Guild of Tolkienology - Apply here!!

[Grond]

Any forum member who wishes to join the guild of Tolkienology may request admittance here. I will eventually appoint a committee to review new applicants but since I am presently the only member, you will need to get through my screening. This will involve a test which will challenge your Tolkien knowledge but regardless of how you score, you will be admitted to the guild. The test will help me evaluate what rank you will initially be assigned.

Later, as our guild grows, all new members will come in as novices and test forward to gain ranks.

Welcome one and all. I hope many will apply for this new opportunity to study, learn and most importantly, enjoy the works of J. R. R. Tolkien.

effective 01/29/03

Grond - Guildmaster and Master Tolkienologist
Ciryaher - Assistant Guildmaster and Master Tolkienologist
Gate7ole - Deputy Guildmaster and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Lhunithiliel - Deputy Guildmaster and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Mithlond - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Hirila - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Ceorl - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Elu Thingol - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
pohuist - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Nevavarein - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Mormegil - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Gil-Galad - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Eledhwen - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Anamatar IV - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Samwise_hero - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Millena - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Muffinly - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Beleg - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Anduril - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Kementari - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Valinorean - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Celebrien - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Thomas Baggins - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Elennainie - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Húrin Thalion - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Melian - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Mrs. Maggott - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
entbabe - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Proudfoots - Charter Member and (rank to be determined)
gandalfthegrey - Member and (rank to be determined)
Glorfindel1187 - Member and (rank to be deterimined)
ravenbrand - Member and (rank to be determined)
dark ifrit - Member and (rank to be determined)
Flame - Member and (rank to be determined)
Fimbrethil - Member and (rank to be determined)
Froggum - Member and (rank to be determined)
Calimehtar - Member and (rank to be determined)
Zale - Member and (rank to be determined)
Finduilas - Member and (rank to be determined)
Celebithil - Member and (rank to be determined)
Morgoth - Member and (rank to be determined)
Gandalfthegreat - Member and (rank to be determined)
FoolOfATook - Member and (rank to be determined)
Elvish-gueen - Member and (rank to be determined)
Elros Halfelven - Member and (rank to be determined)
Dáin Ironfoot I - Member and (rank to be determined)
Goldmare - Member and (rank to be determined)
JMacEye - Member and (rank to be determined)
Beleg_Strongbow - Member and (rank to be determined)
gilgalad - Member and (rank to be determined)

Inactive members::(
Dwimmerlaik - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Winged Elf - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Iron Maiden - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Vicerous Daydark - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
kazren - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Alcfalath - Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Elenaelin - Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
dgoof911 - Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Tom - Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist

Transferred members to Scholars::(
Maedhros
Elfarmari
Nom
Nenya Evenstar
ithrynluin
Sting
Isildur

Active members = 50

Inactive members = 9

Transferred members = 7

We again have reached our pre-set limit of 50 active members. I have moved some to the inactive list and others have transferred to the reorganized scholars under Maedhros' leadership.

I encourage new forum members to look into the Scholars guild as it is up and coming and in need of new members to help it grow. As we have more inactive members, we will again place them inactive and have space for more members. If you are set on joining our guild, please post in the apply here thread and I will place your name on our membership waiting list.

Thanks to all and it's good to be back.

[Elfarmari]

May I join?

[Grond]

Most assuredly Elfarmari. Consider yourself a member of the Guild of Tolkienologists. I will be sending you a PM with a few questions... once they are answered, I will add your name to the lists. :)

[Maedhros]

At last a guild where knowledge is the only thing that matters. I will join, send me the questions then.

[pohuist]

I am in. Please send the questions.

[Grond]

Maedhros, your knowledge of Tolkien is already proven on this forum and others. I, therefore, give you the rank of Tolkien Master (coequal to my own).

Welcome aboard and your name is added to the roll.

[Nóm]

Well this is great, since I have been considering joining a guild. I'll gladly join this one.

[Ponte]

This guild looks great so I would like to join this guild.

[Ancalagon]

Oh, Oh, lots of members Grond;) you know that means a challenge is on the cards:D

[Lhunithiliel]

Grond, I am confused!
I've been away for a couple of weeks, came back, read your most kind offer to join YOUR guild (CHECK YOUR PM!) and now I find you have your own guild! Bravo!

No, ofence, Ancalagon and the others, but since Grond welcomed me most kindly to this forum, I'll stick with him...... That is IF YOU ACCEPT MY APPLICATION, GROND!!! :( :confused:

[Grond]

I welcome both Buu and Lhunithiliel to our humble guild. I need both of you to PM me with your Tolkien history so that I can properly rank you. The Tolkienologists Guild has four ranks:
Novice
Journeyman
Expert
Master

There is no shame in being a Novice just as their is no glory in being a Master. It is simply a system for matching members to threads, debates, etc. so they will more comfortably fit in. It would be hard for a novice who hasn't read the Silmarillion yet to debate on Melkor.

And, Ancalagon.... yes we are growing... thank you very much. And everyone should know that Ancalagon and I are still very much friends. My sojourn is not because of any problem with the OiE but has been done for the purpose of opening doors to Tolkienologists who might not fit in the age category of both the OiE and the Periaur.

So, come one and come all. Age ain't a problem. Tolkien knowledge ain't a problem (we'll teach you). If you love Tolkien (even if you've only read the Hobbit) you are welcome here. :)

[Winged Elf]

Me! I want to join! I've read The Hobbit, LotR, and half of The Silmarillion so far...

[Grond]

Welcome to Winged Elf. Our newest member and our first Apprentice member. Welcome to you and keep reading. There will be tests. :);):D

[Maedhros]

Thank you Grond, but I would never assume to know the works of JRRT as well as you do.
I would like to greet all the new members of this guild. Above all, have fun and read, read and read JRRT.:cool:

[Mithlond]

Greetings Grond!
I may only be a newbie to this board, but i wouldn't consider myself a newbie to Tolkien's works.
This sounds like a great idea, i would be honoured if i could join your guild.

[Hirila]

Guild Master Grond,
is it still you who decides who may become a member of this Guild or is there already a committee where I have to apply?

I'd like to join this group of Tolkienologists for I want to learn more about this great writer and his works etc. Although I know many things about his world I feel I still do not know enough. Perhaps we could help each other?

Sincerely, Hirila

[Grond]

And you would be very welcome to our Guild good Mithlond. I will add your name to the rolls and await your PM detailing your Tolkienology experience level. Please PM me with the details of how long you've read Tolkien and what books you have read... how many times... etc. :)

Thanks and welcome to our guild.

[Grond]

Actually good Hirili, anyone who wants to join is being admitted. If a person wants to learn more about J. R. R. Tolkien and his works, they are welcome here. You are most welcome and your knowledge will enhance and strengthen our guild. Please PM me with the same information I requested from Mithlond and Welcome to the Guild of Tolkienologists.

[Ceorl]

Greetings Grond.

I am relatively new to this forum *stares at Gronds post count* but I think that my knowledge could stand up to most.

[Lhunithiliel]

Hey, everuthing seems to go on excellent for the newborn "star" (guild)!

Grond, what should one do to get that beautiful blue line at the end of the signature, stating the Guild and the Title? ;) :D

And what will be those questions that everybody is asking about? Common! I like challanges!

[Iron Maiden]

I don't post here much but I lurk often enough and I couldn't help jumping at the chance to increase my knowledge of Tolkien and all his works. So if I may, I would like to apply for this guild.

[Grond]

Also, welcome aboard to both Iron Maiden and Dwimmerlaik. I need Tolkien profiles from both of you. Please PM me with your Tolkien history to include what you've read and how many times so that I might assign you a rank within the guild.

Thanks for joining and Welcome Aboard!!!!

[Grond]

Maedhros has been appointed Deputy Guildmaster and will act as head of this guild in my absence. Maedhros is a learned Tolkien scholar who has read most all of the works many times and has an excellent grasp of the whole of Tolkien's world. I hope everyone will join me in congratulating Maedhros in his new appointment.

His first job will be to coordinate any quild debate activities/thread discussions for this coming weekend as I will be out of town at my niece's wedding. LOL!!

So, everyone enjoy and everyone... please begin posting here. There are threads ready to be made. Think of a good topic and post a thread. Let's get this guild active. :);)

[Nevavarein]

may i join?

[Grond]

Our guild is open to all, so you certainly may join good Nevavarein. Please send me a PM with pertinent information concerning your level of experience with Tolkein so I may assign you a rank and you will be added to the guild list. :)

Welcome Aboard!!

[Viceras Daydark]

I would like to join. So just let me know what procedures must be done. I'm no Tolkienologist, but I learn from the best ;)

[Elu Thingol]

Grond, I would like to join your guild so I will PM you my profile.

[Grond]

And I already know your qualificatons Viceras so you are designated the rank of Journeyman. Welcome to the guild.... ;)

Elu Thingol, you are indeed welcome to our guild. You and Vicerous' names shall be added to the rolls.

