Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings

Session 272: Aragorn's Foretelling

25 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Let's go back to Aragorn's foretelling, and then return to Aragorn's interruption of a tense moment.

Session 271: Finding the Right Question

25 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Council on the Knees of Caradhras approaches its sudden end, amidst portents and people answering the wrong question.

Session 269: Gandalf’s Response

29 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Compare and contrast: Moria and the Dark Tower. Discuss.

Session 270: Mixed Reviews

29 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The reviews on the Moria Plan are in, and they vary pretty widely.

Session 268: Boromir Arguments

28 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we return to Boromir's unusually insistent push-back against Gandalf's route suggestion.

Session 267: A Counter-Suggestion

28 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It is high time that Boromir had his say at this Council.

Session 266: A Vague Fear

13 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Council Near the Knees of Caradhras continues, and the Vague Fear is revealed!

Session 265: The Bad Option

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It is time for the Company to confront their unattractive travel options.

Session 264: Resuming Deliberations

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we begin a new chapter! Let's go to Moria! Or, at least, start talking about it.

Session 263: The Rout

24 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What are the consequences of the failure at Caradhras? What does it mean?

Session 262: Caradhras Abides

10 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we think through some of the company's final thoughts about the Caradhras incident.

Session 261: A Parting Gift from Caradhras

28 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, we get to see Caradhras's farewell present. (Hint: It isn't spoons.) Esplora il podcast

Session 260: Great Men Need No Spades

23 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Great men have no spades. Great men need no spades.

Session 259: Legolas Deploys His Sass

23 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Having thought some about Legolas's abilities, we need to consider his attitude.

Session 258: Of Elves and Otters

12 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In what way, exactly, do you think elves are most like otters?

Session 256: Trapped

30 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Company has survived the snowstorm, but can they escape Caradhras?

Session 257: Winter Banter

30 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It is time to tackle the snow. With wit and panache!

Session 255: Hopeful Signs

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

"I'd like to hear more about Boromir, Dad. He was very wise when the Company was stuck in the snow, wasn't he, Dad?"

Session 254: Gandalf Is Here

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Gandalf exposes himself on a mountaintop. We need to discuss this.

Session 253: Fire And Death

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The choice between fire and death quickly approaches. Boromir can't take it anymore.

Session 251: We Cannot Get Out

29 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The snow is mounting and the Company is beset. Anxiety is intense.

Session 252: Increasing Desperation

29 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It is time for the first and least desperate remedy against the storm.

Session 249: Stone in the Mountains

06 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

This evening, we get to watch Tolkien reimagine a moment from The Hobbit. Let's see what we notice!

Session 250: The Enemy's Attack

06 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tolkien equals Bilbo himself today, and ExLOTR turns six!

Session 248: Concerning the Arm of Sauron

06 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How long has the arm of Sauron actually grown, do we think?

Session 247: Caradhras Strikes

06 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A fine, scenic snowfall graces the Company as they begin their ascent.

Session 246: Interrupting Warrior!

06 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

So, let's head up the mountai-- INTERRUPTING WARRIOR!

Session 245: Decisive Leadership

04 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The decision has been made, and it is time to head towards the Redhorn Gate!

Session 244: The Basis of Choice

22 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What do we learn about how Gandalf and Aragorn are choosing their road? What matters most to them?

Session 243: Approaching the Decision

17 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

As we approach the mountains, we overhear some quiet controversy.

Session 242: Probably a Wisp of Cloud

17 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

So, what exactly is the shadow in the sky?

Session 241: Strider's Leadership

02 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight the journey continues South through Hollin.

Session 240: Towards the Pass

22 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The journey continues, with hobbit commentary.

Session 239: Avian Analysis

20 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

So, what's up with the birds? What does it mean?

Session 238: Spying Out the Land

01 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What is the meaning of the birds? Let's discuss Aragorn's reaction.

Session 237: Pack(s) of Crows

16 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Sam and Strider spot a suspicious sight.

Session 236: Ominous Mysteries

16 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we look at the first of several ominous and mysterious warnings we hear about in Hollin.

Session 235: Strider Apart

24 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we watch as Strider protects the Company by stalwartly preventing fun.

Session 234: Looking Ahead Part 2

06 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Legolas speaks to the trees, but the rocks aren't interested.

Session 233: Looking Ahead

06 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

07/19/2022 ELOTR: EPISODE 233 Announcements: The Tolkien Professor will be a guest at the SDCC panel on the Amazon series: The Rings of Power. Check a...

Session 232: Return to Moria

13 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

07/05/2022 ELOTR: EPISODE 232 Announcements: Buckeye Moot will close registration on 07/16, so if you’re planning to attend on 07/30, get your badge...

Session 231: Approaching Legends

06 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we get Gandalf's first official Pippin moment, followed by Gimli's first big speech!

Session 230: A Wilderness Frontier

15 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

We emerge from a long trudge conveyed in few paragraphs to the borders of a new land. What does Tolkien convey about it, and how?

Session 229: The Third Road Trip

15 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

What is the hobbit view of this new road trip? How does it differ from the other two?

Session 228: On The Road Again

01 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

ELOTR: EPISODE 228 Announcements: This years Mythmoot will be at the Dulles Airport Marriot. There is a cap on attendance and a deadline, so please re...

Session 227: Departing Rivendell

23 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we depart Rivendell at last. For real! Probably.

Session 226: Free or Bound?

23 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight we get to the battle of aphorisms between Elrond and Gimli! Free agency? Oaths? What's the best course?

