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This week we begin our read through of The Hobbit–but we’re focusing first on how Tolkien actually evolved the Hobbit from his first edition in 1937 to a revised edition that’s more in line with The Lord of the Rings in 1951 to an abandoned rewrite in 1960.

We discuss:

* The History of The Hobbit — based on his recollection, and how it differs from what his children remember.

* The style differences in the 3 versions.

* The story differences (particularly with Gollum)

* How Tolkien’s creative processes and approach might have shifted in the 15 years between publishing the Hobbit and publishing The Lord of the Rings.

In our extended episode (available for our members) we talk about:

* Parallels between The Hobbit and The King of Elfland

* Gollums entire personality changed in the 1951 rewrite

* Was Tolkien thinking about the themes and values he wanted in the hobbit when he was just telling it to his kids.

* Is it better to read The Hobbit 1st, or The Lord of the Rings 1st?

* Do you feel like less of a Tolkien fan if you just can’t get into all the notes and details in books like The Histories of Middle-earth?

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