Knewbetta

Is The Silmarillion your favorite book? Is it your least-favorite book? Whether you’re reading it for the first or fiftieth time, KnewBettaDoBetta will help you see it in a more fun, relatable way!

Tolkien’s The Silmarillion is inarguably a complex read. KnewBetta seeks to make it more accessible by teaching the lore in an understandable way. His hope is that everyone can share his knowledge and passion! This course will look at characters, relationships, relatable themes, and meanings that you may not have explored yet.

Whether The Silmarillion is your favorite Tolkien book or one you’ve struggled to get through, this course is here to make it feel more engaging, fun, and relatable. In this first of a two-part series, KnewBettaDoBetta breaks down Tolkien’s vast mythology in a clear and conversational way—focusing on the epic beginnings of Arda and the First Age.

Through vivid storytelling and grounded analysis, KnewBetta will guide you through the early lore, key characters, and dramatic turning points that shape Middle-earth’s ancient history. Expect accessible explanations, engaging discussion, and fresh insights for both newcomers and long-time Tolkien fans.

Lecture Topic Outline:

• Lecture 1 – The Creation: Exploring the Music of the Ainur and the shaping of the world.
• Lecture 2 – The Awakening of the Elves: The coming of the Firstborn and their significance.
• Lecture 3 – The Silmarils and The Flight of the Noldor: Feanor’s legacy, rebellion, and exile.
• Lecture 4– The Fall of Beleriand / The 4th Battle: The rise of shadow and war in Middle-earth.

Join us as we trace the unfolding of Tolkien’s epic from the very beginning—and start to see The Silmarillion in a whole new light.

Continuing the journey through Tolkien’s rich mythology, this second part of our two-part series takes you into the drama, heroism, and tragedy that define the later events of the First Age and the rise and fall of Númenor. KnewBettaDoBetta makes these legendary tales accessible, engaging, and deeply human.

Through captivating storytelling and thoughtful analysis, KnewBetta will guide you through the most iconic heroes, their epic struggles, and the pivotal moments that shape Middle-earth’s history. Expect lively discussion, clear explanations, and fresh perspectives for both newcomers and seasoned Tolkien enthusiasts.

Lecture Topic Outline:

• Lecture 1 – Of Beren and Lúthien: A timeless tale of love, courage, and the quest for the Silmaril.
• Lecture 2 – The Fifth Battle: Examining the climactic confrontations and their impact on the First Age.
• Lecture 3 – Of Túrin Turambar: Tragedy, fate, and the life of one of Middle-earth’s most complex heroes.
• Lecture 4 – Akallabêth: The Downfall of Númenor: The rise and fall of men, hubris, and the shaping of the world to come.

Join us as we explore the twilight of Arda’s heroes, witness their trials and triumphs, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sweeping epic of The Silmarillion.

This module will be about the history and lore of the realm of Arnor. It will cover its geography, kings, civil war, wars with Angmar, and important artifact sites.