This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
Tolkien’s work is infused with a depth of Catholic theology, which is often overlooked. Professor Pearce will uncover the many ways in which Middle-Earth is infused with Tolkien’s Catholicism.
Total classes: 6
Prerequisite: Ability to read and enjoy the works of J. R. R. Tolkien
Suggested grade level: 9th to 12th
Suggested credit: ½ semester Literature
Description
Tolkien’s work is infused with a depth of Catholic theology, which is often overlooked. Professor Pearce will uncover the many ways in which Middle-Earth is infused with Tolkien’s Catholicism.
Outline
Week 1: Truth in Fairy Stories (Tolkien’s Essay “On Fairy Stories”)
Week 2: The Creation of Middle-Earth (The Silmarillion)
Week 3: Middle-Earth and the Middle Ages (Influences, including Beowulf)
Week 4: The Fellowship of the Ring
Week 5: The Two Towers
Week 6: The Return of the King
Materials and Homework
Course Materials: “On Fairy Stories”; The Silmarillion; The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Homework: Students should read “On Fairy Stories” before the first class. Homework entails daily reading and weekly quizzes (20 minutes).