[DGoeij]

I'm always interested in a Guild that wishes to both teach and learn. If my membership of the Guild of Periaur isn't a problem, I would like to join. What do you wish me to put into the PM, Grond?

[Grond]

Dgoeij, you are, of course, welcome in our guild; however, I must await the Periaur's decision as to whether they desire to be ranked among the debating guilds or not. If they chose to participate in our regular debates, your loyalties would be split and that would create a conflict of interest. If they choose not do participate in regualr debates, I will welcome you with open arms.

Remember, that this guild forum does not currently plan to have any closed threads and all discussions will be open to all. The only exception to this rule will be the inter- and intra-guild debate threads that will be opened for the sole purpose of debate. Then, only those participating teams will be able to contribute to those threads.

[DGoeij]

If that may happen, I will have to refrain from membership in both Guilds, I'm not in it for the debates. We'll see. Thanks anyway.:)

[Grond]

I would also like all Guild members to advertise their guild membership by adding the following script to their signature.

Charter Member of the [url=http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6012]Guild of Tolkienology[/url (add closed bracket after [/url)

and your rank underneath it with this script
[color=blue]"Your rank" Tolkienologist[/color (add closed bracket after [/color)

If you've input it correctly it should look similar to the bottom of my sig with the title and rank being the only difference. Any questions, please PM me.

I also feel I need to address to all members that you will only be able to belong to one debating guild. We will be polling all the other guilds to determine which one's want to be counted as debaters. You may belong to any other non-debating guilds you desire but, for example, if the Guild of the Periaur decides to be debaters, you can't belong to both them and us as it would cause a conflict of interest.

Of course, if the Periaur's choose not to be debaters, any Tolkienologist may join them. :)

[Grond]

Originally posted by DGoeij
If that may happen, I will have to refrain from membership in both Guilds, I'm not in it for the debates. We'll see. Thanks anyway.:) You don't have to join in any of the debate activities if you join us DGoeij. You may simply wish to introduce new threads and give your thoughts on existing ones. No big deal... but Anc and I are trying to structure some more "lively interaction" in the forum and feel that some intra-guild and inter-guild debates will help accomplish this. You would certainly be welcome here as a non-debater. :)

[Nóm]

Originally posted by Grond
Dgoeij, you are, of course, welcome in our guild; however, I must await the Periaur's decision as to whether they desire to be ranked among the debating guilds or not. If they chose to participate in our regular debates, your loyalties would be split and that would create a conflict of interest. If they choose not do participate in regualr debates, I will welcome you with open arms.


I will add that I hope the Periaur Guild will be among the debating guilds, not that I wouldn't like to have DGoeij in this guild, but I'd like for us to out debate them.

:D

[DGoeij]

Originally posted by Grond
You don't have to join in any of the debate activities if you join us DGoeij. You may simply wish to introduce new threads and give your thoughts on existing ones. No big deal... but Anc and I are trying to structure some more "lively interaction" in the forum and feel that some intra-guild and inter-guild debates will help accomplish this. You would certainly be welcome here as a non-debater. :)

Is that an invitation? Anyway, I don't think you people would mind me nosing through the threads in this Guild to enlarge my knowledge and add some remarks/thoughts now and then. In the meanwhile I'll try and clear up if the Periaur Guild wishes to become a 'debating' guild and how that should work for me.:)

[Grond]

An important announcement from your guildmaster. Each and everyone of you needs to look in on the debate thread and also the debate voting thread. It is important that we all vote. I, again, implore you to vote your heart and not your guild. But I would like to see that everyone has input. I am posting this same thing in the guild of Ost-in-Edhil.

[Dwimmerlaik]

Dear Grond,
I don't know if you have recieved your pm from me,but I also would like to join your guild.

[Gil-Galad]

hi Grond ,I would like to join your guild .What must I do?To write you a pm...what have I read .........how many times etc...or to wait to send me a pm with test questions?
Well I'll send you a pm now...

[kazren]

I've been reading the books since '64 - so send me the questions. I hope you're not too heavy into Silmarillion!

[Nenya Evenstar]

Grond:
I am interested in becoming a member of the Guild of Tolkienologists. I really wish to improve my understanding of Tolkien's works and feel that this would be a great place to do so. Thanks a bunch!

[Nóm]

Gil-galad...Nenya...Glad to see you here :) ;)

[Nenya Evenstar]

Thanks Confusticated! ;) I'm looking forward to it!

[Gil-Galad]

10X Confusticated!Glad to see you too!:) ;)

[Mithlond]

Indeed Grond, the guild is growing well, and i hope it grows a whole lot more.

Also a big welcome to the latest guild members Gil-Galad, Nenya Evenstar and Kazren. I hope you all have a very enjoyable time in this wonderful guild.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Thank you! I am already having a wonderful time in this guild. I too voice the wish that it continues to grow. Grond, the guild is great, and thank you for everything you have done to make it so!

[Grond]

I would qualify your praise. The Guild is only as great as the sum total of all its members. We have a great sum total. ;)

[Ithrynluin]

I would like to join.May I? :rolleyes: ;)

[Grond]

You are most welcome to join our guild, ithrynluin. Please send me a PM outlining your Tolkien history. How long you've read the works, how many times, etc. and we will get you up and going. :)

[Anamatar IV]

id like to join. I hope its alright that ive only read lotr. Im reading the sil now thougj.

[Grond]

And you are most welcome to join our guild. You will be assigned the rank of Apprentice Tolkienologist.

Welcome aboard!!!

[Anamatar IV]

what do you mean, final? Like im the final charter member or im the latest?

[Grond]

I meant the final Charter Member, we will have more members. But... I decided to expand the number of Charter Members to 25 so there are still five openings. Tell your friends. :)

[Anamatar IV]

hmm. OKay. Now uh tell me... what IS a charter member? Ive heard it alot in guilds but i never knew what it was.

[kazren]

Okay - those gorgeous new posters are only licensed for sale in Germany, Austria, Switzerland. Does anyone know a reliable Tolkien fan that would take our international money orders for posters? Most likely we'll have to settle for the photos posted online. Heavy Sigh.

POSTERS (http://www.elbenwald.de/news/news_detail.php3?news_id=340)

To get down to business, years ago I lived in Germany and I saved up and bought the trilogy in German (to help expand my vocabulary) and I leant them to a friend in the German Army. He never gave them back.

I learned never to loan my Tolkien. I have LOTR and The Hobbit in several editions and they don't leave my home.

Have any of you lost copies by lending them to friends then never seeing those books again?

[Grond]

Actually, I can copy any one of the lot you want and then crop and size it accordingly to make a good avatar.

A Charter Member is one that is involved in the earliest phases of an organization. Our membership is open to all, but only the first 25 will be able to wear the title "Charter Member". It really means nothing now but will mean something in a year when we have millions of members in our guild. ;)

[Nenya Evenstar]

I would qualify your praise. The Guild is only as great as the sum total of all its members. We have a great sum total.

I would have to agree with you. ;)

[Lhunithiliel]

Charter Member
You know, really, I too wondered why some of the Guild members had this addition and others - did not. Never thought it meant to be honoured!
Does it mean smth like a Member of Honour ?
If so, as I have understood, than aren't we all just so very proud?!

Grond, now I understand why you wanted me to add this "Charter Member" line to my signature :p Thank you :)

[Nóm]

I'll add something to that last post. This is in my opinion the best Guild here by far, and it puzzles me that we don't have people signing up faster than Grond can keep up with. What is better to do at this forum than discuss what we've read? It puzzles me I tell you!
As far as recruiting members:
When I see someone in the forum who seems like they would be interested in this guild I invite them, not only in attempt to strengthen our guild but to make sure that they do not miss out.
I know from experience that for some people a personal invite in the PM box makes a difference. When I first saw Grond's announcement about this new guild I was interested but didnt jump right into it because of an .....um.... not so positive expereince when I showed interest in another guild here. As it happend I got a PM in my box a little while later and that made the difference.

[Samwise_hero]

I was a previous member of this thread but i better ask to join again. May i? Please Grond.

[Grond]

Samwise_hero... you're in. I've added your name to the member list and await your PM so that you may be assigned a rank. Welcome aboard. :)

[Samwise_hero]

Yeah! I'm back. Thanks Grond!! .^_^.

[gate7ole]

I'm new here (as was everyone sometime). Do you still accept applications? I definitely want to join your guild. I can give a test to prove that I know somethings about Middle-Earth.

[Grond]

You are more than welcome to join. Please PM me with information on what works of Tolkien you've read... how many times you've read them and how long you've been reading them. No test yet. :)

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Grond
Actually, I can copy any one of the lot you want and then crop and size it accordingly to make a good avatar.

