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://disco...

Session 349: Gandalf Returns

24 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In which Gandalf faces a deadly opponent and falls ... down the stairs. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/sz...

Session 344: Frodo's One Moment of Martial Glory

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we return to the cave-troll attack, already in progress. Let's watch as Frodo achieves the acme of his combat career. Join us on the Signum Un...

Session 345: They Have Come

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we discuss the fight by Balin's tomb, in which Sam experiences his first combat.

Session 343: The Cave Troll Cameo

24 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we get more up close and personal with a troll since anyone since Bilbo, and this one is all out of talking purses. Probably. Join us on the ...

Session 342: Resolution

24 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Company of the Rings resolves to make a stand against overwhelming odds. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invi...

Session 341: Defiance Rather than Hope

24 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Corey returns from Mythmoot to discuss how Gandalf defies the horde of orcs outside the chamber and assesses their odds -- which are not great. Join u...

Session 340: The Company is Startled into Action

06 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

They are coming! But who is coming, and how? And what can we learn from the actions of the company as Doom drives them into action? Join us on the S...

Session 339: Drums in the Deep

06 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we are catapulted back into action as the words of the long-studied Book of Mazarbul now spring to life and relevance for the Company. Join us...

Session 337: Re-Entry

04 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It's time at last to turn from Tolkien's images of the Book of Mazarbul and remember where we are. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: ht...

Session 338: Gandalf Sees the Path Clearly

04 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join us as we watch Gandalf casually figure how to get out from the Chamber of Mazarbul. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://disc...

Session 335: What Gandalf Spared Them

30 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We return to the book and Ori's beautiful Tengwar, only to read the most grim passage that Gandalf skimmed over. Join us on the Signum University Disc...

Session 336: The Last Page

30 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we turn to the last page of Tolkien's illustration of the Book of Mazarbul, and Chad helps Corey interpret the final words of Balin's companio...

Session 334: The Orthography of Ori

14 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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! ...

Session 333: More Cirth! The Real Book of Mazarbul Continues...

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, Corey continues to learn the Cirth with Chad Bornholdt's help, and we read more of what Gandalf did not. Join us on the Signum University Dis...

Session 332: The Rosetta Stone of Mazarbul

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 ...

Session 329: Storytime with Gandalf

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we begin our discussion of Gandalf's reading from the Book of Mazarbul! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/i...

Session 331: Balin's End

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we discuss the end of the Book of Mazarbul, and Balin's end. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMF...

Session 330: A Great Work is Begun

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Happy Gondorian New Year! In our second session on the Book of Mazarbul, we will get to the high water mark of Balin's expedition. Join us on the Sign...

Session 327: The Mournful Inscription

26 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It's time to start a new chapter, and one we've been excitedly waiting for: The Bridge of Khazad-dum. Let's start by learning about runes! Join us on ...

Session 328: The Chamber of Records

26 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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:...

Session 326: What the Daylight Reveals

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Corey as he joins the Company is seeing what there is to be seen in the early light of the new day in Moria. Join us on the Signum University Dis...

Session 325: The Beginning of the Last Day

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, let's check in with Boromir and see what his current assessment of Gandalf's leadership is. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: ...

Session 324: A Chance Meeting

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 323: Bilbo's Gifts

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We discuss Gimli and Frodo's very different reactions to Gandalf's download of mithril lore. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://...

Session 322: Gandalf's Mithril-Lore

31 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight Corey looks at what Gandalf emphasizes about Moria-silver. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv...

Session 321: What We Know About Mithril

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What does Tolkien tell us about mithril? Tonight we discuss the passage that contains about 80-90% of what we know. Join us on the Signum University ...

Session 320: Poetry Appreciation

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Corey returns to the world of prose to discuss Sam's response to Gimli's song and the overall shift towards practical application. Join us on the Sign...

Session 319: Finding the Third Dimension: the Antepenultimate Stanza

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The poetic experiment continues as we examine the last monochrome stanzas of Gimli's poem. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://...

Session 316: The Second Half of the Song

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we continue with our initial pass through Gimli's Khazad-dum poem! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invi...

Session 317: The End of Gimli's Song

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Corey discusses the ending of Gimli’s song and then presents his observations on what makes this poem not at all boring. Join us on the Signum Unive...

Session 318: Finding the Third Dimension: the Middle Stanzas

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 se...

Session 315: The Dwarves' World

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

We are back and ready for some poetry. Are you prepared for one of our three biggest glimpses into dwarfdom in all of the LOTR? Thank you for all you...

