https://tolkiengateway.net/w/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Sage&feedformat=atomTolkien Gateway - User contributions [en]2024-03-19T02:22:10ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.39.3https://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Anfalas&diff=387685Anfalas2024-03-16T21:30:02Z<p>Sage: restored sourced phrase about Elves in Anfalas</p>
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<div>{{location infobox<br />
| name=Anfalas<br />
| image=<br />
| caption=<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=Langstrand, Andafalasse<br />
| location=<br />
| type=Region<br />
| description=Western Gondor between [[Lefnui]] and [[Morthond]]<br />
| regions=<br />
| towns=<br />
| inhabitants=[[Gondorians]]<br />
| created=<br />
| destroyed=<br />
| events=<br />
}}<br />
'''Anfalas''', or '''Langstrand''', was a coastal fief<ref>{{HM|UI}}, entry ''Gondor'', p. 17</ref> between the rivers [[Lefnui]] and [[Morthond]] south of the [[Pinnath Gelin]] in the southwest of [[Gondor]].<ref>{{FR|Map}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
In the [[Third Age]] the [[Gondorians]] had traditions that it was once inhabited by [[Elves]], and there have been Elven dwellings, like [[Edhellond]].<ref>{{AB|Preface}}</ref><br />
<br />
After the [[Great Plague]] Gondor was so weakened that during the reign of King [[Telumehtar Umbardacil|Telumehtar]] the [[Corsairs of Umbar]] raided its coasts as far as the Anfalas.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}, entry for King Telumehtar</ref><br />
<br />
Lord [[Golasgil]] led a long line men of many sorts, hunters, herdsmen and men from little villages, which were scantily equipped, except the men of his household, to the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].<ref>{{RK|MT}}, p. 770</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
''Anfalas'' is a [[Sindarin]] name,<ref name=PE>{{PE|17}}, entry S ''Anfalas'', p. 97</ref> which means "Long Beach"<ref>{{VT|42a}}, p. 15</ref>. It consists of the elements ''[[and]]'' and ''[[falas]]'' ("beach", "strand")<ref name=PE/><ref>{{}}, entry Q '''falmalinnar''', p. 93</ref>. It is also translated as '''''Andafalasse''''' in [[Quenya]]<ref>{{PE|17}}, entry Q '''Sindarin'''p. 135</ref> and '''''Langstrand''''' in [[Westron]] ("translated" into English)<ref name=N>{{HM|N}}, entry '''Langstrand''', p. 773</ref>. [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] noted that the shortening of ''long'' to ''lang'' is very frequent in English place-names.<ref name=N/><br />
<br />
{{References}}<br />
[[Category:Gondor]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin names]]<br />
[[de:Anfalas]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:regions:gondor:anfalas]]<br />
[[fi:Anfalas]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=E.V._Gordon&diff=387654E.V. Gordon2024-03-15T13:35:14Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Eric Valentine Gordon''' ([[14 February]] [[1896]] – [[29 July]] [[1938]]) was a Canadian philologist who worked alongside [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] on various scholastic works and published books. <br />
==Early life==<br />
Gordon was educated at [[wikipedia:Victoria College, British Columbia|Victoria College]] and [[wikipedia:McGill University|McGill University]]. He also attended [[wikipedia:University College, Oxford|University College]] at [[University of Oxford|Oxford University]] (1920), and later taught at [[University of Leeds|Leeds University]] (1922-1931).<ref name=chance>[[Jane Chance]] (2003), ''[[Tolkien the Medievalist]]''</ref> <br />
<br />
==Works with Tolkien==<br />
While Tolkien was teaching at [[Leeds University]], Gordon had come to Leeds and Tolkien wrote in [[Diary of J.R.R. Tolkien|his diary]] "Eric Valentine Gordon has come and got firmly established and is my devoted friend and pal."<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 111</ref> Gordon worked with him on ''[[A Middle English Vocabulary]]'' and ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]''. <br />
<br />
The two also began the ''[[Viking Club]]'' where they would read [[Old Norse|Old Icelandic]] sagas (and drink a lot of beer) with students and faculty, and invent original [[Old English|Anglo-Saxon]] songs. A collection of these was privately published as the book ''[[Songs for the Philologists]]''.<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 112</ref><br />
<br />
In 1930, he married [[I.L. Gordon|Ida Pickles]], a former student and fellow philologist and later he taught at [[wikipedia:University of Manchester|Manchester University]] (1932-1938).<ref name=chance/> <br />
<br />
While Gordon died in 1938, yet another two works, to which Tolkien contributed, were published posthumously by Ida, who completed and revised them. The first was ''[[Pearl (E.V. Gordon)|Pearl]]'' (1953; Tolkien contributed to this book with a section, "[[Form and Purpose]]", in the introduction) and the second was ''[[The Seafarer (I.L. Gordon)|The Seafarer]]'' (1960).<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 145</ref><ref>[[Verlyn Flieger]] (2001). ''[[A Question of Time]]'', p. 262</ref><br />
<br />
==Bibliography, selected==<br />
;Books<br />
*[[1925]]: ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (edition)|Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]'' (co-editor with [[J.R.R. Tolkien]])<br />
*[[1927]]: ''[[An Introduction to Old Norse]]''<br />
*[[1937]]: ''[[The Battle of Maldon (E.V. Gordon)|The Battle of Maldon]]'' (editor)<br />
*[[1953]]: ''[[Pearl (E.V. Gordon)|Pearl]]'' (editor, later edited by [[I.L. Gordon]])<br />
*[[1960]]: ''[[The Seafarer (I.L. Gordon)|The Seafarer]]'' (editor, reworked by [[I.L. Gordon]])<br />
<br />
;Poems<br />
*[[1936]]: "[[Su Klukka Heljar]]" and "[[When I'm Dead]]", in ''[[Songs for the Philologists]]''<br />
<br />
;As contributor<br />
*[[1923]]: ''[[A Northern Venture]]''<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*[[G.H. Cowling]]<br />
*[[Letter to E.V. Gordon (2 January 1929)]]<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{WP|E.V. Gordon}}<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gordon, EV}}<br />
[[Category:Authors]]<br />
[[Category:Linguists]]<br />
[[Category:Canadian people]]<br />
[[Category:People by name]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=E.V._Gordon&diff=387653E.V. Gordon2024-03-15T13:31:26Z<p>Sage: Change layout of sections to resemble a biography more</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Eric Valentine Gordon''' ([[14 February]] [[1896]] – [[29 July]] [[1938]]) was a Canadian philologist who worked alongside [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] on various scholastic works and published books. <br />
==Early life==<br />
Gordon was educated at [[wikipedia:Victoria College, British Columbia|Victoria College]] and [[wikipedia:McGill University|McGill University]]. He also attended [[wikipedia:University College, Oxford|University College]] at [[University of Oxford|Oxford University]] (1920), and later taught at [[University of Leeds|Leeds University]] (1922-1931) and [[wikipedia:University of Manchester|Manchester University]] (1932-1938).<ref>[[Jane Chance]] (2003), ''[[Tolkien the Medievalist]]''</ref> In 1930, he married [[I.L. Gordon|Ida Pickles]], a former student and fellow philologist.<br />
<br />
==Works with Tolkien==<br />
While Tolkien was teaching at [[Leeds University]], Gordon had come to Leeds and Tolkien wrote in [[Diary of J.R.R. Tolkien|his diary]] "Eric Valentine Gordon has come and got firmly established and is my devoted friend and pal."<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 111</ref> Gordon worked with him on ''[[A Middle English Vocabulary]]'' and ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]''. <br />
<br />
The two also began the ''[[Viking Club]]'' where they would read [[Old Norse|Old Icelandic]] sagas (and drink a lot of beer) with students and faculty, and invent original [[Old English|Anglo-Saxon]] songs. A collection of these was privately published as the book ''[[Songs for the Philologists]]''.<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 112</ref><br />
<br />
While Gordon died in 1938, yet another two works, to which Tolkien contributed, were published posthumously by [[I.L. Gordon|Ida Gordon]], who completed and revised them. The first was ''[[Pearl (E.V. Gordon)|Pearl]]'' (1953; Tolkien contributed to this book with a section, "[[Form and Purpose]]", in the introduction) and the second was ''[[The Seafarer (I.L. Gordon)|The Seafarer]]'' (1960).<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]] (2000), ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', New York: Houghton Mifflin, page 145</ref><ref>[[Verlyn Flieger]] (2001). ''[[A Question of Time]]'', p. 262</ref><br />
<br />
==Bibliography, selected==<br />
;Books<br />
*[[1925]]: ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (edition)|Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]'' (co-editor with [[J.R.R. Tolkien]])<br />
*[[1927]]: ''[[An Introduction to Old Norse]]''<br />
*[[1937]]: ''[[The Battle of Maldon (E.V. Gordon)|The Battle of Maldon]]'' (editor)<br />
*[[1953]]: ''[[Pearl (E.V. Gordon)|Pearl]]'' (editor, later edited by [[I.L. Gordon]])<br />
*[[1960]]: ''[[The Seafarer (I.L. Gordon)|The Seafarer]]'' (editor, reworked by [[I.L. Gordon]])<br />
<br />
;Poems<br />
*[[1936]]: "[[Su Klukka Heljar]]" and "[[When I'm Dead]]", in ''[[Songs for the Philologists]]''<br />
<br />
;As contributor<br />
*[[1923]]: ''[[A Northern Venture]]''<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*[[G.H. Cowling]]<br />
*[[Letter to E.V. Gordon (2 January 1929)]]<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{WP|E.V. Gordon}}<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gordon, EV}}<br />
[[Category:Authors]]<br />
[[Category:Linguists]]<br />
[[Category:Canadian people]]<br />
[[Category:People by name]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:The_Diaries_of_J.R.R._Tolkien&diff=387624Talk:The Diaries of J.R.R. Tolkien2024-03-14T14:56:57Z<p>Sage: /* Title? */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>== Title? ==<br />
<br />
the titlebas it us, with the article 'The' and the 'Diaries' in capital, seem to suggest that it is the title of some sort of publication or unpublished work. Or at least a semiofficial name established as such in fandom and/or scholarship. As I think it us improbable, I suggest to rename the article into something less official looking, such as 'Tolkien's diaries'. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 14:56, 14 March 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Paul_Strack&diff=387109Paul Strack2024-03-09T02:14:19Z<p>Sage: /* External links */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__<br />
'''Paul Strack''' is a Tolkien computational linguist. He is the creator of ''[[Eldamo]]'', the Elvish Data Model, launched in 2008, which is a lexicon of all of Tolkien’s invented languages.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://academy.realelvish.net/2018/09/11/interview-and-introduction-of-paul-strack/|articlename=Interview and Introduction of Paul Strack|dated=September 11, 2018|website=[http://academy.realelvish.net Real Elvish Academy]|accessed=}}</ref><br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* [http://eldamo.org/index.html Eldamo Homepage]<br />
<br />
{{References}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Strack, Paul}}<br />
[[Category:Linguists]]<br />
[[Category:People by name]]<br />
[[Category:Webmasters]]<br />
[[fi:Paul Strack]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Luinil&diff=387108Luinil2024-03-09T02:12:59Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Luinil''' was one of the bright stars placed in the sky by [[Varda]] at the time of the awakening of the [[Elves]] in [[Middle-earth]].<ref>{{S|Captivity}}</ref> <br />
==Etymology==<br />
''Luinil'' is probably [[Quenya]] for "Blue Star", being a compound of ''[[luinë]]'' ("blue") + ''[[el]]'' ("star").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Paul Strack]]|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-1582300591.html|articlename=Q. ''Luinil'' pn.|website=Eldamo|accessed=1 February 2023}}</ref><br />
==Inspiration==<br />
The star's identity is uncertain with just the etymology of the name as aclue, signifying 'blue'. The only remote explanation offered by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] was a rough and uncertain note that seems to link Luinil to the planet we call [[wikipedia:neptune|Neptune]]. As [[Christopher Tolkien]] notes, though, this dark and distant object, too faint to be seen by the naked eye, would hardly qualify as a 'bright star'.<ref>{{MR|Star}}, p. 435</ref> Another alternative would be blue [[Wikipedia:Rigel|Rigel] in [[Wikipedia:Orion (constellation)|Orion]], making Luinil the mate of red [[Borgil]]. Two other possibilities - based purely on the fact that they are both bright blue stars - would be [[Wikipedia:Spica|Spica]] in [[Wikipedia:Virgo (constellation)|Virgo]] or [[Wikipedia:Regulus|Regulus]] in [[Wikipedia:Leo (constellation)|Leo]].<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{cosmology}}<br />
[[Category:Quenya names]]<br />
[[Category:Stars]]<br />
[[de:Luinil]]<br />
[[fr:/encyclo/geographie/astronomie/luinil]]<br />
[[fi:Luinil]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Racism&diff=386559Racism2024-03-01T09:24:16Z<p>Sage: Rename "lack of context" section as it seems it rather refers to character's POV, not some general context.</p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<!--<br />
Things to keep in mind while editing this page:<br />
*Must be written from a neutral POV, edits biased either towards or against Tolkien should be avoided.<br />
*Even if something seems like an obvious example of racism, please include a source instead of just stating "Some people claim X"<br />
Currently needed:<br />
*Better explanation of typical racial views during Tolkien's lifetime (#Applying modern values to historical works)<br />
*More in-depth explanation of diversity and multiculturalism in Middle-earth<br />
*References for many claims<br />
*Possibly a section on Nordicism<br />
*Something about how Tolkien's views changed during his life?<br />
--><br />
{{quote|For years, Tolkien scholars have waged a fight on two fronts: against an academic establishment that for the most part refused to take the author's work seriously, and against white supremacists who have tried to claim the professor as one of their own.|David Ibata, ''Chicago Tribune''<ref>{{webcite|author=David Ibata|articleurl=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2003/01/12/lord-of-racism-critics-view-trilogy-as-discriminatory/|articlename=‘Lord’ of racism? Critics view trilogy as discriminatory|dated=18 August 2019|website=[https://www.chicagotribune.com/ Chicago Tribune]|accessed=26 February 2024}}<br />
</ref>}}<br />
Some fans and critics of [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]'s works could observe several ambiguously '''racist and race-based elements'''; these go further into stereotyping or the symbolism of good versus evil in Tolkien's [[legendarium]]. Though the latter is the more established and valid area of study, as early as the first edition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' the topic of 'race' has been discussed, including by [[C.S. Lewis]].<ref>[[C.S. Lewis]], ''[[The Dethronement of Power]]''</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien denounced Hitler,<ref name=l45>{{L|45}}</ref> Nazi beliefs, "race-doctrine",<ref name=l29>{{L|29}}</ref> and apartheid,<ref>{{L|61}}</ref> and praised the Jews, calling them a "gifted people"<ref name=l30>{{L|30}}</ref><br />
<br />
In the [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword|Foreword]] to the revised edition of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien cautioned strongly against viewing it as an allegory, stating that he cordially disliked allegory.<ref>{{FR|Foreword}}</ref> He reiterated this sentiment in response to suggestions of racial allegory in his works.<ref name=l29/> Therefore his intentions should be viewed as being set aside from the social-political domain and entirely focused within a fantasy-fiction context. <br />
<br />
Christine Chism mentions the issue of racism in the ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment|J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia]]'', where she distinguishes accusations as falling into three categories: intentional racism, unconscious Eurocentric bias, and an evolution from latent racism in Tolkien's early work to a conscious rejection of racist tendencies in his late work.<ref>Christine Chism, "Race and Ethnicity in Tolkien's Works" In [[Michael Drout|Drout, Michael]] (ed.). [[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia]]</ref><br />
<br />
[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]],<ref name=fimi>{{webcite|author=[[Dimitra Fimi]]|articleurl=https://dimitrafimi.com/2018/12/02/revisiting-race-in-tolkiens-legendarium-constructing-cultures-and-ideologies-in-an-imaginary-world/|articlename=Revisiting Race in Tolkien’s Legendarium: Constructing Cultures and Ideologies in an Imaginary World|dated=2012|website=https://dimitrafimi.com/|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref> and more recently ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]'' have done much to perpetuate recent popular interest in, as well as criticism of Tolkien's writings.<ref>{{webcite|author=Sam Thielman|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/feb/20/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-series-race|articlename=‘The history of fantasy is racialized’: Lord of the Rings series sparks debate over race|dated=20 February 2022|website=[https://www.theguardia.com/us The Guardian]|accessed=29 February 2024}}</ref><br />
==Issues with claims of racism==<br />
===Applying modern values to historical works===<br />
<!--Expand--><br />
Many [[Tolkien studies|Tolkien scholars]] take issue with applying our modern values to Tolkien who lived from [[1892]] to [[1973]].<br />
<br />
Tolkien scholar, [[Dimitra Fimi]] has stated that she believes that accusing Tolkien of racism is problematic due to analysis being within the framework of modern views on race while Tolkien lived during a time when race "was [still considered] a valid scientific term".<ref>[[Dimitra Fimi]], ''Tolkien, Race, and Cultural History: From Fairies to Hobbits''</ref><br />
===Characters' point of view===<br />
Many seemingly racist descriptions in dialogue might represent the speaker rather than the author. For example, [[Gollum]]'s description of the [[Haradrim]], "''Not nice; very cruel wicked [[Men]] they look. Almost as bad as [[Orcs]], and much bigger''"<ref>{{RK|Gate}}, p. 646</ref> has been described as "stereotypical and reflective of colonial attitudes". Sandra Straubhaar points out in ''[[Tolkien and the Invention of Myth]]'' that Gollum is known for having a hatred for others and his opinions should not be taken as necessarily representative of Tolkien's views.<ref>[[Jane Chance]], ''[[Tolkien and the Invention of Myth]]''</ref><br />
===Racial ambiguity of characters===<br />
As Tolkien's legendarium is set in a fictional world, race does not work the same as in our [[Primary World]]. There are different races (eg. [[Dwarves]] and [[Elves]]) and groups within these (eg. [[Gondorians]] and Haradrim). None of these groups are a 1-1 match to any race in our world. Except for the few situations in which Tolkien explicitly states it, any claims as to the real-world race that a character or ([[Arda]]) race is based on is reader interpretation and cannot be definitively said to have been a result of racism, intentional or not.<br />
<br />
Often the only clues we have to go on for which (real-world) race a character/race is most similar to or based upon, are short, often metaphorical descriptions that are subject to debate. For example [[Samwise Gamgee]] is twice referred to as having "brown hands",<ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><ref>{{RK|Tower}}</ref> leading some to argue that Sam is "non-white".<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=https://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com/post/106609134600/sam-gamgees-brown-hands|articlename=Sam Gamgee’s Brown Hands|website=[https://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com Ask About Middle-Earth]}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Perceived racism in Tolkien's works==<!-- These are not to be taken as definite. This list cites claims pointed out by critics, right or wrong, and can be 'countered'. --><br />
===Men===<br />
[[Image:John Howe - Easterlings.jpg|thumb|''Easterlings'' by [[John Howe]]]]<br />
One potentially racist element in [[Middle-earth]] is that the majority of the [[Men]] who serve [[Sauron]] are the dark-skinned peoples of the [[Easterlings (First Age)|Easterling]]s and [[Southrons]]. They come from the South and East of Middle-earth, corresponding with Asia and Africa in the loose connection between Middle-earth geography and that of the real world.<br />
<br />
The [[Easterlings]] are aligned with [[Morgoth]] or Sauron with the exception of [[Bór]]'s folk. They are described as being of fairly dark skin complexion, swarthy and exceedingly cruel. The Southrons (or Haradrim) are described as black-skinned, cruel and evil, and may have been inspired by Indian cultures with traits such as fighting on [[Mumakil]]-back. <br />
<br />
In some cases, people having the slightest blood relation to enemies, like [[Freca]] and [[Wulf]], who are related to the [[Dunlendings]], are presented as evil themselves,<ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref> further suggesting the idea that evilness is hereditary or inherent to the race. Some of these are also called "swarthy" (dark). [[Bill Ferny]] is said to be swarthy,<ref>{{FR|Strider}} p. 165</ref> however the rest of the mostly benign and hearty [[Men of Bree]] are also descended from Dunlendings.<ref>{{App|Men}}</ref><br />
<br />
While the Easterlings and the Haradrim are dark-skinned people in the service of the Enemy, the [[Woses]] are primitive, small, and alien compared to other peoples (their chief [[Ghân-buri-Ghân]] only wears a grass skirt) yet they are valuable allies. While Tolkien does not mention their skin colour, they were considered monsters by the [[Rohirrim]] who hunted them as animals, which the narrative explicitly condemns. However, in the [[First Age]] they were counted as [[Edain]], or noble Men, and were allies of the Elves.<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}</ref><br />
<br />
However, not all enemies are non-white. Noteworthy examples are [[Gríma]], and at least three of the [[Nazgûl]]. Indeed, while during the timeframe of the [[War of the Ring]], those enslaved and serving Sauron were darker skinned people from the South and East, during the history of Middle-earth many of the white races of man and even some Elves were fooled and coerced by the Enemy.<br />
<br />
In the War of the Ring, the human enemies are not truly evil, since they are described as deceived, enslaved or exploited. They are portrayed in a much more sympathetic light when Sam sees a dead warrior of [[Harad]] and wonders if he was truly evil — or rather deceived or coerced to go to war. The Dunlendings are persuaded by [[Saruman]] to attack [[Rohan]], playing on their grievances due to [[Gondor]] giving what they considered their land to the [[Éothéod]], the ancestors of the Rohirrim. Earlier, Sauron persuaded their ancestors to fight against the [[Númenóreans]], the cause of their relocation from forests into the hills. Additionally, after the War of the Ring, King [[Aragorn|Elessar]] pardoned and made peace with the Easterlings and Haradrim.<ref>{{RK|Steward}}, p. 968</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien also wrote that the [[Blue Wizards]], were sent into the South and East lands to spread dissent and resistance against Sauron.<ref>{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref> While he wrote on one occasion (as given in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'') that they failed, on another occasion (as given in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'') he wrote that they were successful, making Sauron's hold on these lands throughout the centuries significantly weaker than it should have been. This prevented Sauron from overwhelming the West with his armies and ultimately contributed to his defeat in the War of the Ring. This means that Southrons and Easterlings resisting Sauron were meant to exist, only that their stories remain untold.<br />
===Orcs===<br />
[[File:Abe Papakhian - Orcs and Uruks.jpg|right|thumb|''The Fighting Uruk-hai & the Orcs of [[Barad-dûr|Lugburz]]'' by [[:Category:Images by Abe Papakhian|Abe Papakhian]]]]<br />
Stephen Shapiro, a cultural studies expert, has compared the small group of protagonists (the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]) against hordes of foreign enemies as representative of the long history of Anglo-European's fear of non-Europeans.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/film-and-tv/lord-of-the-rings-labelled-racist-2461845|articlename=Lord of the Rings labelled racist|dated=14 December 2002|website=[https://www.scotsman.com/ The Scotsman]|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
Of the Orcs, the [[Uruk-Hai]] are described as "black"<ref>{{FR|Bridge}}, p. 329</ref> and a smaller Orc, a tracker, is described as "black-skinned".<ref>{{RK|Shadow}}, p. 924</ref> All Orcs are often described as "slant-eyed"<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}, p. 451</ref> and the Uruk-Hai at least refer to the Rohirrim as '[[whiteskins]]'.<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> Tolkien described Orcs as ''"...squat, broad, flat-nosed, sallow-skinned, with wide mouths and slant eyes; in fact degraded and repulsive versions of the (to Europeans) least lovely Mongol-types"''<ref name=l210>{{L|210}}</ref><br />
<br />
While Tolkien's statement comparing Orcs to the "Mongol-types" may be interpreted as racist, he does put a disclaimer, "(to Europeans,)" before "least lovely", recognizing Western cultural bias and also pointing out that they were "degraded and repulsive versions" of "Mongol-types", not actual "Mongol-types". Additionally, this was in a time period where racial stereotypes of Mongols were more acceptable and less questioned so Tolkien's use of the phrase "Mongol-types" may have been just a descriptor, separate from any views he may have held on Mongolia or Mongols. It is worth noting that some Orcs use crooked or bent swords (Tolkien also uses the term scimitar, which is historically associated with the Middle East).<ref>{{TT|Departure}}</ref><br />
<br />
Orcs, however, are not Men. Unlike the wicked Men who serve the Enemy, who might have been enslaved or beguiled, Orcs are portrayed as irredeemably evil, or at least having a redemption outside the scope of the narrative. The [[Orcs/Origin|origin of Orcs]] is not clear, but they may be products of Morgoth's sorcery or the descendants of tortured and ruined Elves or Men. Regardless of their origins, they are not presented as a natural race.<ref>{{S|3}}</ref><br />
===Dwarves as Jews===<br />
:''See also: [[#Nazism and Judaism]]''<br />
Tolkien himself compared Dwarves to Jews: <br />
<br />
{{blockquote|The dwarves of course are quite obviously... couldn't you say that in many ways they remind you of the Jews? Their words are Semitic obviously, constructed to be Semitic. [...] There's a tremendous love of the artefact, and of course the immense warlike capacity of the Jews, which we tend to forget nowadays.|J.R.R. Tolkien to [[Denys Gueroult]]<ref name=interview>''[[An Interview with J.R.R.T.]]''; the second phrase was edited out of the broadcast but published in Zak Cramer's "Jewish Influences in Middle-earth" (''[[Mallorn 44]]'' [[2006]]: p. 10).</ref>}}<br />
<br />
In another letter, he makes the same comparison, but this time it is explicitly about both peoples being dispossessed of their lands, forced to wander the world, and adopt the languages of other lands: both were "at once natives and aliens in their habitations, speaking the languages of the country, but with an accent due to their own private tongue…"<ref>{{L|176}}</ref><br />
<br />
Rebecca Brackman notes that although Tolkien was not a conscious antisemite, he was influenced by the popular perception towards the Jews, including by tropes and stereotypes considered "antisemitic" today; such tropes were found in classical and contemporary works including ''The Merchant of Venice'' or ''Oliver Twist'', that portrayed the Jews as greedy, alien, and as cowardly comical reliefs. The Dwarves in ''The Hobbit'' display such traits at several points in the story and are portrayed as comical, unheroic, alien, and functioning under their own interests ("dwarves are not heroes, but calculating folk with a great idea of the value of [[money]]"<ref>{{H|12}}</ref>).<ref name=brackman>Brackmann, Rebecca ([[2010]]) "[https://dc.swosu.edu/mythlore/vol28/iss3/ 'Dwarves are Not Heroes': Antisemitism and the Dwarves in J.R.R. Tolkien's Writing]", [[Mythlore]]: A Journal of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Charles Williams, and Mythopoeic Literature: Vol. 28: No. 3, Article 7</ref><br />
<br />
In his later works, Tolkien paints a mostly positive picture of the dwarves ([[Gimli]] of course is brave and honourable, and "few Dwarves ever served the enemy willingly", contrary to the tales of Men<ref name="Other">{{App|Other}}</ref>) and elsewhere he made explicitly positive statements about the Jewish people.<ref name=l30/><br />
<br />
However, one of the weaknesses of the Dwarves was their greed for [[gold]] and other riches, amplified by the [[Seven Rings]].<ref>{{S|Rings}}</ref> Some see a connection between this and the stereotype of the Jewish usurer. It is also possible to draw a connection between the bearded Dwarves and the beards of Orthodox Jews. This, though, has more of an origin in Norse mythology than Jewish stereotypes.<br />
<br />
===Númenóreans===<br />
<!--Expand, sourcing--><br />
Tolkien has divine beings blessing or gifting peoples or persons and their descendants, having thus the concept of the chosen people who differ from others — in Tolkien's case, the [[Dúnedain]] (literally "Men of the West") of [[Númenor]]. It should be also noted that according to Theosophy, Ariosophy and Nazism, the Aryan race is supposedly descended from [[Atlantis]].<ref>Alfred Rosenberg, [[Wikipedia:The_Myth_of_the_Twentieth_Century|The Myth of the Twentieth Century]]</ref><br />
<br />
Although gifted, many of Tolkien's Númenóreans are evil. In the Appendices to the Return of the King, Númenórean fleets sail to Middle-earth, where they conquer and subjugate native peoples in what may be a commentary on European imperialism. The Númenóreans ultimately cause their own downfall by following the teachings of Morgoth, conducting human sacrifices, and making war on Valinor. At least three of the Nazgûl are Númenóreans.<br />
===Light vs. Dark===<br />
Some critics have declared that there is racism in Tolkien's works through his use of words such as "light" and "white" vs. "dark" or "black". For instance, in [[2002]], John Yatt in ''The Guardian'' wrote: "White men are good, 'dark' men are bad, orcs are worst of all."<ref>{{webcite|author=John Yatt|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/books/2002/dec/02/jrrtolkien.lordoftherings|articlename=Wraiths and race|dated=2 December 2002|website=[https://www.theguardia.com/us The Guardian]|accessed=26 February 2024}}<br />
</ref> Other critics disagree with such clear-cut generalizations of Tolkien's "white" and "dark" men into good and bad.<br />
<br />