A Charter Member is one that is involved in the earliest phases of an organization. Our membership is open to all, but only the first 25 will be able to wear the title "Charter Member". It really means nothing now but will mean something in a year when we have millions of members in our guild. ;)
Hey Grond...and when they're millins of members in out guild all the charter members will appreciate what you have done for us!;) But why millions,isn't it better billions?:cool:

[Melian Le Fay]

Can I join? Pleeeaaaaseeee........?:) :) :)
I'd love that sooo much!

[Grond]

Welcome to Gate7ole, Millena and Sting. Three new members who will be our final Charter Members. All people who join our guild after these three will be Members.

Welcome one and all. I hope you enjoy our happy little Home. :)

[Gil-Galad]

Can I say we are a "charter family"?I really enjoy it!:p :) :cool:

[Khamul]

Just in time, though what necessarily is the significance of being a charter member?:confused:

[Nóm]

Since we charter members are the first ones here it will be up to us create and maintain charts to keep organized once we have a thousand members. :rolleyes:

:D....here's what Grond said about it.
Originally posted by Grond

A Charter Member is one that is involved in the earliest phases of an organization. Our membership is open to all, but only the first 25 will be able to wear the title "Charter Member". It really means nothing now but will mean something in a year when we have millions of members in our guild. ;)

[Lhunithiliel]

Gil-Galad:
Can I say we are a "charter family"?I really enjoy it!
YES! And there are THREE Slavs in the Charter Family! URA!:D za Millena, Gil-Galad and me!

[Grond]

I want to apologize. I had included Eledhwen in the tally but not included him/her on the list. That error is corrected and our Charter Membership is complete. There are 2 Founding Members and 25 Charter Members. We welcome all future members as simply Guild Members. :);)

Now let's go get 25 more Tolkien lovers and make our ranks swell with a thirst for Tolkien's elixir of life. :)

[Muffinly]

I'd like to join. How exactly do I go about doing that? Do I just ask?

[Grond]

Originally posted by Muffinly
I'd like to join. How exactly do I go about doing that? Do I just ask? Yes Muffinly, all one need do is apply. I will need you to PM me some information on your Tolkien background. How long you've read the books and which ones and how many times and the like. It would also be useful if you would provide some personal information such as your age and gender so I'll know whether to refer to you as a he or a she.

Thanks for joining and welcome aboard. Your name is added to the roll.

[Alcfalath]

Good Morning.

Though I may be a stranger here and have yet not made my presence known, I feel as I can contribute great knowledge through more learning of the Lore of Tolkien and thus have the wish of joining the Tolkienologists. How do I join this guild, and what do I need to show for it?

Many Thanks, Good Morning.

[Grond]

You need show nothing. You are deemed a member and shall be given rank according to your stature. Please PM me with pertinent information on your Tolkien background. Works you have read, how many times, from what age etc. You will then be awarded an entry rank. Promotions will be awarded as your knowledge and study of Tolkien increase.

[Beleg]

I would like to join this group if possible. I am new to this board, but have been a Tolkien fan for over 20 years.

[Grond]

Then by all means... consider yourself a member. Please PM me a biofile of your Tolkien history to include works you have read, how many times, from what age, and the like. We will get you into the roll. :)

[Nóm]

Beleg,
Welcome to the forum and to the guild :)

[Mithlond]

Welcome indeed!
I hope you enjoy it here in our fine guild.
(and remember, tell your friends! :) )

[Melian Le Fay]

Hmmzzz.... I'm probably the most inexpirienced one here...read the books only once so far.... Which probably means I'll have the rank of a shoe-cleaner.... but, Grond, is this guild alowed for the likes of me... I thought I could learn a lot here! And eventually, share my huge knowlege with other, new shoe-cleaners!:D
do I have to send a PM or something like that... ? I've noticed you wrote so to other new members...

[Grond]

Originally posted by Millena
Hmmzzz.... I'm probably the most inexpirienced one here...read the books only once so far.... Which probably means I'll have the rank of a shoe-cleaner.... but, Grond, is this guild alowed for the likes of me... I thought I could learn a lot here! And eventually, share my huge knowlege with other, new shoe-cleaners!:D
do I have to send a PM or something like that... ? I've noticed you wrote so to other new members... But of course you can Millena. And everyone must begin somewhere. You are most welcome here in the Guild of Tolkienology where all are a family from Novice to Guild Leader.

It should be noted that I am only a "Master" in guild rank. I am in no way a Master of Tolkien's works. Tar-Elenion and Michael Martinez may be, but surely not I. And Millena, would you PM more specifically what you've read. If you have read UT and Silm and some of HoMe, even once it will effect whether you rank an Apprentice or Journeyman.

[gate7ole]

I want to say to all "beginners" in Tolkienology that they should not despair when they realize that there are many more experienced who discuss in this forum. They were all beginners sometime and were in the same position with you. Only hard work is needed in order to become like them (ok I'm exagerating). Everyone can have an opinion and exress it, so don't hesitate to take part in conversations with difficult subjects. I don't consider myself very exprerienced, Although I try to participate, which also helps me to compare my arguments with others'

[malazac]

hello i am malazac i wish to join the guild

[Grond]

Good malazac.... you PM box is full. Please clean it out. Also, please send me some history on yourself. I need which of Tolkein's books you have read... how long you've been reading Tolkien... how many times.... and the like.

The quicker you get it to me, the quicker we get you set up. :)

I'm working on your avatar!

[Nóm]

Yes, this forum is very beginner friendly, and those more knowledgable will gladly answer questions or direct you to places where they can be found. When I came here I had read The Hobbit twice and The Lord of the Rings once, Now I've read LOTR 4 times, The Silmarillion twice, and parts of HoME...I'll bet other members who've been here for several months have done the same! With the guild activities we will all learn even more, and have a lot people to discuss each chapter with! Before we know it, we'll have learned 50% more than we know now! Plus, we'll have extra fun doing it as a group!

[Anduril]

Well well well.
Since my last visit everything has changed (in only two months, oh boy!) even the guilds...

I'd like to be part in this one...
I'd like to join and participate with all this "tolkienforumites" in the log long long list of members...

C U Out there.



:D

[Grond]

Welcome Anduril, your name is added to the list. :)

[Nóm]

I can not help wondering about something. Are any of our expert members women? Surely there is some ladies around this fourm who've been reading Tolkien for more than a few months? I don't mind it if most in our guild are men, but it is a strange observation.

[Anduril]

Thanks Grond, Ave Mace of Disaster.

I hope not to disappointing you, or to the others.

:D

And the observation of Conf is a good one...is there any lady Mastered in Tolkien skills into the Guild?

C U Out there.

[Grond]

I am unable to answer your question, Confusticated, because I am gender blind. I am not even sure which members are female or male unless someone tells me in their PM.

I do know that myself and Maedhros are male. The reason I have awarded us "Master" status is because we are learned in the works of Tolkien which include all of the Middle-earth works and even some outside (Smith of Wooten Minor... Farmer Giles of Ham... etc).

The Expert status is awarded to those who have been reading the works on average > than two years and have read all of the Silmarillion and UT and may have delved into the Letters and HoMe.

Below is a list of Experts. I would appreciate each member letting me know their gender. If we have no Female experts, I will remedy that shortly. I'm sure that a few of our Journeyman will shortly be ready for testing (yes I plan to test for promotion.)

Elfarmari - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Dwimmerlaik - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Mithlond - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Hirila - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Ceorl - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Elu Thingol - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
pohuist - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Mormegil - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
ithrynluin - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Anduril - Member and Expert Tolkienologist

[Anduril]

Male.

[Ciryaher]

Hm! Well it turns out that I'm joining this shindig! When's the party start? :D

[Grond]

Originally posted by Millena
Hmmzzz.... I'm probably the most inexpirienced one here...read the books only once so far.... Which probably means I'll have the rank of a shoe-cleaner.... but, Grond, is this guild alowed for the likes of me... I thought I could learn a lot here! And eventually, share my huge knowlege with other, new shoe-cleaners!:D
do I have to send a PM or something like that... ? I've noticed you wrote so to other new members... Millena, I have given you the rank of Apprentice as you requested. I would have ranked you a journeyman had it been left to me... but I will give you the first opportunity for promotion.

BTW, I made an avatar for you if you want it. It is saved below.

[Mithlond]

Grond, im a male. :)

Yeah i never really thought of that, male/female thing. I know for a fact there are female experts out there, but in the guild?
We shall see.

[Lhunithiliel]

FEMALE :D
...though I'm not an Expert.....

[Melian Le Fay]

FEMALE
though, I'm just a simple apprentice...
but soon to be an expert!!!!:D he he he ...

[Anduril]

Iacta alea est...!!!

Ladies are coming up...

somebody else?

[gate7ole]

Male
IMO the small number of females is not because women don't read Tolkien but because they don't use Internet

[Anduril]

...or they don't empathize with guys that read Tolkien...

:D

[Grond]

Millena, I posted you a new avatar up a few posts. Just copy it and you can use it if you like. If not, I can do something different for you.

