Glittering Caves Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/glittering-caves A Catholic Journey Through the Lord of the Rings © 2025 Adeodatus 542ca05e-6339-5143-b307-edeb0b075e42 no Introduction: about the Glittering Caves podcast en Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:09 -0700 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:01:26 -0700 https://adeodatus.com/podcast https://img.transistorcdn.com/p9UcUxwnYoyYLZkfS7Bpoq_lgeh-_aWgsOpzgkpbKLY/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8xNDEy/ZDM1ZmM0YzRmM2I2/ZDA1NTgzMTNjZDYx/YWI1Yi5wbmc.jpg Glittering Caves https://adeodatus.com/podcast serial Adeodatus A Catholic Journey Through the Lord of the Rings A Catholic Journey Through the Lord of the Rings. education, literature, catholicism, tolkien Adeodatus No No Introduction: about the Glittering Caves podcast 1 1 Introduction: about the Glittering Caves podcast trailer 47279f7f-7976-4cc4-bdd5-50fe2a7af95f https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8d310fe Join Dr. Andrew Seeley and Patrick Boduch as they dive into a new chapter of the Lord of the Rings in each episode of Glittering Caves. Andrew grew up reading The Lord of the Rings and all things Tolkien, while Patrick has only recently begun reading through the entire trilogy.

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]]> Join Dr. Andrew Seeley and Patrick Boduch as they dive into a new chapter of the Lord of the Rings in each episode of Glittering Caves. Andrew grew up reading The Lord of the Rings and all things Tolkien, while Patrick has only recently begun reading through the entire trilogy.

Submit your questions and comments at adeoatus.com/podcast.

Support the show at adeodatus.com/donate.

]]> Wed, 01 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 189 Join Dr. Andrew Seeley and Patrick Boduch as they dive into a new chapter of the Lord of the Rings in each episode of Glittering Caves. Andrew grew up reading The Lord of the Rings and all things Tolkien, while Patrick has only recently begun reading through the entire trilogy.

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Support the show at adeodatus.com/donate.

]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No The Fellowship of the Ring: Prologue and Foreword 1 1 1 1 The Fellowship of the Ring: Prologue and Foreword full 984c0698-42e9-49c6-80b7-ca09057d1ed7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6ce78e51 Meet your hosts and get a grand look at the magnificent epic that is The Lord of the Rings! Andrew and Patrick describe their very different experiences of reading this great but challenging book. They discuss how Tolkien invites his reader to enter into his own discovery of the great story and marvel about how Tolkien imagined Bilbo and Frodo as its authors. [Note - Andrew mistakenly cited George Orwell when he meant George MacDonald.]


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]]> Meet your hosts and get a grand look at the magnificent epic that is The Lord of the Rings! Andrew and Patrick describe their very different experiences of reading this great but challenging book. They discuss how Tolkien invites his reader to enter into his own discovery of the great story and marvel about how Tolkien imagined Bilbo and Frodo as its authors. [Note - Andrew mistakenly cited George Orwell when he meant George MacDonald.]


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]]> Thu, 02 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2340 Meet your hosts and get a grand look at the magnificent epic that is The Lord of the Rings! Andrew and Patrick describe their very different experiences of reading this great but challenging book. They discuss how Tolkien invites his reader to enter into his own discovery of the great story and marvel about how Tolkien imagined Bilbo and Frodo as its authors. [Note - Andrew mistakenly cited George Orwell when he meant George MacDonald.]


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 1: A Long-Expected Party 1 1 2 2 Book 1 Chapter 1: A Long-Expected Party full 37d9e521-d2c6-4421-b680-e446e5ff254e https://share.transistor.fm/s/047c2dc1 Andrew and Patrick take sides in the hilarious social conflict between Bilbo and his fellow hobbits, while recognizing the divide that has arisen because of Bilbo’s adventures in The Hobbit. Patrick loves the simple and refreshing character of the ordinary hobbits, while Andrew notes the comic way they think anybody different is queer.


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]]> Andrew and Patrick take sides in the hilarious social conflict between Bilbo and his fellow hobbits, while recognizing the divide that has arisen because of Bilbo’s adventures in The Hobbit. Patrick loves the simple and refreshing character of the ordinary hobbits, while Andrew notes the comic way they think anybody different is queer.


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]]> Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:44:38 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1872 Andrew and Patrick take sides in the hilarious social conflict between Bilbo and his fellow hobbits, while recognizing the divide that has arisen because of Bilbo’s adventures in The Hobbit. Patrick loves the simple and refreshing character of the ordinary hobbits, while Andrew notes the comic way they think anybody different is queer.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past 1 1 3 3 Book 1 Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past full 6f3b2718-80e7-430b-b6c8-af03e9461893 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3d612f98 Andrew situates The Lord of the Rings in the context of The Silmarillion, Tolkien’s tales of the Elves, and in the Christian story. They discuss how the Ring tempts Gandalf to use it to coerce people for their own good but the hobbits by a possessive desire for its beauty. They also note Gandalf’s Providential prudence.

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]]> Andrew situates The Lord of the Rings in the context of The Silmarillion, Tolkien’s tales of the Elves, and in the Christian story. They discuss how the Ring tempts Gandalf to use it to coerce people for their own good but the hobbits by a possessive desire for its beauty. They also note Gandalf’s Providential prudence.

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]]> Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1892 Andrew situates The Lord of the Rings in the context of The Silmarillion, Tolkien’s tales of the Elves, and in the Christian story. They discuss how the Ring tempts Gandalf to use it to coerce people for their own good but the hobbits by a possessive desire for its beauty. They also note Gandalf’s Providential prudence.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 3: Three is Company 1 1 4 4 Book 1 Chapter 3: Three is Company full bc97984c-6e5a-428e-bd1c-e482cf7b16cd https://share.transistor.fm/s/3ec683b1 After looking at the map of the Shire, Andrew and Patrick reflect on the dangers the hobbits experience in their seemingly safe homeland. Frodo, Sam, and Pippin have different reactions to their magical first meeting with Elves. Patrick is beginning to experience the story as a vocational journey in which Jesus is the Way.


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]]> After looking at the map of the Shire, Andrew and Patrick reflect on the dangers the hobbits experience in their seemingly safe homeland. Frodo, Sam, and Pippin have different reactions to their magical first meeting with Elves. Patrick is beginning to experience the story as a vocational journey in which Jesus is the Way.


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]]> Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1926 After looking at the map of the Shire, Andrew and Patrick reflect on the dangers the hobbits experience in their seemingly safe homeland. Frodo, Sam, and Pippin have different reactions to their magical first meeting with Elves. Patrick is beginning to experience the story as a vocational journey in which Jesus is the Way.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 4: A Short Cut to Mushrooms 1 1 5 5 Book 1 Chapter 4: A Short Cut to Mushrooms full cf73bdf5-5c95-4c5e-94ce-8ca5b2633794 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6cb81432 Andrew and Patrick discuss the difficulties readers face in the “journey before the journey” and encourage them to enter imaginatively into the experience, perhaps by hearing it read aloud. They note that the hobbits sing as they walk - strange to us but natural to times before electronically recorded music. The dangers they have encountered make Frodo reluctant to take his friends on his quest but Sam shows how much he has already grown through it.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss the difficulties readers face in the “journey before the journey” and encourage them to enter imaginatively into the experience, perhaps by hearing it read aloud. They note that the hobbits sing as they walk - strange to us but natural to times before electronically recorded music. The dangers they have encountered make Frodo reluctant to take his friends on his quest but Sam shows how much he has already grown through it.

