(BONUS) Norse Myths, Tolkien & More with Author Joshua Gillingham

In a very special Midnight Myth Bonus, we sat down with Joshua Gillingham, author of The Gatewatch, an epic troll-hunting adventure inspired by the Norse Myths and the Icelandic Sagas. For an hour+, we nerd out about all things Norse: from common misconceptions about the Era of Viking to Loki’s most outrageous antics to the evolution of trolls and dwarves throughout time. We also get the opportunity to discuss how profoundly the Norse myths and Icelandic Sagas influenced the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, and therefore, much of contemporary fantasy literature.

The Gatewatch by Joshua Gillingham is available now. Grab your copy (or e-book) from Crowsnest Books or order from your local bookstore.

Want to learn more about Norse Mythology, the Vikings, and Scandinavian Folklore? Start here!

Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman

The Norse Myths: Gods of the Vikings by Dr. Kevin Crossley-Holland

The Poetic Edda: Stories of the Norse Gods & Heroes

John Bauer, painter of Scandanavian Folklore.

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Open your wallet if you are able. Consider supporting the NAACP’s Legal Defense and Education Fund, the Southern Poverty Law Center, Reclaim the Block, your local Black Lives Matter Chapter or Bail Fund. Or directly support the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, or Tony McDade. Seek out and support Black-owned businesses in your area.

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Episode 145A: Prince of the Halflings | The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Norse Mythology & Kingship

In the penultimate episode of our Lord of the Rings podcast series, we’re discussing the first half of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Return of the King (aka Book 5: The War of the Ring). It’s a fast-paced, combat-heavy book that sees the forces of Rohan and Gondor combine and Aragorn prepare to assume the kingship. We discuss the massive character growth of Pippin and Merry, two unassuming hobbits who rise to become heroes of war and politic. We revisit themes of stewardship and monarchy in the portraits of leaders like Denethor, Theoden, Aragorn, and Gandalf. We compare Eowyn to Brunhild of Norse mythology, and follow those mythological threads to new conclusions. We meditate on the weaponization of information, and how even the strongest, most beloved leaders can be led astray. Escape into Middle Earth with us.

We’re doing a Lord of the Rings GIVEAWAY! Follow us on Twitter and check out our pinned tweet to enter for your chance to win two LotR Funko POPs and a set of LotR Trivial Pursuit.

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Check out our merch store for Midnight Myth, Boomerangerang, and Wheel of Ka tees and totes!

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Episode 106: Hammer of the Gods

He comes from the land of the ice and snow, with the midnight sun, where the hot springs flow… You know where we’re going with this. The third in a series of character studies from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we’re rounding out the core Avenger trio with everyone’s favorite god of hammers (um, we mean Thunder), THE MIGHTY THOR. From his roots in the Norse mythological tradition and rise to prominence in the era of Viking to the influence of 20th century psychology, this episode breaks apart how Marvel’s literal god character became the most down-to-earth, human Avenger. Pick up your hammer and join us in a character celebration worthy of Asgard, Midgard, and all the nine realms.

Support us at www.patreon.com/midnightmyth

Check out our new merch store for Midnight Myth, Boomerangerang, and Wheel of Ka tees and totes!

Learn more, view sources and inspiration, and sign up for e-mail updates at www.midnightmyth.com

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If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen!

Sources

If you enjoyed this episode, check out some of our sources and inspiration! Images are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase the item, a percentage goes to the podcast. Thank you for your support!