[Nóm]

Originally posted by gate7ole
Male
IMO the small number of females is not because women don't read Tolkien but because they don't use Internet


I was unaware of any females among our experts. I know there are women at this forum who have been reading Tolkien for years. I just do not know why they are not here. I have since learned that there are women experts in this guild though. I noticed that Lhunithiliel and I seemed to be the most actives females (that I know of anyhow) here and in The Silmarillion section which is funny because her and I are newer readers...Journeymen.
I was thinking that female experts and masters for whatever reason are not as interested in studying Tolkien as men are. But I was probably wrong! :p
I brought the whole thing up for nothing basicly. I was wrong about it.

[Anduril]

Anyway is a good observation...

:o

[Melian Le Fay]

Grond, don't worry, I liked the avatar and I;m going to put it, but I'm a little stupid about computers and files, so I can't put it right now... I'll need like 1 hour to find out how to convert it into a .jpeg or .gif file...
but thanx a lot for making it!!!
And why was it downloaded 8 times?!!!

And as for the male-female discussion, i think men are more attracted to Tolkien's work because it's epic, and guys do like fights and all... Of course, I'm not trying to generalise things, it's merely an observation... And I'm talking about boys and girls, while the "grownups" have a developed taste, and choose to read the books according to their own likes... actually, it seems like boys read LOTR at a bit earlier age than girls... That was like with all of my friends : 10 of them 6 boys and 4 girls, and all the boys read the books at the age of 13-15, while we read them at the age 17-20... But, like i said, this is merely my observation...

[Grond]

Millena, it is already a .gif file. All you need do is right click on it and then click on "save as..." and name it.

It will then be saved on your disc and you can link to it as you did before through the user cp.

[Melian Le Fay]

I made it!
I saved the whole page instead of saving only the picture...
Thanx, Grond!

[Kementari]

Ooh! I'd like to join please!!

[Grond]

I'd like to welcome Ciryaher to our Guild. He will be coming in as Asst. Guildmaster and Master Tolkienologist. Cir is one of the forum's original members and has been here just about as long as anyone. He is also a moderator which will be beneficial for the guild when I'm away.

His main goal will be to start up a new RPG section for the Guild. Within the next month or so, we will open our first Tolkien based Role Playing Game. Ciryaher has extensive experience in organizing and coordinating these and I look forward to his input.

Maedhros will continue in his role as Deputy Guildmaster and will be responsible for the non-RPG threads of the guild and of both inter- and intra guild debating.

We also have another long time TTF member joining our guild as well. Kementari has been here since the old board too and has requested admission. I am very proud that our membership is now up to 33.

Congratulations to the guild and to our newest members. Welcome!

One last little thing. Please, everyone, go to the thread on the guild description and vote. There are only 15 votes and we have 33 members. Someone ain't votin'. I want this finalized by 10/01/02. Please take the time to involve yourself in shaping this most important feature of the guild. Our description is what others will measure us by. :)

[Hirila]

Originally posted by Millena
And as for the male-female discussion, i think men are more attracted to Tolkien's work because it's epic, and guys do like fights and all... Of course, I'm not trying to generalise things, it's merely an observation... [...]actually, it seems like boys read LOTR at a bit earlier age than girls...

Well, I think it all depends on who or what influences you in your youth. My big brother always read Star Wars and Shadowrun books. And so do I since I was... about 13 years. SF is one of the best genres I can imagine. SF and Fantasy, to which LotR belongs, there being no extrapolation of "our" technologies but magic and such things.

Yes, here is a female expert Tolkienologist !
Girls, I am proud of us, we're really doing well among all these men here.

I started reading Tolkien when I was about 14. Could be earlier, could be later, I can't remember. Then I got interested in the history of ME and especially his languages. That's the female part of me. No technologies or weapons, but the language.

btw, Grond, I can't vote on the changed Guild descriptions, it tells me I already voted, which I didn't. At least not at the new, changed poll. But perhaps you can vote for me for description 5.

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Lhunithiliel
FEMALE :D
...though I'm not an Expert.....
ooooo you'll be soon an exert I think!But I don't know when I'll have such chance and whether it will be this century if I have such:(

[Lantarion]

Yeah, me too! Don't really know why, but bring it on! :D

[Grond]

For those of you wondering... one of the highest priorities when I get back from vacation will be to implement the policies on promotion. I intend to do this via a timed test that I will administer online and an essay on a topic of the Promotion's Committe choosing. I haven't worked out the details yet but we will have a procedure in place before the end of October.

There will still be requirements before you can test. For example, you must have read the Hobbit, LotR and Sil before you can be a Journeyman. You must have added the UT and some HoMe before you are an Expert. Your must read all Middle-earth works and some of the non Middle-earth works to be Master.

But.... having said that, nothing is set in stone yet. We will see where our destiny takes us. :)

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Grond
For those of you wondering... one of the highest priorities when I get back from vacation will be to implement the policies on promotion. I intend to do this via a timed test that I will administer online and an essay on a topic of the Promotion's Committe choosing. I haven't worked out the details yet but we will have a procedure in place before the end of October.

There will still be requirements before you can test. For example, you must have read the Hobbit, LotR and Sil before you can be a Journeyman. You must have added the UT and some HoMe before you are an Expert. Your must read all Middle-earth works and some of the non Middle-earth works to be Master.

But.... having said that, nothing is set in stone yet. We will see where our destiny takes us. :)
Have a nice vacation Grond,please do not smash too many elves!;)

[Grond]

As most of you know, I will be gone for the next 7 days. I will return to the forum on 09/29/02. Please PM any potential members who post here and let them know that they are welcome to our guild but they won't be officially set up until I return.

To all of you, keep up your good debate (I have been watching) and we have more things to discuss on the debating front when I return.

Peace to all and have a great week while I'm away. I'll miss you all!! :)

[Éomond]

Are there any requierments to join the Guild?

[Nóm]

Anyone who wants in may Join. We'd be happy to have you! :) Grond is the leader and he is on vacation right now, but if you want to join he will put you on the list as soon as he gets back. You might want to go ahead and send him a PM explaining; which books you have read, how many times, and how long you have been reading Tolkien. He will give you a ranking that will be used for picking debate teams.

[Éomond]

Ok, I'll pm him. I've been looking at this guild for a while and I'd really like to join. Thanks agian!:)

[Elenaelin]

Hey...I sent Grond a pm, apparently he's read it...but I have gotten no reply....Is this a cause to be concerned?:confused:

[Nenya Evenstar]

No, I don't think so. Grond has been on vacation for the past few days and is probably very busy. Just wait for a little bit, and I'm sure you'll get a PM back.

[Grond]

Elenaelin, I am so very sorry. I read your PM and thought I had added you to the list but alas, it was not so.

Your are admitted to the guild and awarded the rank of Journeyman. As you've been told, I've been very busy but welcoming new members is my most important job and I've made a lousy go of it in your case. Please accept my humblest and most sincere apologies. Please add your guild affiliation and rank to your signature. Simply add at the bottom of your sig the following code.

Guildmaster of the [url=http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6012]Guild of Tolkienology[/url
[color=blue]Master Tolkienologist[/color

Just add a ] to the end of [/url and [/color and you'll be all set. Also when you get to 100 posts, select a picture for your avatar and one of us will make add our Guild tile and make it look neat for you. :)

[Elenaelin]

It's nothing Grond- I was just being a tad paranoid- I'm sure it must be very hectic being a returning-from-vacation guild leader. Thank you very much:D

[Nóm]

Welcome to the Guild of Tolkienology Elenaelin! Glad to have you aboard.

[Elenaelin]

Thanks Confusticated- it's a relief to find a nice guild that's members are serious about Tolkien's work (some of the posts i've seen have been SCARY!) It's nice to be accepted...but now I feel obligated to read ALL the posts on ALL the threads...which could take awhile...oh well.. ;)

[dgoof911]

May I join. I know I dont know that much, but I would like to learn more and I figure this is the guild to do so.

[Nóm]

Hello dgoof911,
This is a good place to learn more. Send Grond a private message telling him; how long you have been reading Tolkien, which books you have read and how many times you've read them. He will give you a ranking based on that information and it will be used for planning debate teams.

[kazren]

Okay, here is a quiz for those of you who have read the books 20-30 times (like me) and thought you knew a thing or two.

1: Whom did Gimli ride behind from Fangorn to Edoras?
2: Whom did Gimli ride behind from Edoras to Helm's Deep?
3: Whom did Gimli ride behind from Helm's Deep to Isengard?
4: Whom did Gimli ride behind from Isengard to Paths of the Dead?



*




*





*




*



answers: 1:Gandalf, 2:Eomer, 3&4:Legolas

How many of you answered Legolas for all of them???

[Nóm]

Originally posted by kazren
Okay, here is a quiz for those of you who have read the books 20-30 times (like me) and....