The whole of Tolkien's legendarium contains a conflict between "light" ([[Two Trees of Valinor|The Trees]], the [[Silmarils]]) and "darkness" (the literal absence of light). Morgoth's standard was ''"sable unblazoned"'' (that is, plain black).<ref>{{S|18}}</ref> ''"[[Mordor]]"'' means "black land" in [[Sindarin]].<ref>{{L|144}}</ref> If one were to analyse this through a racial lense, the ongoing clash may be interpreted as containing racial symbolism of light skinned versus dark skinned peoples, although [[Eöl]], father of [[Maeglin]] was known as the Dark Elf,<ref>{{S|Maeglin}}</ref> and the [[Moriquendi]] were called the Elves of Darkness. Both these terms refer to remaining outside the light of the two trees, not to skin tone. The [[Black Númenóreans]] are likewise named because of the colour of their allegiance to Sauron and their heraldry, not their skin tone. Considering this, Tolkien's assignment of Good and Evil to "light" and "dark" cannot simply be dismissed as racial undertones within the broader narrative. <br />
<br />
As [[Tom Shippey]] points out, it is important to view the context behind the writing. Tolkien wrote as if he were writing a medieval text from the perspective of a prescientific medieval people.<br />
{{blockquote|The mention in ‘The Battle of the Pelennor Fields’ of ‘black men like half-trolls’ certainly sounds racist. I think I would say here that Tolkien at this point is trying to write like a medieval chronicler, and when medieval Europeans first encountered sub-Saharan Africans, they were genuinely confused about them, and rather frightened. As Tolkien pointed out in his early scholarly works, the ancient English seemed to have a belief in fire-demons, who naturally enough had skin like soot – their word for them, ‘harwan’, is related to Latin ‘carbo’, ‘soot,’ or carbon. An Anglo-Saxon meeting an African for the first time might then really wonder (for a moment, from a distance) whether this was a demon from his own mythology. This doesn’t mean that Tolkien shared the mythology, or the mistake.<ref name=fimi/>|Tom Shippey}}<br />
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White is also not always associated with good. Noteworthy examples are [[Gríma]], [[Gollum]], and at least two of the Nazgûl. [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] and the [[ruffians]] are white-skinned characters who ravage and take over [[the Shire]]. Saruman the White and his symbol the [[White Hand]] are associated with evil and corruption. Orcs are described as "sallow" (pale).<ref name=l210/> Similarly black is not only associated with evil as Gondor uses a black standard bearing the White Tree, and the Guards of the Citadel of Minas Tirith wore black chain mail. In [[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], three Númenórean ships are followed by a boat with black sails. One of the mariners explains to a native of Middle-earth, scared that the black sails indicate doom, that the blackness is in fact a thing of beauty, the night sky of Elbereth (who kindled the stars). Indeed, Tolkien states that one of Morgoth's (literally, the ''Black Enemy'') victories was in associating darkness and night with fear and evil.<br />
<br />
The symbolism of light as good and dark as evil is ever-present in much of literature, modern and historical. Light vs. dark is a prehistoric dichotomy present in a great many cultures, Western and otherwise. A common theme, it is seen in religion from all parts of the world,<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/light-and-darkness|articlename=Light and Darkness|dated=|website=|accessed=29 February 2024}}</ref> including [[Christianity]] (John 8:12 Jesus Christ said, "I am the Light of the World, Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.")<ref>{{webcite|author=Lori Braman|articleurl=https://knowledge.e.southern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1051&context=senior_research|articlename=The Silmarillion: Tolkien's Guise for Christian Realism|dated=2003|website=|accessed=29 February 2024}}</ref><br />
===Moral Geography===<br />
[[File:John Magoun, Moral Geography of Middle-earth.png|right|thumb|Moral geography of Middle-earth according to John Magoun]]<br />
Tolkien wrote that Arda was not a different fantasy universe but a fictional era in Earth's history.<ref>{{L|183}}</ref> This has led to criticisms with some similarities noticed between the peoples in different regions of Middle-earth and their corresponding Earth location. It has also been pointed out that [[Aman]], the Blessed Realm, is the westernmost part of Arda which areas in the South and East are often associated with evil.<ref>John Magoun, ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]]''</ref><br />
<br />
It should be noted that Tolkien only made precise ''geographic'' correspondences of [[Third Age]] Middle-earth locations to those in the real world. For example, [[Hobbiton]] was at the latitude of [[Oxford]].<ref name=l294>{{L|294}}</ref> The Shire was based upon, but ''was not actually'' rural England, since "the lands [have] changed" since then.<ref name=hobbits/> Tolkien made no precise correspondences regarding the ''peoples'' concerned. Though the [[Hobbits]] were based upon rural English folk, they were not literally ancient Englishmen. He never said that Harad was Africa, nor the Eastlands Asia, nor their inhabitants' ancestors of Africans or Asians. <br />
<br />
The ''Daily Telegraph Magazine'' suggested in a draft of an article that North was "a sacred direction" for Tolkien. He responded to this admitting that he did have an affection for it as he (and most of his ancestors) were from North-west Europe but that he did not have an exclusive preference for it and that this did not affect his writings, something that further analysis of his writings would show.<ref name=l294/><br />
<br />
The East and South are not the only places that are associated with evil, especially in earlier history. In the First Age, evil came from the North when Morgoth based himself in [[Angband]]. Also, all Men and Elves first awoke in the East. [[Boromir]] is introduced as a "man from the South"<ref>{{FR|Council}}, p. 240</ref> without qualification (actually South-west).<br />
<br />
===Racial superiority===<br />
The differences between races and racial hierarchy have led to the claims of racism in [[Arda]]. This claim can also be taken a step further to say for example, "The Haradrim were based on Mongolians and were bad and morally inferior to Elves and other Men so therefore Tolkien viewed Mongolians as inferior."<br />
<br />
Part of the controversy may be caused in part by the conflicting uses of the word race. When we talk about race in humans we most often mean ethnic or cultural subgroups of humans. In Tolkien's writings, race is more similar to different species. Saying that Dwarves are better blacksmiths than Men is therefore more akin to claiming humans are better blacksmiths than bears, a generally uncontroversial statement. <br />
<br />
While no significant proof has been found proving that any (human) races are superior,<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aac4951|articlename=Taking race out of human genetics|dated=5 February 2016|website=|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref> the different races of Middle-earth were created separately and in some cases by different beings. These differences are not due to failings of that particular group but to the goal their creator had in mind.<br />
<br />
Additionally, while some beings in Middle-earth are objectively more powerful than others they are not necessarily portrayed as lesser because of it. Although in Middle-earth Hobbits were considered unimportant (by those who had even heard of them) and for most of history they were content to leave and be left alone by the world,<ref name=hobbits>{{FR|Hobbits}}</ref> Hobbits had a massive influence on the events of the last Third Age, saving Middle-earth from the dominion of Sauron. In a book with [[wizards]], kings and soldiers, Tolkien stated that Sam, a gardener of the Shire, was the chief hero of the book.<ref>{{L|131}}</ref><br />
<br />
All the "superior" people, be they Elves, Edain or Dunedain, have no direct analogues with peoples of the real world. If the Dunedain could be put somewhere, they would belong in [[Atlantis]], since Númenor was Middle-earth's counterpart to Plato's Atlantis.<ref>{{L|275}}</ref> The Rohirrim, who have been parallelled to blond and fair Europeans, are "inferior" to them, being Middle Men, in their view.<br />
<br />
===Race mixing===<br />
Critics have noticed possible themes of scientific racism and eugenics in Tolkien's writing primarily due to actual or feared racial decline due to race mixing.<ref name=young/><br />
<br />
Of the [[Orcs of Isengard]], [[Treebeard]] states: <br />
{{blockquote|It is a mark of evil things that came in the Great Darkness that they cannot abide the [[Sun]]; but Saruman's Orcs can endure it, even if they hate it. I wonder what he has done? Are they Men he has ruined, or has he blended the races of Orcs and Men? That would be a black evil!<ref>{{TT|Treebeard}}, p. 473</ref>}}<br />
There were three marriages between an [[Eldar]] and Edain, [[Lúthien]] and [[Beren]], [[Idril]] and [[Tuor]], and [[Arwen]] and [[Aragorn]].<ref>{{App|Numenor}}</ref> Despite there being concerns from characters, primarily the fathers of the Elves, these unions are portrayed positively with the love story of Beren and Lúthien being inspired by his own wife, [[Edith Tolkien|Edith]].<ref>{{L|340}}</ref><br />
<br />
The blood of Númenor ran nearly true in the character of [[Faramir]],<ref>{{RK|MT}}</ref> a man whom Tolkien described as "modest, fair-minded and scrupulously just, and very merciful",<ref>{{L|244}}</ref> yet he chose to marry [[Éowyn]], who was a woman of Rohan and therefore undoubtedly of the race of [[Middle Men]].<ref>{{RK|Steward}}</ref><ref>{{TT|Window}}</ref><br />
===Racism in Middle-earth===<br />
Tolkien portrays racism within the "heroic" races as unabashedly negative. Elves and Dwarves distrust each other. Some Elves hunted the [[Petty-dwarves]] as animals,<ref>{{S|Turin}}</ref> as did the Rohirrim to the [[Woses]].<ref>{{RK|Ride}}</ref> The friendship between [[Legolas]] and Gimli is portrayed as unusual but commendable,<ref>{{App|Later}}</ref> and several scenes illustrate them learning to understand and respect each other's cultural differences. When Gimli meets [[Galadriel]] and hears her speak the names of [[Mirrormere|Kheled-zâram]], [[Kibil-nâla]], and [[Khazad-dûm]] in his own tongue, he is described as feeling as if he had''"looked into the heart of an enemy and saw there love and understanding."''<ref>{{FR|Mirror}}, p. 356</ref> Later, when he originally asks for nothing of Lady Galadriel, although she had given every other member of the [[Fellowship]] a gift, she says, ''"Let none say again that Dwarves are grasping and ungracious!"''<ref>{{FR|Farewell}}, pp. 375-6</ref><br />
<br />
It is notable that there is apparently racism within the ranks of Orcs as the Uruk-hai held themselves as superior to the common Orcs, whom they called ''snaga'' (slave).<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref><br />
<br />
The point-of-view characters of the book -- the hobbits -- are themselves of a race that is frequently described as being overlooked, under-estimated, and lightly regarded by the other races of Middle-earth, yet they often demonstrate far greater courage and nobility than the races who denigrate them. They are not without prejudice, however, and [[Gandalf]] is shown reprimanding [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] for his comments on [[Barliman Butterbur]].<ref>{{FR|Meetings}}, pp. 220-1</ref><br />
<br />
The Númenóreans of Gondor fell to infighting because of a supposed need for racial purity, especially concerning the ancestry of their king (the [[Kin-strife]]), and grew weaker as a result. In this affair, the villain was the pure-blooded Númenórean [[Castamir]] while the hero was the half-Númenórean [[Eldacar (King of Gondor)|Eldacar]].<br />
<br />
==Counterindications== <!-- I've moved defences of individual claims to their respective sections above, this section should be used for general counterarguments against racism in the legendarium. This section needs expansion.--><br />
<br />
Tolkien's defenders assert that many criticisms of racism and elitism levelled at ''The Lord of the Rings'' and other writings are oversimplifications and generalizations, and do not take account of everything the author may have written concerning these matters.<br />
<br />
While some of his views may be seen as outdated today, Tolkien was fairly progressive for his time when it came to race. It seems unlikely that Tolkien who opposed the idea that some races were superior to others would choose to consciously use that as an element in his writings.<br />
<br />
Tolkien was English and wanted to make a mythology for England. Therefore he wrote ''The Lord of the Rings'' according to his people's point of view. He could not make his protagonists, say, Incan or Japanese, or even put the setting anywhere else than (an alternative) North-western Europe, in spirit if not in actuality.<br />
<br />
Middle-earth has been praised for its diversity and polyculturalism.<!--Expand--><br />
==Views==<br />
===Nazism and Judaism===<br />
Tolkien's German publisher, Rütten & Loening, asked if he was of ''arisch'' (Aryan) origin. This angered Tolkien who complained of the "lunatic laws" and "wholly pernicious and unscientific race-doctrine". He wrote that he was inclined to refuse to give proof of his Aryan origin, which would result ''The Lord of the Rings'' not being published in Germany.<ref name=l29/> Tolkien was staunchly opposed to, in his words, "that ruddy little ignoramus Adolf Hitler"<ref name=l45/><br />
<br />
Tolkien was friends with many Jewish people and had great respect for them.<ref name=l29/> In one letter he writes about a Jewish historian named [[Wikipedia:Cecil Roth|Cecil Roth]]. He describes him as "charming" and "full of gentleness", writing that they stayed up until midnight talking.<ref>{{L|55}}</ref><br />
<br />
On the flip side, Tolkien was critical of anti-German (as opposed to anti-Nazi) propaganda during WWII.<ref name=l45/><br />
{{blockquote|There was a solemn article in the local paper seriously advocating systematic exterminating of the entire German nation as the only proper course after military victory: because, if you please, they are rattlesnakes, and don't know the difference between good and evil! (What of the writer?) The Germans have just as much right to declare the Poles and Jews exterminable vermin, subhuman, as we have to select the Germans: in other words, no right, whatever they have done.<ref>{{L|81}}</ref>|[[Letter 81]]}}<br />
===Apartheid===<br />
Tolkien was born in [[Bloemfontein]] in the [[Orange Free State]] (now the Free State province of South Africa) and moved to England at the age of three.<ref>{{B|II}}</ref> Tolkien was outspoken against apartheid.<br />
<br />
{{blockquote|I have the hatred of apartheid in my bones; and most of all I detest the segregation or separation of Language and Literature. I do not care which of them you think White.|From a [[Valedictory Address to the University of Oxford]] in [[1959]]}}<br />
<br />
{{blockquote|As for what you say or hint of ‘local’ conditions: I knew of them. I don't think they have much changed (even for the worse). I used to hear them discussed by my mother; and have ever since taken a special interest in that part of the world. The treatment of colour nearly always horrifies anyone going out from Britain, & not only in South Africa. Unfort[unately], not many retain that generous sentiment for long.|[[Letter 61]] — Written to Christopher Tolkien who was stationed in South Africa during World War II}}<br />
<br />
==Usage of Tolkien's works to defend racism==<br />
In Italy, ''The Lord of the Rings'' is considered fascist by some groups and Italian fascist organisations are allegedly using the book for recruiting.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.cbc.ca/radio/tapestry/lord-of-the-rings-italy-1.6756668?scrlybrkr=b21a79f2|articlename=How The Lord of the Rings became a symbol for Italy's far-right<br />
|dated=27 February 2023|website=[https://www.cbc.ca/ CBC News|accessed=29 February 2024}}</ref> [[Wikipedia:Alleanza Nazionale|Alleanza Nazionale]], a right-oriented Italian political party, took a picture from ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' to promote a speech by his leader, [[Wikipedia:Gianfranco Fini|Gianfranco Fini]].<ref>https://www.theonering.net/perl/newsview/8/1001628604</ref> However, Tolkien himself stated in a letter to his son in 1943 that ''My political opinions lean more and more to Anarchy (philosophically understood, meaning the abolition of control not whiskered men with bombs)-or to 'unconstitutional' Monarchy.''<ref>{{L|52}}</ref> Thus this makes any notion of Tolkien being fascist defunct.<br />
<br />
Tolkien's works have also been embraced by self-admitted racists such as the British National Party.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/did-tolkien-have-a-racist-message-fng6ptt385x|articlename=Did Tolkien have a racist message?|dated=22 December 2002|website=[https://www.thetimes.co.uk/ thetimes.co.uk]|accessed=29 February 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
Helen Young, a historian studying the connection between medievalism and white supremacy, explains the appeal of Tolkien's works to racists and white supremacists:<br />
{{Blockquote|In Middle Earth, [sic] unlike reality, race is objectively real rather than socially constructed. There are species (elves, men, dwarves, etc.), but within those species there are races that conform to 19th-century race theory, in that their physical attributes (hair color, etc.) are associated with non-physical attributes that are both personal and cultural. There is also an explicit racial hierarchy which is, again, real in the world of the story. Middle Earth is literally a racist's fantasy land.<ref name=young>{{webcite|author=David M. Perry|articleurl=https://psmag.com/education/untangling-white-supremacy-from-medieval-studies|articlename=How Can We Untangle White Supremacy From Medieval Studies?|dated=9 October|website=[https://psmag.com/ Pacific Standard]|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref>|Helen Young}}<br />
==External links==<br />
*[https://middle-earth.xenite.org/2012/11/29/is-it-true-there-is-racism-in-the-lord-of-the-rings/ Is It True There is Racism in The Lord of the Rings?] by [[Michael Martinez]]<br />
*[https://tolkien.slimy.com/faq/External.html#Racist Portion of a Tolkien FAQ attempting to give an answer to the matter]<br />
*[https://www.rediff.com/news/2003/jan/08lord.htm Critique of The Lord of the Rings as an 'epic rooted in racism' by Dr Shapiro]<br />
*[https://www.chicagotribune.com/2003/01/12/lord-of-racism-critics-view-trilogy-as-discriminatory/ 'Lord' of racism? Critics view trilogy as discriminatory] by David Ibita<br />
*[https://dimitrafimi.com/2018/12/02/revisiting-race-in-tolkiens-legendarium-constructing-cultures-and-ideologies-in-an-imaginary-world/ Revisiting Race in Tolkien’s Legendarium: Constructing Cultures and Ideologies in an Imaginary World] by [[Dimitra Fimi]]<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Debates]]<br />
[[category:Tolkien criticism]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=User_talk:%C3%89owyn&diff=386523User talk:Éowyn2024-02-28T16:41:41Z<p>Sage: /* Sorry */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Merging ==<br />
<br />
Hello. I noticed you attempted to merge a couple of articles. Please be careful when merging, because merging is not just deleting the content of the short article and replacing it with redirect, but checking its content and migrating anything essential to the main article, thus ''merging'' the two entities. While deleting the content of [[Oakenshield]], you also deleted the information about the Inspiration for the name. Luckily I noticed it, and I merged this interesting trivia to the main [[Thorin]] article. Please be careful and keep it up. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 17:20, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
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:Thanks for catching and fixing that! I'll be more careful with merging in the future. [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:25, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
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== Forbiden Pool page ==<br />
I noticed in the recent changes list that you created a new Forbidden Pool page and that there are no references for the content on that page. References are the cornerstone of any high quality edit on Tolkien Gateway and are probably one of the reasons why Tolkien Gateway received an award from the Tolkien Society for its content. Please have a look at the Help:References page and add references with page numbers where applicable that support the content that you added. References should be included at the same time as conent is added or changed. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:24, 12 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
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:Hi! Should be fixed now [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 01:52, 13 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Hi! Welcome to the wiki. Please check the changes I made in the page. We use templates for references and dates. Categories are imperative. Please, do not upload images with random file names, keep the style of other files like [[:File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Boromir in Osgiliath.png]]. If you are interesed on expanding the matter of the PJ films, you could consider writing the scenes' articles rather than making the Portrayal sections too long. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 18:21, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
:::Hi! Thanks for fixing that! I'll stick to smaller edits while I get the hang of this [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 21:14, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
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== Army of the West page ==<br />
You seem to have forgotten to include page numbers for the 50th anniversary edition of LotR for some of your references. You added a named reference without page numbers and reused that reference. Currently one reference to the chapter The Last Debate and several named reference to the chapter The Black Gate Opens do not have any page numbers. Maybe you will have to use multiple references for the chapter The Black Gate Opens if the events to which you refer to in the references occur on different ranges of pages. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or if you need any help. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:05, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
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== Treebeard page ==<br />
I reverted your edit, which deleted the disambiguation notice with the link to the chapter with the title Treebeard. The link to the page about the chapter with the title Treebeard is necessary, because if someone enters Treebeard in the search field they are automatically sent to the page about the Ent called Treebeard, but they may have wanted to search for the page about the chapter called Treebeard. I suggest to propose deletions on the discussion/talk page of a page rather than deleting things immediately unless it concerns clear mistakes. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:15, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hi. That is absolutely my bad. Not sure what happened there but I believe my intent was to change that link to [[Treebeard (disambiguation)]] instead of directly to the chapter page but ended up just deleting the other one. Would it be okay if I made that change or would it be better if I just had it link directly to the chapter? Thanks for pointing out the mistakes I make, I'm still learning :) [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:40, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Good catch! I agree, [[Template:Disambig-more]] for Treebeard makes more sense. It's an orphaned page (no current links to it) so that helps fix that problem as well. Feel free to make the change. You're doing great, thank you! [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 18:35, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Ents page ==<br />
You seem to have included references for some names in the infobox which already have references in the other names section of the Ents page. Although it is not included in the Tolkien Gateway Manual of Style and on the Help References page, it seems to be the standard practice not to include references for information in the infobox of a page if the same information is also in another section of the same page and is already supported by references in this other section of the same page. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:33, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Thanks for the heads up. I removed all the excess references except to the ents not otherwise mentioned in that page, hope that's fine. [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 16:06, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Luck page ==<br />
<br />
It would seem that the quote you added to the page may be a bit long compared to the rest of the article, particularly considering that the second and third sentences are only indirectly related to the topic of the page. Not sure how to go about trimming this one down though.<br />
{{User:Hands of a healer/sig}} [[User:Hands of a healer|Hands of a healer]] ([[User talk:Hands of a healer|talk]]) 19:12, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:I didn't add the quote. My edit was just to add it to Category:Concepts but I do agree the quote isn't great (along with the rest of the article which is a flaming hot mess) [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 20:35, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
::Huh! My bad, somehow I must have messed up selections in "compare versions". {{User:Hands of a healer/sig}}21:02, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Sorry ==<br />
<br />
Before noticing that you claimed the "Racism" article I did some edits about antisemitism. Please have in mind. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 09:15, 27 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:All good, thanks for the help :) [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 15:13, 27 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:And allillanchu! Sorry for the OT. Are you really trying to learn Quechua? I have tried in the past, and it is a happy surprise to meet someone else at last. How can we talk about this?? (where do you study, how, if you are also looking for someone to practice etc) [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 16:28, 27 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
::Allianmi! My grandmother spoke Quechua but I live in the United States midwest so I'm relying entirely on whatever I can find on the internet. I probably made it harder on myself by choosing to learn Huallaga Quechua (my family's from there) rather than a more spoken and researched dialect but oh well. I've never met anyone else trying to learn it. Out of curiosity, what inspired you to learn Quechua? [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 03:20, 28 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
:::It is its association with the Incas, and how it sounds that attracted me. For that reason I would like to be able to learn Nahuatl, Mayan (haven't decided the dialect yet) etc. Other than that, I have no cultural connections or anyone to speak with. You see, after trying to learn Quenya and Sindarin, having a personal interest in a rare but real language is a bit less crazy. Since this is a public space, if you'd prefer we can exchange some contact information and continue there, and perhaps exchange resources. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 16:41, 28 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=User_talk:%C3%89owyn&diff=386511User talk:Éowyn2024-02-27T16:28:25Z<p>Sage: /* Sorry */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Merging ==<br />
<br />
Hello. I noticed you attempted to merge a couple of articles. Please be careful when merging, because merging is not just deleting the content of the short article and replacing it with redirect, but checking its content and migrating anything essential to the main article, thus ''merging'' the two entities. While deleting the content of [[Oakenshield]], you also deleted the information about the Inspiration for the name. Luckily I noticed it, and I merged this interesting trivia to the main [[Thorin]] article. Please be careful and keep it up. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 17:20, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Thanks for catching and fixing that! I'll be more careful with merging in the future. [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:25, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Forbiden Pool page ==<br />
I noticed in the recent changes list that you created a new Forbidden Pool page and that there are no references for the content on that page. References are the cornerstone of any high quality edit on Tolkien Gateway and are probably one of the reasons why Tolkien Gateway received an award from the Tolkien Society for its content. Please have a look at the Help:References page and add references with page numbers where applicable that support the content that you added. References should be included at the same time as conent is added or changed. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:24, 12 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hi! Should be fixed now [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 01:52, 13 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Hi! Welcome to the wiki. Please check the changes I made in the page. We use templates for references and dates. Categories are imperative. Please, do not upload images with random file names, keep the style of other files like [[:File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Boromir in Osgiliath.png]]. If you are interesed on expanding the matter of the PJ films, you could consider writing the scenes' articles rather than making the Portrayal sections too long. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 18:21, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
:::Hi! Thanks for fixing that! I'll stick to smaller edits while I get the hang of this [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 21:14, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Army of the West page ==<br />
You seem to have forgotten to include page numbers for the 50th anniversary edition of LotR for some of your references. You added a named reference without page numbers and reused that reference. Currently one reference to the chapter The Last Debate and several named reference to the chapter The Black Gate Opens do not have any page numbers. Maybe you will have to use multiple references for the chapter The Black Gate Opens if the events to which you refer to in the references occur on different ranges of pages. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or if you need any help. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:05, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Treebeard page ==<br />
I reverted your edit, which deleted the disambiguation notice with the link to the chapter with the title Treebeard. The link to the page about the chapter with the title Treebeard is necessary, because if someone enters Treebeard in the search field they are automatically sent to the page about the Ent called Treebeard, but they may have wanted to search for the page about the chapter called Treebeard. I suggest to propose deletions on the discussion/talk page of a page rather than deleting things immediately unless it concerns clear mistakes. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:15, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hi. That is absolutely my bad. Not sure what happened there but I believe my intent was to change that link to [[Treebeard (disambiguation)]] instead of directly to the chapter page but ended up just deleting the other one. Would it be okay if I made that change or would it be better if I just had it link directly to the chapter? Thanks for pointing out the mistakes I make, I'm still learning :) [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:40, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Good catch! I agree, [[Template:Disambig-more]] for Treebeard makes more sense. It's an orphaned page (no current links to it) so that helps fix that problem as well. Feel free to make the change. You're doing great, thank you! [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 18:35, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Ents page ==<br />