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]]> Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2023 Andrew and Patrick discuss the difficulties readers face in the “journey before the journey” and encourage them to enter imaginatively into the experience, perhaps by hearing it read aloud. They note that the hobbits sing as they walk - strange to us but natural to times before electronically recorded music. The dangers they have encountered make Frodo reluctant to take his friends on his quest but Sam shows how much he has already grown through it.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapters 5-6: A Conspiracy Unmasked/The Old Forest 1 1 6 6 Book 1 Chapters 5-6: A Conspiracy Unmasked/The Old Forest full 88c86272-3a70-45e9-8e4a-16566fff9f22 https://share.transistor.fm/s/67c49d77 Andrew and Patrick discuss the merits of the hobbits - charming, not wanting to be great but with a strong sense of duty and friendship that makes them ready to take up an adventure. Their adventurous spirit is quickly quelled by the darkness of the wild forest, and their lack of dialogue can make it hard going for the reader also.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss the merits of the hobbits - charming, not wanting to be great but with a strong sense of duty and friendship that makes them ready to take up an adventure. Their adventurous spirit is quickly quelled by the darkness of the wild forest, and their lack of dialogue can make it hard going for the reader also.

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Support the show at adeodatus.com/donate.

]]> Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1939 Andrew and Patrick discuss the merits of the hobbits - charming, not wanting to be great but with a strong sense of duty and friendship that makes them ready to take up an adventure. Their adventurous spirit is quickly quelled by the darkness of the wild forest, and their lack of dialogue can make it hard going for the reader also.

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Support the show at adeodatus.com/donate.

]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 7: In the House of Tom Bombadil 1 1 7 7 Book 1 Chapter 7: In the House of Tom Bombadil full 056b3178-68d3-4738-ba6c-0c98de92aed9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7730b4eb Patrick and Andrew join the hobbits in enjoying the safety and calm that come from Goldberry and Tom, and in their puzzles about Who is Tom - hippy, nature god, Christ-figure? They note his complete freedom from fear and his Eden-like mastery of and insight into the natural world.


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]]> Patrick and Andrew join the hobbits in enjoying the safety and calm that come from Goldberry and Tom, and in their puzzles about Who is Tom - hippy, nature god, Christ-figure? They note his complete freedom from fear and his Eden-like mastery of and insight into the natural world.


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]]> Thu, 01 May 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2009 Patrick and Andrew join the hobbits in enjoying the safety and calm that come from Goldberry and Tom, and in their puzzles about Who is Tom - hippy, nature god, Christ-figure? They note his complete freedom from fear and his Eden-like mastery of and insight into the natural world.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 8: Fog on the Barrow-downs 1 1 8 8 Book 1 Chapter 8: Fog on the Barrow-downs full 517fa1b9-db0b-4797-a9b2-81307d8c7ff1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e5d44044 Andrew and Patrick contemplate the showdown between the life-sucking, disincarnate, spiritual black hole that is the barrow wight and the crazily-dressed, joy-filled silliness of Tom Bombadil wielding the laughter of heaven. They peer into the psychological drama undergone by Frodo, petrified by the horror, strengthened by memories of Bilbo, and finally cleansed by the sound and sight of Bombadil.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick contemplate the showdown between the life-sucking, disincarnate, spiritual black hole that is the barrow wight and the crazily-dressed, joy-filled silliness of Tom Bombadil wielding the laughter of heaven. They peer into the psychological drama undergone by Frodo, petrified by the horror, strengthened by memories of Bilbo, and finally cleansed by the sound and sight of Bombadil.

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]]> Thu, 08 May 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1928 Andrew and Patrick contemplate the showdown between the life-sucking, disincarnate, spiritual black hole that is the barrow wight and the crazily-dressed, joy-filled silliness of Tom Bombadil wielding the laughter of heaven. They peer into the psychological drama undergone by Frodo, petrified by the horror, strengthened by memories of Bilbo, and finally cleansed by the sound and sight of Bombadil.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 9: At the Sign of the Prancing Pony 1 1 9 9 Book 1 Chapter 9: At the Sign of the Prancing Pony full e92c4c5a-db82-4b27-b619-7654493d265f https://share.transistor.fm/s/2f3c5fd0 Patrick and Andrew explore the cultural uniqueness of Bree, where Hobbits and Men live separately but in harmony, while reflecting on today’s urban lack of understanding of older village life. Patrick appreciates Tolkien’s way of alternating strife and rest, noting that the hobbits get a little too comfortable in the hospitable environment provided by Mr. Butterbur.

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]]> Patrick and Andrew explore the cultural uniqueness of Bree, where Hobbits and Men live separately but in harmony, while reflecting on today’s urban lack of understanding of older village life. Patrick appreciates Tolkien’s way of alternating strife and rest, noting that the hobbits get a little too comfortable in the hospitable environment provided by Mr. Butterbur.

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]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1877 Patrick and Andrew explore the cultural uniqueness of Bree, where Hobbits and Men live separately but in harmony, while reflecting on today’s urban lack of understanding of older village life. Patrick appreciates Tolkien’s way of alternating strife and rest, noting that the hobbits get a little too comfortable in the hospitable environment provided by Mr. Butterbur.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 10: Strider 1 1 10 10 Book 1 Chapter 10: Strider full 1cbe353a-d57b-4459-89d8-0775fbf74131 https://share.transistor.fm/s/db984d24 Patrick, like Frodo, is inclined to trust the mysterious stranger, Strider, whose language makes him feel fair though he looks foul. Though Sam has already shown surprising wisdom and good hobbit sense, his protective loyalty makes him disappoint Strider’s hope for trust. Andrew and Patrick consider Strider’s background, Butterbur’s ability to read, and the whimsey in Gandalf’s letter.

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]]> Patrick, like Frodo, is inclined to trust the mysterious stranger, Strider, whose language makes him feel fair though he looks foul. Though Sam has already shown surprising wisdom and good hobbit sense, his protective loyalty makes him disappoint Strider’s hope for trust. Andrew and Patrick consider Strider’s background, Butterbur’s ability to read, and the whimsey in Gandalf’s letter.

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]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1875 Patrick, like Frodo, is inclined to trust the mysterious stranger, Strider, whose language makes him feel fair though he looks foul. Though Sam has already shown surprising wisdom and good hobbit sense, his protective loyalty makes him disappoint Strider’s hope for trust. Andrew and Patrick consider Strider’s background, Butterbur’s ability to read, and the whimsey in Gandalf’s letter.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 11: A Knife in the Dark 1 1 11 11 Book 1 Chapter 11: A Knife in the Dark full a2932e13-6287-4139-91f4-cfc1b554d9d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/799de889 Andrew helps fill in the mythological and historical backstory that made this chapter difficult for Patrick to follow. In spite of Strider’s wary protection and learned stories, the reader feels the escalation of fear and isolation endured by the hobbits and the inevitability of Frodo succumbing to the Ring.


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]]> Andrew helps fill in the mythological and historical backstory that made this chapter difficult for Patrick to follow. In spite of Strider’s wary protection and learned stories, the reader feels the escalation of fear and isolation endured by the hobbits and the inevitability of Frodo succumbing to the Ring.


