Rings, Swords, and Monsters: Exploring Fantasy Literature

Written by Michael Drout

Narrated by Henry Strozier

The overwhelming success of the Lord of the Rings films and the Harry Potter series aptly demonstrates that the fantasy genre is alive and well in the new millennium. The names of authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Terry Brooks evoke ripe tales of heroism and the clash of good versus evil in magical, faraway lands. The rich collection of King Arthur tales have also captured the imagination of millions and resonates with audiences to the present day. Should fantasy be considered serious literature, or is it merely escapism? In this course, the roots of fantasy and the works that have defined the genre are examined. Incisive analysis and a deft assessment of what makes these works so very special provides a deeper insight into beloved works and a better understanding of why fantasy is such a pervasive force in modern culture.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 16, 2009
• ISBN: 9781436172950

Reviews for Rings, Swords, and Monsters

[Orlando Gustilo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Thoughtful and Prof Drout brings in his massive knowledge of literature as he discusses the genres of fantasy and mainstream and magical realism. Worth listening to again and again until it becomes part of how we appreciate literature.

[Israel Klich · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is a nice overview of fantasy literature and some of its origins, mostly focusing on Tolkien and Le guin. I did learn a few new things, especially in the beginning on the story telling tradition etc, and was reminded of a few of my favorite books. Of course by its nature the material is very limited and does not mention numerous important authors.

[lycomayflower · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Modern Scholar course on audio that (wait for it) explores fantasy literature, with a large emphasis on Tolkien. Interesting material , and Drout is great at presenting it. Recommended if this is your bag.

[themulhern · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Engaging, interesting, but there are bits that are simply factually incorrect. Drout is probably a reasonably devout Christian, and this affects his treatment of certain authors. He says that Philip Pullman is a completely humourless author; he must not have read, e.g., "Count Karlstein" or "The Scarecrow and his Servant", which are very funny.He underrates the cleverness and funniness of Lloyd Alexander.HIs remarks about Tolkien make "The Lord of the Rings" seem more interesting and impressive than it actually is.

[jmoncton_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

After listening and loving The Hobbit I picked up the Modern Scholar Series Rings, Swords and Monsters which is a series of lectures on fantasy literature by Michael Drout, a professor at Wheaton College. My original plan was just to listen to the one or 2 lectures about The Hobbit. I found that I could not put this down. If you are a fan of fantasy fiction, he covers many of the great authors of the genre - Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Ursula LeGuin, Terry Brooks, and more. His lectures were interspersed with background history, wonderful excerpts that he reads as well as the best audio narrator, and some great analysis. It was enjoyable and I learned so much. I would highly recommend this to fantasy fans.