Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford Tim's Tolkien Obsession & Amazon Prime's The Rings of Power
12 snips
Aug 30, 2024 
In this engaging conversation, Alice Fiennes, co-host and Tolkien enthusiast, dives into the rich tapestry of J.R.R. Tolkien's world and the intricacies of Amazon's The Rings of Power. They explore Galadriel's complex character and her role as a whistleblower battling skepticism. The discussion touches on the sinister origins of orcs and the moral ambiguities of good versus evil. With a humorous nod to Tolkien's legacy, they consider the broader social implications of confronting evil, showcasing how timeless lessons abound in these fantastical tales.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Galadriel's Zealotry
- Galadriel, relentlessly pursuing Sauron, is seen as unhinged by others.
- Gil-galad, the Elf King, effectively punishes her for her zealotry.
Whistleblowers and Galadriel
- Galadriel's treatment mirrors that of whistleblowers, often punished for revealing inconvenient truths.
- People dislike bad news and often blame the messenger, especially when they challenge authority.
Grief and the Mad Woman Trope
- Galadriel's grief over her brother fuels her quest, blurring the line between determination and obsession.
- Like Anna Marie Jarvis, she is judged harshly for her extreme emotions, a common trope against powerful women.