Tolkien’s The Hobbit began as a simple "there and back again" tale, yet became one of the most beloved stories of the 20th century. This course revisits the novel’s themes, characters and imaginative world, exploring how it grew from a modest children’s book into a foundational work of modern fantasy. Ideal for readers interested in literature, myth and storytelling.

DELIVERY MODE

• Online

SUGGESTED READING

• J.R.R Tolkien, The Hobbit

COURSE OUTLINE

• A short biography of J.R.R Tolkien
• Key literary and imaginative influences on Tolkien
• How writing stories for his children involved into an early draft of The Hobbit
• Publication and release; Reception and renown
• The Hobbit today: post-movie and into the 21st century

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand key parts of Tolkien’s life story and how his education influenced the Hobbit
2. Appreciate the narrative traditions that Tolkien used in writing the Hobbit
3. Appreciate Tolkien’s skill in weaving mythology and history into a unique fantasy world