You seem to have included references for some names in the infobox which already have references in the other names section of the Ents page. Although it is not included in the Tolkien Gateway Manual of Style and on the Help References page, it seems to be the standard practice not to include references for information in the infobox of a page if the same information is also in another section of the same page and is already supported by references in this other section of the same page. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:33, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Thanks for the heads up. I removed all the excess references except to the ents not otherwise mentioned in that page, hope that's fine. [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 16:06, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Luck page ==<br />
<br />
It would seem that the quote you added to the page may be a bit long compared to the rest of the article, particularly considering that the second and third sentences are only indirectly related to the topic of the page. Not sure how to go about trimming this one down though.<br />
{{User:Hands of a healer/sig}} [[User:Hands of a healer|Hands of a healer]] ([[User talk:Hands of a healer|talk]]) 19:12, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:I didn't add the quote. My edit was just to add it to Category:Concepts but I do agree the quote isn't great (along with the rest of the article which is a flaming hot mess) [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 20:35, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
::Huh! My bad, somehow I must have messed up selections in "compare versions". {{User:Hands of a healer/sig}}21:02, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Sorry ==<br />
<br />
Before noticing that you claimed the "Racism" article I did some edits about antisemitism. Please have in mind. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 09:15, 27 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:All good, thanks for the help :) [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 15:13, 27 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:And allillanchu! Sorry for the OT. Are you really trying to learn Quechua? I have tried in the past, and it is a happy surprise to meet someone else at last. How can we talk about this?? (where do you study, how, if you are also looking for someone to practice etc) [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 16:28, 27 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=User_talk:%C3%89owyn&diff=386486User talk:Éowyn2024-02-27T09:15:50Z<p>Sage: /* Sorry */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>== Merging ==<br />
<br />
Hello. I noticed you attempted to merge a couple of articles. Please be careful when merging, because merging is not just deleting the content of the short article and replacing it with redirect, but checking its content and migrating anything essential to the main article, thus ''merging'' the two entities. While deleting the content of [[Oakenshield]], you also deleted the information about the Inspiration for the name. Luckily I noticed it, and I merged this interesting trivia to the main [[Thorin]] article. Please be careful and keep it up. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 17:20, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Thanks for catching and fixing that! I'll be more careful with merging in the future. [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:25, 7 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Forbiden Pool page ==<br />
I noticed in the recent changes list that you created a new Forbidden Pool page and that there are no references for the content on that page. References are the cornerstone of any high quality edit on Tolkien Gateway and are probably one of the reasons why Tolkien Gateway received an award from the Tolkien Society for its content. Please have a look at the Help:References page and add references with page numbers where applicable that support the content that you added. References should be included at the same time as conent is added or changed. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:24, 12 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hi! Should be fixed now [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 01:52, 13 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Hi! Welcome to the wiki. Please check the changes I made in the page. We use templates for references and dates. Categories are imperative. Please, do not upload images with random file names, keep the style of other files like [[:File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Boromir in Osgiliath.png]]. If you are interesed on expanding the matter of the PJ films, you could consider writing the scenes' articles rather than making the Portrayal sections too long. [[User:LorenzoCB|LorenzoCB]] ([[User talk:LorenzoCB|talk]]) 18:21, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
:::Hi! Thanks for fixing that! I'll stick to smaller edits while I get the hang of this [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 21:14, 19 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Army of the West page ==<br />
You seem to have forgotten to include page numbers for the 50th anniversary edition of LotR for some of your references. You added a named reference without page numbers and reused that reference. Currently one reference to the chapter The Last Debate and several named reference to the chapter The Black Gate Opens do not have any page numbers. Maybe you will have to use multiple references for the chapter The Black Gate Opens if the events to which you refer to in the references occur on different ranges of pages. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or if you need any help. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:05, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Treebeard page ==<br />
I reverted your edit, which deleted the disambiguation notice with the link to the chapter with the title Treebeard. The link to the page about the chapter with the title Treebeard is necessary, because if someone enters Treebeard in the search field they are automatically sent to the page about the Ent called Treebeard, but they may have wanted to search for the page about the chapter called Treebeard. I suggest to propose deletions on the discussion/talk page of a page rather than deleting things immediately unless it concerns clear mistakes. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:15, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hi. That is absolutely my bad. Not sure what happened there but I believe my intent was to change that link to [[Treebeard (disambiguation)]] instead of directly to the chapter page but ended up just deleting the other one. Would it be okay if I made that change or would it be better if I just had it link directly to the chapter? Thanks for pointing out the mistakes I make, I'm still learning :) [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 17:40, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Good catch! I agree, [[Template:Disambig-more]] for Treebeard makes more sense. It's an orphaned page (no current links to it) so that helps fix that problem as well. Feel free to make the change. You're doing great, thank you! [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] ([[User talk:Hyarion|talk]]) 18:35, 24 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Ents page ==<br />
You seem to have included references for some names in the infobox which already have references in the other names section of the Ents page. Although it is not included in the Tolkien Gateway Manual of Style and on the Help References page, it seems to be the standard practice not to include references for information in the infobox of a page if the same information is also in another section of the same page and is already supported by references in this other section of the same page. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:33, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Thanks for the heads up. I removed all the excess references except to the ents not otherwise mentioned in that page, hope that's fine. [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 16:06, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Luck page ==<br />
<br />
It would seem that the quote you added to the page may be a bit long compared to the rest of the article, particularly considering that the second and third sentences are only indirectly related to the topic of the page. Not sure how to go about trimming this one down though.<br />
{{User:Hands of a healer/sig}} [[User:Hands of a healer|Hands of a healer]] ([[User talk:Hands of a healer|talk]]) 19:12, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:I didn't add the quote. My edit was just to add it to Category:Concepts but I do agree the quote isn't great (along with the rest of the article which is a flaming hot mess) [[User:Éowyn|Éowyn]] ([[User talk:Éowyn|talk]]) 20:35, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
::Huh! My bad, somehow I must have messed up selections in "compare versions". {{User:Hands of a healer/sig}}21:02, 22 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Sorry ==<br />
<br />
Before noticing that you claimed the "Racism" article I did some edits about antisemitism. Please have in mind. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 09:15, 27 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Racism&diff=386485Racism2024-02-27T08:36:00Z<p>Sage: Added something about "antisemitism". Removed link to removed youtube video and replaced with another source</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Claimed|[[User:Éowyn]]}}<br />
{{cleanup}}<br />
<!--Things to keep in mind while editing this page:<br />
*Must be written from a neutral POV, edits biased either towards or against Tolkien should be avoided.<br />
*Even if something seems like an obvious example of racism, please include a source instead of just stating "Some people claim X"<br />
--><br />
{{quote|For years, Tolkien scholars have waged a fight on two fronts: against an academic establishment that for the most part refused to take the author's work seriously, and against white supremacists who have tried to claim the professor as one of their own.|David Ibata, ''Chicago Tribune''<ref>{{webcite|author=David Ibata|articleurl=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2003/01/12/lord-of-racism-critics-view-trilogy-as-discriminatory/|articlename=‘Lord’ of racism? Critics view trilogy as discriminatory|dated=18 August 2019|website=[https://www.chicagotribune.com/ Chicago Tribune]|accessed=26 February 2024}}<br />
</ref>}}<br />
Some fans and critics of [[J.R.R Tolkien]]'s works could observe several ambiguously '''Racist and race-based elements'''; these go further into stereotyping or the symbolism of good versus evil in Tolkien's [[legendarium]]. Though the latter is the more established and valid area of study, as early as the first edition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' the topic of 'race' has been discussed, including by [[C.S. Lewis]].<ref>C.S. Lewis, ''[[The Dethronement of Power]]''</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien denounced Hitler,<ref name=l45>{{L|45}}</ref> Nazi beliefs, "race-doctrine",<ref name=l29>{{L|29}}</ref> and apartheid,<ref>{{L|61}}</ref> and praised the Jews, calling them a "gifted people"<ref name=l30>{{L|30}}</ref><br />
<br />
In the [[The Lord of the Rings Foreword|Foreword]] to the revised edition of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien cautioned strongly against viewing it as an allegory, saying that he cordially disliked allegory.<ref>{{FR|Foreword}}</ref> He reiterated this sentiment in response to suggestions of racial allegory in his works.<ref name=l29/> Therefore any claims of intentional allegory in his work are inaccurate and his intentions should be viewed as being set aside from the social-political domain and entirely focused within a fantasy-fiction context. <br />
<br />
Christine Chism mentions the issue of racism in the ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment|J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia]]'', where she distinguishes accusations as falling into three categories: intentional racism, unconscious [[Wikipedia:Eurocentrism|Eurocentric]] bias, and an evolution from latent racism in Tolkien's early work to a conscious rejection of racist tendencies in his late work.<ref>Christine Chism, "Race and Ethnicity in Tolkien's Works". In [[Michael Drout|Drout, Michael]] (ed.). [[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia]]. pp. 555–556.</ref><br />
<br />
[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]],<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Dimitra Fimi]]|articleurl=https://dimitrafimi.com/2018/12/02/revisiting-race-in-tolkiens-legendarium-constructing-cultures-and-ideologies-in-an-imaginary-world/|articlename=Revisiting Race in Tolkien’s Legendarium: Constructing Cultures and Ideologies in an Imaginary World|dated=2012|website=https://dimitrafimi.com/|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref> and more recently [[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]] has done much to perpetuate recent popular interest in, as well as criticism of Tolkien's writings.<br />
==Issues with claims of racism==<br />
===Applying modern values to historical works===<br />
<!--Expand--><br />
Many Tolkien scholars take issue with applying our modern values to Tolkien who lived from [[1892]] to [[1973]].<br />
===Racial ambiguity of characters===<br />
As Tolkien's legendarium is set in a fictional world, race does not work the same as in our [[Primary World]]. There are different races (eg. [[Dwarves]] and [[Elves]]) and groups within these (eg. [[Gondorians]] and [[Haradrim]]). None of these groups are a 1-1 match to any race in our world. Except for the few situations in which it is explicitly stated by Tolkien, any claims as to the real-world race that a character or ([[Arda]]) race is based on is reader interpretation and cannot be definitively said to have been a result of racism, intentional or not, by Tolkien.<br />
<br />
Often the only clues we have to go on for which (real-world) race a character/race is most similar to or based upon, are short, often metaphorical descriptions that aren't always agreed on. For example [[Samwise Gamgee]] is twice referred to as having "brown hands",<ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><ref>{{RK|Tower}}</ref> leading some to argue that Sam is "non-white".<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=https://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com/post/106609134600/sam-gamgees-brown-hands|articlename=Sam Gamgee’s Brown Hands|website=[http://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com Ask About Middle-Earth]}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Perceived racism in Tolkien's works==<!-- These are not to be taken as definite. This list cites claims pointed out by critics, right or wrong, and can be 'countered'. --><br />
===Evil Men===<br />
<!-- combine paragraphs to make easier to read, sources--><br />
[[Image:John Howe - Easterlings.jpg|thumb|''Easterlings'' by [[John Howe]]]]<br />
One potentially racist element in [[Middle-earth]] is that the majority of the [[Men]] who serve [[Sauron]] are the dark-skinned peoples of the [[Easterlings (First Age)|Easterling]]s and [[Southrons]]. They come from the South and East of Middle-earth, corresponding with Asia and Africa in the loose connection between Middle-earth geography and that of the real world.<br />
<br />
The Easterlings are aligned with [[Morgoth]] or Sauron with the exception of [[Bór]]'s folk. They are described as being of fairly dark skin complexion, swarthy and exceedingly cruel. The Southrons (or Haradrim) are described as black-skinned, cruel and evil, and are apparently at least inspired by Indian cultures with traits such as fighting on [[Mumakil]]-back. <br />
<br />
In some cases, people having the slightest blood relation to enemies, like [[Freca]] and [[Wulf]], who are related to the [[Dunlendings]], are presented as evil themselves, as if evilness is hereditary. Some of these are also called "swarthy" (dark). [[Bill Ferny]] is said to be swarthy, and this can be traced to his Dunlending ancestry however the rest of the mostly benign and hearty [[Men of Bree]] are also descended from Dunlendings. <br />
<br />
While the Easterlings and the Haradrim are dark-skinned people in the service of the Enemy, the [[Woses]] are primitive, small, and alien compared to other peoples (their chief [[Ghân-buri-Ghân]] only wears a grass skirt) yet they are valuable allies (in ''The Return of the King''). While Tolkien does not mention their skin colour, they were considered monsters by the [[Rohirrim]] who hunted them as animals, which the narrative explicitly condemns. However, in the [[First Age]] they were counted as ''[[Edain]]'', or noble Men, and were allies of the Elves.<br />
<br />
However, not all enemies are non-white. Noteworthy examples are [[Gríma]], [[Gollum]], and at least two of the Nazgûl.<br />
Indeed, while during the timeframe of Lord of the Rings those enslaved and serving Sauron are darker skinned people from the South and East, during the history of Middle-earth many of the white races of man and even some Elves were fooled and coerced by the Enemy.<!--This paragraph in two sections, rewrite--><br />
<br />
In the War of the Ring, the human enemies are not truly evil, since they are described as deceived, enslaved or exploited. Sam sees a dead warrior of [[Harad]] and wonders if he was truly evil — or rather deceived or coerced to go to war. The Dunlendings are persuaded by [[Saruman]] to attack [[Rohan]], playing on their grievances due to [[Gondor]] giving what they considered their land to the [[Éothéod]], the ancestors of the Rohirrim. Earlier, Sauron persuaded their ancestors to fight against the [[Númenóreans]], the cause of their relocation from forests into the hills.<br />
<br />
Tolkien also wrote that the [[Blue Wizards]], were sent into the South and East lands to spread dissent and resistance against Sauron. While he wrote on one occasion (as given in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'') that they failed, on another occasion (as given in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'') he wrote that they were successful, making Sauron's hold on these lands throughout the centuries significantly weaker than it should have been. This prevented Sauron from overwhelming the West with his armies and ultimately contributed to his defeat in the [[War of the Ring]]. This means that Southrons and Easterlings resisting Sauron were meant to exist, only that their stories remain untold.<br />
===Orcs===<br />
<!--Expand?--><br />
Stephen Shapiro, a cultural studies expert, has compared the small group of protagonists (the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]) against hordes of foreign enemies as representative of the long history of Anglo-European's fear of non-Europeans.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/film-and-tv/lord-of-the-rings-labelled-racist-2461845|articlename=Lord of the Rings labelled racist|dated=14 December 2002|website=[https://www.scotsman.com/ The Scotsman]|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
Of the [[Orcs]], the [[Uruk-Hai]] are described as "black"<ref>{{FR|Bridge}}, p. 329</ref> and a smaller Orc, a tracker, is described as "black-skinned".<ref>{{RK|Shadow}}, p. 924</ref> All Orcs are often described as "slant-eyed"<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}, p. 451</ref> and the [[Uruk-Hai]] at least refer to the Rohirrim as '[[whiteskins]]'.<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> Tolkien described Orcs as ''"...squat, broad, flat-nosed, sallow-skinned, with wide mouths and slant eyes; in fact degraded and repulsive versions of the (to Europeans) least lovely Mongol-types"''<ref name=l210>{{L|210}}</ref><br />
<br />
While Tolkien's statement comparing Orcs to the "Mongol-types" may be interpreted as racist, he does put a disclaimer, "(to Europeans,)" before "least lovely", recognizing Western cultural bias and also pointing out that they were "degraded and repulsive versions" of "Mongol-types", not actual "Mongol-types". Additionally this was in a time period where racial stereotypes of Mongols were more acceptable and less questioned so Tolkien's use of the phrase "Mongol-types" may have been just a descriptor, separate from any views he may have held on Mongolia or Mongols. It is worth noting that some Orcs use crooked or bent swords (Tolkien also uses the term scimitar, which is historically associated with the Middle East).<ref>{{TT|Departure}}</ref><br />
<br />
Orcs however, are not Men. Unlike the wicked Men who serve the Enemy, who might have been enslaved or beguiled, Orcs are portrayed as irredeemably evil, or at least having a redemption outside the scope of the narrative. The [[Orcs/Origin|origin of Orcs]] is not clear, but they may be products of Morgoth's sorcery, or the descendants of tortured and ruined Elves or Meb. Regardless of their origins, they are not presented as a natural race.<ref>{{S|3}}</ref><br />
===Dwarves as Jews===<br />
<!--Acceptable except for sourcing--><br />
:''See also: [[Racism in Tolkien's Works#Nazism and Judaism|Nazism and Judaism]]<br />
Tolkien himself compared Dwarves to Jews: <br />
<br />
{{quote|The dwarves of course are quite obviously... couldn't you say that in many ways they remind you of the Jews? Their words are Semitic obviously, constructed to be Semitic. [...] There's a tremendous love of the artefact, and of course the immense warlike capacity of the Jews, which we tend to forget nowadays.|J.R.R. Tolkien to [[Denys Gueroult]]<ref name=interview>''[[An Interview with J.R.R.T.]]''; the second phrase was edited out of the broadcast but published in Zak Cramer's "Jewish Influences in Middle-earth" (''[[Mallorn 44]]'' [[2006]]: p. 10).</ref>}}<br />
<br />
Tolkien only made an explicit connection between the dwarf-language [[Khuzdul]] to [[Hebrew]] language. In another letter, he makes the same comparison, but this time it is explicitly about both peoples being dispossessed of their lands, forced to wander the world, and adopt the languages of other lands: both were "at once natives and aliens in their habitations, speaking the languages of the country, but with an accent due to their own private tongue…"<ref>{{L|176}}</ref><br />
<br />
Rebecca Brackman notes that although Tolkien was not a conscious antisemite, he was influenced by the popular perception towards the Jews, including by tropes and stereotypes considered "antisemitic" today; such tropes were found in classical and contemporary works including ''The Merchant of Venice'' or ''Oliver Twist'', that portrayed the Jews as greedy, alien, and as cowardly comical reliefs. The Dwarves in ''The Hobbit'' display such traits at several points of the story and are portrayed as comical, unheroic, alien, and functioning under their own interests ("dwarves are not heroes, but calculating folk with a great idea of the value of [[money]]"<ref>{{H|12}}, p. 211</ref>).<ref name=brackman>Brackmann, Rebecca ([[2010]]) "[https://dc.swosu.edu/mythlore/vol28/iss3/ 'Dwarves are Not Heroes': Antisemitism and the Dwarves in J.R.R. Tolkien's Writing]", [[Mythlore]]: A Journal of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Charles Williams, and Mythopoeic Literature: Vol. 28: No. 3, Article 7.</ref><br />
<br />
In his later works, Tolkien paints a mostly positive picture of the dwarves ([[Gimli]] of course is brave and honourable, and "few Dwarves ever served the enemy willingly", contrary to the tales of Men<ref name="Other">{{App|Other}}</ref>) and elsewhere he made explicitly positive statements about the Jewish people.<ref name=l30/><br />
<br />
However, one of the weaknesses of the Dwarves was their greed for [[gold]] and other riches, amplified by the [[Seven Rings]].<ref>{{S|Rings}}</ref> Some see a connection between this and the stereotype of the Jewish usurer. It is also possible to draw a connection between the bearded Dwarves and the beards of Orthodox Jews. This, though, has more of an origin in Norse mythology than Jewish stereotypes.<br />
<br />
===Númenóreans===<br />
<!--Expand, sourcing--><br />
Tolkien has divine beings blessing or gifting peoples or persons and their descendants, having thus the concept of the chosen people who differ from others — in Tolkien's case, the [[Dúnedain]] (literally "Men of the West") of [[Númenor]]. It should be also noted that according to Theosophy, Ariosophy and Nazism, the Aryan race is supposedly descended from [[Atlantis]].<ref>Alfred Rosenberg, [[Wikipedia:The_Myth_of_the_Twentieth_Century|The Myth of the Twentieth Century]]</ref><br />
<br />
Although gifted, many of Tolkien's Númenóreans are evil. In the Appendices to the Return of the King, Númenórean fleets sail to Middle-earth, where they conquer and subjugate native peoples in what may be a commentary on European imperialism. The Númenóreans ultimately cause their own downfall by following the teachings of Morgoth, conducting human sacrifices, and making war on Valinor. At least three of the Nazgûl are Númenóreans.<br />
===Light vs. Dark===<br />
Some critics have declared that there is racism in Tolkien's works through his use of words such as "light" and "white" vs. "dark" or "black". For instance, in 2002, John Yatt in ''The Guardian'' wrote: "White men are good, 'dark' men are bad, orcs are worst of all."<ref>{{webcite|author=John Yatt|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/books/2002/dec/02/jrrtolkien.lordoftherings|articlename=Wraiths and race|dated=2 December 2002|website=[https://www.theguardian.com/us The Guardian]|accessed=26 February 2024}}<br />
</ref> Other critics such as [[Tom Shippey]] and [[Michael D.C. Drout]] disagree with such clear-cut generalizations of Tolkien's "white" and "dark" men into good and bad.<br />
<br />
The whole of Tolkien's legendarium contains a conflict between "light" (The Trees, the [[Silmarils]]) and "darkness" (the literal absence of light). Morgoth's standard was ''"sable unblazoned"'' (that is, plain black).<ref>{{S|18}}</ref> ''"[[Mordor]]"'' means "black land" in Sindarin.<ref>{{L|144}}</ref> If one were to analyse this through a racial lense, the ongoing clash may be interpreted as containing racial symbolism of light skinned versus dark skinned peoples, although [[Eöl]], father of [[Maeglin]] was known as the Dark Elf,<ref>{{S|Maeglin}}</ref> and the [[Moriquendi]] were called the Elves of Darkness. Both these terms refer to remaining outside the light of the two trees, not to skin tone. The [[Black Númenóreans]] are likewise named because of the colour of their allegiance to Sauron and their heraldry, not their skin tone. Considering this, Tolkien's assignment of Good and Evil to "light" and "dark" cannot simply be dismissed as racial undertones within the broader narrative. <br />
<br />
White is also not always associated with good. Noteworthy examples are [[Gríma]], [[Gollum]], and at least two of the [[Nazgûl]]. Also [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] and the [[ruffians]] are white-skinned characters who ravage and take over [[the Shire]]. [[Saruman]] the White and his symbol the [[White Hand]] are associated with evil and corruption. Orcs are described as "sallow".<ref name=l210/> Similarly black is not only associated with evil as Gondor uses a black standard bearing the White Tree, and the Guards of the Citadel of Minas Tirith wore black chain mail. In [[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], three Númenórean ships are followed by a boat with black sails. One of the mariners explains to a native of Middle-earth, scared that the black sails indicate doom, that the blackness is in fact a thing of beauty, the night sky of Elbereth (who kindled the stars). Indeed, Tolkien states that one of Morgoth's (literally, the ''Black Enemy'') victories was in associating darkness and night with fear and evil.<br />
<br />
The symbolism of light as good and dark as evil is a prehistoric dichotomy present in a great many cultures, Western and otherwise. It is also a part of [[Christianity]] (John 8:12 Jesus Christ said, "I am the Light of the World, Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."). Variations such as the Manicheeist heresy and further the ancient religion of Persia - Zoroastrianism.<!--Better explain--><br />
===Geographical locations===<br />
<!--Sources--><br />
Tolkien wrote that Arda was not a different fantasy universe but a fictional era in Earth's history.<ref>{{L|183}}</ref> This has led to criticisms with some similarities noticed between the peoples in different regions of Middle-earth and their corresponding Earth location. It has also been pointed out that [[Aman]], the Blessed Realm, is the westernmost part of Arda which areas in the South and East are often associated with evil.<br />
<br />
It should be noted that Tolkien only made precise ''geographic'' correspondences of [[Third Age]] Middle-earth locations to those in the real world. For example, [[Hobbiton]] was at the latitude of [[Oxford]]. The Shire was based upon, but ''was not actually'' rural England, since "the lands have changed" since then. Tolkien made no precise correspondences regarding the ''peoples'' concerned. Though the [[Hobbits]] were based upon rural English folk, they were not literally ancient Englishmen. He never said that Harad was Africa, nor the Eastlands Asia, nor their inhabitants' ancestors of Africans or Asians. ''The Silmarillion'' presents tales of a time when the Earth's lands were different from that in the Third Age. <br />
<br />
The East and South are not the only places that are associated with evil, especially in earlier history. In the First Age, evil came from the North when Morgoth based himself in [[Angband]]. Also, all Men and Elves first awoke in the East. [[Boromir]] is introduced as a "man of the South" without qualification (actually South-west).<br />
<br />
===Racial superiority===<br />
The differences between races and racial hierarchy have led to the claims of racism in [[Eä]]. This claim can also be taken a step further to say for example, "The Haradrim were based on Mongolians and were bad and morally inferior to Elves and other Men so therefore Tolkien viewed Mongolians as inferior."<br />
<br />
Part of the controversy may be caused in part by the conflicting uses of the word race. When we talk about race in humans we most often mean ethnic or cultural subgroups of humans. In Tolkien's writings, race is more similar to different species. Saying that Dwarves are better blacksmiths than Men is therefore more akin to claiming humans are better blacksmiths than bears, a generally uncontroversial statement. <br />
<br />
While no significant proof has been found proving that any (human) races are superior,<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aac4951|articlename=Taking race out of human genetics|dated=5 February 2016|website=|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref> the different races of Middle-earth were created separately and in some cases by different beings. These differences are not due to failings of that particular group but to the goal their creator had in mind.<br />
<br />