You have read The Lord of The Rings 20-30 times? I'm sure you can contribute a lot to this Guild then. And no, I did not get your questions correct. I do not remember him riding with Eomer.

[Nenya Evenstar]

I didn't get them all right either.... I knew that there was an Eomer in there somewhere. I spaced out Gandalf though. And then of course Legolas was high up on the list....

[Grond]

Originally posted by dgoof911
May I join. I know I dont know that much, but I would like to learn more and I figure this is the guild to do so. You are more than welcome to join. I have added your name to the roll but will need to receive your PM before I can assign you a rank.

Thanks for joining.

[Valinorean]

I haven't been on the forum for months, but I am glad to come back to such a great opportunity! I think this guild will be fascinating! I will PM you Grond, with my quals.

[Grond]

(I am surviving the hurricane intact. My service has been in and out and, as you can see, it is in now.)

Welcome aboard Valinorean. We are indeed priviledged to have you as a a member. Your experience in Tolkien earn you the rank of Expert. Your name is added to the rolls.

[Khamul]

Welcome to the guild.

[Tom]

Hi. please please please (with a cherry on the top) may I join too???
I've only read LOTR but I've read that like about 20 times. And no one else I know has read the book! Ironic considering Tolkien was from South Africa and the South Africans are so clueless wrt his books.

[Elenaelin]

HI Tom-welcome to the board- PM Grond (it may take him a while- he's having bad weather in his area) telling him that- you'll be an apprentice:D

[Grond]

Tom you are welcomed to the guild. You are awarded the rank of Apprentince but we will all help you and dgoof911 to quickly pass to the rank of Journeyman. You will need to read both the Hobbit and the Silmarillion. If you need the books, I will be happy to help you get them.

[Gil-Galad]

Hey,Grond our guild is getting bigger and bigger!As you said after some time we'll be a million!
By the way how was your vacation?;) :p :cool: Sunny?

[Melian Le Fay]

There's more and more of us?!?! Does that mean we'll soon have to roll up our sleeves and start doing some charting? ;) :p

[Tom]

Thanks for the warm welcome y'all. And thanks for the offer Grond. Where are you from?

[Grond]

Originally posted by Tom
Thanks for the warm welcome y'all. And thanks for the offer Grond. Where are you from? I'm from the good old U S of A and live in the sunny south in the Great State of Louisiana. :)

[gate7ole]

Anybody knows were's Lhuthiniliel is? She hasn't posted for more than a week. The guild is poorer without her.

[Nenya Evenstar]

I was wondering the same thing. I really miss her and her posts.... :(

[Grond]

I've emailed her to make sure everything is allright. I hope I didn't do something to anger her. :(

[Nóm]

Originally posted by gate7ole
Anybody knows were's Lhuthiniliel is? She hasn't posted for more than a week. The guild is poorer without her.
I've e-mailed her also. About a week ago and have still not heard back from her. She did leave the forum for awhile once before so this isn't unusual enough to have me worried.

[Samwise_hero]

No one worries that i left the guild for a while! Lol! Joking. I have been enjoying a two week holiday in Sydney, Australia. So.......Seeing as i haven't been here for a while i'm not quite sure what's going on so please help. I'm a little vauge. :D

[gate7ole]

Samwise_hero, there's a reading discussion starting tomorrow (Saturday) and the first topic will be Ainulindale. The details are given in the respective thread.
Also, there was an essay contest. I don't know if you participated but the results will be posted probably on Monday.
Our guild "games" are the "What If" and another one at the "Apprentices" thread.
For any "difficult" question you have, post it in the "Never Asked Question" thread.
Finally there is an ongoing debate with the Ost-in-edhil guild. Visit their guild to read it.

[Thomas Baggins]

can i join i don't know extremely much but i read tolkien night and day

[Nenya Evenstar]

Yes, I'm sure you can join. Just PM Grond telling him which books you have read, and he'll give you your rank. Great to see you here! :)

[Samwise_hero]

Thanks Gate7ole for the aid, i was getting a little freaked out at all the different things.

[Elennainie]

Hi. Thanks for the invitation, Grond. I'd like to join your guild, too.:)

[ravenbrand]

hello grond
I wish to take your test to see how much i really know about tolkien;)

[Nóm]

Welcome to the Guild Elennainie. It's good to have you join us here.

:D

[Elennainie]

Thanks, Confusticated. I'm glad to be here. You guys seem so nice. :)

[Melian]

Dear Grond,
Could a Maia like me join the fellowship of Guildsmen?

[Lantarion]

This may have been answered before, but what exactly does it mean to be a 'Journeyman' of the Guild of Tolkienology? A lot of people have that title in their sigs or avatars, and I've ben wondering: what on earth does it mean?! :)

[Grond]

Our guild has ranks based on my interpretation of their level of Tolkien knowledge. Guild ranks begin at the Apprentice (beginner) level and go to Journeyman (intermediate) level to the Expert (advanced) level to the Master (very advanced) level.

[Grond]

Originally posted by Melian
Dear Grond,
Could a Maia like me join the fellowship of Guildsmen? We are an equal opportunity guild and welcome Tolkien fans of all physical and political persuasions. So... of course you are welcome to join. See my pm that has been sent to you for instructions on receiving your rank.

[Húrin Thalion]

Hi, seems like a great guild, would like to be a member!

Elen

[Elenaelin]

Just pm Grond (he's our venerable Guild leader) saying what book's youve read, etc., so he can determine your rank in the guild.:) We'll be happy to have you in the Guild Elen :D Here's (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6912) a link that tells what you need to send.

[kazren]

Okay, I'm a member of the Guild - but what are we, as a group, going to do with this lovely forum? I even have the Letters of Tolkien, two copies of the Silmarillion, four copies (hard cover) of LOTR, and three of The Hobbit. Are we going to discuss our collections? I think I'm missing the point or something.

[Grond]

Originally posted by kazren
Okay, I'm a member of the Guild - but what are we, as a group, going to do with this lovely forum? I even have the Letters of Tolkien, two copies of the Silmarillion, four copies (hard cover) of LOTR, and three of The Hobbit. Are we going to discuss our collections? I think I'm missing the point or something. Have you even looked in the Tolkienology guild forum kazren?

There are discussions going on in droves. There is a guild sponsered discussion of the entire Silmarillion taking place in the Sil Forum. The Ainulindale has been completed and we have moved on to The Valaquenta. We will be having another intra-guild debate soon. If you want to participate, all you need to do is jump in.

I guess I'm missing your point entirely. What exactly are you asking?

[kazren]

I thought this WAS the Tolkienology guild. I haven't gone back up the tree of forums - so I didn't understand. You made it clear. Thank you.

[Grond]

Originally posted by kazren
I thought this WAS the Tolkienology guild. I haven't gone back up the tree of forums - so I didn't understand. You made it clear. Thank you. Oops!! Sorry. :o I though you were being sarcastic. ;)

[Mrs. Maggott]

I would like to apply for membership, but I have a problem. Because of time constraints and other personal matters, I may not be able to immediately respond to your "entrance exam", so to speak. If this would be problematic, it would be deeply appreciated if you would withhold the "initiation test" until I can let you know I am able to sit down and give it the time it deserves.

If I need to give you any information (e-mail etc.) which you might not already have, then let me know. Oh heck! vaproto@aol.com is the e-mail. I'm sure if I have to respond to any questions other than the "test", you will let me know how and where to do so.

Thank you. :)

[Nóm]

Mrs. Maggott!
I'm glad to see you here.

[Grond]

I would like to welcome Mrs. Maggott to the guild. She will replace (at least temporarily) ravenbrand who has not responded to my request for additional information and who hasn't posted since 10/24.

Mrs. Maggott has been involved in several, extremely interesting discussions in the Movie Forums concerning the adaptive quality of the film. She knows her stuff so I'm sure everyone will join me in welcoming her to our guild.

MM please feel free to jump in any discussions that are ongoing. Currently an indepth Silmarillion discussion, hosted by this guild, is underway in the Silmarillion Forum. We also have several different discussions taking place right here in the guild forum.

Lastly, I want to apologize to all the guild members for not being more of a presence here in the last few weeks, but, alas... moderating duties and an increased involvement in my family business has encroached on the time I have to commit to such an endeavor. I am working hard to balance these actiivities and look forward to being more involved in the near future. :)

[Lhunithiliel]

Originally posted by Grond
Lastly, I want to apologize to all the guild members for not being more of a presence here in the last few weeks, but, alas... moderating duties and an increased involvement in my family business has encroached on the time I have to commit to such an endeavor. I am working hard to balance these actiivities and look forward to being more involved in the near future. :)
I have noticed this, Master and I several times wanted to post with a question "Where is HE?", but then I thought that I might be misunderstood ... :rolleyes:
Anyway, if you need us to help you in any way, I hope we all shall do it!:cool:
-------
Mrs.Maggot, WELCOME and be happy with us! :)

[Elennainie]

moderating duties and an increased involvement in my family business has encroached on the time I have to commit to such an endeavor. I am working hard to balance these actiivities

I'm relieved to know that someone else finds it hard to balance family and participate on the forum! ;) I would so love to participate and read along with you guys in the Sil. discussion, but with working 40 hours a week... :( - eeeks! How do you guys find time to read all those additional readings, etc?

