West of Valinor is an attempt to trace some of the origins of the mythology of J.R.R. Tolkien, and to spend some time talking about some of the theology, history, poetry, and philosophy that The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion bring up. It is a podcast for fans of Middle Earth by a fan of Middle Earth.
A discussion of the chapter "A Warm Welcome" from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. A look at the role of Men in the canon of Middle Earth. A contrast of Kings and Masters, monarchy and Enlightenment era politics. A look into the editing process between the pure story of a hand-written draft and the symbolism in a polished typescript. "Thag You Very Buch". Support the show
14 May 2025
There's Elves and Elves
The hosts analyze Tolkien's "Barrels Out of Bond" chapter, contrasting medieval and Victorian elf depictions while exploring the theistic elements of the dwarves' escape and the identity of the Elven King.
13 Dec 2024
A Forest Divided
This episode examines J.R.R. Tolkien's "Flies and Spiders" chapter, exploring the historical uses of forests and the evolution of spiders to understand Bilbo's heroic progression.
1 Jul 2022
An Older World
This episode examines "Queer Lodgings" from The Hobbit, revealing Gandalf's strategies and the historical significance of bears, while exploring the Anglo-Saxon literary influences.
1 Jun 2022
Deus Ex
The hosts analyze Chapter 6 of The Hobbit, exploring the symbolic roles of wolves and eagles in mythology and how the wild both threatens and saves Bilbo and company.
24 Mar 2022
A Tale of Two Rings
The episode explores the pivotal chapter featuring Gollum and the Ring, examining riddles and the contrasting theologies of Comfort and Destruction.
16 Aug 2021
The Deep Places of the World
Bilbo and Company encounter giants and goblins as they journey through the mountains, revealing the prophetic nature of dreams and the dangers lurking in the deep places of the world.
26 Jul 2021
Country Elves
This episode delves into chapter three of The Hobbit, examining the mythic history of elves in Tolkien's world and their evolution in literature, revealing how discomfort can fuel compelling narratives.
12 Jul 2021
Working Class Trolls
The hosts of "West of Valinor" analyze Chapter 2 of The Hobbit, exploring the mythic history and various incarnations of trolls while examining Bilbo Baggins' early journey and fortunate circumstances.
28 Jun 2021
Tooks and Bagginses
The hosts analyze Chapter 1 of The Hobbit, exploring Tolkien's creation of hobbits, the narrator's voice, and the role of poetry.
15 Jun 2021
A Long Expected Podcast
The inaugural episode explores J.R.R. Tolkien's inspirations, delving into the mythic histories of dwarves and wizards in the creation of The Hobbit.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
11 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 14 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
9
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about West of Valinor
Who hosts West of Valinor?
hosts host the show. Published by Stephen Westbrook.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does West of Valinor take guests?
The show does not typically feature guests, based on episode analyses.
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