My guest today is Marilyn R. Pukkila: academic, author, and prolific podcaster. My introduction to her was through her podcast, called Rings and Rituals. There, she seeks to uncover what the various rituals can reveal about the different cultures portrayed in the Amazon Prime show Rings of Power. Contact the show, donate, and find past episodes: ringspodcast.com Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, where the epic sagas of the Lord of...

🎉 8 Days Until Rings of Power Season 2! 🎉 Today, we’re diving back into the episode that started it all—Season 1, Episode 1: A Shadow of the Past. Remember Galadriel’s epic troll battle and that boat jump? It’s time to rewatch and relive the moments that kicked off the series. 📺 What to Do Today: Watch Rings of Power Season 1, Episode 1.Listen to my review of that episode in podcast episode #50 at ringspodcast.com/50. 🚨 Reminder for Tomorrow: Watch Rings of Power Season 1, Episode...

🌟 9 Days Until Rings of Power Season 2! 🌟 As we get closer to the release of Rings of Power Season 2, let's celebrate something truly remarkable from Season 1: the incredible combination of music and visuals in the opening sequence. The music, composed by Howard Shore (the genius behind The Lord of the Rings film scores), paired with stunning visuals, creates an unforgettable experience that sets the tone for the series. 🎵 Deep Dive into the Opening Sequence: Want to know more? Head over to...

🎉 Countdown to Rings of Power Season 2 Begins! 🎉 Join the Lore of the Rings podcast as we kick off a 10-day countdown to the release of Rings of Power Season 2 on August 29! We're dropping daily mini-episodes to help you prepare, with quick hits on what to watch and listen to each day. 🔁 Starting Wednesday, we'll rewatch Season 1 together, revisiting lore breakdowns and predictions. Curious if opinions have changed? Let's find out! 📅 Watch Schedule: Visit ringspodcast.com/count for the full...

JRR Tolkien posed a different question to who is Tom Bombadil? He asked rather, What is Tom Bombadil? Today with special guest Ian from Thoughts on Tolkien, we explore the mysterious creature of Tom Bombadil. With just a few weeks left until Tom makes his on-screen debut in Rings of Power Season 2, we'll dive deep and share little-known details about Tom. Find the Thoughts on Tolkien blog here: https://thoughtsontolkien.wordpress.com/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more...

Who would win between Gandalf and Picard? Pike vs Shelob? Saruman vs the Borg Queen? Today Lore of the Rings mashes up with Captain's Pod to compare and contrast the two amazing world of Lord of the Rings and Star Trek. We look into Tolkien and Roddenberry's inspiration and reasons for their world, as well as wander through timeless themes from each world. Find more info about the Captain's...

Dive deep into the enigmatic world of Tom Bombadil. Explore Tom's unique role in Middle-earth, his mastery over wood, water, and hill, and his peculiar relationship with the One Ring. Discover how Tom assists the hobbits through the foggy Barrow-downs, and hear Samwise Gamgee's everyman perspective on this mysterious character. We also uncover the ancient history embedded in this chapter, from the treasures of the Barrow-downs to the legendary blades of the Men of Westernesse. Tune in for a...

Dive into the eerie origins and dark history of Tolkien's Barrow-wights. Discover how these malevolent spirits from Angmar inhabit the ancient burial mounds of the Barrow-downs, terrifying Frodo and his friends. Learn about the courage that lights Frodo's path, Tom Bombadil's heroic rescue, and the royal tombs of Cardolan. Unravel the connections between Angmar, the Witch-King, and the Barrow-wights, and explore the deeper themes of courage and friendship in Tolkien's epic tale. Don't miss...

Journey into the chilling depths of Chapter 8, "Fog on the Barrow-downs" from JRR Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring. Discover the dark and foreboding Barrow-downs, ancient burial mounds shrouded in mystery and dread. We delve into Tolkien's masterful portrayal of death, using overwhelming darkness and icy coldness to evoke a sense of dread. Explore the themes of mortality, the contrast between light and dark, and the terrifying reality that Frodo and his friends face. Plus, we draw connections...

The final scenes of "In the House of Tom Bombadil" from Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring. Discover Tom Bombadil's mysterious connections to the outside world, his unique relationship with the One Ring, and why its dark power has no hold over him. Explore profound themes and intriguing theories about this enigmatic character. Listen to an in-depth analysis that reveals new insights into Middle-earth's most puzzling figure. Exclusive discounts for...

Join us in this captivating episode as we explore the enchanting world of Tom Bombadil and Goldberry in J.R.R. Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring. Learn how Tolkien masterfully blends opposites, from east and west to light and shadow, creating a rich tapestry of symbolism and meaning. Perfect for fans of Middle-earth looking to deepen their understanding of these enigmatic characters. Thoughts on Tolkien's article about Tom Bombadil:...

In this episode, we delve into the captivating dinner scene with the hobbits, Tom Bombadil, and Goldberry. Explore the harmonious partnership between Tom and Goldberry. Uncover the recurring motif of similes used by Tolkien to describe their world and its magical qualities. From the mysterious drink that seems like water but affects the hobbits like wine, to the primordial connection of music in Middle-earth, we examine how these details offer deeper insights into the enigmatic nature of Tom...