Oh, and welcome Mrs. Maggot! :D It'll be nice to have your expertise here in the guild.

[Mithlond]

That's exactly how i feel Elennainie. I work 45 hrs a week and i really dont have time for much at all except for the weekends, and even then i try to get out with my friends. As a result there is very little time for the guild. But i try my best to particiate, i just dont have time to read the books that often to particpate in the reading discussion. :(

[Mrs. Maggott]

Remember all my illustrious fellow Guild members (how nice it is to be able to say/write that!), tis not QUANTITY that counts, but QUALITY! ;)

[Nenya Evenstar]

Wecome, Mrs. Maggot! Great to see you! :)

Grond, I understand - just remember not to work yourself too hard. ;)

How do I find time to participate in the discussions? Well, I seriously lack a life at the moment. :D

[gate7ole]

Originally posted by Elennainie
How do you guys find time to read all those additional readings, etc?

This is one of the advantages of being young and still not having many responsibilities. Of course, everyone of us will some time lose this privilege too and join the club of fully-occupied adults.

[Proudfoots]

Though I have been a rogue poster in the past, i have had more time on line recently (government job) and i feel the need to at least test my knowledge on your challenge.

oh yeah, if the personal message is via email, i think my old account is out of date, and i haven't figured out how to change it yet, so
finmadden@hotmail.com


'foots

[gandalfthegrey]

may i join your guild please

thanks :D

[Grond]

Welcome to Proudfoots and gandalfthegrey. I will add your names to the roll. Please contact me via MSN or AOL Messengers to arrange for testing.

My MSN Messenger address is richardepope@hotmail.com and my AOL Instant Messenger Handel is grondster. Your rank will be awarded once you contact me as to which rank you wish to test for and then take the test. :) :D

TO ALL GUILDMEMBERS. I HAVE POSTED A NEW THREAD DISCUSSING THE GUILD RANKING SYSTEM. PLEASE REVIEW THIS (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7199) THREAD AND GIVE ME YOUR OPINIONS IN THE THREAD AND IN THE POLL. YOUR VOTES WILL DETERMINE WHETHER WE ADOPT THIS NEW SYSTEM OF NOT.

[Winch]

I'm curious, I see the title of Guildsman under my name but I haven't applied for any kind of membership. According to the ranking system I think I would fall into the Journeyman category but I don't believe I could pass a test at that rank. Anyway send me the test and I'll see how I do.
This is open book right? :)

[Proudfoots]

maybe I posted this in the wrong place before...

I am interested in the challenge.

'foots

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by gate7ole
This is one of the advantages of being young and still not having many responsibilities. Of course, everyone of us will some time lose this privilege too and join the club of fully-occupied adults.
Yeah.But the fact I'm a student and that's my last year at school doesn't make things better.I'm at school from 7:30pm till 1:20 pm.Then I have to learn my lessons and write my homewroks or projects till 17:30 when I have to go on a walk with my dog.And after that I have private lessons (only in Tuesady and Thursday) till 21:00 pm.Do you think I have abilities to stay in the forum as much as I wish?:(

[Húrin Thalion]

Ahhhh! Beloved elementary school. I feel honestly sorry for you all who haven't got as much spare time as us youngsters without any troubles...
(Not entirely without, meaning Therese:( )

Elen

[Gil-Galad]

There should be a law that guarantees the right of EVERYONE to stay in the forum as much as he wishes!!!!!!!!!

[Grond]

We have now reached the 50 member limit I had previously set. The guild will be temporarily closed to new membership until new slots open up due to inactive members.

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Grond
We have now reached the 50 member limit I had previously set. The guild will be temporarily closed to new membership until new slots open up due to inactive members.
What do you mean by inactive members?

[Grond]

People who haven't posted on forum in the last two months will be deemed inactive and lose their membership. I will first send emails before doing so to give them a chance to participate. If there are special circumstances, their spot will be held open.

[Gil-Galad]

That's good idea,because I have in May and June some exams and won't have time for the forum.
By the way we should have the same policy about the members of the forum.There are members who haven't written anything.I have friends who want to join our forum,but the names they want to have are already in use by members who have never posted anything.Is that fair?

[Khamul]

That sounds very fair, Grond.

[Grond]

Originally posted by Gil-Galad
That's good idea,because I have in May and June some exams and won't have time for the forum.
By the way we should have the same policy about the members of the forum.There are members who haven't written anything.I have friends who want to join our forum,but the names they want to have are already in use by members who have never posted anything.Is that fair? Funny you should bring this up since the Webmaster just deleted everyone with 0 posts who hasn't posted in three months. Many usernames were freed up.

[Winch]

I guess I had better withdraw my request for application unless you want to send the test so I can just see how I do. I suspect I will lose interest in this forum and become inactive beore long anyway. I always do as I seem to float from one interest to another.

[Grond]

Winch and Buu have both withdrawn their names from the lists. dark ifrit has requested membership. Sorry to lose the two and happy to gain the one. :)

[Nenya Evenstar]

Welcome dark ifrit! I hope you enjoy this wonderful guild. :)

[Maeglin]

are there any spots left? Grond I read the application rules thread and did exactly what it said..... I think, and I haven't gotten a response so......if there are any spots left and I am allowed in, thank you, if not, well then thanks anyway, I'll come back again when there are more spaces available.:)

[Grond]

Originally posted by Glorfindel1187
are there any spots left? Grond I read the application rules thread and did exactly what it said..... I think, and I haven't gotten a response so......if there are any spots left and I am allowed in, thank you, if not, well then thanks anyway, I'll come back again when there are more spaces available.:) Well, shame on me!! I have added your name to the member roll but forgot to welcome you to the Guild. Welcome Glorfindel1187. You are now officially a member of the Guild of Tolkienology. Contact me on MSN/Messenger or AOL I/M to setup a time for taking the online portion of your test. The written test will be emailed to you once the objective, real-time test is finished.

All who have recently applied need to check the member list thread to see if their name has been added. If it has not, please PM me. Also, all new members may PM me or visit me on MSN Messenger (richardepope@hotmail.com) or on AOL I/M (grondster), to arrange for testing.

[flame]

please can i join, you can ask me anything, just asking can i join this guild.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Welcome, Glorfindel1187! Enjoy yourself... we really are nice people! ;)

[Azog]

Can you ask me the questions? I don't want to join, just wanting to see if I can answer them. I am not smart enough for the GOT.

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Glorfindel1187
are there any spots left? Grond I read the application rules thread and did exactly what it said..... I think, and I haven't gotten a response so......if there are any spots left and I am allowed in, thank you, if not, well then thanks anyway, I'll come back again when there are more spaces available.:)
Some more elves in the Guild?I'm glad that you joined us;) .Such a great elf like you deserves to be in the Guild.Welcome Glorfindel1187!!!!!!!!!:)

[Maeglin]

Well thank you very much.:)

[Fimbrethil]

I am but newly come to these boards, but finding it good fun :D I may not be as an extreme addict as many, but I dearly love Tolkiens works.

Hmm, I took that quiz thing that another memeber of the guild posted in these forums and came up with a score of 110. I got the number of days in an elvish year wrong.

Your Evaluation:
Correct Answers: 17
Wrong Answers: 1

Total Correct Answers 110
Total Wrong Answers: 1

Then I entered my name and IE crashed on me. I go back to that page an it won't let me go any further. Damn microsoft :(

[Froggum]

I'd like to join. Could you send me the questions? :D

[Calimehtar]

I would like to join your guild. I have read The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion. Though I did not really "grasp" The Sil. so, when ranking me, I guess consider I haven't read it. Though I just started re-reading the 'series'. I read The Hobbit last week. And I just finished Book 1 of The Fellowship of the Ring tonight. I plan on re-reading The Silmarillion again so I can understand it and get all the names right. Then I'll read the rest of Tolkien's work. I am also learning Quenya, in fact, I have posted on this guilds board about Quenya earlier tonight. So, please Private Message me with the Test as soon as possible.

Thanks:D

[Grond]

Welcome to Fimbrethil, Bilbosbane and Froggum. I administer the objective portion of the test first and prefer to do it in real time on line. My MSN Messenger email is richardepope@hotmail.com and my AIM handle is grondster. Please look for me to be on Sunday or Monday and I'll be able to administer the objective portion. Once you pass that part of the test, I'll email you the subjective/essay portion of the exam.