Session 225: The Counsel of the Wisest of Loremasters

23 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

ELOTR Episode 225 Announcements: If you are among our listeners who play Lord of the Rings Online, then you don’t want to miss their 15 year anniver...

Session 224: Preparing for the Road Ahead

15 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Leaving on a journey with a sinking feeling you have forgotten something. I feel you, Sam.

Session 223: Sam's Outlook

03 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

03/29/2022 ELOTR Episode 223 Announcements: Sunshine Moot is April 2nd in Orlando. Tickets available for in person and online attendance! See https://...

Session 222: Waiting on the Doorstep

03 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

03/22/2022 ELOTR Episode 222 Announcements: Announcements: Texmoot is coming up on the 26th of March; Sunshine Moot is April 2nd. Tickets available fo...

Session 221: The Tenth Walker

20 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

03/15/2022 ELOTR Episode 221 Announcements: Announcements: Texmoot is coming up on the 26th of March; Sunshine Moot is April 2nd. Tickets available fo...

Session 220: Preparations for the Journey

14 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

03/08/2022 ELOTR Episode 220 Announcements: Texmoot is coming up on the 26th of March; Sunshine Moot is April 2nd. Tickets available for in person and...

Session 219: The Description of the Company (Already in Progress)

10 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Elrond drops some prophetic advice like it ain't no thing, then we casually return to clothing descriptions.

Session 218: The Horn Incident

27 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Boromir interrupts Elrond again, and Elrond retaliates. What do we learn about Boromir, here?

Session 217: The Quest Begins

27 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

02/08/2022, ELOTR Episode 217 Announcements: Our March modules have been announced, including a creative writing course, Tolkien and Alchemy, Heirogly...

Session 216: Bilbo's Song In Context

27 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

02/01/2022, ELOTR Episode 216 Announcements: Texmoot in Austin TX has been rescheduled for March 26, and SunshineMoot will be in Orlando April 2. Stay...

Session 215: Meanwhile, What is Bilbo Up To?

31 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

01/25/2022, ELOTR Episode 215 Announcements: Interested in taking part in the ExLOTR Legacy Project? Go to: https://forums.signumuniversity.org/i... T...

Session 214: Bilbo Shifts Focus

31 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

01/18/2022, ELOTR Episode 214 Announcements: Interested in taking part in the ExLOTR Legacy Project? Go to: https://forums.signumuniversity.org/i... T...

Session 213: Spring Comes After All

16 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

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? G...

Session 212: When Winter Comes, the Winter Wild...

09 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

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-...

Session 211: Second Verse. Same as the First?

13 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

12/07/2021, ELOTR Episode 211 Announcement: Mythgard 2022 dates have been announced! Mythmoot: An Annual Speculative Literature Conference Join us Jun...

Session 210: A Song! A Song!

04 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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! htt...

Session 209: A Touching Moment

28 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

11/23/2021, ELOTR Episode 209 Anytime Audit specials are live! https://signumuniversity.org/news/anytime-audit-holiday-special. We have confirmed our ...

Session 208: Circulating Mathoms

21 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Bilbo passes along to Frodo an old mathom that someone else gave to him, once.

Session 207: The Continuity of Stories

17 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

11/09/2021, ELOTR Episode 207 Anytime Audit certificates are on sale! https://signumuniversity.org/news/anytime-audit-holiday-special. We have confirm...

Session 206: Reforging the Past, Anticipating the Future

11 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 205: The Last Two Empty Slots

07 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 204: Going My Way

27 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Hey, who invited Boromir?

Session 203: The Fellowship near the Ring

20 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 202: The Encroaching Shadow

11 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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, s...

Session 201: The Time For Action

01 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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, s...

Session 200: What The Scouts Learned

25 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

09/21/2021, ELOTR Episode 200 Announcements: Anytime Audit Special for the “Language Invention Through Tolkien” course! Join Andrew Higgins for t...

Session 199: Scouting The Lands

20 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 198: Counting Days in Rivendell

08 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 197: Bilbo's Literary Theories

03 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Session 196: There And Possibly Back Again

15 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 195: Looking Ahead

15 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Join as Gandalf and Bilbo tag-team on the uphill task of keeping Frodo in good spirits.

Session 194: A Middling-Long Rest

05 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 ...

Session 193: The Council Of Elrond (Expurgated Version)

10 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 192: The Council About The Council

03 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 191: The Real Hero Stands Forth

01 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 di...

Session 190: Frodo Joins The Hall Of Fame

18 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 189: Frodo's Choice

11 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 188: What This Council Business Was All About Really

04 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 y...

Session 187: Bilbo Finally Raises the Sensitive Issue

28 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 186: Bilbo's Gambit

22 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 185: Operation: Fool's Hope

22 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 y...

Session 184: Concerning the Elven Rings

08 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 183: Speaking of Using Rings Against Sauron

25 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 y...

Session 182: Opposing Sauron Plan B

16 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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. Date...

Session 181: How to Oppose Sauron

16 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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. Date...

Session 178: Reasoned Deliberations

03 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 179: The Climax of the Council

03 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

Session 180: A Modest Proposal

03 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 177: Risks and Options

14 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 176: Weighing the Options

07 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Session 175: Of Squirrels and Tom Bombadil

27 Feb 2021

Contributed by Lukas

ELOTR 175: Council of Elrond Session 51 Mythmoot will be June 24-27! Registration for our annual literary conference is now open. For information regi...

Session 174: The Beginning of the End of the Council

21 Feb 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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 li...

Session 173: Gandalf's Story Comes to an End

11 Feb 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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...