Faculty: Tom Blake
Description: During this January Term, we will journey to Middle Earth and revisit the Lord of the Rings franchise-Tolkien’s works as well as the films based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous novels-and explore what makes Tolkien’s works so endearing and timeless. We’ll look at the Lord of the Rings trilogy as well as selections from The Hobbit and the world-building collection of stories, The Silmarillion. We will examine what influenced Tolkien’s fantasy world-building as well as the ways in which Tolkien in turn influenced-even founded-the genre of medieval fantasy. We’ll look at the various languages, geographical locations, and races featured in Tolkien’s work, the historical context in which Tolkien lived, and how his stories have continued to resonate with fans all over the world. The course will combine literary studies and film studies and requires active participation, a love of reading, and a sense of curiosity.
Meeting Information: 01/04/2021-01/26/2021 On Campus Jan Term Course Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.