Transformation and the process of transformation, either physical or of the self, is a significant theme in Tolkien’s writing and appears throughout the Middle-earth legendarium. In this SPACE course, we will explore how the practice, philosophy and symbolism of alchemy resonate in the texts and provide another way to read the changes that are apparent throughout. Amongst other topics, we will look at the Music of the Ainur and Tolkien’s creation myth, the recurring symbolism of the alchemical colours: Black, White and Red, the metaphor of Gold, the nature of the One Ring, and Frodo as alchemical subject.

The module will follow an 8-session structure as shown below:

Outline	8-Session Structure
Week 1	Lecture 1: Freshman Alchemy 101
	Discussion 1: Philosophy, Spirituality, Science, and Literature
Week 2	Lecture 2: The Nigredo & The Albedo
	Discussion 2: The Nigredo & The Albedo in Literary Alchemy
Week 3	Lecture 3: The Citrinitas, The Rubedo, & Gold
	Discussion 3: The Citrinitas, The Rubedo, & Gold in Literary Alchemy
Week 4	Lecture 4: Tolkien’s Alchemical Creation Myth, & Frodo’s Alchemical Journey
	Discussion 4: Alchemical Themes in Tolkien’s Work