Welcome one and all. I'll be out of town until Sunday morning... so I'll catch up with all my wonderful guildmates then. :)

[Maeglin]

Hey Grond about the Objective portion of the test, I've tried e-mailing you and haven't gotten a response, and I've also tried Instant Messenging you several times but haven't gotten a response, whats going on?:confused:

[Éomond]

I'm sorry but I am resiging from the Guild. I am not active as I think I sould, mainly because I've only read FotR and am reading the TT. I might join agian once I've read the Silmarillion (which I'll be reading in a month) and RotK. but for now, I'm leaving the guild. Thanks!:)

[Nenya Evenstar]

Isildur, I am very sorry to hear that you are resigning from this guild mainly because you have not read all the books. I believe that part of the reason for this guild is to help people learn more about the books. As this is the case, I see every reason why you should stay. :( We shall miss you very much.

[Anduril]

Isildur...

I'm very sorry to hear this, really.

:(


I hope we'll get you here soon in a very very near future...

[Éomond]

Like I said
I might join agian once I've read the Silmarillion (which I'll start reading in a month)...but for now, I'm leaving the Guild.
I could and I probably will be back once I've read the Silmarillion and some of RotK. But, once agian, I'm leaving for now, Goodbye!

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Isildur
Like I said

I could and I probably will be back once I've read the Silmarillion and some of RotK. But, once agian, I'm leaving for now, Goodbye!
OO Isildur you shouldn't give up....:(

[Zale]

Can I join please? I'll be ever such a good member!
[/creep mode]

[Finduilas]

Grond,I would very much like to become a member of your Guild.Please let me be more happy on Christmas!:)

[Elennainie]

Welcome Fimbrethil, Bilbosbane, Froggum, Finduilas & Zale! Whew, I hope I haven't missed anybody - lots of new people lately, which is great! :D I hope you have great fun in our guild. We're having Christmas in the Hall of Creative Endeavors, if you want to take a look...cookies and hot cocoa for everyone!!! :)

[Lhunithiliel]

Welcome to all you, who have applied!
Make the Guild be proud with you! :)

Make yourself comfortable here. It is a nice and cosy place. Look around, read every thread and introduce yourself to the rest of us by posting in the threads.

Former Isildur, I am really sorry for your decision.... but we all know how generous the Master is.... he permits everybody in and out , because what we have here is a democratic society....
I personally respect greatly your honesty to state the reason you're leaving! I'll be happy to meet you again as a Guild of Tolkienology member! :)

[Celebithil]

Hello i'm new to this forum but not to Tolkien. I would like to join this guild if possible. I've read The Hobbit (2), LOTR (4) Silmarillion (2) and a few other assorted works not sure exactly which ones, right now working on Lost Tales.

[gate7ole]

Celebithil, welcome to the guild.
Let me introduce you to the on going events of the guild.

1.We have organized a series of lectures about several themes of the Tolkien mythology. Right now, we're at the the bidding process. You can join this at Hall of Seminars (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7640&pagenumber=4), and even choose one of the remaining lectures to deal with.

2.If you're interested in learning Quenya, we have started a course. Check Quenya Course (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7232) for a general background and the appropriate threads for each chapter. Right now, we're at the 3rd chapter.

3.There are 2 threads about writing stories you might want to check and contibute:
Game:Continue the Legend! (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7788)
The "WHAT IF...?" game (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6189&goto=lastpost)

4.We're planning a debate. It will start after the holidays, but if you're interested, you can post at the Happenings in the Guild (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6074)

5. Finally check the Tolkienolgoist's Creative Endeavors Hall! (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7115)

[Gil-Galad]

Originally posted by Finduilas
Grond,I would very much like to become a member of your Guild.Please let me be more happy on Christmas!:)
Welcome Finduilas!I'm glad you joined us!:)

[Morgoth]

it would be an honour to join your guild. i would much like to join. please.

[Lhunithiliel]

You are most welcome , MIGHTY VALA! :)

Take your time, look around and feel yourself at home!

Oh! There's a Christmas party coming at the Hall of creative endeavours (what a spelling! :D) . DON'T MISS IT! Come and contribute as much as your heart desires.

I know these days people are more likely to party etc. ... But the holidays will pass and starting from the beginning of January, I truly hope new enthusiastic members like you will make new and valuable contributions to the Guild.
Therefore, I offer you :

FEEL FREE TO POST YOUR OPINIONS IN THREADS, TO OPEN NEW THREADS, TO ASK QUESTIONS, TO PARTICIPATE IN DEBATES AND IN ANY AND ALL GUILD-ACTIVITIES!

Prove yourself to be the mightiest of them all ;)

Lhun

P.S. And of course,

MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A MOST HAPPY NEW YEAR! :D

[gandalfthegreat]

-I am very new to the Tolkien Forum, and I am looking for a place where I can debate as well as learn much as possible about Tolkiens works. It seems to me that your guild is the perfect place to do so, so I would like to apply for a posistion in this guild of tolkienology. Please send me the test, and whatever other bother you have in store for me.-

Gandalf The Great.

[Lhunithiliel]

You have come to just the right place! :D

Make yourself at home, meet everyone, look through the threads and chose where you can post your opinions.

There is a list of Lecture-topics, offered in
The Hall of Seminars (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7640) , just as well as here (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7878). You may pick up one of the left topics.
Or you might find it interesting to know that there is a new debate coming soon. It's going to be announced after the holidays.

Anyway, as I've said, feel at home in this Guild. There are A LOT of other interesting threads!

And, of course, THERE'S A PARTY GOING ON
here (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7115)

and MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!

[gandalfthegreat]

I would like to thank the Guild for allowing me to join...And I would also like to wish everyone Happy Holidays...

Thanks Again,

-Gandalf-

[FoolOfATook]

I humbly offer my sword... errr... brain to the Masters of this thrice gracious guild, if they see fit to take me. I've read LOTR three or four times, The Silmarillion once, the History of The Lord Of The Rings (Volumes VI-IX of the HOME) once, the Hobbit at least half a dozen times, the letters of JRRT probably two and a half times (I have a tendency to skip around in that glorious volume), and I'm currently working my way through the Annotated Hobbit and the Unfinished Tales, somewhat concurrently.

A Fool Of A Took, at your service.

[Lhunithiliel]

Welcome honourable hobbit! :D

It will be an honour to have YOU among us!
Take your time, look around, meet the Guild-members, read through the threads in the Guild.... Make yourself at home and make the Guild be proud of you!

Merry Christmas!

[elvish-queen]

*Bows*
I am afraid I posted in the Quenya course thread before I saw this....
forgive me??
Anyway, may I be a member of kind, just so that I can take part in the Quenya course?? (that's if I ever catch up!)
EQ

[Elros Halfelven]

Though I have chosen to be Mortal, may I join the guild?

[Lhunithiliel]

elvish-queen, welcome!
You may participate in ANY Guild's activity even NOT being a member :)

Elros, welcome to you , too!!! ! :)
Though I have chosen to be Mortal....
Oh! FINALLY! You have solved one of the biggest misteries, discussed and debated on in this forum ;)

Both of you, AND ALL YOU, NEWCOMMERS TO THE GUILD, for the moment, you have the time and opportunity of looking around, meeting the Guild-members etc. Read the application instructions and you may also think what your contribution to the Guild will be....
When the Guild Master comes back, there will be a period in which he will look through the applications of every new applicant and you will get your ranks.

Until then, you are welcome to be among us!

[gate7ole]

To every new member of the Guild of Tolkienologists.
Welcome to the guild. In order to acquire a rank, you should give us some info about your experience with Tolkien and his books. Please PM me or Lhunithiliel with this info and you will soon acquire your rank. (This rank is in a way temporary for all members, since there will be some tests in a while).

[Dáin Ironfoot I]

I would like to join... I'll PM Lhunithilel with my experience.

[Lhunithiliel]

This announcement has been posted in the "Happenings"-thread, but all of you, who come to apply, please take it into consideration.

Announcement
ATTENTION
From behalf of the Deputy Masters of the Guild, I announce the beginning of the PROBATION PERIOD. It will last a month (until the end of January).
During this probation period every guild member shall prove his/her willingness to seriously and productively contribute for the Guild's work. Replying to this post isn’t necessary. What is necessary is the participation in some of the activities of the guild. After the end of it, the members that didn’t show such a willingness will unfortunately lose their membership.
The reason for the probation period is to free some spots for new members who will be more eager to contribute. Besides, the inactive members probably won’t care about their removal. Most members are known to us and they won’t have any problem at all to show their active involvement. To the few that have not been heard for months, this is their chance to return.
This probation period (but much shorter) will be also used for every new applicant in the future.
Thank you for your attention.

[Calimehtar]

Grond or anyone please, I have applied for membership WEEKS ago and I have finished 1/2 of the application tests. Grond gave me that half but had to leave and I have yet been able to finish. If anyone else can send it to me, I would be most grateful. And as for the participation, this is the place I post the most in. That is because I am in the Quenya Group, and once I am a member I will join in all the activities I can.