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]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2062 Andrew helps fill in the mythological and historical backstory that made this chapter difficult for Patrick to follow. In spite of Strider’s wary protection and learned stories, the reader feels the escalation of fear and isolation endured by the hobbits and the inevitability of Frodo succumbing to the Ring.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 1 Chapter 12: Flight to the Ford 1 1 12 12 Book 1 Chapter 12: Flight to the Ford full c40ed962-8c27-40a0-9514-69ff0292f51f https://share.transistor.fm/s/0c158135 What makes the Black Riders so frightening? Andrew notes their demonic desire to enslave their victims to their will and their ability to arouse paralyzing fear in them. Patrick looks at the instruments Strider and Glorfindel use to combat them - light, heat, athelas, the Elvish cordial, litanies and words of invocation. Above all, Strider keeps up their hope and insists that Sam finally put aside his mistrust.


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]]> What makes the Black Riders so frightening? Andrew notes their demonic desire to enslave their victims to their will and their ability to arouse paralyzing fear in them. Patrick looks at the instruments Strider and Glorfindel use to combat them - light, heat, athelas, the Elvish cordial, litanies and words of invocation. Above all, Strider keeps up their hope and insists that Sam finally put aside his mistrust.


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]]> Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2181 What makes the Black Riders so frightening? Andrew notes their demonic desire to enslave their victims to their will and their ability to arouse paralyzing fear in them. Patrick looks at the instruments Strider and Glorfindel use to combat them - light, heat, athelas, the Elvish cordial, litanies and words of invocation. Above all, Strider keeps up their hope and insists that Sam finally put aside his mistrust.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 1: Many Meetings 1 1 13 13 Book 2 Chapter 1: Many Meetings full aeb35588-078d-41eb-844f-40d1eb46b4fd https://share.transistor.fm/s/f74dea8c Andrew introduces Patrick to the “Tale of Years," a 6000 year chronology that Tolkien placed as an Appendix to his epic, and the idea that each Age is defined by a dominant conflict. They then turn to Elrond, who has made Rivendell into a place of rest and healing, feasting and contemplation, from which comes wisdom and authority.


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]]> Andrew introduces Patrick to the “Tale of Years," a 6000 year chronology that Tolkien placed as an Appendix to his epic, and the idea that each Age is defined by a dominant conflict. They then turn to Elrond, who has made Rivendell into a place of rest and healing, feasting and contemplation, from which comes wisdom and authority.


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]]> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2191 Andrew introduces Patrick to the “Tale of Years," a 6000 year chronology that Tolkien placed as an Appendix to his epic, and the idea that each Age is defined by a dominant conflict. They then turn to Elrond, who has made Rivendell into a place of rest and healing, feasting and contemplation, from which comes wisdom and authority.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 2: The Council of Elrond (part 1 of 2) 1 1 14 14 Book 2 Chapter 2: The Council of Elrond (part 1 of 2) full d2d845a6-7729-44dd-8bd4-f0b8a99df07b https://share.transistor.fm/s/acc18988 Patrick wonders whether in this chapter, like the Shadow of the Past,Tolkien gives too much information, which can overwhelm his reader; Andrew goes through some of the details. They discuss the Providential character of the Council and of the wisdom that Elrond and Gandalf exhibit. Boromir, the great military leader in Gondor’s wars against Sauron and heir to its ruler, clashes with Aragorn, now revealed as the King who will replace him. 


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]]> Patrick wonders whether in this chapter, like the Shadow of the Past,Tolkien gives too much information, which can overwhelm his reader; Andrew goes through some of the details. They discuss the Providential character of the Council and of the wisdom that Elrond and Gandalf exhibit. Boromir, the great military leader in Gondor’s wars against Sauron and heir to its ruler, clashes with Aragorn, now revealed as the King who will replace him. 


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]]> Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1904 Patrick wonders whether in this chapter, like the Shadow of the Past,Tolkien gives too much information, which can overwhelm his reader; Andrew goes through some of the details. They discuss the Providential character of the Council and of the wisdom that Elrond and Gandalf exhibit. Boromir, the great military leader in Gondor’s wars against Sauron and heir to its ruler, clashes with Aragorn, now revealed as the King who will replace him. 


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 2: The Council of Elrond (part 2 of 2) 1 1 15 15 Book 2 Chapter 2: The Council of Elrond (part 2 of 2) full 720791b7-75bf-40e2-8824-46ef26a11701 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0dc38222 Andrew gives the backstory of the Wizards, who are incarnate emissaries of the angelic governors of the world, sent to encourage and aid those who resist Sauron. They must resist their own temptation to coerce others to do the good; Gandalf’s extraordinary patience saves him where Saruman falls. Patrick is struck by Frodo’s Marian-like “Fiat” in accepting the mission to destroy the Ring, whose humility makes him more fit for the task than a Hero would be.


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]]> Andrew gives the backstory of the Wizards, who are incarnate emissaries of the angelic governors of the world, sent to encourage and aid those who resist Sauron. They must resist their own temptation to coerce others to do the good; Gandalf’s extraordinary patience saves him where Saruman falls. Patrick is struck by Frodo’s Marian-like “Fiat” in accepting the mission to destroy the Ring, whose humility makes him more fit for the task than a Hero would be.


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]]> Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2125 Andrew gives the backstory of the Wizards, who are incarnate emissaries of the angelic governors of the world, sent to encourage and aid those who resist Sauron. They must resist their own temptation to coerce others to do the good; Gandalf’s extraordinary patience saves him where Saruman falls. Patrick is struck by Frodo’s Marian-like “Fiat” in accepting the mission to destroy the Ring, whose humility makes him more fit for the task than a Hero would be.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 3: The Ring Goes South 1 1 16 16 Book 2 Chapter 3: The Ring Goes South full 7bcd60e0-8a0a-40f5-9351-903813b01159 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9009eaac Andrew and Patrick use the map to review the journey, and reflect on the special harmony between Elves and the natural world, even those who, like the Dwarves, delight in using it to make beautiful things. They then consider each of the Fellowship, noting a range of maturity in the hobbits, Aragorn’s readiness for the defining mission of his life, Boromir’s strengths as a heroic captain, and the traditional animosity that lies between Legolas and Gimli.


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]]> Andrew and Patrick use the map to review the journey, and reflect on the special harmony between Elves and the natural world, even those who, like the Dwarves, delight in using it to make beautiful things. They then consider each of the Fellowship, noting a range of maturity in the hobbits, Aragorn’s readiness for the defining mission of his life, Boromir’s strengths as a heroic captain, and the traditional animosity that lies between Legolas and Gimli.


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]]> Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2214 Andrew and Patrick use the map to review the journey, and reflect on the special harmony between Elves and the natural world, even those who, like the Dwarves, delight in using it to make beautiful things. They then consider each of the Fellowship, noting a range of maturity in the hobbits, Aragorn’s readiness for the defining mission of his life, Boromir’s strengths as a heroic captain, and the traditional animosity that lies between Legolas and Gimli.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 4: A Journey in the Dark 1 1 17 17 Book 2 Chapter 4: A Journey in the Dark full 049a0b96-4590-4dd6-85eb-27c3ff6eab29 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1d98fac3 Tolkien ramps up the excitement in this chapter; Patrick appreciates how his story alternates the restful with the stressful. They discuss Gandalf’s leadership style - his temper, his care, his power, his defense to the decisions of the Company, especially of Frodo. Andrew loves the magic of the Gates, but Patrick is more taken with Frodo’s psychological struggle with despair and the need for all the hobbits to grow in spirit in order to achieve their Quest.


