Episode Summary: The Prancing Pony Podcast – Episode 374: "Holding Back the Years"

Release Date: June 1, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 374 of The Prancing Pony Podcast, hosts Alan Sisto and James Tauber delve deep into the intricate chronologies of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, specifically focusing on the "Tale of Years" found in the appendices of The Lord of the Rings. This episode, titled "Holding Back the Years," explores the evolution of Tolkien's timelines across different manuscripts and the implications of these changes on the overarching narrative and character legitimacy.

Exploring the Tale of Years: Second Age

Appendix B Summary

Alan initiates the discussion by summarizing Appendix B: The Tale of Years from The Lord of the Rings. He outlines the conclusion of the First, Second, and Third Ages, noting the onset of the Fourth Age with the departure of Elrond and the rise of human dominion in Middle-earth.

Alan Sisto [04:47]: "The Third Age came to its end in the War of the Ring, but the Fourth Age was not held to have begun until Master Elrond departed and the time was come for the dominion of men and the decline of all other speaking peoples in Middle Earth."

Changes from Original Manuscripts

James introduces the complexity of the Second Age chronologies, referencing Christopher Tolkien's Peoples of Middle Earth. He highlights how early drafts (referred to as T1 and T2) differed significantly from the published version, particularly in their portrayal of Númenor's decline and the overarching influence of Sauron.

James Tauber [19:19]: "So the judgment of Fionwe, that's an early name for eonwe, took place 10 years after the great Battle. That's the same year Númenor was established."

Biases in Published Tale of Years

A critical point of discussion revolves around the biases present in the final published "Tale of Years." Alan and James dissect how negative aspects of Númenor's fall—such as their quest for immortality, environmental exploitation, and internal dissent—were minimized or omitted to maintain a more neutral or pro-Númenorean stance.

James Tauber [33:32]: "So it really is something... that you would have no idea that the Númenoreans were exploiting Middle-earth, that they were seeking longevity. None of that's there at all."

Alan Sisto [51:46]: "We don't want to say the Númenoreans were seeking after eternal life. We don't want to say they were destroying the environment and, you know, running rampant over the peoples along the coastlines of Middle Earth as some sort of... violent imperial force."

This selective portrayal serves to legitimize figures like Elendil, portraying Númenor's downfall as primarily Sauron's machinations rather than a complex interplay of Númenor's internal failings.

Exploring the Tale of Years: Third Age

Manuscript Versions T2, T3, T4

Transitioning to the Third Age, the hosts examine how the corresponding "Tale of Years" has evolved. Initial drafts (T2 and T3) provided a foundational timeline but lacked comprehensive detail. The T4 manuscript introduced extensive entries, offering deeper insights into the histories of Arnor and Gondor, the migrations of the Perianath (later known as Hobbits), and pivotal battles that shaped the fate of Middle-earth.

James Tauber [33:32]: "This version is the submitted text to the publisher... it was too long... considerable reduction be made in the accounts of events already told in the Lord of the Rings."

Christopher Tolkien acknowledged the necessity to condense these rich histories to fit the narrative scope of The Lord of the Rings, inevitably leading to the exclusion of certain events and details that were present in earlier drafts.

Omitted and Added Information

Key omissions include the environmental exploitation by Númenor, the detailed political maneuvers leading to the downfall of Númenor, and the internal struggles within Gondor and Arnor. Conversely, certain entries were added to emphasize the legitimacy of Gondor's stewardship and Aragorn's lineage, ensuring his rightful place as the heir to Isildur.

James Tauber [45:08]: "But we get a mention of the Perianath for the first time, again around circa 1000. But it's a really long entry."

These modifications reflect a deliberate attempt to streamline the lore presented in the appendices, focusing on elements that directly support the main narrative and character arcs within The Lord of the Rings.

Digital Tolkien Project

Towards the episode's conclusion, James introduces the Digital Tolkien Project, an initiative aimed at creating a comprehensive digital chronology of Middle-earth's history. This project seeks to accommodate multiple manuscript versions, allow for detailed filtering based on characters or regions, and provide dynamic date reframing relative to different events or individuals.

James Tauber [112:28]: "We actually are [planning a digital chronology]. And partly inspired by the research I did a couple of years ago that led to the things I was talking about, the Second Age summaries..."

This project promises to be an invaluable resource for fans and scholars alike, offering an interactive platform to explore the multifaceted timelines of Tolkien's expansive legendarium.

Notable Entries and Personal Insights

The hosts share their favorite entries from the manuscripts, highlighting the emotional and narrative depth added in drafts like T4. Moments such as Samwise's marriage to Rosie, the birth of Eleanor, and the poignant departure of key characters resonate deeply with the audience.

Alan Sisto [106:19]: "And there's so a moment of sorrow for him, just as it was for Elrond. But he at least has the boys and he gets to go spend some time with them."

These personal reflections underscore the rich tapestry of relationships and events that the "Tale of Years" weaves, offering fans a more nuanced understanding of Middle-earth's history beyond the main narrative.

Conclusion

Episode 374 of The Prancing Pony Podcast provides a thorough exploration of Tolkien's "Tale of Years," shedding light on the evolution of Middle-earth's chronology through various drafts and the editorial choices that shaped the final appendices. By examining these changes, Alan and James offer listeners a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Tolkien's world-building and the delicate balance between narrative focus and expansive lore. Additionally, the introduction of the Digital Tolkien Project hints at exciting developments for future explorations of Middle-earth's rich history.

James Tauber [116:17]: "Please consider supporting the show by joining the Fellowship of the Podcast."

Thank you for reading this summary. For an in-depth exploration of Middle-earth's timelines and more engaging discussions, tune into The Prancing Pony Podcast.