JRR Tolkein's Life
This is the IN-PERSON version of the course, held in JMU Ice House room 104. In our first class we will look into the life of J.R.R. Tolkein who is best known for writing the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Tolkein's life will be seen in the historic context of his times, World War I and pre and post war events. The next (second) class will delve into the wonders of the Middle Earth. The genius of Tolkein created an enchanted world inhabited by Hobbits, Elves, Dwarves, Ents, Trolls, Orcs, Dragons, and even men! Middle Earth's geography, languages, and occupants will be looked at in depth. The Hobbit will be discussed in our third and fourth classes. We will read/hear excerpts from the book, discuss the text, and view film clips. The book that C.S. Lewis called 'marvelous' and a 'classic in-the-making' is well worth a first or even a fifth look! 'In a hole in the ground lived a hobbit . . .' George Gruner is a local historian with over 40 years of teaching experience. At a young age The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings sealed George's love of literary classics and the Middle Earth. He has worked as a docent at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library Museum and in Guest Services at Monticello. George has taught numerous history related courses for LLI and is currently teaching chess at the Anne's House School in Staunton and for Staunton's Parks and Recreation, as well as giving private chess lessons. He has also served as a Vermont State Representative in the Vermont General Assembly.Please contact our office regarding availability of this course:
540-568-4253
pce@jmu.edu