Session 314: The Dwarf Perspective At Last

15 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, we hear from Gimli at last, and get a glimpse of his experience. And we prepare for the poem! Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings an...

Session 313: Uptown Moria

27 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 an...

Session 312: The Second March

21 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 ...

Session 311: A Humanizing Interlude

17 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we examine Gandalf and his benevolent nicotine addiction. Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. https://www.kicks...

Session 310: The Fallout from the Stone

02 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we return to Pippin by the unnerving hole in the floor, and we join him in listening to echoes. Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings an...

Session 309: Pippin Drops a Stone

02 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, Pippin will throw a stone down a well. Admit it: you would do it too. Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. htt...

Session 308: The Guardroom

22 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we remember Bill the Pony and discover the Hole in the Floor, disappearing into darkness. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: h...

Session 307: A Point of Decision

02 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we continue our journey through the dark, listening to noises and thinking about the sunlit lands. Join us on the Signum University Discord se...

Session 306: Sounds in the Darkness

16 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 Discor...

Session 305: Gandalf's Guidance

16 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we will learn about Gandalf's accomplishments as a guide, and we will discuss the most mysterious simile in the entire Lord of the Rings. Join...

Session 304: The Journey Continues

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we set off and begin the actual traveling through Moria. Let's listen and see what we hear! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: ...

Session 303: Through the Deadly Dark

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The journey through the long dark of Moria finally begins -- after a stiff drink! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.c...

Session 302: Gandalf Takes the Lead

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Gandalf proceeds, through word and deed, to answer the question that Boromir mutters to himself. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: htt...

Session 301: The Beginning of the Long Dark

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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....

Session 300: Crossing the Threshold

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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: h...

Session 299: The Choice of Master Samwise

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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: ...

Session 295: Quick to Anger

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 298: Passing the Mellon Test

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 se...

Session 297: The Ripples and the Answer Draw Near

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we gaze out across the foul pool, as ominous ripples form and move towards the bank. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https:...

Session 296: Gandalf Takes the Wrong Approach

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we finish watching Gandalf take the wrong approach, and we will see the growing evidence of Boromir's frustration. Join us on the Signum Unive...

Session 292: Moria Security Protocols

12 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we return to the doors of Moria and consider their security protocols.

Session 294: Quick to Anger

12 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tempers flare at the Doors of Durin. Tonight, we look carefully at Boromir's contribution. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://d...

Session 293: Memories of Lost Lore

12 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, Gandalf initiates the Lost Password Recovery Process for the Doors of Durin.

Session 291: The Subcommittee Comes Through!

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Let's do some metainterpretation of Moria gate!

Session 290: Runes And Letters And Cunning Handwriting

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 289: The Doors Are Shut

12 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we'll watch Gandalf find the doors that are shut, and see yet another nod to The Hobbit.

Session 288: Sam Speaks Out

12 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It is time for Master Gamgee to put his foot down.

Session 286: Tentacular Forebodings

04 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

You ever get that feeling that you get when you are about to be attacked by a tentacular monstrosity? Let's enjoy that together this evening.

Session 285: The Doom of Bill

04 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight the doom of Bill the Pony is spoken, his departure drawing ever nigh.

Session 287: Concerning Elves and Dwarves

04 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 284: Before The Walls

09 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Let's savor another deliciously alliterative descriptive passage: the Walls of Moria! It's time for Signum University Annual Fundraising campaign. ...

Session 283: The End Of The Road

09 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Company approaches the Doors of Moria, and continues to find ominous signs. It's time for Signum University Annual Fundraising campaign. • Si...

Session 282: Ominous Emptiness

25 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we discuss the unexpectedly missing river. #SpiritualStreams It's time for Signum University Annual Fundraising campaign. • Signum Unive...

Session 281: The Race Against the Shadow

11 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Exploring The Lord of the Rings with The Tolkien Professor Tonight we watch as Gandalf shows foresighted leadership and Boromir starts to grumble. Sig...

Session 280: Where Wolves?

11 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 277: Alliterating Under Pressure

08 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we will discuss how the best method of managing acute involves intensive alliteration.

Session 276: A Fair Warning

08 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Gandalf begins a pleasant conversation with the Warg Captain, which ends rather abruptly.

Session 279: And the Fire Came

08 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 278: GANDALF IS HERE

08 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Gandalf upgrades from pine cones to trees.

Session 275: The Children of the Night

09 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight the wolves close in around the hilltop. And Gandalf answers.

Session 274: Remembering Their Family History

28 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 273: Fell Voices on the Air

02 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

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