Additionally while some beings in Middle-earth are objectively more powerful than others they are not necessarily portrayed as lesser because of it. Although in Middle-earth Hobbits were considered unimportant (by those who had even heard of them) and for most of history they were content to leave and be left alone by the world, Hobbits had a massive influence on the events of the last Third Age, saving all of Middle-earth from the dominion of Sauron. In a book with [[wizards]], kings and soldiers, Tolkien stated that Sam, a gardener of the Shire, was the chief hero of the book.<ref>{{L|131}}</ref><br />
<br />
All the "superior" people, be they Elves, Edain or Dunedain, have no direct analogues with peoples of the real world. If the Dunedain could be put somewhere, they would belong in [[Atlantis]], since Númenor was Middle-earth's counterpart to Plato's Atlantis. The Rohirrim, who have been parallelled to blond and fair Europeans, are "inferior" to them, being Middle Men, in their view.<br />
<br />
===Race mixing===<br />
<!--expand--><br />
[[Treebeard]] states, <br />
{{blockquote|It is a mark of evil things that came in the Great Darkness that they cannot abide the [[Sun]]; but Saruman's Orcs can endure it, even if they hate it. I wonder what he has done? Are they Men he has ruined, or has he blended the races of Orcs and Men? That would be a black evil!<ref>{{TT|Treebeard}}, p. 473</ref>}}<br />
There were three marriages between an [[Eldar]] and Edain, [[Lúthien]] and [[Beren]],<br />
[[Idril]] and [[Tuor]], and [[Arwen]] and [[Aragorn]].<ref>{{App|Numenor}}</ref> Despite there being concerns from characters, primarily fathers of the Elves, these unions are portrayed positively.<br />
<br />
The blood of Númenor ran nearly true in the character of [[Faramir]],<ref>{{RK|MT}}</ref> a man whom Tolkien described as "modest, fair-minded and scrupulously just, and very merciful",<ref>{{L|244}}</ref> yet he chose to marry [[Éowyn]], who was a woman of Rohan and therefore undoubtedly of the race of [[Middle Men]].<ref>{{RK|Steward}};{{TT|Window}}</ref><br />
===Racism in Middle-earth===<br />
<!--Sourcing--><br />
Tolkien portrays racism within the "heroic" races as unabashedly negative. Elves and Dwarves distrust each other. Some Elves hunted the [[Petty-dwarves]] as animals,<ref>{{S|Turin}}</ref> as did the Rohirrim to the [[Woses]].<ref>{{RK|Ride}}</ref> The friendship between [[Legolas]] and Gimli is portrayed as unusual but commendable,<ref>{{App|Later}}</ref> and several scenes illustrate them learning to understand and respect each other's cultural differences. When Gimli meets [[Galadriel]] and hears her speak the names of [[Mirrormere|Kheled-zaram]], [[Kibil-nala]], and [[Khazad-dum]] in his own tongue, he is described as feeling as if he had''"looked into the heart of an enemy and saw there love and understanding."''<ref>{{FR|Mirror}}, p. 356</ref> Later, when he originally asks for nothing of Lady Galadriel, although she had given every other member of the [[Fellowship]] a gift, she says, ''"Let none say again that Dwarves are grasping and ungracious!"''<ref>{{FR|Mirror}};{{FR|Farewell}}, p. 375-6</ref><br />
<br />
It is notable that there is apparently racism within the ranks of Orcs as the Uruk-hai held themselves as superior to the common Orcs, whom they called ''snaga'' (slave).<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref><br />
<br />
The point-of-view characters of the book -- the hobbits -- are themselves of a race that is frequently described as being overlooked, under-estimated, and lightly regarded by the other races of Middle-earth, yet they often demonstrate far greater courage and nobility than the races who denigrate them. They are not without prejudice, however, and [[Gandalf]] is shown reprimanding [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] for his comments on [[Barliman Butterbur]].<br />
<br />
The Númenóreans of Gondor fell to infighting because of a supposed need for racial purity, especially concerning the ancestry of their king (the [[Kin-strife]]), and grew weaker as a result. In this affair, the villain was the pure-blooded Númenórean [[Castamir]] while the hero was the half-Númenórean [[Eldacar (King of Gondor)|Eldacar]].<br />
<br />
==Counterindications== <!-- I've moved defences of individual claims to their respective sections above, this section should be used for general counter arguments against racism in the legendarium--><br />
<br />
Tolkien's defenders assert that many criticisms of racism and elitism levelled at ''The Lord of the Rings'' and other writings are oversimplifications and generalizations, and do not take account of everything the author may have written concerning these matters.<br />
<br />
While some of his views may be seen as outdated today, Tolkien was decently progressive for his time when it came to race. It seems unlikely that Tolkien who opposed the idea that some races were superior to others would choose to consciously use that as an element in his writings.<br />
<br />
*Tolkien was English, and wanted to make a mythology for England. Therefore he wrote ''The Lord of the Rings'' according to his people's point of view. He could not make his protagonists, say, Incan or Japanese, or even put the setting anywhere else than (an alternative) North-western Europe, in spirit if not in actuality.<br />
<br />
*Tolkien first describes the Haradrim in ''The Lord of the Rings'' as tall, dark, and looking fierce and nasty (according to [[Gollum]]), with long black hair, painted faces and gold earrings and ornaments. Later a warrior of Harad who falls at Sam's feet has black plaits of hair braided with gold. Notably, the author does not describe them as black, nor their hair as kinky, nor give them any other typical sub-Saharan African features.<ref>{{TT|Herbs}}</ref><br />
<br />
*There are no truly "perfect" peoples in Tolkien's writings, save perhaps the [[Vanyar]]. Given that Tolkien loved [[trees]] and nature in general, having his Númenóreans wantonly cut down trees for ships is decidedly negative. The [[Noldor]] rebelled against the Valar and killed their fellow Elves.<br />
<br />
==Views==<br />
===Nazism and Judaism===<br />
Tolkien's German publisher, Rütten & Loening, asked if he was of ''arisch'' (Aryan) origin. This angered Tolkien who complained of the "lunatic laws" and "wholly pernicious and unscientific race-doctrine". He wrote that he was inclined to refuse to give proof of his Aryan origin, which would result ''Lord of the Rings'' not being published in Germany.<ref name=l29/> Tolkien was staunchly opposed to, in his words, "that ruddy little ignoramus Adolf Hitler"<ref name=l45/><br />
<br />
Tolkien was friends with many Jewish people and had great respect for them.<ref name=l29/> In one letter he writes about a Jewish historian named [[Wikipedia:Cecil Roth|Cecil Roth]]. He describes his as "charming" and "full of gentleness", writing that they stayed up until 12:00 talking.<ref>{{L|55}}</ref><br />
<br />
On the flip side, Tolkien was critical of anti-German (as opposed to anti-Nazi) propaganda during WWII.<ref name=l45/><br />
{{blockquote|There was a solemn article in the local paper seriously advocating systematic exterminating of the entire German nation as the only proper course after military victory: because, if you please, they are rattlesnakes, and don't know the difference between good and evil! (What of the writer?) The Germans have just as much right to declare the Poles and Jews exterminable vermin, subhuman, as we have to select the Germans: in other words, no right, whatever they have done.<ref>{{L|81}}</ref>}}<br />
===Apartheid===<br />
Tolkien was born in [[Bloemfontein]] in the [[Orange Free State]] (now the Free State province of South Africa) and moved to England at the age of three. Tolkien was outspoken against apartheid.<br />
<br />
{{quote|I have the hatred of apartheid in my bones; and most of all I detest the segregation or separation of Language and Literature. I do not care which of them you think White.|From a [[Valedictory Address to the University of Oxford]] in [[1959]]}}<br />
<br />
<br />
{{quote|As for what you say or hint of ‘local’ conditions: I knew of them. I don't think they have much changed (even for the worse). I used to hear them discussed by my mother; and have ever since taken a special interest in that part of the world. The treatment of colour nearly always horrifies anyone going out from Britain, & not only in South Africa. Unfort[unately], not many retain that generous sentiment for long.|[[Letter 61]] — Written to Christopher Tolkien who was stationed in South Africa during World War II}}<br />
<br />
==Usage of Tolkien's works to defend racism==<br />
In Italy, ''Lord of the Rings'' is considered fascist by some groups and Italian fascist organisations are allegedly using the book for recruiting.<ref>http://www.johnreilly.info/ata.htm</ref> According to Italian website [http://www.caltanet.it/frm/cinema/ Caltanet], [[Wikipedia:Alleanza Nazionale|Alleanza Nazionale]], a right-oriented Italian political party, had taken a picture from ''Fellowship of the Ring'' movie to promote a speech by his leader, [[Wikipedia:Gianfranco Fini|Gianfranco Fini]].<ref>http://www.theonering.net/perl/newsview/8/1001628604</ref> However, Tolkien himself stated in a letter to his son in 1943 that ''My political opinions lean more and more to Anarchy (philosophically understood, meaning the abolition of control not whiskered men with bombs)-or to 'unconstitutional' Monarchy.''<ref>{{L|52}}</ref>. Thus this makes any notion of Tolkien being fascist defunct.<br />
<br />
Tolkien's works have also been embraced by self-admitted racists such as the British National Party.<ref>The Sunday Times - [http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/article804465.ece The BNP has declared Lord of the Rings essential reading. They’re not the only extremists to get the wrong idea]</ref><br />
<br />
Researcher Helen Young explains the appeal of Tolkien's works to racists and white supremacists:<br />
{{Blockquote|In Middle Earth, [sic] unlike reality, race is objectively real rather than socially constructed. There are species (elves, men, dwarves, etc.), but within those species there are races that conform to 19th-century race theory, in that their physical attributes (hair color, etc.) are associated with non-physical attributes that are both personal and cultural. There is also an explicit racial hierarchy which is, again, real in the world of the story. Middle Earth is literally a racist's fantasy land.<ref>{{webcite|author=David M. Perry|articleurl=https://psmag.com/education/untangling-white-supremacy-from-medieval-studies|articlename=How Can We Untangle White Supremacy From Medieval Studies?|dated=9 October|website=[https://psmag.com/ Pacific Standard|accessed=26 February 2024}}</ref>|Helen Young}}<br />
==External links==<br />
*[http://middle-earth.xenite.org/2012/11/29/is-it-true-there-is-racism-in-the-lord-of-the-rings/ Is It True There is Racism in The Lord of the Rings?] by [[Michael Martinez]]<br />
*[http://tolkien.slimy.com/faq/External.html#Racist Portion of a Tolkien FAQ attempting to give an answer to the matter]<br />
*[http://www.rediff.com/news/2003/jan/08lord.htm Critique of the Lord of the Rings as an 'epic rooted in racism' by Dr Shapiro]<br />
*[http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/chi-030112epringsrace,0,4574891.story 'Lord' of racism? Critics view trilogy as discriminatory] by Chicago Tribune<br />
*[https://dimitrafimi.com/2018/12/02/revisiting-race-in-tolkiens-legendarium-constructing-cultures-and-ideologies-in-an-imaginary-world/ Revisiting Race in Tolkien’s Legendarium: Constructing Cultures and Ideologies in an Imaginary World] by [[Dimitra Fimi]]<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Debates]]<br />
[[category:Tolkien criticism]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Sundering_of_the_Elves&diff=386304Sundering of the Elves2024-02-22T08:01:05Z<p>Sage: Move Primary World information to OVOTL section per the site's policy. Also reworded a bit, since "Nature of Middle-earth" doesn't correspond to a specific stage development of the Legendarium</p>
<hr />
<div>The [[Elves]] were a race subjected to many sunderings and divided into many tribes and peoples. The name '''[[Quendi]]''' refers to ''all'' Elves, but even from their [[Awakening of the Elves|beginning]], elvenkind was divided.<br />
[[Image:Elven Kindreds.jpg|center|750px|A chart of the Sundering of the Elves]]<br style="clear:both"><br />
<br />
==Minyar, Tatyar & Nelyar==<br />
The unbegotten Elves who awoke at [[Cuiviénen]] were divided into three tribes, distinguished by appearance and temperament. <br />
* The '''[[Minyar]]''' were golden-haired and loved poetry.<br />
* The '''[[Tatyar]]''' had dark hair and grey eyes and loved craft and knowledge. They were noted as being especially quarrelsome.<ref name=WJ380>{{WJ|C}}, pp. 380-85</ref><br />
* The '''[[Nelyar]]''' were dark or silver of hair and loved song (this was the source of their alternate name, '''[[Lindar]]''', meaning "Singers"), the woods, and the Sea.<br />
<br />
==Eldar and Avari==<br />
Some time after the Elves awakened, the [[Valar|Vala]] [[Oromë]] discovered them and invited them to come west to live in [[Aman]]. That invitation and the [[Great Journey]] that followed split the Elves into two main groups and many minor ones, which were never fully reunited.<br />
<br />
The '''[[Avari]]''' (the "Unwilling") were those who refused the summons of Oromë. Half of the original Avari were of the [[Tatyar]] and the other half were of the [[Nelyar]].<ref name=WJ380/><br />
<br />
The '''[[Eldar]]''' were those who accepted the summons. Their name, "People of the Stars", was given to them by Oromë in [[Primitive Quendian|their own language]]. All the Minyar accepted the summons to Valinor and became known as the '''[[Vanyar]]'''. Those of the Tatyar and Nelyar who embarked on the Great Journey would come to be known as the '''[[Noldor]]''' and '''[[Teleri]]''' respectively. <br />
<br />
===Sunderings of the Teleri===<br />
Unlike the Vanyar and Noldor, the Teleri were subject to multiple sunderings along the Great Journey:<br />
<br />
* Those who feared to cross the [[Misty Mountains]] and stayed in the vales of the [[Anduin|River Anduin]] were called the '''[[Nandor]]''' ("Those Who Go Back").<ref name=WJ412>{{WJ|Author}}, p. 412, Note 18</ref><br />
** A splinter group of the Nandor left the vales of Anduin under the leadership of [[Denethor of the Nandor|Denethor]] and came to Beleriand before the Sun first rose. These were called the '''Laiquendi''' ("[[Green-elves]]").<ref name=WJ380 /><br />
<br />
* Those who reached [[Beleriand]] west of the [[Blue Mountains]] but did not make the crossing to Aman were called the '''[[Sindar]]''' ("Grey-elves").<br />
** Many chose to remain behind in order to look for their lord [[Thingol]], who disappeared near the end of the journey. These were known as the '''[[Eglath]]''' ("Forsaken"), because they were left behind when their kindred crossed the Sea.<br />
** Those who came to the shores of the Great Sea but decided to stay there or, like [[Círdan|Nowë]], intended to cross to Aman but arrived too late to board the [[Tol Eressëa|island ferry]], were called the '''[[Falas|Falathrim]]''' ("People of the Shore").<br />
<br />
* The Teleri under the lordship of [[Olwë]] who crossed the [[Belegaer|Great Sea]] to reach Aman were known as the '''[[Falmari]]''' ("Wave-folk").<br />
<br />
==Calaquendi and Moriquendi==<br />
The Elves who completed the journey to Aman – the Vanyar, the Noldor, and the Falmari – referred to themselves as '''[[Calaquendi]]''' ("Elves of Light"). They referred to the Avari, Nandor, and Sindar as '''[[Moriquendi]]''' ("Elves of Darkness") in recognition of the fact that they never saw the light of the [[Two Trees]]. The largest part of the Moriquendi were Nelyarin, since half of the original Avari were so, as were all of the Nandor and Sindar.<ref>{{S|3}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Amanyar and Úmanyar===<br />
After the [[Darkening of Valinor]], most of the Noldor returned to Middle-earth with [[Fëanor]] and some remained there until the end of the [[Third Age]]. These became known as the '''[[Exile of the Noldor|Exiles]]''', and they lived near to the Sindar for the rest of their time in Middle-earth. The Sindar were insulted by the appellation "Moriquendi," so the Exiles instead generally referred to them as '''[[Úmanyar]]''' ("Those Not of Aman"). Over the ages, use of this term grew to include all those Elves who started on the Great Journey but did not complete it. The Exiles referred to themselves and those who still dwelt in Valinor as '''[[Amanyar]]''' ("Those of Aman").<br />
<br />
===Thingol===<br />
Thingol was an exception to the usual overlap of the categories Calaquendi with Amanyar and Moriquendi with Úmanyar. This is due to the fact that he was one of the original three Elven ambassadors to Valinor and saw the light of the Two Trees, but did not complete the Great Journey and never dwelt in Valinor. As such, he alone was both Calaquendi and Úmanyar.<ref>{{S|4}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reunions of the Elves==<br />
In the great forests of Middle-earth, several new peoples were born from the unions of tribes that had once been sundered.<br />
<br />
===Silvan Elves===<br />
The '''[[Silvan Elves]]''' were a composite tribe of Nandor and Avari that emerged in the forests of [[Rhovanion|Wilderland]] (notably [[Eryn Galen]] and [[Lindórinand]]) before the end of the First Age. <br />
<br />
The Nandor had lived in the forests that girdled the upper vales of the Anduin since the time they turned back from the Great Journey. Over time, tribes of Avarin Elves spreading westward from Cuiviénen reached the Anduin as well, where they reunited with their Nandorin kin. These peoples effectively "became merged together."<ref name=WJ380 /><br />
<br />
By the end of the First Age, some Silvan Elves had migrated as far south as the [[Ethir Anduin]] and [[Edhellond]].<br />
<br />
===Galadhrim===<br />
The '''Galadhrim''' ("Tree-people")<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 50</ref> were a composite tribe of Silvan Elves, Sindar, and Noldor that emerged in the forest of [[Lindórinand]] in the [[Second Age]]. It is unclear when exactly the residents of Lindórinand began to refer to themselves as "Galadhrim," but this name came to include many elves of diverse origin that arrived in Lindórinand in multiple waves of immigration.<br />
<br />
After the [[War of Wrath|sinking of Beleriand]], the Elves who had lived there and did not wish to leave for Valinor had to find new homes. Those Sindar and Laiquendi who preferred the forests to the sea shores (or who wished to distance themselves from the remaining Noldorin Exiles) went eastward to reunite with their Silvan kin who dwelt in the great forests of Eryn Galen and Lindórinand. In both forest realms, the native Silvan Elves took Sindar for their kings ([[Oropher]] and [[Amdír]], respectively) and underwent a process of "Sindarization" as they absorbed the culture of the Beleriandic immigrants. There were also Noldorin immigrants to the forest realms at this time, though evidently lesser in cultural impact than the Sindar.<ref name="Galadriel">{{UT|Concerning}}</ref><br />
<br />
Separately from Eryn Galen, Lindórinand experienced a second great wave of immigration after the [[Sack of Eregion]] in {{SA|1697}}. Many Elves of Eregion, who were primarily Noldor,<ref>{{App|B1}}</ref> escaped [[Sauron]] by fleeing through [[Khazad-dûm]] and emerged from the eastern side of the Misty Mountains onto Amdír's very doorstep. Some traveled down Anduin to Edhellond to depart Middle-earth, but others remained in Amdír's realm and dwelt there.<ref>{{UT|Amroth}}</ref> By the time [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]] took up the [[Lord and Lady of Lórien|Lord and Ladyship]] of the realm in {{TA|1981}}, the Galadhrim had thoroughly absorbed these Noldorin refugees into their culture; there is no further mention of them as a distinct people within the Elves of Lórien.<br />
<br />
== Ratio of Elvish clans ==<br />
According to Noldorin historians, the proportions (out of 144) of Elves who remained (Avari), who started but didn't complete the March ([[Úmanyar]]), and who completed the March ([[Amanyar]]) were as follows:<ref>{{WJ|C}}</ref>{{rp|504}}<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|-<br />
!rowspan="2" | Clan<br />
!rowspan="2" | Avari<br />
!colspan="2" | Eldar<br />
!rowspan="2" | Total<br />
|-<br />
!Úmanyar<br />
!Amanyar<br />
|-<br />
|Minyar||0||0||14 (Vanyar)||14<br />
|-<br />
|Tatyar||28||0||28 (Noldor)||56<br />
|-<br />
|Nelyar||28||26 ([[Sindar]] and [[Nandor]])||20 ([[Falmari]])||74<br />
|-<br />
!Total !!56!!26!!62!!144<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
The above ratio of the initial population of the Eldar, but without giving exact figures, derives from Tolkien's notes between [[1959]]-[[1960]], eventually published in a collection of essays titled ''[[Quendi and Eldar]]''.<br />
<br />
Around the same time, or perhaps earlier (1959) Tolkien wrote several drafts of Elvish proportions and populations for the outset (and in one case, at the conclusion) of the Great March. They were eventually published in ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]''.<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|-<br />
!Scheme!!Total!!Avari!!Vanyar!!Noldor!!Teleri!!Other<br />
|-<br />
|"March" unnamed<ref name=march>{{NM|P1vii}}</ref>{{rp|56}}||15,000||5,000||1,000||3,500||5,500<br />
|-<br />
|"March" unnamed<ref name=march />{{rp|56}}||29,000||9,060 (~ 9000)||2,000||7,000||11,000||At [[Atyamar]] the Telerin population had increased to 13,000, of which 3,000 became [[Nandor]]<br />
|-<br />
|"Increase" Text 1<ref name=increase>{{NM|P1xiv}}</ref>{{rp|108}}||32,400||10,800||2,100||8,400||11,100||1/3 of Minyar become Avari<br />
|-<br />
|"Generation" Scheme 1<ref name=generation>{{NM|P1xv}}</ref>{{rp|123}}||26,244||8,748||1,701 (1,700)||6,804 (6,800)||8,991 (8,900)<br />
|-<br />
|"Generation" Scheme 2<ref name=generation />{{rp|123}}||48,232 (48,168 with losses)||16,056||3,122 (3,100)||12,488 (12,400)||16,502 (16,500)<br />
|-<br />
|"Generation" Scheme 7<ref name=generation />{{rp|131}}||27,000||9,000||1,750||7,000||9,250<br />
|}<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{elves}}<br />
[[Category:Events]]<br />
[[Category:First Age]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Finnish&diff=386216Finnish2024-02-20T14:03:01Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{stub}}<br />
'''Finnish''' is a Finnic language of the Uralic family of languages of northern Europe and one of the few non-Indo-European languages spoken in Europe. It is spoken primarily in Finland with many speakers in Sweden, Norway, and Russia. Other Finnic languages include Estonian, Veps, and Karelian.<br />
<br />
The phonotactics of the Finnish language excited [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] which he likened to "bottles of an amazing wine of a kind and flavour never tasted before" that "quite intoxicated" him.<ref>{{L|163}}</ref><br />
<br />
It became was the inspiration for the [[Elvish]] language which Tolkien named [[Qenya]] (later [[Quenya]]), a language designed to emulate the beauty evoked by Finnish. Other than in the field of phonotactics, a small part of the Quenya vocabulary was probably directly inspired by Finnish words, cf. Q. ''[[lapsë]]'' "babe"<ref name="ParfEdhellen">{{webcite|articleurl=https://www.elfdict.com/w/lapse?include_old=1|articlename=lapse|website=[https://www.elfdict.com Parf Edhellen]|accessed=18 October 2020}}</ref>, perhaps from F. ''[[Wiktionary:lapsi#Finnish|lapsi]]'' "child".<br />
<br />
Tolkien used genuine Finnish for the names of [[Paksu]] and [[Valkotukka]], the two polar bears in ''[[The Father Christmas Letters]]''.<br />
{{references}}<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{WP|Finnish}}<br />
* [http://glaemscrafu.jrrvf.com/english/finnish.html Texts and sound samples] at [[Glǽmscrafu]]<br />
* [http://www.sci.fi/~alboin/finn_que.htm Are High Elves Finno-Ugric?]<br />
* [http://www.sci.fi/~alboin/finnquelinks.htm Quenya's relation to Finnish]<br />
[[Category:Finland]]<br />
[[Category:Languages (real-world)]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Paksu&diff=386215Paksu2024-02-20T13:12:55Z<p>Sage: /* Etymology */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{expansion}}<br />
'''Paksu''' was a minor character in [[The Father Christmas Letters]]. He was a polar bear cub who lived at the North Pole. He and his brother [[Valkotukka]] were nephews of the [[North Polar Bear]].<ref name=31b>{{LFC|1931b}}</ref><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Paksu and Valkotukka came to [[Father Christmas]]' house for a visit. They ended up never leaving.<ref>{{LFC|1937}}</ref><br />
<br />
Paksu, along with his brother, was mischievous. Father Christmas wrote of them that "they seem to be growing up just like their uncle."<ref name=31b/><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
''[[wiktionary:paksu|Paksu]]'' means "fat" in [[Finnish]].<ref name=31b/><br />
{{references}}<br />
{{WLFC}}<br />
[[Category:Letters from Father Christmas]]<br />
[[fi:Paksu ja Valkotukka]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Valkotukka&diff=386214Valkotukka2024-02-20T13:10:49Z<p>Sage: /* Etymology */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Valkotukka''' was a minor character in [[The Father Christmas Letters]]. He was a polar bear cub. Valkotukka had a brother named [[Paksu]], and he was the nephew of the [[North Polar Bear]].<ref>[[J. R. R. Tolkien]], [[The Father Christmas Letters]]</ref><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Valkotukka, along with Paksu, came for a visit one Christmas to visit their uncle and [[Father Christmas]]. The two never left.<br />
<br />
Valkotukka, just like his brother, was mischievous and naughty, to the extent that Father Christmas wrote of them; "they seem to be growing up just like their uncle."<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
<br />
The name ''Valkotukka'' (''[[wiktionary:valko-|valko-]]'' + ''[[wiktionary:tukka|tukka]]'') means "white-hair" in [[Finnish]].<ref>{{LFC|1931b}}</ref><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{WLFC}}<br />
[[Category:Letters from Father Christmas]]<br />
[[fi:Paksu ja Valkotukka]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=-w%C3%AB&diff=386004-wë2024-02-13T08:32:04Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
'''''-wë''''' (or ''-we'') is a [[Quenya]] suffix used mainly in masculine names more usual in the [[First Age]]. It is translated as "man" or simply "person".<ref>{{PM|Shibboleth}}, p. 340</ref><ref name=WJAD1>{{WJ|AD1}}, p. 399</ref><ref name=LR>{{LR|Etymologies}}, p. 398</ref><br />
<br />
It was seen in names of the Elves of [[Cuiviénen]] and the [[Great March]]: [[Morwë]], [[Nurwë]], [[Ingwë]], [[Finwë]], [[Elwë]], [[Olwë]], [[Nowë]], and [[Lenwë]].<br />
<br />
The suffix appears frequently in other Quenya names of the First Age, such as [[Voronwë]], generally but not exclusively masculine.<ref>{{PM|Finwe}}, p. 319</ref><br />
<br />
The ending was also seen in [[Manwë]],<ref name=WJAD1/> and perhaps also in [[Eönwë]].<ref>{{webcite|website=Eldamo|accessed=13 February 2014|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-3955749401.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
The element, having the archaic sense of "person",<ref name=finwe/> can also rarely be found in feminine names, such as [[Elenwë]].<ref>{{webcite|website=Eldamo|accessed=13 February 2014|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-443876525.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
In the [[The Etymologies|''Etymologies'']], ''-we'' derives from the [[Primitive Quendian]] ending ''[[-wego]]'' (from [[Sundocarme|root]] [[WEG]]).<ref name=LR/><br />
<br />
In the later text "[[The Shibboleth of Fëanor]]", the ending derives from the stem [[EWE]], which is also an ancient word for "person".<ref name=finwe>{{PM|Finwe}}, p. 340</ref><br />
<br />
==Cognates==<br />
The element is seen in names of [[Quenya]] form which in turn perhaps represents [[Common Eldarin]]. The name ending did not seem to survive in later generations or in other languages; an exception is the element ''-u'' seen only in the name ''[[Elu]]'' (from *''Elwego'') who was better known as [[Thingol]] in [[Sindarin]]. The Elf ''Nowë'' became better known as [[Círdan]].{{fact}}<br />
<br />
Olwë became [[Olue]] in [[Telerin]]. Lenwë was known as [[Denweg]].{{fact}}<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*''[[-vea]]'', ''[[-vea|-vie]]''<br />
{{references}} <br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:We}}<br />
[[Category:Quenya suffixes]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Great_Journey&diff=385918Great Journey2024-02-12T09:23:54Z<p>Sage: /* Crossing the Misty Mountains and Eriador */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{events<br />
| image=[[File:Steamey - Orome.jpg|250px]]<br />
| event=Great Journey<br />
| othernames=Great March<br />
| location=[[Middle-earth]], [[Belegaer]], [[Valinor]]<br />
| date={{YT|1105}} to {{YT|1132|n}} ([[Minyar]] and [[Tatyar]]) and {{YT|1151}} ([[Nelyar]])<br />
| result=The Eldar reach Valinor and found [[Eldamar]]; separation of [[Calaquendi]] and [[Moriquendi]]; many [[Teleri]] remain in [[Rhovanion]] and [[Beleriand]]<br />
| partof=[[Sundering of the Elves]]<br />
| participants=[[Valar]] (and [[Osse]]), [[Eldar]]<br />
| description=[[Oromë]] leads the three clans of Elves westwards through Middle-earth and Belegaer.<br />
}}<br />
The '''Great Journey''', or the '''Great March''' was the journey that the [[Elves]] known as the [[Eldar]] took from [[Cuiviénen]], the place of their [[Awakening of the Elves|Awakening]], to [[Valinor]].<br />
<br />
At the dawn of the [[First Age]],<ref>{{NM|P3xvii}}, p. 357</ref> the Eldar departed in {{YT|1105}} and by walking they covered a geographical distance of 2000 miles, from Cuiviénen to [[Belegaer]] (at [[Eglarest]])<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 47, 49; the figure refers to a straight line, not the actual walking route.</ref> in {{YT|1132}}; from there [[Ulmo]] used [[Tol Eressea]] to ferry most of them to [[Aman]]. The last Eldar reached Aman in {{YT|1151}}.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
After the [[Battle of the Powers|War]] of the [[Valar]] against [[Morgoth|Melkor]] much of northern Middle-earth was broken, and then [[Oromë]] returned to take the Elves with him into the West. In {{YT|1105}} the majority of the Elves began to depart and were called Eldar, but a part remained behind, becoming known as the [[Avari]] (The "Refusers"), in the [[Sundering of the Elves]]. Even the Eldar however were reluctant, being used to the beauties of Middle-earth, and were urged by Oromë and their respective chieftains; the most eager were the [[Minyar]], followed by the [[Tatyar]], and the most reluctant were the [[Nelyar]].<ref name=s3>{{S|3}}</ref><br />
<br />
Oromë brought them a gift from the [[Valar]] for supplies, the [[coimas]], made of a blessed kind of corn that [[Yavanna]] created in the fields of Aman, she sent some to them. This began the tradition that only elven-women had the keeping and gift of [[lembas]].<ref>{{PM|Lembas}}</ref><br />
===Rhovanion and Atyamar===<br />
Oromë guided the Eldar north of the [[Sea of Helcar]], passing under the smoke of [[Utumno]] that was ruined in the [[Battle of the Powers]]. Some Eldar fled in fear, and disappeared from history, perhaps merging back with the Avari. The Journey was very slow because they were filled with wonder and wished to stay with the lands and the rivers; often Oromë left them for his matters, and returned to make them continue the road.<ref name=s3/><br />
<br />