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]]> Tolkien ramps up the excitement in this chapter; Patrick appreciates how his story alternates the restful with the stressful. They discuss Gandalf’s leadership style - his temper, his care, his power, his defense to the decisions of the Company, especially of Frodo. Andrew loves the magic of the Gates, but Patrick is more taken with Frodo’s psychological struggle with despair and the need for all the hobbits to grow in spirit in order to achieve their Quest.


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]]> Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2121 Tolkien ramps up the excitement in this chapter; Patrick appreciates how his story alternates the restful with the stressful. They discuss Gandalf’s leadership style - his temper, his care, his power, his defense to the decisions of the Company, especially of Frodo. Andrew loves the magic of the Gates, but Patrick is more taken with Frodo’s psychological struggle with despair and the need for all the hobbits to grow in spirit in order to achieve their Quest.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 5: The Bridge of Khazad-dûm 1 1 18 18 Book 2 Chapter 5: The Bridge of Khazad-dûm full 3110bc5b-041d-4e02-b4b3-c57284748ef3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/90c31d84 Patrick and Andrew discuss Gandalf’s possibly foolish choices, Aragorn’s rational leadership, Frodo’s and Sam’s courage under fire, Gimli’s reverence for his fallen people, the Balrog as a match for Gandalf, and the Secret Fire.


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]]> Patrick and Andrew discuss Gandalf’s possibly foolish choices, Aragorn’s rational leadership, Frodo’s and Sam’s courage under fire, Gimli’s reverence for his fallen people, the Balrog as a match for Gandalf, and the Secret Fire.


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]]> Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1648 Patrick and Andrew discuss Gandalf’s possibly foolish choices, Aragorn’s rational leadership, Frodo’s and Sam’s courage under fire, Gimli’s reverence for his fallen people, the Balrog as a match for Gandalf, and the Secret Fire.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 6: Lothlórien 1 1 19 19 Book 2 Chapter 6: Lothlórien full faf35595-3a90-4409-8c3d-eddca9ebdcfe https://share.transistor.fm/s/e1a90c05 Andrew considers this one of the hardest chapters to get into, especially for readers with little experience or love of the natural world. Still he urges readers, especially those who are obsessively mission-driven, to lend themselves to Tolkien’s pacing and experience the healing contemplative encounter with the preternatural beauty of ordinary things which is the special charism of the Elves. 


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]]> Andrew considers this one of the hardest chapters to get into, especially for readers with little experience or love of the natural world. Still he urges readers, especially those who are obsessively mission-driven, to lend themselves to Tolkien’s pacing and experience the healing contemplative encounter with the preternatural beauty of ordinary things which is the special charism of the Elves. 


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]]> Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2028 Andrew considers this one of the hardest chapters to get into, especially for readers with little experience or love of the natural world. Still he urges readers, especially those who are obsessively mission-driven, to lend themselves to Tolkien’s pacing and experience the healing contemplative encounter with the preternatural beauty of ordinary things which is the special charism of the Elves. 


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Interlude: July 2025 1 1 20 20 Interlude: July 2025 bonus b9c4d137-0ab5-439a-9f64-8927a815537f https://share.transistor.fm/s/121a9226 Patrick and Andrew share a post from Grace Steele of Tending Roses about how she got through The Lord of the Rings, followed by thoughts on Faerie Tales from Jonathan Pageau of The Symbolic World on fairy tales.


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]]> Patrick and Andrew share a post from Grace Steele of Tending Roses about how she got through The Lord of the Rings, followed by thoughts on Faerie Tales from Jonathan Pageau of The Symbolic World on fairy tales.


Learn more about Grace Steele at Tending Roses www.gracesteele.net/blog/lord-of-the-rings

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]]> Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 939 Patrick and Andrew share a post from Grace Steele of Tending Roses about how she got through The Lord of the Rings, followed by thoughts on Faerie Tales from Jonathan Pageau of The Symbolic World on fairy tales.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 7: The Mirror of Galadriel 1 1 21 21 Book 2 Chapter 7: The Mirror of Galadriel full 26473403-ed91-4dbe-a7be-c61d99c63ada https://share.transistor.fm/s/85ca3031 Andrew and Patrick admire how Galadriel sympathetically wins over Gimli, question why she tempts each of the members of the Company, analyze her own temptation for the Ring, and celebrate her humble renunciation of all she loves. They also dwell on how the hobbits and the Galathrim share similar loves for their lands. 


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]]> Andrew and Patrick admire how Galadriel sympathetically wins over Gimli, question why she tempts each of the members of the Company, analyze her own temptation for the Ring, and celebrate her humble renunciation of all she loves. They also dwell on how the hobbits and the Galathrim share similar loves for their lands. 


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]]> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2152 Andrew and Patrick admire how Galadriel sympathetically wins over Gimli, question why she tempts each of the members of the Company, analyze her own temptation for the Ring, and celebrate her humble renunciation of all she loves. They also dwell on how the hobbits and the Galathrim share similar loves for their lands. 


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 8: Farewell to Lórien 1 1 22 22 Book 2 Chapter 8: Farewell to Lórien full 8e071f52-7899-424a-8382-495991ccf758 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ded1e335 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 8 of The Fellowship of the Ring: Farewell to Lórien.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 8 of The Fellowship of the Ring: Farewell to Lórien.

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]]> Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2294 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 8 of The Fellowship of the Ring: Farewell to Lórien.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 9: The Great River 1 1 23 23 Book 2 Chapter 9: The Great River full 2f756597-3e49-4c1e-9143-30eb3231a652 https://share.transistor.fm/s/01361fd2 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 9 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Great River.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 9 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Great River.

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]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2061 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 9 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Great River.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 2 Chapter 10: The Breaking of the Fellowship 1 1 24 24 Book 2 Chapter 10: The Breaking of the Fellowship full 335340f8-43c4-405a-a527-bdc4499d961b https://share.transistor.fm/s/5160e394 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 10 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Breaking of the Fellowship.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 10 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Breaking of the Fellowship.

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]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2204 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 2, Chapter 10 of The Fellowship of the Ring: The Breaking of the Fellowship.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 1: The Departure of Boromir 2 2 1 1 Book 3 Chapter 1: The Departure of Boromir full 6bb432b2-526d-47dd-ab9f-d01dacc512e6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/badd6e65 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 1 of The Two Towers: The Departure of Boromir.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 1 of The Two Towers: The Departure of Boromir.

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]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2120 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 1 of The Two Towers: The Departure of Boromir.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 2: The Riders of Rohan 2 2 2 2 Book 3 Chapter 2: The Riders of Rohan full 39fa5dfe-6ad2-4355-b55a-c9523a805109 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fb40dd86 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 2 of The Two Towers: The Riders of Rohan.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 2 of The Two Towers: The Riders of Rohan.

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]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2137 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 2 of The Two Towers: The Riders of Rohan.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 3: The Uruk-Hai 2 2 3 3 Book 3 Chapter 3: The Uruk-Hai full bcc36dce-56c3-44d6-b637-f71f51a89cc6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a8c677b1 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 3 of The Two Towers: The Uruk-Hai.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 3 of The Two Towers: The Uruk-Hai.

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]]> Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1992 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 3 of The Two Towers: The Uruk-Hai.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 4: Treebeard 2 2 4 4 Book 3 Chapter 4: Treebeard full 8a0b3978-443c-43c0-9f67-53e439bcd952 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a1c35fe5 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 4 of The Two Towers: Treebeard.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 4 of The Two Towers: Treebeard.

