0252 - Birds of Middle-earth: Swans, Eagles, Crows, Thrushes - Interview with Ornithologist Jon Rice
Birds play a massive, iconic role in the legendarium of Middle-earth. From the great Eagles that always seem to appear at the most eucatastrophic moments to the tiny Thrush that proves the downfall of Smaug, Tolkien's love for birds seems to rise to the level of his love for languages and trees!
A few months ago, long-time listener, patron, and ornithologist Jonathan Rice sent us a lengthy email about swans, crows, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion. It was so interesting that we decided to have Jonathan join us and discuss the role of birds in Middle-earth as well as the accuracy of Tolkien's depictions of birds. This is a fascinating interview, so do yourself a favor and join us!
ARTWORK Fingon rescues Maedhros by rinthcog: https://www.deviantart.com/rinthcog/art/Fingon-rescues-Maedhros-252351769
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:
- Andrew T
- John R
- Ms. Anonymous
CONTENTS
- How Jonathan became an Ornithologist
- Swans, Ulmo, the Teleri
- Black Swan Theory
- Crows / Crebain
- Seagulls, Thrushes, Dragons, Fellbeasts (patron-only)
LINKS
- Ornithology: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ornithology
- Black Swan Theory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_swan_theory
- Kingfisher: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingfisher
SPECIAL THANKS:
Andrew T
John R
Ms. Anonymous
Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
Shannon S
Brian O
Emilio P
Zeke F
James A
James L
Chris L
Chuck F
Asya V
Ish of the Hammer
Teresa C
David of Pints with Jack
Jonathan D
Eric S
Joey S
Eric B
Johanna T
Mike M
Robert H
Paul D
Julia
Werty