Years later the host passed through the [[Mirkwood|Greenwood]] (the Teleri instead chose to circumvent it from the south), and then stopped by the eastern banks of [[Anduin]]; the Eldar were tired, and so fond of its waters and woods, refused to continue and settled for a time there. That land was called [[Atyamar]], "Second Home", and were eventually joined by the Teleri.<ref name=Aty/> While Oromë sought a way to get them over the [[Misty Mountains|Hithaeglir]] mountains, which were much higher in those days,<ref name=s3/> some [[Maiar]] protected the Eldar from the evils of [[Melkor]] and [[Sauron]]. However, after many years, Atyamar was struck by terrible weather (some say that Oromë withdrew his protection to make them continue the journey) and convinced most Eldar to continue on.<ref name=Aty>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 50-51</ref> <br />
<br />
===Crossing the Misty Mountains and Eriador===<br />
By {{YT|1115}} Oromë returned, having found (or forged) the [[High Pass]] (where later was built [[Rivendell]]).<ref name=aa/> With the boats of the Teleri they crossed the Great River (which was wild and flooded due to the great snowstorms in the Mountains) but many of these Teleri were against this and they elected to stay.<ref name=Aty/><ref name=s3/> Most Eldar went on, but a group of the Teleri remained behind and went down the Anduin under their leader Dan (or [[Lenwë]]), becoming known as the [[Nandor]].<ref name=aa>{{AA|60-2}}, pp. 82-83</ref><ref name=s3/><br />
<br />
The remaining Eldar passed north of the immense forests that covered all of [[Eriador]], along a route that would become later the [[Great West Road]]{{fact}}. Finally in {{YT|1125}} the [[Minyar]] and [[Tatyar]] crossed the [[Ered Luin]] and reached [[Beleriand]], while the [[Lindar]] still lagged behind in Eriador. For this reason they became known as the [[Teleri]] (the "Last").<ref>{{S|Captivity}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Beleriand===<br />
The Teleri finally entered [[Beleriand]] in {{YT|1128}} but remained east of [[Gelion]]; in {{YT|1132}} the first two clans were ferried across [[Belegaer]] on [[Tol Eressëa]] by [[Ulmo]]. When Ulmo returned for them in {{YT|1150}}, the greater part of the Teleri finally crossed Belegaer under [[Olwë]]. But a part of the Teleri remained behind again, either because they were enamored by the shores, or because the [[Eglath]] were looking for their leader [[Elwë]], becoming the [[Sindar]].<ref>{{S|Princes}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Other versions of the legendarium ==<br />
In another account of the tale, eventually published in ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'', the Eldar found the Misty Mountains impassible, with some were lost in the attempt to do so. Instead of crossing over, they wandered south into the plains ([[Calenardhon]]) where the Vanyar and Noldor settled about the [[Isen]] (near later [[Isengard]]) and the Teleri, lagging again, straggled in. They remained there while two further periods of begetting children took place, and then resumed their journey next to the [[Gwathló]].<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 59 - 60</ref><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{elves}}<br />
[[Category:Events]]<br />
[[Category:First Age]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:evenements:aa:grande marche]]<br />
[[de:Große Wanderung]]<br />
[[fi:Suuri Matka]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Great_Journey&diff=385895Great Journey2024-02-11T19:13:32Z<p>Sage: Restoring the removed paragraph: not only is not unsourced, but its removal causes a gap in the narrative.</p>
<hr />
<div>{{events<br />
| image=[[File:Steamey - Orome.jpg|250px]]<br />
| event=Great Journey<br />
| othernames=Great March<br />
| location=[[Middle-earth]], [[Belegaer]], [[Valinor]]<br />
| date={{YT|1105}} to {{YT|1132|n}} ([[Minyar]] and [[Tatyar]]) and {{YT|1151}} ([[Nelyar]])<br />
| result=The Eldar reach Valinor and found [[Eldamar]]; separation of [[Calaquendi]] and [[Moriquendi]]; many [[Teleri]] remain in [[Rhovanion]] and [[Beleriand]]<br />
| partof=[[Sundering of the Elves]]<br />
| participants=[[Valar]] (and [[Osse]]), [[Eldar]]<br />
| description=[[Oromë]] leads the three clans of Elves westwards through Middle-earth and Belegaer.<br />
}}<br />
The '''Great Journey''', or the '''Great March''' was the journey that the [[Elves]] known as the [[Eldar]] took from [[Cuiviénen]], the place of their [[Awakening of the Elves|Awakening]], to [[Valinor]].<br />
<br />
At the dawn of the [[First Age]],<ref>{{NM|P3xvii}}, p. 357</ref> the Eldar departed in {{YT|1105}} and by walking they covered a geographical distance of 2000 miles, from Cuiviénen to [[Belegaer]] (at [[Eglarest]])<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 47, 49; the figure refers to a straight line, not the actual walking route.</ref> in {{YT|1132}}; from there [[Ulmo]] used [[Tol Eressea]] to ferry most of them to [[Aman]]. The last Eldar reached Aman in {{YT|1151}}.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
After the [[Battle of the Powers|War]] of the [[Valar]] against [[Morgoth|Melkor]] much of northern Middle-earth was broken, and then [[Oromë]] returned to take the Elves with him into the West. In {{YT|1105}} the majority of the Elves began to depart and were called Eldar, but a part remained behind, becoming known as the [[Avari]] (The "Refusers"), in the [[Sundering of the Elves]]. Even the Eldar however were reluctant, being used to the beauties of Middle-earth, and were urged by Oromë and their respective chieftains; the most eager were the [[Minyar]], followed by the [[Tatyar]], and the most reluctant were the [[Nelyar]].<ref name=s3>{{S|3}}</ref><br />
<br />
Oromë brought them a gift from the [[Valar]] for supplies, the [[coimas]], made of a blessed kind of corn that [[Yavanna]] created in the fields of Aman, she sent some to them. This began the tradition that only elven-women had the keeping and gift of [[lembas]].<ref>{{PM|Lembas}}</ref><br />
===Rhovanion and Atyamar===<br />
Oromë guided the Eldar north of the [[Sea of Helcar]], passing under the smoke of [[Utumno]] that was ruined in the [[Battle of the Powers]]. Some Eldar fled in fear, and disappeared from history, perhaps merging back with the Avari. The Journey was very slow because they were filled with wonder and wished to stay with the lands and the rivers; often Oromë left them for his matters, and returned to make them continue the road.<ref name=s3/><br />
<br />
Years later the host passed through the [[Mirkwood|Greenwood]] (the Teleri instead chose to circumvent it from the south), and then stopped by the eastern banks of [[Anduin]]; the Eldar were tired, and so fond of its waters and woods, refused to continue and settled for a time there. That land was called [[Atyamar]], "Second Home", and were eventually joined by the Teleri.<ref name=Aty/> While Oromë sought a way to get them over the [[Misty Mountains|Hithaeglir]] mountains, which were much higher in those days,<ref name=s3/> some [[Maiar]] protected the Eldar from the evils of [[Melkor]] and [[Sauron]]. However, after many years, Atyamar was struck by terrible weather (some say that Oromë withdrew his protection to make them continue the journey) and convinced most Eldar to continue on.<ref name=Aty>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 50-51</ref> <br />
<br />
===Crossing the Misty Mountains and Eriador===<br />
By {{YT|1115}} Oromë returned, having found (or forged) the [[High Pass]] (where later was built [[Rivendell]]).<ref name=aa/> With the boats of the Teleri they crossed the Great River (which was wild and flooded due to the great snowstorms in the Mountains) but many of these Teleri were against this and they elected to stay.<ref name=Aty/><ref name=s3/> Most Eldar went on, but a group of the Teleri remained behind and went down the Anduin under their leader Dan (or [[Lenwë]]), becoming known as the [[Nandor]].<ref name=aa>{{AA|60-2}}, pp. 82-83</ref><ref name=s3/><br />
<br />
The remaining Eldar passed north of the immense forests that covered all of [[Eriador]], along a route that would become later the [[Great West Road]] (that ran through [[Arnor]]). Finally in {{YT|1125}} the [[Minyar]] and [[Tatyar]] crossed the [[Ered Luin]] and reached [[Beleriand]], while the [[Lindar]] still lagged behind in Eriador. For this reason they became known as the [[Teleri]] (the "Last").<ref>{{S|Captivity}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Beleriand===<br />
The Teleri finally entered [[Beleriand]] in {{YT|1128}} but remained east of [[Gelion]]; in {{YT|1132}} the first two clans were ferried across [[Belegaer]] on [[Tol Eressëa]] by [[Ulmo]]. When Ulmo returned for them in {{YT|1150}}, the greater part of the Teleri finally crossed Belegaer under [[Olwë]]. But a part of the Teleri remained behind again, either because they were enamored by the shores, or because the [[Eglath]] were looking for their leader [[Elwë]], becoming the [[Sindar]].<ref>{{S|Princes}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Other versions of the legendarium ==<br />
In another account of the tale, eventually published in ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'', the Eldar found the Misty Mountains impassible, with some lost in the attempt. Instead of crossing over, they wandered south into the plains ([[Calenardhon]]) where the Vanyar and Noldor settled about the [[Isen]] (near later [[Isengard]]) and the Teleri, lagging again, straggled in. They remained there while two further periods of begetting children took place, and then resumed their journey next to the [[Gwathló]].<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 59 - 60</ref><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{elves}}<br />
[[Category:Events]]<br />
[[Category:First Age]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:evenements:aa:grande marche]]<br />
[[de:Große Wanderung]]<br />
[[fi:Suuri Matka]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=%C3%8Drensaga&diff=385826Írensaga2024-02-10T07:49:43Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{mountain<br />
| image=[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga.jpg|260px]]<br />
| caption=[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] - ''Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga''<br />
| name=Írensaga<br />
| location=North of the [[Dwimorberg]] over looking the [[Firienfeld]]<br />
| belongs=The [[White Mountains]]<br />
| description=Saw-toothed mountain<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=<br />
| events=Arrival of King [[Théoden]] at [[Dunharrow]]<br />
| references=<br />
}}<br />
'''Írensaga''' was a tall peak in the [[White Mountains]], notable for its saw-toothed crest. In between Írensaga, [[Starkhorn]] and [[Dwimorberg]] lay [[Harrowdale]].<ref>{{RK|V3}}</ref> [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] saw this mountain on [[9 March]] {{TA|3019}} when King [[Théoden]] came to [[Dunharrow]] after the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
The name means "iron-saw"<ref name="Roads">{{WR|3|V}}</ref> in [[Old English]], with reference to its serrated ridge, crest.<ref name="Nomen">{{HM|N}}, p. 772</ref><br />
<br />
In earlier drafts, Írensaga lacked an accent.<ref name="Roads"/><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Irensaga}}<br />
[[Category:Old English names]]<br />
[[Category:Rohan]]<br />
[[Category:White Mountains]]<br />
[[de:Irensaga]]<br />
[[fi:Írensaga]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=File:J.R.R._Tolkien_-_Starkhorn,_Dwimorberg_and_Irensaga.jpg&diff=385825File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga.jpg2024-02-10T07:47:43Z<p>Sage: J.R.R. Tolkien's sketch of Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga from a manuscript page reproduced in ''The War of the Ring'' p. 314
Category:Images by J.R.R. Tolkien
Category:Images of Dwimorberg
Category:Images of Írensaga
Category:Images of Harrowdale
Category:Images of Starkhorn
Category:Images of the White Mountains
Category:Images from The War of the Ring</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
J.R.R. Tolkien's sketch of [[Starkhorn]], [[Dwimorberg]] and [[Irensaga]] from a manuscript page reproduced in ''[[The War of the Ring]]'' p. 314<br />
[[Category:Images by J.R.R. Tolkien]]<br />
[[Category:Images of Dwimorberg]]<br />
[[Category:Images of Írensaga]]<br />
[[Category:Images of Harrowdale]]<br />
[[Category:Images of Starkhorn]]<br />
[[Category:Images of the White Mountains]]<br />
[[Category:Images from The War of the Ring]]<br />
== Licensing ==<br />
{{Fairuse-Tolkien}}</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=%C3%8Drensaga&diff=385824Írensaga2024-02-10T07:44:20Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{mountain<br />
| image=[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga.jpg]]<br />
| caption=[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] - ''Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga''<br />
| name=Írensaga<br />
| location=North of the [[Dwimorberg]] over looking the [[Firienfeld]]<br />
| belongs=The [[White Mountains]]<br />
| description=Saw-toothed mountain<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=<br />
| events=Arrival of King [[Théoden]] at [[Dunharrow]]<br />
| references=<br />
}}<br />
'''Írensaga''' was a tall peak in the [[White Mountains]], notable for its saw-toothed crest. In between Írensaga, [[Starkhorn]] and [[Dwimorberg]] lay [[Harrowdale]].<ref>{{RK|V3}}</ref> [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] saw this mountain on [[9 March]] {{TA|3019}} when King [[Théoden]] came to [[Dunharrow]] after the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
The name means "iron-saw"<ref name="Roads">{{WR|3|V}}</ref> in [[Old English]], with reference to its serrated ridge, crest.<ref name="Nomen">{{HM|N}}, p. 772</ref><br />
<br />
In earlier drafts, Írensaga lacked an accent.<ref name="Roads"/><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Irensaga}}<br />
[[Category:Old English names]]<br />
[[Category:Rohan]]<br />
[[Category:White Mountains]]<br />
[[de:Irensaga]]<br />
[[fi:Írensaga]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=%C3%8Drensaga&diff=385823Írensaga2024-02-10T07:43:33Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{mountain<br />
| image=J.R.R. Tolkien - Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga.jpg<br />
| caption=[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] - ''Starkhorn, Dwimorberg and Irensaga''<br />
| name=Írensaga<br />
| location=North of the [[Dwimorberg]] over looking the [[Firienfeld]]<br />
| belongs=The [[White Mountains]]<br />
| description=Saw-toothed mountain<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=<br />
| events=Arrival of King [[Théoden]] at [[Dunharrow]]<br />
| references=<br />
}}<br />
'''Írensaga''' was a tall peak in the [[White Mountains]], notable for its saw-toothed crest. In between Írensaga, [[Starkhorn]] and [[Dwimorberg]] lay [[Harrowdale]].<ref>{{RK|V3}}</ref> [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] saw this mountain on [[9 March]] {{TA|3019}} when King [[Théoden]] came to [[Dunharrow]] after the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
The name means "iron-saw"<ref name="Roads">{{WR|3|V}}</ref> in [[Old English]], with reference to its serrated ridge, crest.<ref name="Nomen">{{HM|N}}, p. 772</ref><br />
<br />
In earlier drafts, Írensaga lacked an accent.<ref name="Roads"/><br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Irensaga}}<br />
[[Category:Old English names]]<br />
[[Category:Rohan]]<br />
[[Category:White Mountains]]<br />
[[de:Irensaga]]<br />
[[fi:Írensaga]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Lord_of_Barad-d%C3%BBr&diff=385822Lord of Barad-dûr2024-02-10T05:42:34Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Sources}}<br />
{{rewrite}}<br />
'''Lord of Barad-dûr''' was a title given to [[Sauron]] during the periods he inhabitated [[Barad-dûr]]<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
The Dark Tower of Barad-dûr was first raised in [[Mordor]] during the second millennium of the [[Second Age]]. Sauron first dwelt there as its Lord for a period of more than 1,600 years, between about {{SA|1600}} (when it was completed) and {{SA|3261|n}} (when he travelled to [[Númenor]] for a time). He returned to become the Lord of the Dark Tower again after the [[Downfall of Númenor]], and soon after began his wars with its exiles, under [[Elendil]] and his heirs. <br />
<br />
The first of those wars ended after the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], when its Lord [[Sauron]] was thrown down, and his spirit cast out of his body. After that time, [[Barad-dûr]] was demolished, and the ways into [[Mordor]] were guarded by the [[Gondorians]] to prevents its old master's return. So [[Sauron]] was an exile from his own land throughout most of the [[Third Age]], but late in that Age, with the guard of [[Gondor]] long since abandoned, he took his opportunity to escape back into [[Mordor]], and rebuild the Dark Tower. From that time, and throughout the [[War of the Ring]], he became the Lord of Barad-dûr once more.<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lord of Barad-dur}}<br />
[[Category:Other titles]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=File:Peter_Bird_-_Middle-earth.jpg&diff=385790File:Peter Bird - Middle-earth.jpg2024-02-09T18:46:43Z<p>Sage: /* Licensing */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Composite map of Middle-earth and modern Europe by Geophysics and Geology Professor Peter Bird of UCLA.<br />
== Licensing ==<br />
{{Copyright-fairuse|[http://peterbird.name/ Peter Bird]}}<br />
<br />
As Professor Bird says: "You are welcome to [...] use any figures, maps, or images that you might find useful in teaching or research presentations"</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=File:Peter_Bird_-_Middle-earth.jpg&diff=385788File:Peter Bird - Middle-earth.jpg2024-02-09T18:44:41Z<p>Sage: Composite map of Middle-earth and modern Europe by Geophysics and Geology Professor Peter Bird of UCLA.</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Composite map of Middle-earth and modern Europe by Geophysics and Geology Professor Peter Bird of UCLA.<br />
== Licensing ==<br />
{{Copyright-fairuse|INSERT COPYRIGHT HOLDER WITH WEBSITE LINK}}</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Later_Ages&diff=385787Later Ages2024-02-09T18:40:48Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
{{unnamed}}<br />
{{expansion}}<br />
[[File:Peter Bird - Middle-earth.jpg|thumb|Composite geophysical map of Middle-earth and modern Europe by Peter Bird.]]<br />
{{History of Arda}}<br />
This article concerns the '''later Ages''', defined for the purposes of this article as the [[Ages]] that took place after the ending of the [[Fourth Age]].<br />
<br />
According to one of the drafts of the ''[[Appendices]]'', it is said of the Fourth Age:<br />
<br />
{{blockquote|Of [[Eldarion]] son of [[Aragorn|Elessar]] it was foretold that he should rule a great [[Reunited Kingdom|realm]], and '''that it should endure for a hundred generations of [[Men]] after him, that is until a new age brought in again new things'''; and from him should come the kings of many realms in long days after.|''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', "[[The Tale of Years of the Third Age]]"<ref>{{PM|Third}}, pp. 244-5</ref>}}<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
=== ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' ===<br />
In the ''[[Letter 211]]'' that [[Tolkien]] wrote on [[14 October]] [[1958]] to [[Rhona Beare]], he writes that the time gap between the fall of [[Barad-dûr]] (in {{TA|3019}}) and the present-day (as in 1958, at the time that Tolkien wrote the said letter) was c. 6,000 years.<br />
<br />
Therefore, Tolkien concluded that in 1958, the world was nearer to the end of the '''Fifth Age''', if the subsequent Ages were of the same length as the [[Second Age|Second]] and the [[Third Age|Third]] Ages.<br />
<br />
However, he ultimately concluded that the Ages have "quickened", and that the world was now (in 1958, that is) at the end of its '''Sixth Age''', or maybe even in the Seventh.<ref>{{L|211}}, ''footnote'', p. 283</ref><br />
<br />
=== ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'' ===<br />
In a [[1960]] text called ''[[The Awaking of the Quendi]]'', Tolkien explicitly calls the year 1960 AD (the year in which he was writing the text) as the year 1960 of the '''Seventh Age'''.<br />
<br />
In that text Tolkien connects the beginning of the Seventh Age (i.e. {{SeA|1}}) with the [[Old Hope|incarnation]] of [[Ilúvatar]] (that is, the birth of [[wikipedia:Jesus|Jesus Christ]] in [[wikipedia:AD 1|1 AD]] according to the real-world ''[[wikipedia:Anno Domini|Anno Domini]]'' reckoning of the [[Christianity|Catholic Church]]).<br />
<br />
Tolkien also goes on to say that the time-gap between the year 1960 of the Seventh Age (i.e. 1960 AD) and the [[Years of the Sun|Year of the Sun]] {{FA|310|n}} of the [[First Age]]<ref group=note>{{FA|310}} was the year in which the first [[Men]], the [[Edain]], entered [[Beleriand]].</ref> was 16,000 years.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 39</ref><br />
<br />
This makes it possible to calculate when some of the in-universe Ages happened in relation to the real-world chronology:<br />
<br />
*1) The end of the First Age ({{FA|590}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:Timeline of prehistory#Upper Paleolithic|13,760 BC]]<br />
*2) The end of the Second Age ({{SA|3441}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:Timeline of prehistory#Upper Paleolithic|10,319 BC]]<br />
*3) The end of the Third Age ({{TA|3021}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:8th millennium BC|7,298 BC]]<br />
<br />
While the average duration of the Fourth through Sixth Ages would be c. 2,430 years.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, ''Notes'', Note 30, p. 43</ref><br />
<br />
== Other versions of the legendarium ==<br />
{{stub}}<br />
Later in his life, Tolkien wrote about the possibility that during the [[Changing of the World]], the [[Valar]] and the [[Calaquendi]] left the world spiritually, while the landmass of [[Aman]] remained, and became the Americas.<ref>{{NM|P3xv}}</ref><br />
== Inspiration ==<br />
{{stub}}<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
'''[[2000]]: ''[[Tolkien: The Illustrated Encyclopedia]]'':'''<br />
[[David Day]] displays some chronological evolution of [[Arda]], from the "Age of the Lamps" to the Third Age, while in the later Ages the illustrations show how Middle-earth changed geologically to resemble modern Europe, while and a continent resembling the Americas forming west of [[Belegaer]].<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Later Ages}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Ages]]<br />
[[Category:Later Ages| ]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Later_Ages&diff=385750Talk:Later Ages2024-02-09T09:12:47Z<p>Sage: /* "futuristic" map */ Reply</p>
<hr />
<div>== "futuristic" map ==<br />
<br />
Geophysics and Geology Professor Peter Bird of UCLA has created a map that is like a mix of Middle-earth and modern Europe. An article about his attempt can be seen [https://bigthink.com/strange-maps/121-where-on-earth-was-middle-earth/ here], but the links pointing at his original site aren't working. I think it would be a nice addition to this article, but licensing it would be problematic? [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 07:56, 7 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:A bit of reverse image searching has located the domain http://peterbird.name and the image is linked at the bottom of the page!<br />
:http://peterbird.name/pictures/Middle-Earth.jpg<br />
:His contact details are available on this page, but given that it is a pubic domain and we are a not-for-profit it should fall under fair use. <br />
:PS. I think it is a very interesting image and certainly worthwhile of inclusion.[[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 15:30, 7 February 2024 (UTC)<br />
::Where does it say they are pubic domain? [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 09:12, 9 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Herumor&diff=385744Herumor2024-02-09T03:16:28Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
{{disambig-two|the [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]]|character in ''[[The New Shadow]]''|[[Herumor (The New Shadow)]]}}<br />
{{numenorean infobox<br />
| name=Herumor<br />
| image=[[File:Isabella Pavani - Herumor.png|250px]]<br />
| caption="Herumor" by [[:Category:Images by Isabella Pavani|Isabella Pavani]]<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=<br />
| titles=<br />
| position=<br />
| location=[[Harad]]<br />
| affiliation=[[Black Númenóreans]]<br />
| language=<br />
| birth=<br />
| birthlocation=<br />
| rule=Late [[Second Age]]<br />
| death=<br />
| deathlocation=<br />
| age=<br />
| notablefor=<br />
| house=<br />
| parentage=<br />
| siblings=<br />
| spouse=<br />
| children=<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| height=<br />
| hair=<br />
| eyes=<br />
| clothing=<br />
| weapons=<br />
| steed=<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Herumor''' was a [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]] who lived in the late [[Second Age]].<ref group=note>Based on the ordering of events in the chapter [[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]], he appears to have been a lord among the [[Haradrim]] at some point after the [[Downfall of Númenor]], dating him to {{SA|3319}} or later. The order of events is not entirely clear, and an argument could be made that he lived slightly earlier, but he certainly belonged to the closing centuries of the [[Second Age]].</ref> Herumor was among those [[Númenóreans]] who sailed east from [[Númenor]] to establish fortresses and dwellings along the coasts during Sauron's stay in [[Númenor]] (from {{SA|3262}} to {{SA|3319}}) and were already bent to Sauron's will. Herumor rose to power among the [[Haradrim]]. It is possible that Herumor was among those Númenórean servants from the south that Sauron gathered to him when he prepared to attack [[Gondor]] in {{SA|3429}} after he had taken shape again after the [[Downfall of Númenor]].<ref>{{S|Rings}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Etymology ==<br />
{{Pronounce|Herumor.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
''Herumor'' is [[Quenya]]. Its meaning is not glossed, but [[Christopher Tolkien]] suggests that the initial element of this name is Q. ''[[heru]]'' ("lord").<ref>{{S|Appendix}}, entry ''heru''</ref><br />
It seems to mean "Black Lord", being a compound of <br />
''[[heru]]'' ("lord") + ''[[morë]]'' ("dark, black").<ref>{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=http://www.eldamo.org/content/words/word-3301232385.html|articlename=Q. ''Herumor'' m.|website=Eldamo|accessed=25 November 2021}}</ref><br />
== Portrayal in adaptations ==<br />
In the defunct [[Middle-earth Role Playing]] game from the 1980s, Herumor is given an extended history. [[Fuinur]] is then his older brother. <br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
<br />
* [[Fuinur]]<br />
{{References|n}}<br />
{{title}}<br />
[[Category:Black Númenóreans]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]<br />
[[Category:Mariners]]<br />
[[Category:Númenóreans]]<br />
[[Category:Quenya names]]<br />
[[Category:Second Age characters]]<br />
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Herumor]]<br />
[[fi:Herumor]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/hommes/2a/numenoreens_noirs/herumor]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Later_Ages&diff=385482Talk:Later Ages2024-02-07T07:56:16Z<p>Sage: /* "futuristic" map */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>== "futuristic" map ==<br />
<br />
Geophysics and Geology Professor Peter Bird of UCLA has created a map that is like a mix of Middle-earth and modern Europe. An article about his attempt can be seen [https://bigthink.com/strange-maps/121-where-on-earth-was-middle-earth/ here], but the links pointing at his original site aren't working. I think it would be a nice addition to this article, but licensing it would be problematic? [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 07:56, 7 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Later_Ages&diff=385481Later Ages2024-02-07T07:26:39Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
{{unnamed}}<br />
{{expansion}}<br />
{{History of Arda}}<br />
This article concerns the '''later Ages''', defined for the purposes of this article as the [[Ages]] that took place after the ending of the [[Fourth Age]].<br />
<br />
According to one of the drafts of the ''[[Appendices]]'', it is said of the Fourth Age:<br />
<br />
{{blockquote|Of [[Eldarion]] son of [[Aragorn|Elessar]] it was foretold that he should rule a great [[Reunited Kingdom|realm]], and '''that it should endure for a hundred generations of [[Men]] after him, that is until a new age brought in again new things'''; and from him should come the kings of many realms in long days after.|''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', "[[The Tale of Years of the Third Age]]"<ref>{{PM|Third}}, pp. 244-5</ref>}}<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
=== ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' ===<br />
In the ''[[Letter 211]]'' that [[Tolkien]] wrote on [[14 October]] [[1958]] to [[Rhona Beare]], he writes that the time gap between the fall of [[Barad-dûr]] (in {{TA|3019}}) and the present-day (as in 1958, at the time that Tolkien wrote the said letter) was c. 6,000 years.<br />
<br />
Therefore, Tolkien concluded that in 1958, the world was nearer to the end of the '''Fifth Age''', if the subsequent Ages were of the same length as the [[Second Age|Second]] and the [[Third Age|Third]] Ages.<br />
<br />
However, he ultimately concluded that the Ages have "quickened", and that the world was now (in 1958, that is) at the end of its '''Sixth Age''', or maybe even in the Seventh.<ref>{{L|211}}, ''footnote'', p. 283</ref><br />
<br />
=== ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'' ===<br />
In a [[1960]] text called ''[[The Awaking of the Quendi]]'', Tolkien explicitly calls the year 1960 AD (the year in which he was writing the text) as the year 1960 of the '''Seventh Age'''.<br />
<br />
In that text Tolkien connects the beginning of the Seventh Age (i.e. {{SeA|1}}) with the [[Old Hope|incarnation]] of [[Ilúvatar]] (that is, the birth of [[wikipedia:Jesus|Jesus Christ]] in [[wikipedia:AD 1|1 AD]] according to the real-world ''[[wikipedia:Anno Domini|Anno Domini]]'' reckoning of the [[Christianity|Catholic Church]]).<br />
<br />
Tolkien also goes on to say that the time-gap between the year 1960 of the Seventh Age (i.e. 1960 AD) and the [[Years of the Sun|Year of the Sun]] {{FA|310|n}} of the [[First Age]]<ref group=note>{{FA|310}} was the year in which the first [[Men]], the [[Edain]], entered [[Beleriand]].</ref> was 16,000 years.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 39</ref><br />
<br />
This makes it possible to calculate when some of the in-universe Ages happened in relation to the real-world chronology:<br />
<br />
*1) The end of the First Age ({{FA|590}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:Timeline of prehistory#Upper Paleolithic|13,760 BC]]<br />
*2) The end of the Second Age ({{SA|3441}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:Timeline of prehistory#Upper Paleolithic|10,319 BC]]<br />
*3) The end of the Third Age ({{TA|3021}}) corresponds to the year [[wikipedia:8th millennium BC|7,298 BC]]<br />
<br />
While the average duration of the Fourth through Sixth Ages would be c. 2,430 years.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, ''Notes'', Note 30, p. 43</ref><br />
<br />
== Other versions of the legendarium ==<br />
{{stub}}<br />
Later in his life, Tolkien wrote about the possibility that during the [[Changing of the World]], the [[Valar]] and the [[Calaquendi]] left the world spiritually, while the landmass of [[Aman]] remained, and became the Americas.<ref>{{NM|P3xv}}</ref><br />
== Inspiration ==<br />
{{stub}}<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