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]]> Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2048 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 4 of The Two Towers: Treebeard.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 5: The White Rider 2 2 5 5 Book 3 Chapter 5: The White Rider full 7c6c7ea4-62db-420e-a9a1-3e21a2147e19 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c6bb6ca Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 5 of The Two Towers: The White Rider.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 5 of The Two Towers: The White Rider.

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]]> Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2218 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 5 of The Two Towers: The White Rider.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 6: The King of the Golden Hall 2 2 6 6 Book 3 Chapter 6: The King of the Golden Hall full 938a5be9-ed97-45ba-96f4-db90809041c6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8a92a46d Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 6 of The Two Towers: The King of the Golden Hall.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 6 of The Two Towers: The King of the Golden Hall.

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]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1876 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 6 of The Two Towers: The King of the Golden Hall.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 7: Helm's Deep 2 2 7 7 Book 3 Chapter 7: Helm's Deep full 6a83c18e-8bdb-403c-b98a-941aa80e650b https://share.transistor.fm/s/02578a07 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 7 of The Two Towers: Helm's Deep.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 7 of The Two Towers: Helm's Deep.

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]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1934 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 7 of The Two Towers: Helm's Deep.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 8: The Road to Isengard 2 2 8 8 Book 3 Chapter 8: The Road to Isengard full 1ffd9bfc-ac0d-4b3f-b9db-09a6eb69839e https://share.transistor.fm/s/23c8b2d0 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 8 of The Two Towers: The Road to Isengard.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 8 of The Two Towers: The Road to Isengard.

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]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1891 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 8 of The Two Towers: The Road to Isengard.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 9: Flotsam and Jetsam 2 2 9 9 Book 3 Chapter 9: Flotsam and Jetsam full 0dbca017-bfe2-4fe7-80a3-c5036d1557de https://share.transistor.fm/s/f886c209 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Flotsam and Jetsam.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Flotsam and Jetsam.

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]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1954 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 3, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Flotsam and Jetsam.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 10: The Voice of Saruman 2 2 10 10 Book 3 Chapter 10: The Voice of Saruman full c74450ad-e4ac-43a2-bfe1-a70cbd3e13ca https://share.transistor.fm/s/6fbee7c6 Patrick and Andrew explore the persuasive power of Saruman’s rhetoric of half-truths as he plays victim, arouses fears, promises rescue, nearly severing Theoden and Rohan from Gandalf’s leadership. But Gandalf’s laughter proves more powerful, and his merciful risk almost overcomes Saruman’s pride.

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]]> Patrick and Andrew explore the persuasive power of Saruman’s rhetoric of half-truths as he plays victim, arouses fears, promises rescue, nearly severing Theoden and Rohan from Gandalf’s leadership. But Gandalf’s laughter proves more powerful, and his merciful risk almost overcomes Saruman’s pride.

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]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2120 Patrick and Andrew explore the persuasive power of Saruman’s rhetoric of half-truths as he plays victim, arouses fears, promises rescue, nearly severing Theoden and Rohan from Gandalf’s leadership. But Gandalf’s laughter proves more powerful, and his merciful risk almost overcomes Saruman’s pride.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 3 Chapter 11: The Palantir 2 2 11 11 Book 3 Chapter 11: The Palantir full 87631f4b-ceb7-421c-adbb-4a89ec4421bc https://share.transistor.fm/s/1fef48a8 Andrew and Patrick discuss the power of the Palantir, which has overcome Saruman, communicates a demonic temptation to Pippin, and makes Gandalf long to look back in time to the golden age of the Elves. Aragorn, whose hour to claim the kingship of Gondor is coming, asserts his right over its dangerous power.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss the power of the Palantir, which has overcome Saruman, communicates a demonic temptation to Pippin, and makes Gandalf long to look back in time to the golden age of the Elves. Aragorn, whose hour to claim the kingship of Gondor is coming, asserts his right over its dangerous power.

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]]> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1902 Andrew and Patrick discuss the power of the Palantir, which has overcome Saruman, communicates a demonic temptation to Pippin, and makes Gandalf long to look back in time to the golden age of the Elves. Aragorn, whose hour to claim the kingship of Gondor is coming, asserts his right over its dangerous power.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Excursus: The Backstory 2 2 12 12 Excursus: The Backstory bonus a3d8abc6-9e67-404b-895a-ee6ad5f6edf9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3467ad29 If you're following along, we're now halfway through The Two Towers! We hope you're getting more out of The Lord of the Rings with each chapter. In this bonus episode, Andrew and Patrick take a break from The Two Towers to uncover the story behind the story. Listen to learn more about how and why J. R. R. Tolkien began writing his famous trilogy and other tales of Middle-earth.

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]]> If you're following along, we're now halfway through The Two Towers! We hope you're getting more out of The Lord of the Rings with each chapter. In this bonus episode, Andrew and Patrick take a break from The Two Towers to uncover the story behind the story. Listen to learn more about how and why J. R. R. Tolkien began writing his famous trilogy and other tales of Middle-earth.

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]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2343 If you're following along, we're now halfway through The Two Towers! We hope you're getting more out of The Lord of the Rings with each chapter. In this bonus episode, Andrew and Patrick take a break from The Two Towers to uncover the story behind the story. Listen to learn more about how and why J. R. R. Tolkien began writing his famous trilogy and other tales of Middle-earth.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 1: The Taming of Sméagol 2 2 13 13 Book 4 Chapter 1: The Taming of Sméagol full b27ad732-4e16-434d-b553-9b6462fc8a91 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1e133c45 Frodo struggles with frustration as he tries to lead Sam towards Mordor and Sauron. Andrew reflects on the spiritual insight of Frodo's stern pity towards Gollum, while Patrick experiments with his Gollum voice. 


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]]> Frodo struggles with frustration as he tries to lead Sam towards Mordor and Sauron. Andrew reflects on the spiritual insight of Frodo's stern pity towards Gollum, while Patrick experiments with his Gollum voice. 


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]]> Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2053 Frodo struggles with frustration as he tries to lead Sam towards Mordor and Sauron. Andrew reflects on the spiritual insight of Frodo's stern pity towards Gollum, while Patrick experiments with his Gollum voice. 


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 2: The Passage of the Marshes 2 2 14 14 Book 4 Chapter 2: The Passage of the Marshes full c089aaae-86c1-4182-a59e-edb4601018fa https://share.transistor.fm/s/9bea4183 Sam focuses on the immediate dangers of following Gollum through the treacherous Dead Marshes, while Frodo is absorbed in his interior battle with the Ring and Sauron. Patrick and Andrew discuss Gollum's surprising psychological strength amid rupture, which elicits Sam's fear and disgust and Frodo's spiritual tenderness. 

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]]> Sam focuses on the immediate dangers of following Gollum through the treacherous Dead Marshes, while Frodo is absorbed in his interior battle with the Ring and Sauron. Patrick and Andrew discuss Gollum's surprising psychological strength amid rupture, which elicits Sam's fear and disgust and Frodo's spiritual tenderness. 

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]]> Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2101 Sam focuses on the immediate dangers of following Gollum through the treacherous Dead Marshes, while Frodo is absorbed in his interior battle with the Ring and Sauron. Patrick and Andrew discuss Gollum's surprising psychological strength amid rupture, which elicits Sam's fear and disgust and Frodo's spiritual tenderness. 

