Mythgard Academy aims to make engaging discussions of fantasy and science fiction literature free and open to everyone. The Mythgard Academy program features live discussions with Dr. Corey Olsen, The Tolkien Professor, and other experts on speculative fiction. Books are nominated and voted on by our supporters, and recordings are available for free via podcast and the Signum University YouTube channel.
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Join The Tolkien Professor, Dr. Corey Olsen, on a sentence-by-sentence journey through the text of Tolkien's epic fairy story, and explore Middle-earth through the magical game-world of Lord of the Rings Online.
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Mythgard Institute offers an array of educational programs and activities for all to enjoy!
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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 and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/rings-and-realms-season-2 Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Explo…
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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 and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/signumu/rings-and-realms-season-2 Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Expl…
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Session 311: A Humanizing Interlude
1:44:32
1:44:32
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1:44:32
Tonight we examine Gandalf and his benevolent nicotine addiction. Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/... Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings…
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 5
1:36:06
1:36:06
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1:36:06
In today's session, we will think about what it is good, or not good, to think about. Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/... Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv S…
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 6
1:49:43
1:49:43
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Tonight we will consider magic, benevolent and otherwise, and secrecy, both wise and wicked. If we have time, we'll discuss bloody corpses. Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Please help us reach our goal to fund Rings and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/... Join us on the Signum Universit…
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Session 310: The Fallout from the Stone
1:43:11
1:43:11
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1:43:11
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 and Realms Season Two. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/... Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings…
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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. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/... Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the Rings…
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 4
1:55:50
1:55:50
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Tonight we consider heresy, fantasy, and other ways of standing on one's head. Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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Tonight we remember Bill the Pony and discover the Hole in the Floor, disappearing into darkness. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 3
1:49:52
1:49:52
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Tonight we complete our ascension to prophetic insight through the church door, followed by a little heresy and some comical illuminations. Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard Academy…
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Tonight we continue our journey through the dark, listening to noises and thinking about the sunlit lands. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 306: Sounds in the Darkness
1:49:19
1:49:19
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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 Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 2
2:10:49
2:10:49
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Tonight we will listen to the discussion about a magnificent library and read a magnificent description of a door. Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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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 us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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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: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 303: Through the Deadly Dark
1:41:34
1:41:34
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1:41:34
The journey through the long dark of Moria finally begins -- after a stiff drink! Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA034: The Name of the Rose, Session 1
2:04:24
2:04:24
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2:04:24
Don your habit and file in quietly, for tonight we begin our discussion of Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose! Intro music: Gregorian Chant Kevin MacLeod ( http://incompetech.com/ ) Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 302: Gandalf Takes the Lead
1:31:56
1:31:56
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1:31:56
Gandalf proceeds, through word and deed, to answer the question that Boromir mutters to himself. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 301: The Beginning of the Long Dark
1:54:52
1:54:52
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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. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 300: Crossing the Threshold
1:54:45
1:54:45
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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: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 299: The Choice of Master Samwise
1:55:46
1:55:46
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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: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 26
1:44:45
1:44:45
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1:44:45
You also shall be Psyche. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 25
1:41:47
1:41:47
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Tonight, Psyche will complete her final task and bear the casket of beauty to Ungit. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 24
1:42:39
1:42:39
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1:42:39
Tonight we will look at the final temptation of Psyche and the long-awaited reunion. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 298: Passing the Mellon Test
1:42:25
1:42:25
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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 server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 297: The Ripples and the Answer Draw Near
1:47:19
1:47:19
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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://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 296: Gandalf Takes the Wrong Approach
1:26:21
1:26:21
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1:26:21
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 University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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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 Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 23
1:46:05
1:46:05
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1:46:05
Tonight we and Orual look back at the earlier narrative with a new perspective. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAvd Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 22
1:34:19
1:34:19
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1:34:19
Orual absorbs what she learned in her day in court. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 21
1:52:25
1:52:25
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1:52:25
Orual's day in court finally comes: her complaint against the gods is to be heard. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 20
1:56:37
1:56:37
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1:56:37
Tonight we will look at Orual's final two visions of suffering and impossible tasks, and prepare for the Trial of the Gods. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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51
Session 293: Memories of Lost Lore
1:48:02
1:48:02
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Tonight, Gandalf initiates the Lost Password Recovery Process for the Doors of Durin. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 19
1:48:29
1:48:29
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1:48:29
So you've realized the uncomfortable truth that you are Ungit. What do you do? Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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Session 292: Moria Security Protocols
1:35:41
1:35:41
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Tonight we return to the doors of Moria and consider their security protocols. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Tempers flare at the Doors of Durin. Tonight, we look carefully at Boromir's contribution. Join us on the Signum University Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/szXMFAv Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 18
1:37:56
1:37:56
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Having removed her veil once, Orual continues to do so, looking into one mirror after another. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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51
Session 291: The Subcommittee Comes Through!
1:25:26
1:25:26
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1:25:26
Let's do some metainterpretation of Moria gate! Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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51
Session 290: Runes And Letters And Cunning Handwriting
1:56:57
1:56:57
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Tonight we look at the description of the moon letters on the gate. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Tonight we'll watch Gandalf find the doors that are shut, and see yet another nod to The Hobbit. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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It is time for Master Gamgee to put his foot down. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 17
1:45:47
1:45:47
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So, who is Ungit? Or is that question too personal? Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 16
1:56:06
1:56:06
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This evening we join Orual for her confrontation with Ansit, Bardia's widow. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 15
1:40:15
1:40:15
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Tonight we will begin the sequel to Orual's book, in which she writes a book about the effects of writing her book. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 14
1:52:25
1:52:25
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1:52:25
Tonight we discuss the end of Orual's book, and its beginning. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 13
2:04:39
2:04:39
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2:04:39
Orual has lost her life, and now unexpectedly finds it. In finding it, she discovers that she has lost it. Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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51
Session 286: Tentacular Forebodings
1:48:36
1:48:36
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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. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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Tonight the doom of Bill the Pony is spoken, his departure drawing ever nigh. Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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51
Session 287: Concerning Elves and Dwarves
1:55:02
1:55:02
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1:55:02
It's the seventh anniversary of ExLOTR! Let's celebrate the friendship of dwarves and elves. Special guest: Thomas P. Hillman https://www.kentstateuniversitypress.... Support Mythgard's Exploring The Lord of the RingsBy Mythgard Institute
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MSA033: Till We Have Faces, Session 12
1:55:50
1:55:50
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In the wake of Orual's condemnation, a series of unexpected chances lead to big change. What does this show us about Orual and the gods? Support Mythgard AcademyBy Mythgard Institute
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