'''[[2000]]: ''[[Tolkien: The Illustrated Encyclopedia]]'':'''<br />
[[David Day]] displays some chronological evolution of [[Arda]], from the "Age of the Lamps" to the Third Age, while in the later Ages the illustrations show how Middle-earth changed geologically to resemble modern Europe, while and a continent resembling the Americas forming west of [[Belegaer]].<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Later Ages}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Ages]]<br />
[[Category:Later Ages| ]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=User_talk:JR_Snow&diff=385345User talk:JR Snow2024-02-01T18:55:19Z<p>Sage: /* Your edit on Rohan */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Template:Welcome|realName=James Snow|name=JR Snow}}<br />
<br />
-- [[User:Mith|<span style="color:#2F4F4F">'''Mith'''</span>]] <small>([[User talk:Mith|<span style="color:#696969">'''Talk'''</span>]]/[[Special:Contributions/Mith|<span style="color:#708090">Contribs</span>]]/[[Special:Editcount/Mith/Edits|<span style="color:#778899">Edits</span>]])</small> 15:14, 3 June 2019 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Rings of Power cast roles ==<br />
<br />
I saw you added Tyra and Oren to the cast list, but has this been officially confirmed? Is there a source? Also, are these the real namse of the characters or the code names used by Amazon? Thanks. --[[User:Oromë|Oromë]] 18:02, 11 February 2022 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:Hello Oromë. No, there has been no official confirmation, only the Deadline articles in late 2019. <br />
:I feel that until we know otherwise that there is no harm in listing them as such, especially as they are already mentioned in the same page further down. [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] 18:17, 11 February 2022 (UTC)<br />
<br />
==England redlinks==<br />
<br />
Do we really want to delete all the links to [[England]]? Seems to me that would be an important and valuable article to have, as England was not just Tolkien’s home but a crucial part of his inspiration for creating his mythology. --[[User:Pachyderminator|Pachyderminator]] 15:29, 13 April 2022 (UTC)<br />
:I do understand but articles such as [[Middle-earth#Inspiration|Middle-earth]] already contain that information and I don’t believe it needs repeating in a page for England. This page was also deleted by Admins a few years ago for being unnecessary. <br />
:I removed the red links today as it appeared that this had simply not been done at the time of the page deletion.<br />
:If you feel that a page for England has merit on it’s own, independent of other articles (and one is subsequently created) I’d be happy to undo my edits. -[[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] 15:42, 13 April 2022 (UTC)<br />
<br />
::I don't know. The [[Middle-earth]] and [[Legendarium]] articles don't go into enough detail on this - e.g. they don't mention what [[Letter 131]] says about the idea of a mythology "dedicated to England." Perhaps that should just go into those articles rather than a separate one, but still, England is important for much of Tolkien's work outside the legendarium as well: he seems to have seen Beowulf as a quintessentially "English" work in "The Monsters and the Critics," and ''Farmer Giles of Ham'' is a very English setting.<br />
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::I think an independent article would have merit if it had some substance on the importance of England in Tolkien's work as a whole. But I'm not committing to writing this article myself in the immediate future. --[[User:Pachyderminator|Pachyderminator]] 04:55, 14 April 2022 (UTC)<br />
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:::I tried writing an article one time about what I thought were the main inspirations of Tolkien's work. However, I found it suprisingly hard to actually write, and I think a lot of what could be written in such an article would just be repeating things that are better written on individual articles. An "England" article could probably be written, but a lot of things like saying the Shire is in the location of Oxford or Hengrist and Horsa being descendants of Elfwine are probably better in their relevant articles. Even things like England's importance to works outside Middle-earth seem like they could go on existing pages. [[User:Turiannerevarine|Turiannerevarine]] 11:46, 14 April 2022 (UTC)<br />
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== Your edit on Rohan ==<br />
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Hi, I noticed you removed that sentence in [[Rohan]] I don't think I noticed before. Well I think the shrinking borders referred to are Gondor's. By the time of the WotR, Gondor had shrunk that much and was just three times the size of Rohan. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 18:55, 1 February 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=J.R.R._Tolkien&diff=385276J.R.R. Tolkien2024-01-31T13:57:34Z<p>Sage: /* Names and pseudonyms */</p>
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<div>{{disambig-more|J.R.R. Tolkien|[[J.R.R. Tolkien (disambiguation)]]}}<br />
{{disambig-more|Tolkien|[[Tolkien (disambiguation)]]}}<br />
{{Sources}}<br />
{{author infobox<br />
| image=[[File:D.W. Luebbert - Tolkien Daydreams.jpg|275px]]<br />
| name=J.R.R. Tolkien<br />
| born=[[3 January]], [[1892]]<br />
| died=[[2 September]], [[1973]]<br>(aged 81 years)<br />
| education=[[University of Oxford]]<br />
| occupation=Academic<br/>Author<br/>Philologist<br>Poet<br />
| location=[[Wikipedia:United Kingdom|United Kingdom]]<br />
| website=[http://www.tolkienestate.com Tolkien: The official site of the Tolkien Estate]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''John Ronald Reuel Tolkien''', [[Order of the British Empire|CBE]], ([[3 January]], [[1892]] – [[2 September]], [[1973]]) was a philologist and writer, best known as the author of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and its sequel ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. He worked as reader and professor in English language at the [[University of Leeds]] from [[1920]] to [[1925]]; as professor of [[Old English|Anglo-Saxon]] language at the [[University of Oxford]] from [[1925]] to [[1945]]; and of English language and literature from [[1945]] until his retirement in [[1959]]. Tolkien was a close friend of [[C.S. Lewis]], and a member of the [[Inklings]], a literary discussion group to which both Lewis and [[Owen Barfield]] belonged.<br />
<br />
Tolkien created a ''[[legendarium]]'', a fictional mythology about the remote past of Earth, of which [[Middle-earth]] in particular is the main stage. Parts of his legendarium are ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' and ''[[The History of Middle-earth|The History of Middle-earth series]]'' (published by his son, [[Christopher Tolkien]], posthumously) revealed Tolkien's lifelong work on that same legendarium, a process which he called "[[sub-creation]]". Tolkien's other published works include philological essays, modern adaptations of medieval literature and rendering of stories originally told to his children but not directly related to the legendarium.<br />
<br />
==Biography==<br />
===Family ancestry===<br />
{{Seealso|Tolkien Family}}<br />
Many of Tolkien's paternal ancestors were craftsmen. According to Tolkien's own understanding, the Tolkien family had its roots in Saxony (present-day Germany), but had been living in England since the 18th century, becoming "quickly and intensely English (not British)".<ref>{{L|165}}</ref> Tolkien believed that the ''Tolkien'' is the anglicised form of ''Tollkiehn'' (i.e. German: ''tollkühn'', "foolhardy", the etymological English calque would be "dull-keen", a literal translation of "oxymoron").<ref>{{L|324}}</ref> Research by linguist [[Ryszard Derdziński]] suggests that the name is of Low Prussian origin and probably means "son/descendant of Tolk".<ref>[[Ryszard Derdziński]], Z Prus do Anglii. Saga rodziny J. R. R. Tolkiena</ref> Tolkien was dismissive of this theory.<ref>{{L|349}}</ref> <br />
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===Childhood ===<br />
[[File:1984 Commemorative Plaque.JPG|thumb|left|[[Plaques and Memorials|Plaque commemorating]] J.R.R. Tolkien's birthplace in President Steyn Avenue, [[Bloemfontein]].]]<br />
Tolkien was born on [[January 3|3 January]], [[1892]], in [[Bloemfontein]] in the [[Orange Free State]] (now the Free State province of South Africa) to [[Arthur Tolkien|Arthur Reuel Tolkien]] ([[1857]] – [[1896]]), an English bank manager, and his wife [[Mabel Tolkien|Mabel, ''née'' Suffield]] ([[1870]] – [[1904]]). Tolkien had one sibling, his younger brother, [[Hilary Tolkien|Hilary Arthur Reuel]], who was born on [[February 17|17 February]], [[1894]]. He was addressed by his family as “Ronald” as it has no history of use in the Tolkien family.<ref name=BII/><br />
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While living in Africa he was bitten by a large 'baboon spider', and this echoes in his stories. However, Tolkien said that he did not develop a particular fear of spiders after this event, and, when he was older, recalled picking small spiders up and putting them outside.<ref name=L163/><br />
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When he was three, Tolkien went to England with his mother and brother on what was intended to be a lengthy family visit. His father, however, died in South Africa of a severe brain haemorrhage before he could join them. This left the family without an income, so Tolkien's mother took him to live with her parents in [[Birmingham]], England. Soon after in [[1896]], they moved to [[Sarehole]] (now in Hall Green), then a Worcestershire village, later annexed to Birmingham. He enjoyed exploring [[Sarehole Mill]] and Moseley Bog and the Clent Hills and Lickey Hills, which would later inspire scenes in his books along with other Worcestershire towns and villages such as Bromsgrove, Alcester and Alvechurch and places such as his aunt's farm of Bag End, the name of which would be used in his fiction.<ref name=BII/><br />
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[[File:Ronald and Hilary Tolkien.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Ronald and Hilary Tolkien in 1905]]<br />
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Mabel tutored her two sons, and Ronald, as he was known in the family, was a keen pupil. She taught him a great deal of botany, and she awoke in her son the enjoyment of the look and feel of plants. Young Tolkien liked to draw landscapes and trees. But his favourite lessons were those concerning languages, and his mother taught him the rudiments of Latin very early. He could read by the age of four, and could write fluently soon afterwards. He attended St. Philip's school and quickly outpaced his classmates so his mother pulled him out and enrolled him in [[King Edward's School]]<ref name=BII>{{B|II}}</ref>, Birmingham and, while a student there, helped "line the route" for the coronation parade of King George V, being posted just outside the gates of Buckingham Palace. He later attended Exeter College, Oxford.<br />
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His mother converted to Roman Catholicism in [[1900]], despite vehement protests by her Baptist family. She died of diabetes in [[1904]], when Tolkien was twelve, at Fern Cottage, Rednal, which they were then renting. For the rest of his life, Tolkien felt that she had become a martyr for her faith; this had a profound effect on his own Catholic beliefs.<ref name=BII/> Tolkien's devout faith was significant in the conversion of C.S. Lewis to Anglicanism.<br />
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During his subsequent orphanhood he was brought up by Father [[Francis Xavier Morgan]] of the [[Birmingham Oratory]], in the Edgbaston area of Birmingham. He lived there in the shadow of Perrott's Folly and the Victorian tower of Edgbaston waterworks, which may have influenced the images of the dark towers within his works. Another strong influence was the romantic medievalist paintings of Edward Burne-Jones and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood; the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has a large and world-renowned collection of works and has had it put on free public display from around [[1908]].<br />
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[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - 1911.jpg|left|thumb|150px|J.R.R. Tolkien in 1911]]<br />
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===Youth===<br />
Tolkien met and fell in love with [[Edith Tolkien|Edith Mary Bratt]], three years his senior, at the age of sixteen. Father Francis forbade him from meeting, talking, or even corresponding with her until he was twenty-one. He obeyed this prohibition to the letter.<ref>{{L|43}}</ref><br />
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In [[1911]], while they were at King Edward's School, Birmingham, Tolkien and three friends, [[Robert Gilson]], [[Geoffrey Bache Smith]] and [[Christopher Wiseman]], formed a semi-secret society which they called "the [[T.C.B.S.]]", the initials standing for "Tea Club and Barrovian Society", alluding to their fondness of drinking tea in Barrow's Stores near the school and, illegally, in the school library. After leaving school, the members stayed in touch, and on [[25 December]], [[1914]], they held a "Council" in London, at Wiseman's home. For Tolkien, the result of this meeting was a strong dedication to writing poetry.<br />
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In the summer of 1911, Tolkien went on holiday in Switzerland, a trip that he recollects vividly in a 1968 letter, noting that Bilbo's journey across the [[Misty Mountains]] ("including the glissade down the slithering stones into the pine woods") is directly based on his adventures as their party of twelve hiked from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, and on to camp in the moraines beyond Mürren. Fifty-seven years later, Tolkien remembers his regret at leaving the view of the eternal snows of Jungfrau and Silberhorn ("the Silvertine ([[Celebdil]]) of my dreams"). They went across the Kleine Scheidegg on to Grindelwald and across the Grosse Scheidegg to Meiringen. They continued across the Grimsel Pass and through the upper Valais to Brig, and on to the Aletsch glacier and Zermatt.<ref>{{L|306}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Tolkien - 1916 (colorized).jpg|right|thumb|Tolkien in 1916, wearing his British Army uniform in a photograph from the middle years of WWI]]<br />
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On the evening of his twenty-first birthday ([[1913]]), Tolkien wrote to Edith a declaration of his love and asked her to marry him. She replied saying that she was already engaged, but had done so because she had believed Tolkien had forgotten her. The two met up and beneath a railway viaduct renewed their love, with Edith returning her ring and choosing to marry Tolkien instead. A condition of their engagement was that she was to convert to Catholicism for him. They were engaged in Birmingham, in January [[1913]].<br />
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With his childhood love of landscape, he visited Cornwall in [[1914]] and he was said to be deeply impressed by the singular Cornish coastline and sea. <br />
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By late 1914, his final year at the [[University of Oxford]], he joined the Officer's Training Corps.<ref>{{L|1}}</ref> After his graduation (Exeter College, [[Oxford]]) with a first-class degree in English language in [[1915]], Tolkien joined the British Army effort in [[World War I]].<br />
In late '15 he received military training at Rugeley Camp in Staffordshire<ref>{{L|3}}</ref> and served as a second lieutenant in the eleventh battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers. <br />
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Tolkien married Edith in Warwick, England, on [[22 March]], [[1916]] before leaving for the War. His battalion was moved to France in [[1916]], where Tolkien served as a communications officer during the Battle of the Somme, until he came down with trench fever on [[October 27|27 October]], and was moved back to England on [[November 8|8 November]]. Many of his fellow servicemen, as well as many of his closest friends, were killed in the war. During his recovery in a cottage in [[Great Haywood]], Staffordshire, England, he began to work on what he called ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', beginning with ''[[The Fall of Gondolin (chapter)|The Fall of Gondolin]]''. Throughout [[1917]] and [[1918]] his illness kept recurring, but he had recovered enough to do home service at various camps, and was promoted to lieutenant. When he was stationed at Thirtle Bridge, East Yorkshire, one day he and Edith went walking in the woods at nearby Roos, and Edith began to dance for him in a clearing thick with hemlock plants in bloom. This incident inspired the account of the meeting of [[Beren]] and [[Lúthien]],<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Bill Cater]]|articleurl=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/4726863/We-talked-of-love-death-and-fairy-tales.html|articlename=We talked of love, death and fairy tales|dated=4 December 2001|website=|accessed=13 January 2024}}</ref> and Tolkien considered Edith his Lúthien.<ref>{{L|340}}</ref><br />
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Tolkien and Edith had four children: [[John Tolkien|John Francis Reuel]] ([[16 November]], [[1917]] - [[22 January]], [[2003]]), [[Michael Tolkien|Michael Hilary Reuel]] ([[22 October]], [[1920]] - [[27 February]], [[1984]]), [[Christopher Tolkien|Christopher John Reuel]] ([[21 November]], [[1924]] - [[16 January]], [[2020]]) and [[Priscilla Tolkien|Priscilla Anne Reuel]] ([[18 June]], [[1929]] - [[28 February]], [[2022]]).<br />
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===Leeds and Oxford===<br />
Tolkien's first civilian job after World War I was at the ''[[Oxford English Dictionary]]'', working on words starting with the letter W.<ref>Peter M. Gilliver, At the Wordface: J.R.R. Tolkien's Work on the Oxford English Dictionary, [https://dc.swosu.edu/mythlore/vol21/iss2/ Mythlore, volume 21, issue 2]</ref> He later said of that "I learned more in those two years than in any other equal period of my life".<ref name=Interlude/> In [[1920]] he took up a post as Reader in English language at the [[University of Leeds]],<ref name="L7">{{L|7}}</ref> and in [[1924]] was made a professor there.<ref name="Interlude">{{B|III}}, "Oxford Interlude"</ref> The start was rough: though Gordon found Tolkien a room in Leeds,<ref>{{L|46}}</ref> Edith and young John still lived in [[Oxford]]. In weekends, Tolkien would go to his family - now expanded with the birth of Michael. Not until [[1921]] did Tolkien get full housing for his family, first at [[5 Holly Bank]]<ref name="Chronology1921">{{CG|C}}, "1921"</ref> and then at [[11 St. Mark's Terrace]].<ref name="Venture">[[Humphrey Carpenter]], ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', "Northern venture"</ref> They later moved to [[2 Darnley Road]].<br />
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Since [[1920]], Tolkien dedicated his time, even vacations, to finding extra work to supplement his family's income, especially for doctor bills<ref group="note">[[Christopher Tolkien]] suffered from a heart ailment.</ref> and educate his children. He "stole" some free time for himself and his personal hobby of writing his own mythology.<ref name="l17" /> <br />
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W. A. Craigie resigned from the post of [[Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon]] at the Oxford English School, and Tolkien wrote a letter expressing his desire to return there<ref name="L7" /> which he did in [[1925]].<br />
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Tolkien assisted Sir Mortimer Wheeler in the unearthing of a Roman Asclepieion at Lydney Park, Gloucestershire, in [[1928]]. During his time at Pembroke, Tolkien wrote ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and the first two volumes of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. <br />
===''The Hobbit''===<br />
It was during his time as Professor of [[Old English|Anglo-Saxon]] at [[Pembroke College]], in the late 1920s, that he semi-randomly scribbled the words "In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit" on the back of a School Certificate paper that he was marking. These words evolved into a story like the ones he was making up for his children. He did not go any further than that at the time, although in the following years he drew up [[Thrór's map]].<ref name="L163">{{L|163}}</ref><br />
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The tale itself he wrote in the early 1930s. It was mostly enjoyed by his eldest son [[John Tolkien|John]] (13) than the younger ones. His peers at Oxford also "forced" him to lend copies to read.<ref name="l15">{{L|15}}</ref> Eventually he lent it to the Reverend Mother Superior of Cherwell Edge and to his former pupil [[Elaine Griffiths]] who was staying in the Cherwell Edge girl's hostel, and it was seen by her student, Susan Dagnall, who worked in [[Allen and Unwin]]. It was the 10-year old son of Sir [[Stanley Unwin]], [[Rayner Unwin|Rayner]], who wrote such an enthusiastic review of the book.<ref name=L294>{{L|294}}</ref> <br />
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The [[1936]] lecture "[[Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics]]" had a lasting influence on ''[[Beowulf (poem)|Beowulf]]'' research.<ref>Patrick Ringwalk, ''The Times of Bede: Studies in Early English Christian Society and its Historian''</ref><br />
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By [[January]] of [[1937]] Tolkien was corresponding with Allen and Unwin (who also showed interest in ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'').<ref>{{L|9}}</ref> Around the time ''The Hobbit'' was published ([[1937]]) Tolkien suffered from an ailment and had to use crutches, the only time he was free from examining work.<ref name="l105">{{L|105}}</ref><br />
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===''Lord of the Rings''===<br />
{{seealso|The Lord of the Rings#Writing process}}<br />
The success of ''The Hobbit'' and a request for its sequel, was an opportunity to combine his personal desire for writing, and financial needs, and agreed on writing a sequel.<ref name="l17">{{L|17}}</ref> <br />
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In the turn of [[1939]], and in the midst of writing the ''Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien faced financial stress and was obliged to do exams and lectures: his son, Michael was preparing for university, and Christopher, being home-schooled for health reasons, wanted to go to school.<ref name=L35/> In the summer of that year, while gardening, Tolkien fell and suffered a concussion which required stitches; he was unwell for some time<ref name="rc">{{HM|RC}}</ref>{{rp|p. 21}} and this, along with his fatigue, worries, obligations, Edith's illness, his loss of his chief assistant and understudy, prevented him from continuing his writing, including a [[Beowulf and the Finnsburg Fragment|foreword to ''Beowulf'']] as had promised.<ref name=L35/> At the outbreak of WWII, his academic duties increased.<ref>{{FR|Foreword}}</ref> Juggling between work, "Civil Defence" and writing in intervals, he doubted that, because of the War, completing the book had any use.<ref>{{L|47}}</ref> Failing to progress during Christmas vacations, he resumed only [[1944|two years later]]. It was the enthusiasm of his friends and Christopher (to whom he was sending copies by mail to South Africa) who encouraged him to continue.<ref name="rc" />{{rp|p. 25}}<br />
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In [[1945]], he moved to [[Merton College]], Oxford, becoming the Merton Professor of English Language and Literature, in which post he remained until his retirement in [[1959]]. <br />
In [[1946]] he faced fatigue from academic work and an illness, and although he recovered, and was free from examining work, he had to deal with a "mountain of neglects".<ref name="l105" /><br />
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Tolkien spent the late summer (August-September) of [[1948]], at the home of Michael at Payables Farm, Woodcote. As Michael and his family were on holidays, Tolkien found the time and quiet he needed to finish ''Lord of the Rings'', close to a decade after the first sketches.<ref name="rc" />{{rp|p. 27}}<br />
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After a disagreement with [[Allen and Unwin]] concerning "The Silmarillion", and failing to reach an agreement with [[Collins]], he settled the dispute with the Unwins. He reported to [[Rayner Unwin]] that he had been unwell (having recovered from "a terrible bout" of fibrositis and neuritis of the arm) burdened and downhearted. In the prospect of a nearing retirement of poverty, during which he would work as an examiner to survive, and the rising paper costs, he had modified his views ("Better something than nothing!").<ref>{{L|133}}</ref> Tolkien readily agreed to the 'profit-sharing' arrangement, where Tolkien would not receive an advance or royalties until the books had broken even.<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 32</ref> Between [[1953]] and [[1955]] Tolkien worked closely with Allen & Unwin on production of ''The Lord of the Rings'', agreeing on the division of volumes, their titles, correcting proofs that arrived at intervals, complete and correct artwork, the maps and the dust-jacket designs.<ref name="rc" />{{rp|p. 34}}<br />
===Later life and recognition===<br />
During the 1950s, Tolkien spent many of his long academic holidays at the home of his son John Francis in Stoke-on-Trent. <br />
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In [[1959]] Tolkien went to compulsory retirement, which he found "both distressing, and extremely laborious", especially with the less than desirable pension.<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letter to Przemyslaw Mroczkowski (December 1959)]]</ref> For him, [[1963]] was a "dreadful year", including the death of C.S. Lewis ([[22 November]]), an illness that prevented Tolkien and Edith from celebrating Christmas, and after that, [[Faith Faulconbridge]] leaving Christopher; Tolkien expressed "fear they have left their allegiance to our Mother [the Church]".<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letter to Przemyslaw Mroczkowski (20–26 January 1964)]]</ref> In the 1960s he complained about the effects of old age, and other difficulties and anxieties, some of which were caused by his own family.<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letters to Przemyslaw Mroczkowski (unknown date)]]</ref> <br />
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By the time of his retirement, Tolkien increasingly turned into a figure of public attention and literary fame. The sale of his books was so profitable that Tolkien regretted he had not taken early retirement. While at first he wrote enthusiastic answers to reader inquiries, he became more and more suspicious of emerging [[Tolkien fandom]], especially among the hippie movement in the USA. <br />
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Fan attention became so intense that, with [[Joy Hill]]'s suggestion,<ref>{{L|287}}</ref> Tolkien had to take his phone number out of the public directory,{{fact}} and eventually he and Edith moved to [[Woodridings]] in Branksome, Poole near [[Bournemouth]] to escape his fame in [[Oxford]].<ref name="TL838" /> In June [[1968]], while preparing to move house, Tolkien fell down a set of stairs and had to stay in an [[Oxford]] hospital, leaving behind his obligations. He was expected to use crutches for all summer.<ref>{{L|305}}</ref> The couple lived in Poole until Edith's death in [[November]] [[1971]].<ref name="TL838">{{webcite|author=Pieter Collier|articleurl=http://www.tolkienlibrary.com/press/838-Own_a_Piece_of_Tolkien_History.php|articlename=Here is your chance to own a piece of Tolkien history|dated=9 July 2008|website=[[TolkienLibrary.com]]|accessed=}}</ref> The widowed professor moved back to Oxford, 21 Merton Street in March 1972.<ref>{{webcite|author=Rodney Legg|articleurl=http://www.dorsetlife.co.uk/2009/11/tolkien-in-bournemouth-and-dorset/|articlename=Tolkien in Bournemouth and Dorset|dated=November 2009|website=Dorset Life|accessed=}}</ref><ref>{{L|333}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[W.H. Auden]] was a frequent correspondent and long-time friend of Tolkien's, initiated by Auden's fascination with ''The Lord of the Rings'': Auden was among the most prominent early critics to praise the work. Tolkien wrote in a 1971 letter,{{blockquote|I am [...] very deeply in Auden's debt in recent years. His support of me and interest in my work has been one of my chief encouragements. He gave me very good reviews, notices and letters from the beginning when it was by no means a popular thing to do. He was, in fact, sneered at for it.|[[Letter 327]]}}<br />
[[File:Jrrt_1972_tree.jpg|thumb|180px|The last known photograph of Tolkien, taken 9 August 1973, next to one of his favourite trees (a ''Pinus nigra'') in the Botanic Garden, Oxford]]<br />
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In a [[1972]] letter he deplores having become a cult-figure, but admits that<br />
{{Blockquote|even the nose of a very modest idol (younger than [[Wikipedia:Chu-Bu_and_Sheemish|Chu-Bu and not much older than Sheemish]]) cannot remain entirely untickled by the sweet smell of incense!|[[Letter 336]]}} <br />
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Tolkien was awarded a [[Order of the British Empire|CBE]] ("Commander of the British Empire") by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace on [[March 28|28 March]], 1972.<br />
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[[File:Tolkiengrave.jpg|thumb|The grave of J.R.R. and Edith Tolkien]]<br />
Edith Tolkien died on [[29 November|28 November]], [[1971]], at the age of eighty-two, and Tolkien had the name ''Lúthien'' engraved on the stone at [[Wolvercote Cemetery]], Oxford. When Tolkien died 21 months later of pneumonia on [[2 September]], [[1973]], at the age of 81, he was buried in the same grave, with ''Beren'' added to his name, so that the engraving now reads: <br />
:''Edith Mary Tolkien, Lúthien, 1889 – 1971''<br />
:''John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, Beren, 1892 – 1973''<br />
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Posthumously named after Tolkien are the Tolkien Road in Eastbourne, East Sussex, and the asteroid [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2675_Tolkien 2675 Tolkien]. Tolkien Way in Stoke-On-Trent is named after J.R.R.'s son [[John Tolkien|Father John Francis Tolkien]], who used to be the priest in charge at the nearby Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Angels and St. Peter in Chains.<br />
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==Appearance==<br />
The early images of J.R.R. Tolkien in school and university show a serious young man, average height, slender, clean-shaven, and with his hair parted in the middle. <br />
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At school he was considered too light for the rugby team, and in order to join he tried to make it up with ferocity during the game, and eventually he was accepted.<ref>{{L|16}}</ref><br />
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By [[1916]] Tolkien had joined the army he had changed to a more conventional haircut, as well as a moustache for a short period of time. <br />
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[[Richard Plotz]], who visited Tolkien in 1966, described him as<br />
{{Blockquote|...a medium-sized man ... [who] looks much younger than his seventy-four years. Like one of his creations, the Hobbits, he is a bit fat in the stomach ...|"J.R.R. Tolkien Talks about the Discovery of Middle-earth, the Origins of Elvish", ''[[Seventeen]]'' (January [[1967]]), p. 92}}<br />