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 3: The Black Gate is Closed 2 2 15 15 Book 4 Chapter 3: The Black Gate is Closed full e072c8ab-ca53-4615-bdba-433a7fe422c6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eeb993f4 Frodo warns Gollum that his road to recovery is endangered by his lust for the Ring, but exercises Providential prudence in choosing to follow him on a new path. Andrew and Patrick discuss the challenges of being kind and tolerant without being stupid.

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]]> Frodo warns Gollum that his road to recovery is endangered by his lust for the Ring, but exercises Providential prudence in choosing to follow him on a new path. Andrew and Patrick discuss the challenges of being kind and tolerant without being stupid.

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]]> Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2072 Frodo warns Gollum that his road to recovery is endangered by his lust for the Ring, but exercises Providential prudence in choosing to follow him on a new path. Andrew and Patrick discuss the challenges of being kind and tolerant without being stupid.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 4: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit 2 2 16 16 Book 4 Chapter 4: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit full b6ec008d-244d-4323-a9d5-6e2db6225989 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a4d007d2 In this episode, Patrick reflects on the new experience of nature he gained from his recent trip to the Badlands of South Dakota, setting the stage for discussing the land of Ithilien, “The Garden of Gondor”. Patrick and Andrew admire Sam’s devotion to Frodo, but debate his wisdom in cooking something “hot from the pot”.

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]]> In this episode, Patrick reflects on the new experience of nature he gained from his recent trip to the Badlands of South Dakota, setting the stage for discussing the land of Ithilien, “The Garden of Gondor”. Patrick and Andrew admire Sam’s devotion to Frodo, but debate his wisdom in cooking something “hot from the pot”.

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]]> Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2107 In this episode, Patrick reflects on the new experience of nature he gained from his recent trip to the Badlands of South Dakota, setting the stage for discussing the land of Ithilien, “The Garden of Gondor”. Patrick and Andrew admire Sam’s devotion to Frodo, but debate his wisdom in cooking something “hot from the pot”.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 5: The Window on the West 2 2 17 17 Book 4 Chapter 5: The Window on the West full 79a1da82-e06c-46bd-b562-c8d058caeef0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5b790b94 We get our first look at Gondorians other than Boromir, and at Boromir’s brother, Faramir. Frodo impresses them with his careful and courteous speech, while Sam delights at the terror of the great “oliphaunt”.

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]]> We get our first look at Gondorians other than Boromir, and at Boromir’s brother, Faramir. Frodo impresses them with his careful and courteous speech, while Sam delights at the terror of the great “oliphaunt”.

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]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2015 We get our first look at Gondorians other than Boromir, and at Boromir’s brother, Faramir. Frodo impresses them with his careful and courteous speech, while Sam delights at the terror of the great “oliphaunt”.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapters 6-7: The Forbidden Pool/Journey to the Cross-roads 2 2 18 18 Book 4 Chapters 6-7: The Forbidden Pool/Journey to the Cross-roads full 1364651d-1ca9-448e-a398-d6f96dd128a0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/497216a8 In this two-chapter episode, we learn much more about Gondor, its ancient greatness and current decline. Faramir contrasts Boromir’s warrior mentality with his own nostalgic hope to preserve Gondor’s wisdom and beauty, which lead Andrew and Patrick to reflect on the crisis of Western civilization in our own times. In spite of his own loathing of Gollum, Frodo chooses to save him and follow him to places of terror. Patrick and Andrew contrast the results of Sam’s saying whatever is on his mind with Frodo’s careful and respectful speech.


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]]> In this two-chapter episode, we learn much more about Gondor, its ancient greatness and current decline. Faramir contrasts Boromir’s warrior mentality with his own nostalgic hope to preserve Gondor’s wisdom and beauty, which lead Andrew and Patrick to reflect on the crisis of Western civilization in our own times. In spite of his own loathing of Gollum, Frodo chooses to save him and follow him to places of terror. Patrick and Andrew contrast the results of Sam’s saying whatever is on his mind with Frodo’s careful and respectful speech.


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]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1992 In this two-chapter episode, we learn much more about Gondor, its ancient greatness and current decline. Faramir contrasts Boromir’s warrior mentality with his own nostalgic hope to preserve Gondor’s wisdom and beauty, which lead Andrew and Patrick to reflect on the crisis of Western civilization in our own times. In spite of his own loathing of Gollum, Frodo chooses to save him and follow him to places of terror. Patrick and Andrew contrast the results of Sam’s saying whatever is on his mind with Frodo’s careful and respectful speech.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 8: The Stairs of Cirith Ungol 2 2 19 19 Book 4 Chapter 8: The Stairs of Cirith Ungol full 4322818f-44a1-4ea4-90f5-895d3fbbc5c3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/da98fcd3 Patrick and Andrew consider Frodo and Sam as models of male friendship, which builds as they rely on each other in adversity and talk with each other about the meaning of their journey. Frodo shows a growing power of will to resist the force of the Ring and the Lord of the Nazgul, while Sméagol experiences a momentary release from the Ring-lust that made him into Gollum.

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]]> Patrick and Andrew consider Frodo and Sam as models of male friendship, which builds as they rely on each other in adversity and talk with each other about the meaning of their journey. Frodo shows a growing power of will to resist the force of the Ring and the Lord of the Nazgul, while Sméagol experiences a momentary release from the Ring-lust that made him into Gollum.

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]]> Thu, 25 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2113 Patrick and Andrew consider Frodo and Sam as models of male friendship, which builds as they rely on each other in adversity and talk with each other about the meaning of their journey. Frodo shows a growing power of will to resist the force of the Ring and the Lord of the Nazgul, while Sméagol experiences a momentary release from the Ring-lust that made him into Gollum.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 9: Shelob's Lair 2 2 20 20 Book 4 Chapter 9: Shelob's Lair full c9ee9d08-fba1-461d-9974-0dc49bbe9b24 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e77ba252 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Shelob's Lair.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Shelob's Lair.

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]]> Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2032 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4, Chapter 9 of The Two Towers: Shelob's Lair.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 4 Chapter 10: The Choices of Master Samwise 2 2 21 21 Book 4 Chapter 10: The Choices of Master Samwise full 67d4ed2c-8c51-4cdd-8f85-9f794e81448e https://share.transistor.fm/s/51119d66 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4 Chapter 10: The Choices of Master Samwise.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4 Chapter 10: The Choices of Master Samwise.

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]]> Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1848 Andrew and Patrick discuss Book 4 Chapter 10: The Choices of Master Samwise.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 1: Minas Tirith 3 3 1 1 Book 5 Chapter 1: Minas Tirith full 05b2a60c-58d1-4a8d-9bff-22683bf0c898 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8cdbcf25 In this episode we begin the final volume of the Lord of the Rings, following Gandalf and Pippin into the great but decaying city of Minas Tirith. Pippin and his new friend, Beregond of the Tower Guard, look for hope in the face of despair, while Gandalf faces off with Denethor, the powerful but proud Ruling Steward of Gondor.

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]]> In this episode we begin the final volume of the Lord of the Rings, following Gandalf and Pippin into the great but decaying city of Minas Tirith. Pippin and his new friend, Beregond of the Tower Guard, look for hope in the face of despair, while Gandalf faces off with Denethor, the powerful but proud Ruling Steward of Gondor.

