Great Works of J.R.R. Tolkien

Dr. Keith Mathison will take you through a guided tour of Middle Earth. Along the way, you will read major works of J.R.R. Tolkien such as The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. By studying one of the great authors of the twentieth century, you will gain a better understanding of the way fantasy literature can reflect truth, goodness, and beauty.

Throughout this course, you will learn about:

1. The development of Tolkien’s literary output within its historical and cultural context of the twentieth century.
2. How good fantasy literature can help us see the true, the good, and the beautiful again through new eyes.
3.  Look at the ways in which Tolkien “absorbed” certain Christian elements (e.g. divine providence) into his legends.
4. The most significant themes found within Tolkien’s legends (e.g. power, war, death, friendship, virtue, etc.).
5. The way in which print and film media affect the telling of stories.

About RBC's Online Audit:

When you audit an online course with RBC, you’ll get the opportunity to grow in God’s Word, wherever you are. You’ll have access to course lecture videos, digital course materials, a list of textbooks, and the reading schedule for spiritual growth and learning purposes without participating in assignments, assessments, or direct communication with the professor and students.

Course Information:

• The spring 2027 semester occurs from January 11, 2027 through May 21, 2027. Lectures will only be available to view during the semester. One lecture is uploaded per week and viewable during the duration of the semester. Each lecture is about two hours and forty-five minutes long.
• This course will be taught in alignment with Ligonier Ministries’ statement of faith and the consensus of the historic Reformed confessions as recorded in the Three Forms of Unity, Westminster Standards, and the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith.

About the Instructor:

Dr. Keith A. Mathison is professor of systematic theology at Reformation Bible College. He earned his M.A. from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Fla., and his Ph.D. from Whitefield Theological Seminary. He is author of several books, including From Age to Age: The Unfolding of Biblical Eschatology and Given for You: Reclaiming Calvin's Doctrine of the Lord's Supper. He served as an associate editor of the Reformation Study Bible and previously served as associate editor of Tabletalk magazine.

Payment Information:

• The regular audit rate of $180 will begin on January 11, 2027 and end on February 1, 2027.
• No refunds will be issued after your payment has been received.

If you have any questions, please contact us at onlinelearning@reformationbiblecollege.org.