The Silmarillion V1 V3
In this seminar we will delve deeply into Tolkien’s mythological history as we study The Silmarillion and become more familiar with the inhabitants, languages, events, and geography of Arda. Adopting an intermedial perspective, we will discuss Tolkien’s drawings and paintings, including heraldry and maps. Additionally, we will examine connections to world literary traditions, i.e., myths of creation, Atlantis, Orpheus and Eurydice, etc.
The specific format of the seminar will allow each participant to become an expert on a section of the text by studying it in depth. First, by researching secondary materials to create an annotated bibliography dealing with the themes, characters, and events involved and presenting it to the class. Second, by leading discussion on the important events, themes, characters, literary devices, etc. in the assigned section, using maps and bringing in images where applicable. These requirements will be explained at on the first day of class.
Students should have studied Valaquenta before the first day of class and know the gods, their domains, their consorts, where each lives, and how they are all related. They should also be able to explain the character of each of the Maiar and his/her connections to the Valar, and to describe the various Enemies and their origins.
Required reading: J.R.R. Tolkien, The Silmarillion; Recommended: K.W. Fonstad, The Atlas of Tolkien’s Middle-Earth, C. McIlwaine, Tolkien: Maker of Middle-Earth. Other secondary readings will be announced.
In this seminar we will delve deeply into Tolkien’s mythological history as we study The Silmarillion and become more familiar with the inhabitants, languages, events, and geography of Arda. Adopting an intermedial perspective, we will discuss Tolkien’s drawings and paintings, including heraldry and maps. Additionally, we will examine connections to world literary traditions, i.e., myths of creation, Atlantis, Orpheus and Eurydice, etc.
The specific format of the seminar will allow each participant to become an expert on a section of the text by studying it in depth. First, by researching secondary materials to create an annotated bibliography dealing with the themes, characters, and events involved and presenting it to the class. Second, by leading discussion on the important events, themes, characters, literary devices, etc. in the assigned section, using maps and bringing in images where applicable. These requirements will be explained at on the first day of class.
Students should have studied Valaquenta before the first day of class and know the gods, their domains, their consorts, where each lives, and how they are all related. They should also be able to explain the character of each of the Maiar and his/her connections to the Valar, and to describe the various Enemies and their origins.
Required reading: J.R.R. Tolkien, The Silmarillion; Recommended: K.W. Fonstad, The Atlas of Tolkien’s Middle-Earth, C. McIlwaine, Tolkien: Maker of Middle-Earth. Other secondary readings will be announced.
- Kursleiter/in: Stephanie Glaser
Semester: WT 2023/24