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]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2054 In this episode we begin the final volume of the Lord of the Rings, following Gandalf and Pippin into the great but decaying city of Minas Tirith. Pippin and his new friend, Beregond of the Tower Guard, look for hope in the face of despair, while Gandalf faces off with Denethor, the powerful but proud Ruling Steward of Gondor.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 2: The Passing of the Grey Company 3 3 2 2 Book 5 Chapter 2: The Passing of the Grey Company full e2596b3a-f8e9-43ed-b58e-a0f84d923529 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9c862b83 Patrick and Andrew marvel at Aragorn as the hour begins for him to confront Sauron, a  battle he has prepared for throughout his life. They feel Eowyn's pain at being denied the only life of greatness she can imagine and Merry's gratitude to Theoden for giving him a role to play.

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]]> Patrick and Andrew marvel at Aragorn as the hour begins for him to confront Sauron, a  battle he has prepared for throughout his life. They feel Eowyn's pain at being denied the only life of greatness she can imagine and Merry's gratitude to Theoden for giving him a role to play.

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]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2064 Patrick and Andrew marvel at Aragorn as the hour begins for him to confront Sauron, a  battle he has prepared for throughout his life. They feel Eowyn's pain at being denied the only life of greatness she can imagine and Merry's gratitude to Theoden for giving him a role to play.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 3: The Muster of Rohan 3 3 3 3 Book 5 Chapter 3: The Muster of Rohan full e33fe854-1a0f-4045-bc59-e6369643cc3e https://share.transistor.fm/s/e7cab3ac In this session, we experience the mountains and strongholds of Rohan through Merry's eyes as he learns the disturbing news about his friends taking the Paths of the Dead. We marvel at the character of the Rohirrim, especially their stern loyalty as they face the possible destruction of their people. Patrick can hardly wait to read on!

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]]> In this session, we experience the mountains and strongholds of Rohan through Merry's eyes as he learns the disturbing news about his friends taking the Paths of the Dead. We marvel at the character of the Rohirrim, especially their stern loyalty as they face the possible destruction of their people. Patrick can hardly wait to read on!

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]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2374 In this session, we experience the mountains and strongholds of Rohan through Merry's eyes as he learns the disturbing news about his friends taking the Paths of the Dead. We marvel at the character of the Rohirrim, especially their stern loyalty as they face the possible destruction of their people. Patrick can hardly wait to read on!

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 4: The Siege of Gondor 3 3 4 4 Book 5 Chapter 4: The Siege of Gondor full fb1eda88-5313-4384-9950-8852ac325118 https://share.transistor.fm/s/36bad0d6 In this episode, Pippin shows courage in the face of Denethor's mad choice to burn himself and his son, Faramir. Patrick and Andrew reflect on the power of leaders like Faramir and Gandalf to elevate the courage of those who follow them and the power of the Enemy's psychological warfare to destroy it. Finally they explore how Denethor's character corrupted in spite of years of faithful leadership.

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]]> In this episode, Pippin shows courage in the face of Denethor's mad choice to burn himself and his son, Faramir. Patrick and Andrew reflect on the power of leaders like Faramir and Gandalf to elevate the courage of those who follow them and the power of the Enemy's psychological warfare to destroy it. Finally they explore how Denethor's character corrupted in spite of years of faithful leadership.

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]]> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2002 In this episode, Pippin shows courage in the face of Denethor's mad choice to burn himself and his son, Faramir. Patrick and Andrew reflect on the power of leaders like Faramir and Gandalf to elevate the courage of those who follow them and the power of the Enemy's psychological warfare to destroy it. Finally they explore how Denethor's character corrupted in spite of years of faithful leadership.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 5-6: The Ride of the Rohirrim/The Battle of the Pelennor Fields 3 3 5 5 Book 5 Chapter 5-6: The Ride of the Rohirrim/The Battle of the Pelennor Fields full b86a69e7-e677-441c-a1d5-4a721464861c https://share.transistor.fm/s/562c9d2f The Rohirrim are aided by the strange, secretive Wild Men of the Woods, to reach the Pelennor Fields in time to save Minas Tirith. The Rohirrim are in their glory - Theoden leads the charge, Eowyn defies the Lord of the Nazgul, Eomer brazenly defies death. Merry rallies to protect Eowyn and Aragorn returns triumphantly from the Paths of the Dead.

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]]> The Rohirrim are aided by the strange, secretive Wild Men of the Woods, to reach the Pelennor Fields in time to save Minas Tirith. The Rohirrim are in their glory - Theoden leads the charge, Eowyn defies the Lord of the Nazgul, Eomer brazenly defies death. Merry rallies to protect Eowyn and Aragorn returns triumphantly from the Paths of the Dead.

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]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2044 The Rohirrim are aided by the strange, secretive Wild Men of the Woods, to reach the Pelennor Fields in time to save Minas Tirith. The Rohirrim are in their glory - Theoden leads the charge, Eowyn defies the Lord of the Nazgul, Eomer brazenly defies death. Merry rallies to protect Eowyn and Aragorn returns triumphantly from the Paths of the Dead.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 7: The Pyre of Denethor 3 3 6 6 Book 5 Chapter 7: The Pyre of Denethor full 0c775b1e-a0eb-479f-848e-3873d93b8a39 https://share.transistor.fm/s/34856f59 Andrew and Patrick marvel at the gamut of emotions in this chapter, from the triumphant hope of the horns of the Rohirrim and the eruption of sunlight to the dark despair and terror of being burnt alive. Gandalf's Providential prudence, his pity, and respect for human dignity come out in his intense dialogue with Denethor, who has been led to proud despair by the half-truths of the Enemy.


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]]> Andrew and Patrick marvel at the gamut of emotions in this chapter, from the triumphant hope of the horns of the Rohirrim and the eruption of sunlight to the dark despair and terror of being burnt alive. Gandalf's Providential prudence, his pity, and respect for human dignity come out in his intense dialogue with Denethor, who has been led to proud despair by the half-truths of the Enemy.


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]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2035 Andrew and Patrick marvel at the gamut of emotions in this chapter, from the triumphant hope of the horns of the Rohirrim and the eruption of sunlight to the dark despair and terror of being burnt alive. Gandalf's Providential prudence, his pity, and respect for human dignity come out in his intense dialogue with Denethor, who has been led to proud despair by the half-truths of the Enemy.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 8: The Houses of Healing 3 3 7 7 Book 5 Chapter 8: The Houses of Healing full 89cf0a32-1060-47b8-982a-cd330a8cb920 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f8050049 Merry and Pippin each exhibit the maturity their adventures have brought them. Patrick and Andrew liken the effects of the Black Breath to the sufferings of chronic illness, admire how Aragorn's political humility brings about a new order of unity under Gandalf, and note how Faramir, Eowyn, and Merry each respond differently to the healing authority of Aragorn.

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]]> Merry and Pippin each exhibit the maturity their adventures have brought them. Patrick and Andrew liken the effects of the Black Breath to the sufferings of chronic illness, admire how Aragorn's political humility brings about a new order of unity under Gandalf, and note how Faramir, Eowyn, and Merry each respond differently to the healing authority of Aragorn.

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]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2094 Merry and Pippin each exhibit the maturity their adventures have brought them. Patrick and Andrew liken the effects of the Black Breath to the sufferings of chronic illness, admire how Aragorn's political humility brings about a new order of unity under Gandalf, and note how Faramir, Eowyn, and Merry each respond differently to the healing authority of Aragorn.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 9: The Last Debate 3 3 8 8 Book 5 Chapter 9: The Last Debate full b2d3f2b3-a2ff-4c29-8fd6-b753110cf035 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec72c518 Andrew and Patrick highlight the differences that make the friendship of Legolas and Gimli so unique, discuss the power of terror that the Dead have and of leadership that allows Aragorn to control them, and explore the role that Aragorn and Gandalf play in helping Frodo and Sam on the quest to destroy the Ring.

