This course is a study of the elements of literature using the very popular books written by J.R.R. Tolkien. Character development, theme, imagery, setting, author’s perspective, and sources that occasioned the work will all be examined. The course also includes a survey of other topics related to Tolkien’s work such as Tolkien’s life, the history of the English language, and a brief look at ancient epics.

Admission by discretion of instructor.

The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

Many versions of Tolkien's books are available. You may use any unabridged version, but the page number references in this course will be to the following editions:

ISBN 0-618-26025-0 (one volume paperback)

ISBN 0-618-26024-2 (one volume hardback)

ISBN 0-618-34399-7 (one-volume paperback)

ISBN 0-618-34584-1 (one-volume hardback)

ISBN 0-618-26029-3 (three volume paperback)

http://www.homescholarbooks.com/

Literary Lessons From The Lord of the Rings ISBN 0-9754934-1-8

Available at this website: http://www.homescholar.org/LOTR%20Curr.htm

The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien Edited by Humphrey Carpenter

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Discuss The Fellowship of the Ring thoroughly and intellegently
• Have a basic understanding of literary terms
• Be acquainted with over 200 vocabulary words
• Understand more about Tolkien's life and his writings
• Have a basic understanding of linguistics and the history of the English language
• Understand how an author creates a setting for a work of literature
• Have a basic understanding of the background of some ancient epics

This course provides an environment in which literary ideas can be shared. Both critical and creative thinking skills will be exercised and honed.

Lecture will presented in video format.
Homework will be in response to assigned readings.
Class discussions via weekly chat and discussion board provide interactive learning and peer evaluation.

Participation in weekly discussion
Participation in weekly chats
Homework assignments

Attendance will effect your grade

Beginning thirty days prior to start of class, tuition is nonrefundable

Assignments are due on Sunday of each week. Your final grade will be based on the following:

75% Weekly assignments complete and on time. Submit all assignments on or before the stated due dates. Assignments submitted after the due date may be graded but are subject to the following penalties:

• Assignments that are submitted in the 1st week after the original due date will receive a reduction of one letter grade.
• Assignments that are submitted in the 2nd and 3rd week after the original due date will receive a grade reduction of two letter grades.
• Assignments that are submitted in the 4th week after the original due date will receive a grade reduction of three letter grades.
• Assignments that are submitted 5 or more weeks late will not be accepted.

25% Class Participation via discussion threads and chats

Adherence to the above will earn the student a B grade. Students wishing for a higher grade can achieve this by:
• outstanding insight in their responses
• participation in more than four chats
• starting and contributing to discussion threads beyond those generated from assignments

Students will receive lower than a B grade by:
• failure to submit assignment responses and/or late submission of assignments
• failure to attend at least four online chats

Inappropriate language or behavior will not be tolerated.
Instructor reserves the right to drop any student from the class who challenges the policy.