Wander into the first part of "In the House of Tom Bombadil" from Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring, focusing on the enigmatic Goldberry. Explore her mystical presence, her profound connection to nature, and the captivating mystery she brings to Middle-earth. Discover the layers of her character and how she intertwines with the magical world Tolkien created. Perfect for fans and newcomers alike, this analysis sheds light on one of Tolkien's most intriguing figures. Exclusive discounts for...

Dive into the exciting new on-screen adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary tales. In this episode, I’m joined by John from the Lorehounds podcast, and together, we explore the upcoming cinematic and streaming adventures that await Middle-earth wanderers. First, we ride into battle with "The War of the Rohirrim," an epic tale of courage and valor set in the heart of Rohan. Next, we embark on a perilous journey in "The Hunt for Gollum," a story brimming with suspense and intrigue as we...

We delve into the exciting reveal from Rings of Power Season 2, featuring the enigmatic Tom Bombadil, a character who has baffled readers and scholars of Tolkien's works for decades. We explore the concept of eucatastrophe as depicted in The Old Forest chapter of The Fellowship of the Ring, where Tom's unexpected intervention saves Frodo and his friends. Discover the deeper significance of Tom Bombadil, his mysterious powers, and his connection to the natural world, as well as his inaugural...

Wander into the eerie embrace of Tolkien's Old Forest, where ancient willows whisper secrets and shadows dance on golden afternoons. Join me for the second part of wandering JRR Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring chapter 6 "The Old Forest." Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Find contact info on LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/lotrpodcast Don't be a stranger! Find me on Instagram Feedback for the show? Email me...

In this episode, we delve into the eerie and enigmatic Old Forest from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring. Often overlooked by those who have only seen the movies, this chapter is filled with danger, mystery, and transformation. Join us as we explore how the Old Forest serves as a significant literary liminal space—a threshold between the familiar safety of the Shire and the unknown perils beyond. We discuss the mythological roots that influenced Tolkien's depiction of the forest,...

Ready for more Rings of Power? Let's hope Amazon has been able to turn the story around! I give you my reactions to the first teaser trailer for season 2, including some good points and what's making me nervous. Can Rings of Power adapt JRR Tolkien's works in an enchanting story? I'm not convinced. Watch the trailer on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCwmXY_f-e0 Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Find...

In this episode, we delve into the second half of Chapter 5 of "The Fellowship of the Ring," titled "A Conspiracy Unmasked." Join us as we uncover the intricate web of friendship and secrets among the hobbits of the Shire. From Merry's surprising revelations to Sam's unexpected role as the primary informant, we explore the birth of the Fellowship of the Ring and the true depth of loyalty among Frodo's closest companions. Discover the hidden lore woven into Frodo's dreams and the echoes of...

Delve into the untold depths of Tolkien's masterpiece as we uncover a lost chapter omitted from the film adaptation of "The Lord of the Rings." In this episode, we explore the themes of friendship and fear, examining the pivotal role they play in shaping Frodo's journey. From eerie encounters with mysterious figures to symbolic baptisms of loyalty, join us as we unravel the hidden layers of Tolkien's rich narrative and discover the true essence of camaraderie amidst adversity. This is part...

Dive into the character of Farmer Maggot, uncovering his resilience and determination through the clues hidden in his land. From the stout gates to the well-ordered fields, we explore how Tolkien intricately weaves the essence of this bold hobbit into the fabric of Middle-earth. This is part 2 of our wandering of JRR Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring chapter 4: A Short Cut to Mushrooms Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my...

Embark on a journey through "Shortcut to Mushrooms", the fourth chapter from JRR Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring. Delve into the tension between dark and light, the overlooked richness of characters like Farmer Maggot, and the subtle transformations of Samwise Gamgee. Explore the nuances lost in Peter Jackson's adaptation and uncover the layers of Tolkien's storytelling prowess. Don't miss this deep dive into the heart of Middle-earth's lore and the eternal struggle between good and...

We're turning our gaze skyward to explore the celestial wonders that illuminate the night skies of Middle-earth. We’ll wander through the hobbit’s reactions to an unexpected party of Elves. And we will delve into the depths of Gildor's final blessing to Frodo, where the stars themselves illuminate the path forward in Tolkien’s epic tale. Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Find contact info on...

Frodo has survived his first brush with evil while on the Road in the Shire. But does he have the courage to continue the journey? Help will come from unexpected places along the road. Today on Lore of the Rings we continue our wandering of JRR Tolkien’s Fellowship of the Ring.  Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Find contact info on LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/lotrpodcast Don't be a stranger! Find me...

The Road goes ever on, but it has to start somewhere. And shadowy fate lurks just around the corner. Today on Lore of the Rings we look at the first days of Frodo’s journey after leaving Bag End. We continue our wandering of the third chapter, Three is Company, from JRR Tolkien’s Fellowship of the Ring. Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Find contact info on LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/lotrpodcast Don't be a...