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In a letter on [[8 February]], [[1967]], to interviewers Charlotte and Denis Plimmer, Tolkien stated that he was not "tall, or strongly built. I now measure 5 ft 8 1/2, and am slightly built, with notably small hands. For most of my life I have been very thin and underweight. Since my early sixties I have become 'tubby'. Not unusual in men who took their exercise in games and swimming, when opportunities for these things cease".<ref name=L294/> In "[[The Man Who Understands Hobbits]]" (''[[Daily Telegraph Magazine]]'', [[22 March]] [[1968]]), the Plimmers also noted that Tolkien had 'grey eyes, firm tanned skin, silvery hair and quick decisive speech'.<ref>{{webcite|author=Charlotte and Denis Plimmer|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/films/2016/04/19/jrr-tolkien-film-my-books-its-easier-to-film-the-odyssey/|articlename=JRR Tolkien: 'Film my books? It's easier to film The Odyssey'|dated=19 April 2016|website=Telegraph|accessed=26 January 2020}}</ref><br />
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During Tolkien's time at King Edward's School he was noted for his choice in coloured socks.<ref>{{L|58}}</ref><br />
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[[Clyde S. Kilby]], who spent some time with Tolkien in the summer of [[1966]], noted that he "was always neatly dressed from necktie to shoes. One of his favourite suits was a herringbone with which he wore a green corduroy vest [waistcoat]. Always there was a vest, and nearly always a sport coat. He did not mind wearing a very broad necktie which in those days was out of style".<ref>[[Clyde S. Kilby]], ''[[Tolkien and the Silmarillion]]'' ([[1976]]), p. 24</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien had a particular liking for decorative waistcoats: he told one correspondent that he had "one or two choice embroidered specimens, which I sometimes wear when required to make a speech, as I find they so fascinate the eyes of the audience that they do not notice if my dentures become a little loose with excitements of rhetoric"<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letter to Nancy Smith (Christmas 1963)]]</ref><br />
<br />
Interviewers have noted that Tolkien almost clung to his smoking pipe, cradling it in his hand, or speaking with it in his mouth, sometimes making him difficult to understand. One of these, Richard Plotz, wrote that Tolkien "took out a pipe as he entered his study, and all during the interview he held it clenched in his teeth, lighting and relighting it, talking through it; he never removed it from his mouth for more than five seconds" ('J.R.R. Tolkien Talks...', p. 92).<br />
<br />
==Character, personality, views==<br />
{{seealso|Christianity}}<br />
Tolkien attempted to describe himself for [[Deborah Webster]]:<br />
{{quote|I am in fact a Hobbit (in all but size). I like gardens, trees and unmechanized farmlands; I [[smoking|smoke]] a pipe, and like good plain food (unrefrigerated), but detest French cooking; I like, and even dare to wear in these dull days, ornamental waistcoats. I am fond of [[mushrooms]] (out of a field); have a very simple sense of humour (which even my appreciative critics find tiresome); I go to bed late and get up late (when possible). I do not travel much. I love Wales (what is left of it, when mines, and the even more ghastly sea-side reasons, have done their worst), and especially the [[Welsh]] language. But I have not in fact been in W. for a long time (except for crossing it on the way to Ireland). I go frequently to Ireland (Eire: Southern Ireland) being fond of it and of (most of) its people; but the Irish language I find wholly unattractive.|[[Letter 213]]}}<br />
<br />
Tolkien had an intense dislike for the side effects of industrialization, which he considered a devouring of the English countryside. For most of his adult life he eschewed automobiles, preferring to ride a bicycle. This attitude is perceptible in some parts of his work, such as the forced industrialization of [[The Shire]] in ''The Lord of the Rings''.<br />
<br />
In retrospect, Tolkien claimed that from the age of seven or eight, two interests dominated his subsequent perception of everything: [[elves]] and [[orcs]].<ref group="note">It is not clear what he meant by this; possibly he understood the world as a struggle between people and elements who create beauty and do good; and those people or forces who defile and destroy nature or the "elves's" works.</ref> Throughout his life he collected every detail related to it, which, along with the "[[Atlantis]] complex" dream, was the embryo of his [[Legendarium]].<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letter to Maria Mroczkowska]]</ref><br />
<br />
Jesting on the name of [[Puffin Books]], Tolkien said he disliked penguins and puffins for eating other birds's eggs.<ref>{{L|225}}</ref> He considered that Siamese [[cats]] "belong to the fauna of Mordor"<ref>{{L|219}}</ref> He also disliked [[spiders]]<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; [[Letter to Richard Lupoff]]</ref> although not that much as to kill them. He refused that this has anything to do with being bitten by a tarantula as a toddler.<ref name=L163/><br />
<br />
Tolkien boasted of himself to be "a world-class [[wiktionary:niggler|niggler]]".<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 43, quoting a letter of [[Christopher Tolkien]]</ref> He wrote ''The Lord of the Rings'' laboriously, preoccupied with detail, consistency and careful consideration of every word.<ref>{{L|199}}</ref><ref name=L35>{{L|35}}</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien was insecure and lacked confidence in his own work, even when he was assured that it had value for others.<ref>{{L|282}}</ref> Father [[Robert Murray]], Tolkien's personal friend, considered the professor "a complex and depressed man" and his work "projects his very depressed view of the universe".<ref>[[Richard C. West]], "A Letter from Father Murray", [[Tolkien Studies 16]], pp. 135-6</ref> Some analysts consider Tolkien's personality as an Assertive Mediator (INFP).<ref{{webcite|articleurl=https://www.16personalities.com/articles/jrr-tolkien-creator-of-words-and-worlds-the-lord-of-the-rings-personality-series|articlename=J.R.R. Tolkien: Creator of Words and Worlds (The Lord of the Rings Personality Series)|website=[http://16personalities.com 16personalities]|author=Alycia|accessed=14 January 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
Politically, Tolkien was a peaceful anarchist apolitical stance.<ref>[[Patrick Curry]], ''Defending Middle-Earth: Tolkien: Myth and Modernity'', p. 47</ref><br />
{{stub}}<br />
<br />
==Writing==<br />
[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - TLOTR covers original design.jpg|thumb|[[The Lord of the Rings/Original dust-jacket designs|Cover design]] for the three volumes of ''The Lord of the Rings'' by J.R.R. Tolkien]]<br />
<br />
Beginning with ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', written while recuperating from illness during World War I, Tolkien devised several themes that were reused in successive drafts of his legendarium. The two most prominent stories, the tales of [[Beren and Lúthien]] and that of [[Túrin]], were carried forward into long narrative poems (published in ''[[The Lays of Beleriand]]''). Tolkien wrote a brief summary of the mythology these poems were intended to represent, and that summary eventually evolved into "[[The Silmarillion]]", an epic history that Tolkien started three times but never published. The story of this continuous redrafting is told in the posthumous series ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''. From around [[1936]], he began to extend this framework to include the tale of ''[[The Fall of Númenor (chapter)|The Fall of Númenor]]'', which was inspired by the legend of [[Atlantis]].<br />
<br />
Tolkien was strongly influenced by Anglo-Saxon literature, Germanic and [[Norse mythology|Norse mythologies]], Finnish mythology, the Bible, and Greek mythology. The works most often cited as sources for Tolkien's stories include ''[[Beowulf (poem)|Beowulf]]'', the ''[[Kalevala]]'', the ''[[Poetic Edda]]'', the ''[[Volsunga saga]]'' and the ''[[Hervarar saga]]''. Tolkien himself acknowledged Homer, Oedipus, and the ''Kalevala'' as influences or sources for some of his stories and ideas. His borrowings also came from numerous [[Middle English]] works and poems. A major philosophical influence on his writing is King Alfred's Anglo-Saxon version of ''Boethius''' ''Consolation of Philosophy'' known as the ''Lays of Boethius''. Characters in ''The Lord of the Rings'', such as [[Frodo]], [[Treebeard]] and [[Elrond]] make noticeably Boethian remarks.<br />
<br />
In addition to his [[Mythopoeia|mythological compositions]], Tolkien enjoyed inventing fantasy stories to entertain his children. He wrote annual Christmas letters from Father Christmas for them, building up a series of short stories (later compiled and published as ''[[The Father Christmas Letters]]'').<ref>{{HM|LFC}}</ref> Other stories included ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'', ''[[Roverandom]]'',<ref>{{HM|R}}</ref> ''[[Smith of Wootton Major]]'',<ref>{{HM|SWM}}</ref>''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]''<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]''</ref> and ''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''. ''Roverandom'' and ''Smith of Wootton Major'', like ''The Hobbit'', borrowed ideas from his legendarium. ''Leaf by Niggle'' appears to be an autobiographical work, where a "very small man", [[Niggle]], keeps painting leaves until finally he ends up with a tree.<ref>{{HM|TL}}</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien never expected his fictional stories to become popular, but he was persuaded by a former student to publish a book he had written for his own children called ''The Hobbit'' in 1937. However, the book attracted adult readers as well, and it became popular enough for the publisher, [[George Allen & Unwin]], to ask Tolkien to work on a sequel.<br />
<br />
Even though he felt uninspired on the topic, this request prompted Tolkien to begin what would become his most famous work: the epic three-volume novel ''The Lord of the Rings'' (published 1954–55). Tolkien spent more than ten years writing the primary narrative and appendices for ''The Lord of the Rings'', during which time he received the constant support of the [[Inklings]], in particular his closest friend C.S. Lewis, the author of ''[[The Chronicles of Narnia]]''. Both ''The Hobbit'' and ''The Lord of the Rings'' are set against the background of "The Silmarillion", but in a time long after it.<br />
<br />
Tolkien at first intended ''The Lord of the Rings'' as a children's tale like ''The Hobbit'', but it quickly grew darker and more serious in the writing. Though a direct sequel to ''The Hobbit'', it addressed an older audience, drawing on the immense back story of Beleriand that Tolkien had constructed in previous years, and which eventually saw posthumous publication in ''The Silmarillion'' and other volumes. Tolkien's influence weighs heavily on the fantasy genre that grew after the success of ''The Lord of the Rings''.<br />
<br />
Tolkien continued to work on the history of Middle-earth until his death. His son Christopher, with some assistance from fantasy writer [[Guy Gavriel Kay]], organised some of this material into one volume, published as ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' in [[1977]]. In [[1980]], Christopher Tolkien followed this with a collection of more fragmentary material under the title ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', and in subsequent years he published a massive amount of background material on the creation of Middle-earth in the twelve volumes of ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''. All these posthumous works contain unfinished, abandoned, alternative and outright contradictory accounts, since they were always a work in progress, and Tolkien only rarely settled on a definitive version for any of the stories. There is not even complete consistency to be found between ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', the two most closely related works, because Tolkien was never able to fully integrate all their traditions into each other. He commented in 1965, while editing ''The Hobbit'' for a third edition, that he would have preferred to completely rewrite the entire book.{{fact}}<br />
<br />
The John P. Raynor, S.J., Library at [[Marquette University]] in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, preserves many of Tolkien's original manuscripts, notes and letters; other original material survives at Oxford's [[Bodleian Library]]. Marquette has the manuscripts and proofs of ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', and other manuscripts, including ''Farmer Giles of Ham'', while the Bodleian holds "The Silmarillion" papers and Tolkien's academic work.<br />
<br />
''The Lord of the Rings'' became immensely popular in the 1960s and has remained so ever since, ranking as one of the most popular works of fiction of the twentieth century, judged by both sales and reader surveys. In the 2003 "Big Read" survey conducted by the BBC, ''The Lord of the Rings'' was found to be the "Nation's Best-loved Book".<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/bigread/top100.shtml|articlename=The Big Read|dated=|website=[https://www.bbc.com/?scrlybrkr=b21a79f2 BBC]|accessed=30 January 2024}}</ref> Australians voted ''The Lord of the Rings'' "My Favourite Book" in a 2004 survey conducted by the Australian ABC. In a 1999 poll of Amazon.com customers, ''The Lord of the Rings'' was judged to be their favourite "book of the millennium". In 2002 Tolkien was voted the ninety-second "greatest Briton" in a poll conducted by the BBC,<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.geni.com/projects/100-Greatest-Britons-BBC-Poll-2002/15375|articlename=100 Greatest Britons (BBC Poll, 2002)|dated=|website=|accessed=30 January 2024}}</ref> and in 2004 he was voted thirty-fifth in the SABC3's Great South Africans,{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://en-academic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/540539|articlename=SABC3's Great South Africans|dated=|website=|accessed=30 January 2024}} the only person to appear in both lists. His popularity is not limited just to the English-speaking world: in a 2004 poll inspired by the UK's "Big Read" survey, about 250,000 Germans found ''The Lord of the Rings'' (''Der Herr der Ringe'') to be their favourite work of literature.<br />
<br />
==Languages==<br />
Both Tolkien's academic career and his literary production are inseparable from his love of language and philology. <br />
<br />
His mother taught him the rudiments of [[Latin]] very early. He could read by the age of four, and could write fluently soon afterwards. <br />
<br />
In the early 1900s he was introduced to a secret "code" created by his Incledon cousins, called [[Animalic]] replacing words with animal-names. Soon after, with [[Mary Incledon|Mary]] they created [[Nevbosh]], a more sophisticated language, with Tolkien contributing to the vocabulary and influencing the spelling.<ref>{{HM|MC}}, p. 133</ref> <br />
<br />
In [[1909]] he wrote the ''[[Book of the Foxrook]]'' in a notebook, with notes in Esperanto,<ref name="Seven">[[Arden R. Smith]], [[Patrick H. Wynne|Patrick Wynne]], "Tolkien and Esperanto", in [[SEVEN 17|''SEVEN'', Volume 17]], p. 29</ref> describing ''[[Privata Kodo Skauta]]'' ("Private Scout Code").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Arden R. Smith]]|articleurl=http://www.tolkienestate.com/en/learning/languages-and-writing-systems/writing-systems.html|articlename=Writing Systems|dated=|website=[http://www.tolkienestate.com/ tolkienestate.com]|accessed=27 December 2016}}</ref> "''consisting of a [[runes|rune]]-like phonetic alphabet and a sizable number of ideographic symbols''".<ref name="Seven" /> In the 1910s he composed [[Naffarin]], a private language,<ref>{{HM|MC}}, p. 141</ref> <br />
<br />
He specialised in Greek philology in college, and in 1915 graduated Exeter College with a first-class degree in English language with Old Icelandic as special subject. By the time of his military training in [[1915]] he was working on a "mad hobby": a "nonsense fairy language"<ref>{{L|4}}</ref> which would become his "elvenlatin",<ref>{{L|144}}</ref> the first seed of his legendarium.<br />
<br />
He worked for the ''[[Wikipedia:Oxford English Dictionary]]'' from 1918. In 1920, he went to Leeds as Reader in English Language, where he claimed credit for raising the number of students of linguistics from five to twenty and even formed a "[[Viking Club]]". He gave courses in [[Old English]] heroic verse, history of English, various Old English and Middle English texts, Old and Middle English philology, introductory [[Germanic]] philology, [[Gothic]], Old Icelandic, and Medieval [[Welsh]]. In [[1925]], aged 33, Tolkien applied for the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon.<ref name=L7/> He also made an appearance at SSC Highschool.<br />
<br />
Privately, Tolkien was attracted to "things of racial and linguistic significance", and he entertained notions of an inherited taste of language, which he termed the "native tongue" as opposed to "cradle tongue" in his 1955 lecture ''[[English and Welsh]]'', which is crucial to his understanding of race and language. He considered west-midland Middle English his own "native tongue", and, as he wrote to W.H. Auden in 1955, "I am a West-midlander by blood (and took to early west-midland Middle English as a known tongue as soon as I set eyes on it)".<ref name=L163/><br />
<br />
Parallel to Tolkien's professional work as a philologist, and sometimes overshadowing this work, to the effect that his academic output remained rather thin, was his affection for the construction of artificial languages. The best developed of these are [[Quenya]] and [[Sindarin]], the etymological connection between which are at the core of much of Tolkien's legendarium. Language and grammar for Tolkien were a matter of aesthetics and euphony, and Quenya in particular was designed from "phonæsthetic" considerations. It was intended as an "Elvenlatin", and was phonologically based on Latin, with ingredients from Finnish and Greek.<ref>{{L|144}}</ref> A notable addition came in late 1945 with [[Adûnaic]], a language of a "faintly Semitic flavour",<ref>{{SD|2cn}}</ref> connected with Tolkien's Atlantis myth, which by ''The Notion Club Papers'' ties directly into his ideas about inheritability of language, and via the "[[Second Age]]" and the [[Eärendil]] myth was grounded in the legendarium, thereby providing a link of Tolkien's 20th-century "real primary world" with the mythical past of his Middle-earth.<br />
<br />
Tolkien considered languages inseparable from the mythology associated with them, and he consequently took a dim view of auxiliary languages. In [[1930]] a congress of Esperantists were told as much by him, in his lecture ''[[A Secret Vice]]'', "Your language construction will breed a mythology",<ref>'''J.R.R. Tolkien'''; ''[[A Secret Vice]]''</ref> but by 1956 he concluded that "Volapük, Esperanto, Ido, Novial, &c &c are dead, far deader than ancient unused languages, because their authors never invented any Esperanto legends".<ref>{{L|180}}</ref><br />
<br />
The popularity of Tolkien's books has had a small but lasting effect on the use of language in fantasy literature in particular, and even on mainstream dictionaries, which today commonly accept Tolkien's revival of the spellings ''dwarves'' and ''elvish'' (instead of ''dwarfs'' and ''elfish''), which had not been in use since the mid-1800s and earlier. Other terms he has coined, like legendarium and [[eucatastrophe]], are mainly used in connection with Tolkien's work.<br />
<br />
==Works inspired by Tolkien==<br />
In a 1951 letter to [[Milton Waldman]], Tolkien writes about his intentions to create a "body of more or less connected legend", of which:<br />
{{Blockquote|The cycles should be linked to a majestic whole, and yet leave scope for other minds and hands, wielding paint and music and drama.|[[Letter 131]]}}<br />
<br />
The hands and minds of many artists have indeed been inspired by Tolkien's legends. Personally known to him were [[Pauline Baynes]] (Tolkien's favourite illustrator of ''[[The Adventures of Tom Bombadil]]'' and ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]'') and [[Donald Swann]] (who set the music to ''[[The Road Goes Ever On (book)|The Road Goes Ever On]]''). Queen [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margrethe_II_of_Denmark Margrethe II of Denmark] created illustrations for ''The Lord of the Rings'' in the early 1970s. She sent them to Tolkien, who was struck by the similarity to the style of his own drawings.<br />
<br />
But Tolkien was not fond of all the artistic representations of his works that were produced in his lifetime and was sometimes harshly disapproving.<br />
<br />
In 1946, he rejected suggestions for illustrations by [[Horus Engels]] for the German edition of The ''Hobbit'' as ''"too Disnified"'',<br />
{{Blockquote|Bilbo with a dribbling nose, and Gandalf as a figure of vulgar fun rather than the Odinic wanderer that I think of.|[[Letter 107]]}}<br />
<br />
He was sceptical of the emerging [[Tolkien fandom|fandom]] in the United States, and in 1954 he returned proposals for the dust jackets of the American edition of ''The Lord of the Rings'':<br />
{{Blockquote|Thank you for sending me the projected 'blurbs', which I return. The Americans are not as a rule at all amenable to criticism or correction; but I think their effort is so poor that I feel constrained to make some effort to improve it.|[[Letter 144]]}}<br />
<br />
And in [[1958]], in an irritated reaction to a proposed movie adaptation of ''The Lord of the Rings'' by Morton Grady Zimmerman:<br />
{{Blockquote|I would ask them to make an effort of imagination sufficient to understand the irritation (and on occasion the resentment) of an author, who finds, increasingly as he proceeds, his work treated as it would seem carelessly in general, in places recklessly, and with no evident signs of any appreciation of what it is all about.|[[Letter 207]]}}<br />
<br />
He went on to criticise the script scene by scene ("yet one more scene of screams and rather meaningless slashings"). But Tolkien was in principle open to the idea of a movie adaptation. He sold the film, stage and merchandise rights of ''The Hobbit'' and ''The Lord of the Rings'' to [[United Artists]] in 1969, while, guided by scepticism towards future productions, he forbade Disney should ever be involved:<br />
{{Blockquote|It might be advisable [...] to let the Americans do what seems good to them — as long as it was possible [...] to veto anything from or influenced by the Disney studios (for all whose works I have a heartfelt loathing).|[[Letter 13]]}}<br />
<br />
United Artists never made a film, though at least [[John Boorman]] was planning to make a film in the early seventies. It would have been a live-action film, which apparently would have been much more to Tolkien's liking than an animated film. In 1976 the rights were sold to [[Saul Zaentz]], who in turn formed Tolkien Enterprises, now named [[Middle-earth Enterprises]], a division of its company, and the first movie adaptation (an animated rotoscoping film) of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' appeared only after Tolkien's death (in 1978, directed by [[Ralph Bakshi]]). The screenplay was written by the fantasy writer [[Peter S. Beagle]]. This first adaptation, however, only contained the first half of the story that is ''The Lord of the Rings''. In 1977 an animated TV production of ''[[The Hobbit (1977 film)|The Hobbit]]'' was made by [[Rankin/Bass]], and in 1980 the company produced an animated film titled ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|The Return of the King]]'', which covered some of the portion of ''The Lord of the Rings'' that Bakshi was unable to complete. In 2001-3 ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was filmed in full and as a live-action film as a ''trilogy of films'' by [[Peter Jackson]]. A decade later, Jackson proceeded with ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'', envisioned as a prequel trilogy.<br />
<br />
In 2019 it was produced and released by [[The Walt Disney Company|Fox Searchlight Pictures]] a [[Tolkien (film)|film]] about the life of J.R.R. Tolkien in his youth, with Tolkien himself being portrayed by [[Nicholas Hoult]] and Harry Gilby.<br />
<br />
==Bibliography ==<br />
:''For a complete list of all of Tolkien's published writings, see '''[[Index:Writings by J.R.R. Tolkien|Writings by J.R.R. Tolkien]]'''.''<br />
<br />
===Fictional and poetic works ===<br />
* 1936 ''[[Songs for the Philologists]]'', with [[E.V. Gordon]] (only very few copies now exist)<br />
*1937 ''[[The Hobbit]], or There and Back Again''<br />
*1945 ''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''<br />
*1945 ''[[The Lay of Aotrou and Itroun]]'' (published in ''Welsh Review'')<br />
*1949 ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]''<br />
*1953 ''[[The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth]] Beorhthelm's Son'' (published with the essay ''[[Ofermod]]'')<br />
*1954-1955 ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''<ol type="I"><li>''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' (1954)</li><li>''[[The Two Towers]]'' (1954) </li><li>''[[The Return of the King]]'' (1955)</li></ol><br />
*1962 ''[[The Adventures of Tom Bombadil]] and Other Verses from the Red Book''<br />
*1964 ''[[Tree and Leaf]]'' (a collection of writings)<br />
**''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''<br />
**''[[On Fairy-Stories]]'' (essay)<br />
* 1966 ''[[The Tolkien Reader]]'' (a collection of writings, published only in the US)<br />
*1967 ''[[Smith of Wootton Major]]''<br />
*1967 ''[[The Road Goes Ever On (book)|The Road Goes Ever On]]'', with [[Donald Swann]] <br />
**[[Bilbo's Last Song]] (included in 1978 edition)<br />
<br />
===Academic works===<br />
* 1922 ''[[A Middle English Vocabulary]]''<br />
*1925 ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (book)|Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]'', with [[E.V. Gordon]]<br />
*1925 ''[[Some Contributions to Middle-English Lexicography]]''<br />
*1925 ''[[The Devil's Coach-Horses]]''<br />
*1929 ''[[Ancrene Wisse and Hali Meiðhad]]''<br />
* 1932 ''[[The Name 'Nodens']]'' (published in ''[[Report on the Excavation of the Prehistoric, Roman, and Post-Roman Site in Lydney Park, Gloucestershire|Report on the Excavation in Lydney Park]]'')<br />
*1932-1934 ''[[Sigelwara Land]]'' parts I and II<br />
*1934 ''[[Chaucer as a Philologist: The Reeve's Tale]]''<br />
*1936 ''[[Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics]]'' (lecture on ''[[Beowulf (poem)|Beowulf]]'' criticism)<br />
*1939 ''[[On Fairy-Stories]]'' (essay on Tolkien's philosophy on fantasy)<br />
* 1939 ''[[The Reeve's Tale (version)|The Reeve's Tale: Version Prepared for Recitation at the 'Summer Diversions'<nowiki/>]]''<br />
*1944 ''[[Sir Orfeo (booklet)|Sir Orfeo]]'' (translation of a Middle English poem)<br />
* 1953 ''[[Ofermod]]'' (published with the poem ''[[The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth]]'')<br />
* 1953 ''[[Middle English 'Losenger' (essay)|Middle English 'Losenger'<nowiki/>]]''<br />
*1962 ''[[Ancrene Wisse]]''<br />
*1963 ''[[English and Welsh]]''<br />
*1966 ''[[The Jerusalem Bible]]'' (contributing translator and lexicographer)<br />
<br />
===Posthumous publications===<br />
====1975—1990====<br />
*1975 ''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl and Sir Orfeo]]'', ed. [[Christopher Tolkien]]<br />
* 1976 ''[[Letters from Father Christmas]]'', ed. [[Baillie Tolkien]]<br />
*1977 ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*1980 ''[[Unfinished Tales]] of Númenor and Middle-earth'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*1980 ''[[Poems and Stories]]'' (a collection of stories)<br />
**''[[The Adventures of Tom Bombadil]]''<br />
**''[[The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth]] Beorhthelm's Son''<br />
**''[[On Fairy-Stories]]''<br />
**''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''<br />
**''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]''<br />
**''[[Smith of Wootton Major]]''<br />
*1981 ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'', eds. Christopher Tolkien, [[Humphrey Carpenter]]<br />
*1982 ''[[The Old English Exodus]]'' (translation of an Old English poem, only limited copies were printed)<br />
*1982 ''[[Finn and Hengest]]: The Fragment and the Episode'', ed. [[Alan Bliss]]<br />
*1982 ''[[Mr. Bliss]]''<br />
* 1983 ''[[The Monsters and the Critics and Other Essays]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien (a collection of linguistic essays and lectures)<br />
**''[[Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics]]''<br />
**''[[On Translating Beowulf]]''<br />
**''[[On Fairy-Stories]]''<br />
**''[[A Secret Vice]]''<br />
**''[[Sir Gawain and the Green Knight]]''<br />
**''[[English and Welsh]]''<br />
**[[Valedictory Address to the University of Oxford|Valedictory Address]]'' to the University of Oxford''<br />
*1983–1996 ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<ol type="I"><li>''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]'' (1983)</li><li>''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]'' (1984)</li><li>''[[The Lays of Beleriand]]'' (1985)</li><li>''[[The Shaping of Middle-earth]]'' (1986)</li><li>''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'' (1987)</li><li>''[[The Return of the Shadow]]'' (The History of ''TLotR'' vol. 1) (1988)</li><li>''[[The Treason of Isengard]]'' (The History of ''TLotR'' vol. 2) (1989) </li><li>''[[The War of the Ring]]'' (The History of ''TLotR'' vol. 3) (1990) </li><li>''[[Sauron Defeated]]'' (The History of ''TLotR'' vol. 4) (1992)</li><li>''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'' (The Later Silmarillion vol. 1) (1993)</li><li>''[[The War of the Jewels]]'' (The Later Silmarillion vol. 2) (1994)</li><li>''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'' (1996)</li></ol><br />
**''[[The History of Middle-earth Index|Index]]'' (2002)<br />
*1985 ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's Letters to Rhona Beare]]'' (only limited copies were printed)<br />
<br />
====1990—today====<br />
* 1990 ''[[Bilbo's Last Song]]''<br />
* 1997 ''[[Tales from the Perilous Realm]]'' (a collection of stories and poems)<br />
**''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]''<br />
**''[[The Adventures of Tom Bombadil]]''<br />
**''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''<br />
**''[[Smith of Wootton Major]]''<br />
**''[[Roverandom]]'' (included in 2008 edition)<br />
**''[[On Fairy-Stories]]'' (included in 2008 edition)<br />
*1998 ''[[Roverandom]]'', eds. [[Wayne G. Hammond]], [[Christina Scull]]<br />
* 1999 ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]'', eds. Wayne G. Hammond, Christina Scull<br />
*2001 ''[[Tree and Leaf]]'' (a collection of writings)<br />
**''[[On Fairy-Stories]]'' and ''[[Leaf by Niggle]]''<br />
**''[[Mythopoeia]]'' (included in 1988 edition)<br />
**''[[The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth]] Beorhthelm's Son'' (newly included)<br />
*2002 ''[[Beowulf and the Critics]]'', ed. [[Michael D.C. Drout]] (a lecture series)<br />
*2003 ''[[The Annotated Hobbit]]: Revised and Expanded Edition'', ed. [[Douglas A. Anderson]]<br />
**containing ''[[The Dragon's Visit]]'', among other writings (newly included)<br />
* 2005 ''[[Smith of Wootton Major]]'', ed. [[Verlyn Flieger]]<br />
*2007 ''[[The History of The Hobbit]]'', ed. [[John D. Rateliff]]<br />
*2007 ''[[The Children of Húrin]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2008 ''[[Tolkien On Fairy-stories]]'', eds. Verlyn Flieger, Douglas A. Anderson (an extended edition of the ''[[On Fairy-stories|essay]]'')<br />
