I watched one of these partially (that's all I could stomach). I understand that academic study of a subject can lead to some highly interesting aspects for discussion while adding some interesting theories about said work. Fair enough.
But who the actual fuck were these people btw? And to the best of my knowledge, much of academic studies on pop-culture are theoretical. In other words, here's another interpretation of the work, but not necessarily facts per se.
The lecture I saw was so disingenuous with the facts, that we know about Tolkien's work. I mean, she was bleating on about trans/gay issues in the work (trans issues were huge back then - LOL). Basically stating that they were definitely present, etc. Now if that drongo had said, "well this is my personal interpretation and opinion." I wouldn't have a problem with that. I mean, I might have laughed at the absurdity of it. But, sure, that's her opinion.
What fucked me off though, was that she stated everything as a FACT in the text. Bollox, says I. It does'nt work that way, especially as Tolkien left swathes of letters and documents clarifying his material.
Faux facts central.
Needless to say, I did not watch any more. I noticed that all the comments and dislikes were disabled. LOL.