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Reading Tolkien

Reading Tolkien

By: Benjamin Bassett
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This show examines Tolkien's work from a variety of literary perspectives. We examine Tolkien's lesser known works, his well known novels and his thematic and philosophical preoccupations and sentiments. Please join us!Copyright Ben Bassett and Razib Khan Art Literary History & Criticism
Episodes
  • Professor Michael Drout: The Tower and the Ruin

    Professor Michael Drout: The Tower and the Ruin
    Nov 23 2025

    Professor Michael Drout speaks to me about his fascinating and deeply moving new literary memoir cum detailed literary analysis The Tower and the Ruin. Drout's book, published December 2nd, analyses Tolkien from the persective of one reader, whilst also providing evidence for how Tolkien is best read in the context of his academic discipline, philology, and Tolkien's creative response to his medieval sources.
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Interview: Giuseppe Pezzini

    Interview: Giuseppe Pezzini
    May 31 2025

    In this interview I chat with Giuseppe (Beppe) Pezzini, author of the fascinating new book, 'Tolkien and the Mystery of Literary Creation'. Together, we delve into the intricacies of Tolkien's imagination, explore the reception of Tolkien in Italy, and discuss the role of Tolkien Studies in readers' appreciation of Tolkien's texts. Please join us.

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    44 mins
  • The Silmarillion Sessions: Chapter 11 - Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor

    The Silmarillion Sessions: Chapter 11 - Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
    Jul 2 2023

    In this minisode I discuss the myth of the Sun and the Moon in The Silmarillion. I jump right into my thoughts so it is recommended that you have read the chapter recently.

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    9 mins

Featured Article: Elrond—A Lord of the Rings Character Guide


If you love J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, then you know that all of the events of the story would be impossible without the half-Elf Elrond. Elrond, the Lord of Rivendell, lived in Middle-earth from the First Age to the beginning of the Fourth Age. It was with the help of Elrond that the evil Sauron was defeated and alliances were forged. Elrond is one of the most prominent characters throughout Tolkien's stories. But who is he and what is his story?

Featured Article Elrond A Lord of the Rings Character Guide
Continue Your Journey Through Middle earth

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