Thanks,
Calimehtar

My AOL and Yahoo is: CodyT8083

[gate7ole]

I understand that many of you have applied some weeks ago and may have passed a portion of the test.
But with the reorganization of the guild and Grond's absence we can't know who have done what.
Every applicant who's name isn't in the members-list, can be sure that s/he is not forgotten. After a while the new tests will start and everyone will get a rank and put the name of the guild at the signature. But until then, s/he is not limited in any way and can participate in all activities equally.

[Finduilas]

I have been applied more than a week ago but I haven't recieved none of the tests.Should I wait?:confused:

[Lhunithiliel]

Friends,
I would very much like to tell you how happy I am that you are here and that you wish to be a member of this honourable Guild!
No wonder! It is the BEST GUILD at TTF? :p

About the ranks

Remember - A rank should be won! A rank should be deserved! A rank should be defended!

The probation period is the first step of the application of the new rank-granting system of the GT and it applies to ALL.
During this period EVERYONE - rank or no rank - shall have to prove to EVERYBODY that s/he really cares for the Guild. This will be of course shown by your active participation in the Guild's activities.
Post, open threads, comment, suggest new ideas!!!!!
And, of course, read the books and prepare for the tests.

The tests
These shall apply to :
>> new applicants, who wish to get a rank within the guild and who during the ongoing probation period have proved they are ready to contribute actively to it
>> members of the Guild, who, during the ongoing probation period have proved they are ready to contribute actively to it and
wish to get a rank-"promotion" (I, am one of them, for example and I am doing my best to prepare for those tests!)

THE TESTS WILL START AFTER THE ONE-MONTH-LONG PROBATION PERIOD ENDS

So, please, don't worry about your ranks!
You will get them for sure!
And as I see from the applcations, this is going to be a Guild with "Experts" and "Masters" - Tolkienologists! :)

A happy Deputy Master

[Finduilas]

And as I see from the applcations, this is going to be a Guild with "Experts" and "Masters" - Tolkienologists!

Because you are like our teachers and good ones for certain.:)

[Elros Halfelven]

Due to the Holidays, I have been away, but I look to spending time here to remove myself from this crazy rat race I live in, as a teenager 20+ years ago, I began to read the TLoTR, I was the teachers aide in an imaginitive literature class, and I contributed as much as I could. I have probably read the books, The Hobbit, TLoTR, and The Silmarillion 10 times plus, I only hope that I can add to the forums by helping people to more enjoy the stories and hope to learn more from others, One thing life has taught, "even the youngest mind can teach us the simpler things that we may have forgot"

[goldmare]

While reading a post on the Guild of Scholars, it said I couldn't be a member of both the Guild of Scholars and the Guild of Tolkienology. Is this true, and if I have to choose one or the other, what is the difference between them?

[JMacEye]

I wish to be tested.

[Lhunithiliel]

WELCOME, goldmare and JMacEye!!!!! :D

The Guild of Tolkienology and the Guild of Scholars are debating guilds. This is why one have to chose to be a member of one or the other. In a debate between the guilds ....whose side will one take, otherwise ;)

Tests? There will be. Please read the Announcement thread about the new ranking system.

Meanwhile, you may PM me or gate7ole about your "lore" - the books you have read, the knowledge in Tolkien you have....

WELCOME AGAIN AND FEEL YOURSELF AT HOME!

Lhun

[Beleg]

I am a newbie in the 'online world of tolkien'. I dont know most of the rules and it will take me some time to get properly adjusted to such a wonderful envoirnment and world. meanwhile, I would dearly like to enter this guild.
I have read Hobbit, Lord of the rings, Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales and am currently reading Letters of Tolkien.
I would like to ask forgiveness if i have unconciously voilated any rule so far, and would like to be an active and an energetic member of this Tolkien world in common and this guild in particular.
i realize that i would have to take some test and there is a probihition period also. I would like a little bit of guidance, for i cant clearly understand the whole procedure.

[goldmare]

I'm a newbie myself, so I know exactly what you mean. I don't think you've broken any rules or anything, and at least you've done your reading (I haven't even finished the Silmarillion yet). I'll let someone who really knows what they're talking about tell you about the tests and everything. Welcome to the Guild!

[Lhunithiliel]

Ooooooooo...... Isn't it sweeeet!
A newby welcoming a newby! :)
Thank you very much goldmare!

Beleg_strongbow, welcome to the Guild!
In order to "find your way around", look through all the organization-related threads, like:
- the one you are in now;
-
this one (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6912)
- this one too (http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=8464)

Feel yourself among friends and the most important thing - contribute ! :)

Lhun

[Beleg]

Ah! Thanks for letting me join this guild. I would like to contribute to this one in any way i can:)
Oh and thanks goldmare and "lhun" (grins sheepishly, do you mind if i call you this? its a tad difficult to write your whole name.) for giving such welcome to a newbie. I allready feel at home here. Looking forward for some activities. I am a maniac for quizes and tests and i love to debate on Tolkien's works. :cool: guess i would find loads of people here to my likeness.

[Finduilas]

I am sorry for being so unpatient but I'd like to know when do the tests start,please?

[gate7ole]

The tests will probably start early on February, soon after the end of the probation period. If you want to get a higher rank, start studying soon;)

[gilgalad]

pleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepl easepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplea sepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease pleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepl easepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplea sepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease pleasepleasepleasepleaseplease let me in

[Gil-Galad]

First of all,
Welcome gg!!!!

[Grond]

Below is our latest membership list effective 01/29/03. Please post here or PM me with any questions.

Grond - Guildmaster and Master Tolkienologist
Ciryaher - Assistant Guildmaster and Master Tolkienologist
Gate7ole - Deputy Guildmaster and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Lhunithiliel - Deputy Guildmaster and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Mithlond - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Hirila - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Ceorl - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Elu Thingol - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
pohuist - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Nevavarein - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Mormegil - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Gil-Galad - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Eledhwen - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Anamatar IV - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Samwise_hero - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Millena - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Muffinly - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Beleg - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Anduril - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Kementari - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Valinorean - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Celebrien - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Thomas Baggins - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Elennainie - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Húrin Thalion - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Melian - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Mrs. Maggott - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
entbabe - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Proudfoots - Charter Member and (rank to be determined)
gandalfthegrey - Member and (rank to be determined)
Glorfindel1187 - Member and (rank to be deterimined)
ravenbrand - Member and (rank to be determined)
dark ifrit - Member and (rank to be determined)
Flame - Member and (rank to be determined)
Fimbrethil - Member and (rank to be determined)
Froggum - Member and (rank to be determined)
Calimehtar - Member and (rank to be determined)
Zale - Member and (rank to be determined)
Finduilas - Member and (rank to be determined)
Celebithil - Member and (rank to be determined)
Morgoth - Member and (rank to be determined)
Gandalfthegreat - Member and (rank to be determined)
FoolOfATook - Member and (rank to be determined)
Elvish-gueen - Member and (rank to be determined)
Elros Halfelven - Member and (rank to be determined)
Dáin Ironfoot I - Member and (rank to be determined)
Goldmare - Member and (rank to be determined)
JMacEye - Member and (rank to be determined)
Beleg_Strongbow - Member and (rank to be determined)
gilgalad - Member and (rank to be determined)

Inactive members::(
Dwimmerlaik - Charter Member and Expert Tolkienologist
Winged Elf - Charter Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Iron Maiden - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Vicerous Daydark - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
kazren - Charter Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Alcfalath - Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
Elenaelin - Member and Journeyman Tolkienologist
dgoof911 - Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist
Tom - Member and Apprentice Tolkienologist

Transferred members to Scholars::(
Maedhros
Elfarmari
Nom
Nenya Evenstar
ithrynluin
Sting
Isildur

Active members = 50

Inactive members = 9

Transferred members = 7

[Grond]

We again have reached our pre-set limit of 50 active members. I have moved some to the inactive list and others have transferred to the reorganized Scholars Guild under Maedhros' leadership.

I encourage new forum members to look into the Scholars guild as it is up and coming and in need of new members to help it grow. As we have more inactive members, we will again place them inactive and have space for more members. If you are set on joining our guild, please post in the apply here thread and I will place your name on our membership waiting list.

Thanks to all and it's good to be back.

[MATTMAN]

Can i join as well. I would love to be part of this guide. Thanks

[kaelath]

may i join????????

[Tuilin]

Hello
may I join aswell...well...or join the "waiting-list" since the guild seems to be filled up...??

[Lhunithiliel]

MATTMAN
kaelath
Tuilin

Have you read Grond's post just above yours?

Well, as I hate saying "No" to young TTF-ers willing to enter our Guild, let's do the following:

1/ PM FoolOfATook saying what your Tolkien knowledge is.
2/ The three of you prepare thoroughly for a test and discuss a possible testing date with FoolOfATook
3/ After you pass the tests and AFTER everyone in this Guild passes the rank-test, I am sure ;) :) there will be a place for the three of you.
BECAUSE... you sh