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]]> Andrew and Patrick highlight the differences that make the friendship of Legolas and Gimli so unique, discuss the power of terror that the Dead have and of leadership that allows Aragorn to control them, and explore the role that Aragorn and Gandalf play in helping Frodo and Sam on the quest to destroy the Ring.

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]]> Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0800 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2111 Andrew and Patrick highlight the differences that make the friendship of Legolas and Gimli so unique, discuss the power of terror that the Dead have and of leadership that allows Aragorn to control them, and explore the role that Aragorn and Gandalf play in helping Frodo and Sam on the quest to destroy the Ring.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 5 Chapter 10: The Black Gate Opens 3 3 9 9 Book 5 Chapter 10: The Black Gate Opens full d12d7af4-2bcb-42ec-91e6-51de04fc6417 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5a2bf9dd Patrick and Andrew discuss the sense of despair that Tolkien leaves us with at the end of Book V and how it seems to undo the hope that had come from victory and healing. Merry struggles with being left behind while Pippin goes to face his death. Aragorn treats the terror of raw recruits with mercy, while the Mouth of Sauron appears as an empty bully.


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]]> Patrick and Andrew discuss the sense of despair that Tolkien leaves us with at the end of Book V and how it seems to undo the hope that had come from victory and healing. Merry struggles with being left behind while Pippin goes to face his death. Aragorn treats the terror of raw recruits with mercy, while the Mouth of Sauron appears as an empty bully.


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]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2067 Patrick and Andrew discuss the sense of despair that Tolkien leaves us with at the end of Book V and how it seems to undo the hope that had come from victory and healing. Merry struggles with being left behind while Pippin goes to face his death. Aragorn treats the terror of raw recruits with mercy, while the Mouth of Sauron appears as an empty bully.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 6 Chapter 1: The Tower of Cirith Ungol 3 3 10 10 Book 6 Chapter 1: The Tower of Cirith Ungol full 2edebd42-2414-4c53-8cbd-8ef0d9139944 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e60cf72c As they begin the final book of The Lord of the Rings, Andrew and Patrick marvel at Sam's fidelity and hardihood, and reflect on the plain hobbit-sense that allows him to overcome the tempting fantasies aroused by the Ring. This gives them a glimpse of what Frodo will be suffering as they move forward on the long road to Mt. Doom. They contrast the petty squabbling that destroys the orcs with the commitment to the common goal that leads the Free Peoples to take up the task even when they have lost their leaders.


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]]> As they begin the final book of The Lord of the Rings, Andrew and Patrick marvel at Sam's fidelity and hardihood, and reflect on the plain hobbit-sense that allows him to overcome the tempting fantasies aroused by the Ring. This gives them a glimpse of what Frodo will be suffering as they move forward on the long road to Mt. Doom. They contrast the petty squabbling that destroys the orcs with the commitment to the common goal that leads the Free Peoples to take up the task even when they have lost their leaders.


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]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2145 As they begin the final book of The Lord of the Rings, Andrew and Patrick marvel at Sam's fidelity and hardihood, and reflect on the plain hobbit-sense that allows him to overcome the tempting fantasies aroused by the Ring. This gives them a glimpse of what Frodo will be suffering as they move forward on the long road to Mt. Doom. They contrast the petty squabbling that destroys the orcs with the commitment to the common goal that leads the Free Peoples to take up the task even when they have lost their leaders.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 6 Chapter 2: The Land of Shadow 3 3 11 11 Book 6 Chapter 2: The Land of Shadow full ecc6852a-4028-4631-9502-ed22f0c5daa6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/36ca925e The roles of Frodo and Sam are reversed after the escape from Cirith Ungol. While Frodo, without hope, can only will to go on, Sam, finding hope in light, water and the beauty of a star, becomes the resourceful and resilient leader. Patrick and Andrew note the doubt that afflicts Sauron in spite of his mighty empire, which in the end is doomed to self-destruction.

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]]> The roles of Frodo and Sam are reversed after the escape from Cirith Ungol. While Frodo, without hope, can only will to go on, Sam, finding hope in light, water and the beauty of a star, becomes the resourceful and resilient leader. Patrick and Andrew note the doubt that afflicts Sauron in spite of his mighty empire, which in the end is doomed to self-destruction.

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]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 1871 The roles of Frodo and Sam are reversed after the escape from Cirith Ungol. While Frodo, without hope, can only will to go on, Sam, finding hope in light, water and the beauty of a star, becomes the resourceful and resilient leader. Patrick and Andrew note the doubt that afflicts Sauron in spite of his mighty empire, which in the end is doomed to self-destruction.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 6 Chapter 3: Mount Doom 3 3 12 12 Book 6 Chapter 3: Mount Doom full 34bfa69a-05f8-43fd-960f-08f65cb86890 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9faf45c0 In this epic climactic chapter, Andrew and Patrick discuss Sam's will to endure, Frodo's dark night of suffering, and the moments of grace that see them through. Sam's pity for Gollum enables the Quest to be achieved; Frodo's heroic resistance to the Ring, though overcome, earns a return to peace and an enduring gift of humility.


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]]> In this epic climactic chapter, Andrew and Patrick discuss Sam's will to endure, Frodo's dark night of suffering, and the moments of grace that see them through. Sam's pity for Gollum enables the Quest to be achieved; Frodo's heroic resistance to the Ring, though overcome, earns a return to peace and an enduring gift of humility.


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]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2209 In this epic climactic chapter, Andrew and Patrick discuss Sam's will to endure, Frodo's dark night of suffering, and the moments of grace that see them through. Sam's pity for Gollum enables the Quest to be achieved; Frodo's heroic resistance to the Ring, though overcome, earns a return to peace and an enduring gift of humility.


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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No Book 6 Chapter 4: The Field of Cormallen 3 3 13 13 Book 6 Chapter 4: The Field of Cormallen full 4826dbf0-2abb-4db1-82ec-a410083f90a3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/60285265 The discussion begins with Gandalf's awareness that Quest has been achieved, the role of the Eagles, and the drama of Sauron's demise. Patrick and Andrew then delight in the eucatastrophic joy experienced by Sam, Gandalf's fountain of laughter, and the minstrel's singing of Frodo and Sam's accomplishment. They reflect on the taste of heavenly joy Tolkien gives his readers while still remembering that it is only temporal.

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]]> The discussion begins with Gandalf's awareness that Quest has been achieved, the role of the Eagles, and the drama of Sauron's demise. Patrick and Andrew then delight in the eucatastrophic joy experienced by Sam, Gandalf's fountain of laughter, and the minstrel's singing of Frodo and Sam's accomplishment. They reflect on the taste of heavenly joy Tolkien gives his readers while still remembering that it is only temporal.

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]]> Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0700 Adeodatus Adeodatus 2078 The discussion begins with Gandalf's awareness that Quest has been achieved, the role of the Eagles, and the drama of Sauron's demise. Patrick and Andrew then delight in the eucatastrophic joy experienced by Sam, Gandalf's fountain of laughter, and the minstrel's singing of Frodo and Sam's accomplishment. They reflect on the taste of heavenly joy Tolkien gives his readers while still remembering that it is only temporal.

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]]> education, literature, catholicism, tolkien No