*2009 ''[[The Legend of Sigurd and Gudrún]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2013 ''[[The Fall of Arthur]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2014 ''[[Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary]], together with Sellic Spell'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2014 ''[[The Adventures of Tom Bombadil]] and Other Verses from the Red Book'', eds. Wayne G. Hammond, Christina Scull <br />
**containing ''[[Once upon a Time]]'', among other writings (newly included)<br />
*2015 ''[[The Story of Kullervo]]'', ed. Verlyn Flieger<br />
* 2016 ''[[A Secret Vice: Tolkien on Invented Languages]]'', eds. [[Dimitra Fimi]], [[Andrew Higgins]] (an extended edition of the ''[[A Secret Vice|lecture]]'')<br />
*2016 ''[[The Lay of Aotrou and Itroun]]'', ed. Verlyn Flieger<br />
*2017 ''[[Beren and Lúthien]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2018 ''[[The Fall of Gondolin]]'', ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*2021 ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'', ed. [[Carl F. Hostetter]]<br />
*2022 ''[[The Fall of Númenor]]'', ed. [[Brian Sibley]]<br />
*2023 ''[[The Battle of Maldon: together with The Homecoming of Beorhtnoth]]'', ed. [[Peter Grybauskas]]<br />
<br />
===Artwork=== <br />
*1979 ''[[Pictures by J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' ed. Christopher Tolkien<br />
*1992 ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: Life and Legend]]'' ed. Judith Priestman<br />
*1995 ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: Artist and Illustrator]]'', eds. Wayne G. Hammond, Christina Scull<br />
* 2011 ''[[The Art of The Hobbit]]'', eds. Wayne G. Hammond, Christina Scull<br />
*2015 ''[[The Art of The Lord of the Rings]]'', eds. Wayne G. Hammond, Christina Scull<br />
*2018 ''[[Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth]]'', ed. Catherine McIlwaine<br />
*2018 ''[[Tolkien: Treasures ]]'', ed. Catherine McIlwaine<br />
*2022 ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: The Art of the Manuscript]]'', eds. William M. Fliss, Sarah C. Schaefer<br />
<br />
===Audio recordings===<br />
''Note: for a detailed listing of all recordings of Tolkien, see [[Index:Audio recordings of J.R.R. Tolkien|Audio recordings of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' <br />
* 1967 ''[[Poems and Songs of Middle Earth]]'', Caedmon TC 1231<br />
*1975 ''J.R.R. Tolkien Reads and Sings his ''The Hobbit'' & ''The Lord of the Rings'', Caedmon TC 1477, TC 1478 (based on an [[1952 tape recording|August, 1952 recording]] by [[George Sayer]])''<br />
<br />
==Awards==<br />
This list contains awards or recognitions given to J.R.R. Tolkien, it does not include awards given to his individual publications.<br />
*D. Lit., in University College, Dublin (1954)<br />
*Commander of Order of the British Empire (1972)<br />
*Doctorate of Letters by Oxford University (1972)<br />
*6th "best postwar British writer" (The Times, 2008) [http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article3127837.ece]<br />
<br />
One year after his death, Tolkien was the inaugural winner of the [[1974]] ''[[Wikipedia:Gandalf Award|Gandalf Grand Master Award]]'' for life achievement in fantasy writing (the award itself named after his creation, [[Gandalf]]). In [[1978]] ''The Silmarillion'' won the first of the two ''Gandalf Award for Book-Length Fantasy''.<br />
<br />
==Names and pseudonyms==<br />
[[File:JRRT.jpeg|thumb|JRRT's monogram]]<br />
In a letter to written by Arthur Tolkien his family after Tolkien's birth he describes the inspiration behind Tolkien's name:{{Blockquote|"The boy’s first name will be ‘John’ after its grandfather, probably John Ronald Reuel altogether. Mab wants to call it Ronald and I want to keep up John and Reuel." Ronald had no familial precedent but Reuel was Arthur's middle name.<ref name=BII/><br />
<br />
*''Luttro'' - [[Esperanto]] word for "otter", possibly referring to himself, in his private ''[[Book of the Foxrook]]'' ([[1909]]); possibly an allusion to [[Animalic]]<ref>{{HM|SV}}, p. 40-1 [note 19];</ref><br />
*''[[Arcastar]]'' - [[Quenya]] rention of ''Tolkien'' used in ''[[Tolkien in Oxford]]'', of unclear meaning.<br />
*''Eisphorides Acribus Polyglotteus, orator Graecorum'' - Tag name in the annual Latin debates during studies at Oxford.<ref>[[John Garth]], ''[[Tolkien and the Great War]], "Part One: The immortal four", p. 19''</ref><br />
*''[[Fisiologus]]'' - Signature of a [[Adventures in Unnatural History and Medieval Metres, being the Freaks of Fisiologus|poem]] published in ''[[The Stapeldon Magazine]]'' (1927).<br />
*''J.'' - Signature of a [[From the many-willow'd margin of the immemorial Thames|poem]] published in ''[[The Stapeldon Magazine]]'' (1913).<br />
*''John'' - <ref name="Amy">{{L|309}}</ref><br />
*''JRsquared'' - <ref name="Amy"/><br />
*''Kingston Bagpuize''- Signature of a [[Progress in Bimble Town|poem]] published in the ''[[Oxford Magazine]]'' (1931).<br />
*''Rægnold Hrædmóding'' - [[Old English]] rendition of Tolkien's name, used to sign the poem ''[[For W.H.A.]]'' (1967).<br />
*''Ronald'' - Name for Tolkien's near kin, which he treated with respect and refused to be abbreviated or tagged with.<ref name="Amy"/><br />
*''Ruginwaldus Dwalakôneis'' - "Gothicizied" version of Tolkien's name.<ref>{{L|272}}</ref><br />
*''[[Tollers]]'' - His name among the [[Inklings]].<br />
*''[[N.N.]]'' - Signature of a [[The Clerkes Compleinte|poem]] published in ''[[The Gryphon, Vol.4 No.3|The Gryphon]]'' (1922), an abbreviation of ''[[wikipedia:Nomen Nescio|Nomen Nescio]]''.<br />
*''Oxymore'' - Signature of the poem ''[[Knocking at the Door]]'', written c.1927 and published in ''The Oxford Magazine'' (1937).<br />
<br />
==Family Tree==<br />
{{familytree/start}}<br />
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | MS |y| ART | | | | | | | | | | | |MS=[[Mabel Suffield]]|ART=[[Arthur Tolkien|Arthur Reuel Tolkien]]}}<br />
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree| | | | | EDB |y| JRR | | HART |~| MM | | | | | | | |JRR=[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]|EDB=[[Edith Tolkien|Edith Bratt]]|HART=[[Hilary Tolkien]]|MM=[[Magdalen Matthews]]}}<br />
{{familytree| | | | | |,|-|^|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree| | | | | JOT | | MIT | |CHT | | PRT |JOT=[[John Tolkien]]|MIT=[[Michael Tolkien]]|CHT=[[Christopher Tolkien]]|PRT=[[Priscilla Tolkien]]}}<br />
{{familytree/end}}<br />
<br />
==See also== <br />
*[[:Category:Images of J.R.R. Tolkien|Images of J.R.R. Tolkien]]<br />
*[[:Category:Images by J.R.R. Tolkien|Images by J.R.R. Tolkien]]<br />
*[[J.R.R. Tolkien/Quotations]]<br />
*[[Legendarium]]<br />
*[[Plaques and Memorials]]<br />
*[[Index:Unpublished material|Unpublished material]]<br />
*[[J.R.R. Tolkien Timeline]]<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
A small selection of books about Tolkien and his works:<br />
* Anderson, Douglas A., Michael D. C. Drout and Verlyn Flieger (founder eds.). ''[[Tolkien Studies: An Annual Scholarly Review]]''<br />
*Carpenter, Humphrey (1979). ''[[The Inklings (book)|The Inklings: C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams and Their Friends]]'' ISBN 0395276284<br />
*Chance, Jane (ed.) (2003). ''[[Tolkien the Medievalist]]'', London, New York: Routledge. ISBN 0-415-28944-0<br />
*Chance, Jane (ed.) (2004). ''[[Tolkien and the Invention of Myth]], a Reader'', Louisville: University Press of Kentucky. ISBN 0-813-12301-1<br />
*Duriez, Colin and Porter, David (2001). ''[[The Inklings Handbook]]: The Lives, Thought and Writings of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams, Owen Barfield, and Their Friends''. ISBN 1902694139<br />
*Duriez, Colin (2003). ''[[Tolkien and C.S. Lewis]]: The Gift of Friendship''. , ISBN 1587680262<br />
*Flieger, Verlyn and Carl F. Hostetter (eds.) (2000). [[Tolkien's Legendarium|''Tolkien's'' Legendarium'': Essays on'' The History of Middle Earth]], Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press. ISBN 0-313-30530-7. DDC 823.912. LC PR6039.<br />
*O'Neill, Timothy R. (1979). ''[[The Individuated Hobbit]]: Jung, Tolkien and the Archetypes of Middle-earth'', Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-395-28208-X<br />
*Pearce, Joseph (1999). ''[[Tolkien: A Celebration]]'', London: HarperCollinsPublishers. ISBN 000-628120-6<br />
*Pearce, Joseph (1998). ''[[Tolkien: Man and Myth]]'', London: HarperCollinsPublishers. ISBN 000-274018-4<br />
*Shippey, T. A. (2000). ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century]]'', Boston, New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-618-12764-X, ISBN 0-618-25759-4 (pbk)<br />
*Shippey, T. A. (2004). '[http://www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/31766 Tolkien, John Ronald Reuel (1892–1973)]', ''Oxford Dictionary of National Biography'', Oxford: Oxford University Press.<br />
*Tolkien, John & Priscilla (1992). ''[[The Tolkien Family Album]]'', London: HarperCollins. ISBN 0-26-110239-7<br />
*White, Michael (2003). ''Tolkien: A Biography'', New American Library. ISBN 0451212428<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*[http://www.tolkiensociety.org/author/biography/ J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biographical Sketch]<br />
*{{WP|J.R.R. Tolkien}}<br />
<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
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| dates=[[27 June]] [[1972]] - ''In perpetuo''<br />
| next=None; perpetual title<br />
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[[Category:Artists]]<br />
[[Category:Cartographers]]<br />
[[Category:British people]]<br />
[[Category:Inklings]]<br />
[[Category:Linguists]]<br />
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[[fr:tolkien:bio]]<br />
[[fi:J.R.R. Tolkien]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Elendil&diff=385205Elendil2024-01-28T12:52:47Z<p>Sage: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-two|the [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]|earlier [[King of Númenor|King]] of [[Númenor]]|[[Tar-Elendil]]}}<br />
{{numenorean infobox<br />
| name=Elendil<br />
| image=[[File:Artigas - King Elendil.jpg|250px]]<br />
| caption="King Elendil" by [[:Category:Images by Artigas|Artigas]]<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=''Nimruzîr'' ([[Adûnaic|A]])<br />
| titles=The Fair, Great King, [[High King (Dúnedain)|High King]], King of all the Dúnedain, [[King of Arnor]], [[King of Gondor]], King of the Southern Realm, Lord of Arnor and Gondor, The Tall, ''Voronda'' ([[Quenya|Q]])<br />
| position=<br />
| location=[[Númenor]], [[Arnor]]<br />
| affiliation=[[Faithful]], [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]]<br />
| language=[[Sindarin]], [[Quenya]], [[Adûnaic]]<br />
| birth={{SA|3119}}<br />
| birthlocation=[[Númenor]]<br />
| rule={{SA|3320}} - {{SA|3441|n}} ([[High King (Dúnedain)|High King]])<br />
| death={{SA|3441}}<br />
| deathlocation=During [[Siege of Barad-dûr]]<br />
| age=322<br />
| notablefor=Founded the [[Kingdoms of the Dúnedain]] and later the [[Last Alliance]] with [[Gil-Galad]]<br />
| house=[[Lord of Andúnië|House of Valandil]], founded the [[House of Elendil]]<br />
| parentage=[[Amandil]]<br />
| siblings=<br />
| spouse=<br />
| children=[[Isildur]] & [[Anárion]] <br />
| gender=Male<br />
| height= 7'11" (2.41 m)<ref name=linear>{{UT|Linear}}, note concerning the different routes from Osgiliath to Imladris, first paragraph</ref> or 7' (2.13 m)<ref name=tallnote>{{HM|RC}}, p. 272 citing from a note written by J.R.R. Tolkien approximately in the year 1969</ref><br />
| hair=Brown<br />
| eyes=<br />
| clothing=<br />
| weapons=[[Narsil]]<br />
| steed=<br />
}}<br />
'''Elendil''' was the father of [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], a survivor of the [[Downfall of Númenor]], and the founder and first [[High King (Dúnedain)|High King]] of the [[Realms in Exile]]. <br />
<br />
Elendil was also known as '''Elendil the Tall''', as he was the tallest of the Men who escaped the Downfall. Accounts differ as to his exact height, but he was at least seven feet tall.<ref name=linear/><ref name=tallnote/><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
Elendil was born in [[Númenor]]. He was the son of [[Amandil]], the last [[Lords of Andúnië|Lord of Andúnië]] and leader of the [[Faithful]]. He was probably named after his ancestor, [[Tar-Elendil]], an ancient [[King of Númenor]]; his name also signified his and his family's devotion and friendship to the [[Elves]] as [[Elf-friend]]s, preserving the old beliefs in [[Ilúvatar]] and reverence for the [[Valar]]. Like his father, he stood against the barbarous practices of [[Ar-Pharazôn]] the King and [[Sauron]] his advisor. <br />
[[File:Abe Papakhian - Elendil and Sons.jpg|thumb|left|Abe Papakhian - ''Elendil and Sons'']]<br />
On the advice of his father, who foresaw the coming destruction of Númenor, Elendil put nine ships off the eastern coast and loaded all his people and possessions aboard them. Amandil then followed the actions of their ancestor, [[Eärendil]] and left Númenor attempting to warn the Valar of their King's folly.<ref name="Akallabeth">{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref><br />
<br />
When the catastrophic [[Downfall of Númenor|Downfall]] occurred in {{SA|3319}}, Elendil, his sons [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], and their supporters fled to [[Middle-earth]],<ref name="SA">{{App|SA}}</ref> sailing east in the nine ships. With them they took the ''[[palantíri]]'', the "Seeing Stones" that were given to the Lords of Andúnië by the Elves of [[Tol Eressëa]], the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]], the [[Ring of Barahir]], [[Narsil]] which Elendil kept as his sword, and a seedling of [[White Tree of Númenor|Nimloth]], the White Tree of Númenor.<ref name="Akallabeth"/><br />
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Ships of the Faithful.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Ships of the Faithful'']]<br />
The ships became separated during the tumultuous voyage to Middle-earth; while Isildur and Anárion landed in the more southerly lands near the haven of the Faithful at [[Pelargir]], Elendil and his people arrived at the northwest near [[Lindon]].<ref name="Rings">{{S|Rings}}</ref> After Elendil finally landed in Middle-earth, he proclaimed an [[Elendil's Oath|oath]] in [[Quenya]]: "''Et Eärello Endorenna utúlien. Sinome maruvan ar Hildinyar tenn' Ambar-metta''" ("Out of the [[Belegaer|Great Sea]] to Middle-earth I am come. In this place will I abide, and my heirs, unto the ending of the world"). His heir and great-grandson by 39 generations [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]] spoke these words again when he took up the crown of Gondor as King [[Aragorn|Elessar]] at the beginning of the [[Fourth Age]].<ref>{{RK|VI5}}</ref><br />
<br />
The Faithful colonists of Middle-earth, and other [[Middle Men]], gathered around the Númenórean lords at the points they arrived; for this reason there were two realms of the Númenóreans in exile, [[Arnor]] in the north where Elendil landed, and [[Gondor]] in the south where his sons ended up.<ref name="Rings" /> Elendil founded the city of [[Annúminas]] in [[Eriador]], the capital of Arnor. His son Anárion established the city of [[Minas Anor]] in [[Anórien]], and Isildur founded [[Minas Ithil]] in [[Ithilien]]. Elendil, however, ruled as [[High King (Dúnedain)|High King]]. In both realms were built towers for the ''palantíri'', with which the lords kept contact.<ref name="Rings"/><br />
<br />
Gil-galad built for Elendil the [[White Towers]] on some [[Emyn Beraid|hills]] of Eriador. In the [[Elostirion|the tallest tower]] he kept a unique ''palantír'', the [[Stone of Elendil]] that could not communicate with the other six, because it was aligned westwards towards the [[Master-stone]] in the [[Tower of Avallonë]]. Elendil was able to use it to look west across the [[Belegaer|Sea]] and see the [[Undying Lands]];<ref name="Rings"/> but he could not see Númenor for it was covered by the bent seas for ever.<ref name=App>{{App|Eriador}}, ''The North-kingdom and the Dúnedain'', entry for King Arvedue, footnote about the ''palantíri'', p. 1042</ref><br />
===Sauron's return and Last Alliance===<br />
[[Sauron]], having lost his shape in the Downfall, returned to Middle-earth as a shadow and a black wind over the sea. It came to [[Mordor]], next to Gondor, where Sauron wrought a new guise.<ref name="Akallabeth"/> In {{SA|3429}} Sauron attacked, seizing Minas Ithil, causing Isildur to flee north to his father, leaving Anárion in charge of Gondor. In response, Elendil formed an [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men|alliance]] with [[Gil-galad]], the [[High King of the Noldor]], to repel Sauron's assault.<ref name="SA"/> It is said that Elendil bound the [[Last Alliance]] with an oath and invoked the name of [[Eru]] to witness it.<ref name=Cirion>{{UT|Cirion}}</ref> <br />
<br />
The combined forces marched east to [[Imladris]] in {{SA|3431}}. In {{SA|3434|n}}, they passed the [[Misty Mountains]] and south together and fought in the [[War of the Last Alliance]] of Elves and Men. Elendil fought valiantly at the [[Battle of Dagorlad]].<ref name="SA"/><br />
[[File:Abe Papakhian - I Behold (colour).jpg|thumb|left|Abe Papakhian ''I Behold'']]<br />
At the end of the long [[Siege of Barad-dûr]], in the year {{SA|3441}}, Sauron came out to personally do battle. Gil-galad and Elendil fought Sauron and cast him down, but were both slain,<ref name="SA"/> and Elendil's sword [[Narsil]] was broken when he fell. Isildur used the broken sword to cut [[the One Ring]] from Sauron's hand. However, despite the urgings of [[Elrond]] and [[Cirdan]], Isildur chose not to destroy the Ring at [[Mount Doom]] and was eventually betrayed by the Ring in the [[Disaster of the Gladden Fields]], slain by [[Orcs]].<ref name="Rings"/><br />
<br />
==Legacy==<br />
Elendil was a great warrior, a wise king, and a heroic figure among the [[Dúnedain]]. Isildur built a hidden [[Tomb of Elendil|tomb for his father]] on the summit of the beacon hill that was named [[Amon Anwar]] ("hill of awe" in [[Sindarin]]). Its presence was considered great enough to hallow the entire hill, even to the [[Rohirrim]], who called it Halifirien ("holy mountain" in [[Rohanese]]).<ref name="Cirion">{{UT|Cirion}}</ref><br />
<br />
After the founding of [[Rohan]], the [[Steward]] [[Cirion]] moved Elendil's remains to the [[Hallows]] of [[Minas Tirith]].<ref name="Cirion"/><br />
<br />
Millennia after Elendil's death, [[Aragorn]], the [[Heir of Isildur]], invoked the name of Elendil as a battle cry during the [[War of the Ring]].<ref>{{HM|FR}} passim.</ref><ref>{{HM|TT}} passim.</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
{{Pronounce|Elendil.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
''Elendil'' is [[Quenya]] for "Lover of the Stars".<ref name=QEnote10>{{WJ|Author}}, Note 10, p. 410</ref><br />
<br />
For the [[Edain]] it was intended to signify "[[Elf-friends|Elf-friend]]", (''[[Nimruzîrim|Nimruzîr]] in [[Adûnaic]] ''),<ref>{{SD|67}}, p. 247</ref> since they tended to confuse the Quenya element [[EL]] for both "Elf" and "star".<ref name=QEnote10/><br />
<br />
==Genealogy==<br />
<div style="overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; border: 1px solid #AAAAAA; padding: 3px; background: #EEEEEE;"><br />
{{familytree/start}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | ELR | | | | | | |ELR=[[Elros]]<br/><small>''{{FA|532}} - {{SA|442}}''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |F|~|A|~|7| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | AND | | NUM | | | | |AND=[[Lords of Andúnië|''Lords of<br/>Andúnië'']]|NUM=[[King of Númenor|''Kings of<br/>Númenor'']]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | NUM | | | | | | | | |NUM=[[Númendil]]<br/><small>''unknown''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | AMA | | | | | | | | |AMA=[[Amandil]]<br/><small>''Sailed west {{SA|3316}}''†</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | ELE | | | | | | | | |ELE='''ELENDIL'''<br/><small>''{{SA|3119}} - {{SA|3441|n}}''†</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|-|.| | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | ISI | | | | | | | | | | ANA | | |ISI=[[Isildur]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3209}} - {{TA|2}}''†</small>|ANA=[[Anárion]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3219}} - {{SA|3440|n}}''†</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|v|-|^|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| |}}<br />
{{familytree | ELE | | ARA | | CIR | | VAL | | UNN | | MEN |ELE=[[Elendur (son of Isildur)|Elendur]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3299}} - {{TA|2}}''†</small>|ARA=[[Aratan]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3339}} - {{TA|2}}''†</small>|CIR=[[Ciryon]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3379}} - {{TA|2}}''†</small>|VAL=[[Valandil (King of Arnor)|Valandil]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3430}} - {{TA|249}}''</small>|UNN=''Three children''<br/><small>''unknown''</small>|MEN=[[Meneldil]]<br/><small>''{{SA|3318}} - {{TA|158}}''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |:| | | | | | | |:| |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | ARN | | | | | | GON |ARN=[[Kings of Arnor|''Kings of<br/>Arnor'']]|GON=[[Kings of Gondor|''Kings of<br/>Gondor'']]}}<br />
{{familytree/end}}<br />
</div><br />
<br />
==Other versions of the legendarium==<br />
The chieftain of the alliance against [[Thû]] (Sauron) is named ''Amroth'' both in the outline<ref>{{LR|P1II1}}, p. 12</ref> and the first version of [[The Fall of Númenor (chapter)]].<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}, p. 18</ref> The name ''Elendil'' is given for first time in the second version.<ref>{{LR|P1II3}}, pp. 28-29</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
{{Gallery<br />
|title=Elendil in adaptations<br />
|width=250<br />
|height=150<br />
|lines=2<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Elendil.jpg|Elendil in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Elendil.jpg|Elendil in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''<br />
|File:The Rings of Power (TV series) - Captain Elendil.jpg|Captain Elendil in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]''<br />
}}<br />
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:In the film's prologue, Elendil is played by [[Peter McKenzie]]. Unlike in the books, Elendil is killed by a blow of [[Sauron]] instead of having a part in destroying him with [[Gil-galad]]. Instead, [[Isildur]] deals the fatal blow to the still-living Sauron by cutting off his fingers with the broken blade of [[Narsil]], and, with them, the [[The One Ring|ring of power]].<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)]]'':'''<br />
:Elendil appears in the game's first level as a non-playable character, where he has the likeness of [[Peter Jackson]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|movie counterpart]].<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:Elendil appears in several flashbacks depicting the the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. His ultimate fate is more accurate to the books than the film version, showing Elendil and [[Gil-galad]] both battling and defeating [[Sauron]] at the cost of their lives, with Elendil dealing the killing blow.<br />
<br />
'''2022: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]'', Season One:'''<br />
:Elendil is portrayed by [[Lloyd Owen]] as a captain. He first appears in the [[Adar (episode)|third episode]], in a plotline created for the series in which he rescues [[Galadriel]] and [[Halbrand]] from the sea and takes them to [[Númenor]]. Unlike in the source materials, his Númenórean nobility is uncertain, as he is unknown to [[Tar-Míriel|Queen Míriel]].<br />
<br />
{{References}}<br />
{{seq-start}}<br />
{{seq-head<br />
| race=numenorean<br />
| house=[[Lord of Andúnië|House of Valandil]]<br/><small>Cadet branch of the [[House of Elros]]</small><br />
| born={{SA|3119}}<br />
| died={{SA|3441}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prow=3<br />
| pvac=None<br />
| prev=New title<br />
| list=1st [[High King (Dúnedain)|High King]] of the [[Realms in Exile]]<br />
| dates={{SA|3320}} – {{SA|3441|n}}<br />
| next=[[Isildur]]<br />
| nrow=2<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| list=1st [[Kings of Arnor|King of Arnor]]<br />
| dates={{SA|3320}} – {{SA|3441|n}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| list=1st [[Kings of Gondor|King of Gondor]]<br/><small>(as [[High King]])</small><br />
| dates={{SA|3320}} – {{SA|3441|n}}<br />
| next = [[Isildur]] & [[Anárion]]<br />
}}<br />
{{seq-end}}<br />
{{northernline}}<br />
{{southernline}}<br />
{{numenor}}<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]<br />
[[Category:Dúnedain]]<br />
[[Category:Faithful of Númenor]]<br />
[[Category:House of Elendil]]<br />
[[Category:Mariners]]<br />
[[Category:Quenya names]]<br />
[[Category:Rulers of Arnor]]<br />
[[Category:Rulers of Gondor]]<br />
[[Category:Second Age characters]]<br />
[[Category:Númenóreans]]<br />
<br />
[[de: Elendil der Lange]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Latin&diff=385203Latin2024-01-28T07:24:38Z<p>Sage: /* External links */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Farmer Giles of Ham frontispice (Latin fragment).jpg|thumb|Classic frontispice in Latin for ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]'': "''The Rise and Wonderful Adventures of Farmer Giles, Lord of Tame Count of Worminghall and King of the Little Kingdom''"]]<br />
{{Quote|I have, for instance, a particular love for the Latin language|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Letter 294]]}}<br />
'''Latin''' is a language belonging to the Italic group of the Indo-European language family. It was spoken in ancient Rome, and, although now considered a dead language, it was the ancestor of the Romance family of languages such as Spanish; in the previous centuries, it has been a prestigious language of scientists and scholars, and the ceremonial language of the Catholic Church.<br />
<br />
There have been modern attempts to translate some famous works into Latin, including ''[[The Hobbit]]'' with the title ''[[Hobbitus Ille]]'' by Mark Walker.<br />
<br />
==Tolkien and Latin==<br />
[[Tolkien]] had a great appreciation for Latin. He was taught Latin at a young age by his Mother, [[Mabel Tolkien]]. He took great interest in both the sounds and meanings of words. This marked the start of Tolkien's love for linguistics and philology. Tolkien studied Latin at [[King Edward's School]],<ref>{{B|II}}</ref> and would continue studying it the rest of his life.<br />
<br />
As a deeply religious person, Latin also held significance to Tolkien due to its use in the [[Catholicism|Catholic Church]]. [[1962]]-[[1965|65]] the Catholic Church went through the process of switching from Latin to the local vernacular. This greatly displeased Tolkien.<ref>{{B|IV}}</ref> [[Simon Tolkien]] J.R.R. Tolkien's grandson wrote the following:<br />
<br />
{{Blockquote|I vividly remember going to church with him in Bournemouth. He was a devout Roman Catholic and it was soon after the Church had changed the liturgy from Latin to English. My Grandfather obviously didn't agree with this and made all the responses very loudly in Latin while the rest of the congregation answered in English. I found the whole experience quite excruciating, but My Grandfather was oblivious. He simply had to do what he believed to be right. <ref>{{webcite|author=[[Simon Tolkien]]|articleurl=https://www.simontolkien.com/mygrandfather|articlename=My Grandfather - JRR Tolkien|dated=2003|website=simontolkien.com|accessed=11 January 2024}}</ref>|}}<br />
<br />
==Influence on invented languages==<br />
[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Excerpt from the Mass.jpg|thumb|Excerpt from the canon of the Mass in Latin and [[Tengwar]] transcription by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]]]<br />
===Quenya ===<br />
[[Quenya]], the elvish language of the [[Noldor]] and [[Vanyar]], is very similar to Latin from both a linguistic perspective and in the way it was used. By the [[Third Age]] Quenya had fallen out of vernacular use and was mostly a scholarly pursuit. It was considered prestigious and mostly used ceremonially and in important or old literature and song. It is because of this that Tolkien refers to Quenya as an Elven-Latin.<ref>{{App|Elves}}</ref><ref>{{L|347}}</ref><br />
<br />
Quenya phonology and spelling are most similar to Latin with Finnish phonological rules.<ref>{{App|E1}}</ref> <br />
Grammar in Quenya is also based on Latin grammar though to a lesser extent than Finnish. Quenya and Latin are highly inflected languages allowing both to have flexible word order.<ref group=note>Although Quenya and Latin both have fairly free word order the most common order in Quenya is subject-verb-object while Latin is most commonly subject-object-verb.</ref><br />
<br />
===Nevbosh and Naffarin===<br />
One of Tolkien's first attempts at creating a language was [[Nevbosh]].<ref>[[Michael D.C. Drout]], ed., ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]]''</ref> Tolkien then went on to create [[Naffarin]] in the 1910s, based partially on Nevbosh. These both included aspects of Latin and Spanish.<ref>[[Michael D.C. Drout]], ed., ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]]'', p. 222</ref><ref>{{MC|6}}</ref><br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{WP|Latin}}<br />
* [http://glaemscrafu.jrrvf.com/english/latin.html Texts and sound samples] at [[Glǽmscrafu]]<br />
*[https://antigonejournal.com/2022/01/farmer-giles-tolkien-latin/ The joys of Latin and Christmas feasts: J.R.R. Tolkien's ''Farmer Giles of Ham''] by Mateusz Stróżyński<br />
*[http://www.legonium.com/hobbitus-i Hobbitus-i], an illustrated summary of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in Latin by Anthony Gibbins<br />
*[https://medium.com/in-medias-res/would-tolkien-approve-of-the-hobbit-in-latin-1b51089ee301 "Would Tolkien approve of ''The Hobbit'' in Latin?"], Critical review of ''Hobbitus Ille'' by Robert Ziomkowski.<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
[[Category:Languages (real-world)]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Latin&diff=385202Latin2024-01-28T07:21:30Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Farmer Giles of Ham frontispice (Latin fragment).jpg|thumb|Classic frontispice in Latin for ''[[Farmer Giles of Ham]]'': "''The Rise and Wonderful Adventures of Farmer Giles, Lord of Tame Count of Worminghall and King of the Little Kingdom''"]]<br />
{{Quote|I have, for instance, a particular love for the Latin language|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Letter 294]]}}<br />
'''Latin''' is a language belonging to the Italic group of the Indo-European language family. It was spoken in ancient Rome, and, although now considered a dead language, it was the ancestor of the Romance family of languages such as Spanish; in the previous centuries, it has been a prestigious language of scientists and scholars, and the ceremonial language of the Catholic Church.<br />
<br />
There have been modern attempts to translate some famous works into Latin, including ''[[The Hobbit]]'' with the title ''[[Hobbitus Ille]]'' by Mark Walker.<br />
<br />
==Tolkien and Latin==<br />
[[Tolkien]] had a great appreciation for Latin. He was taught Latin at a young age by his Mother, [[Mabel Tolkien]]. He took great interest in both the sounds and meanings of words. This marked the start of Tolkien's love for linguistics and philology. Tolkien studied Latin at [[King Edward's School]],<ref>{{B|II}}</ref> and would continue studying it the rest of his life.<br />
<br />
As a deeply religious person, Latin also held significance to Tolkien due to its use in the [[Catholicism|Catholic Church]]. [[1962]]-[[1965|65]] the Catholic Church went through the process of switching from Latin to the local vernacular. This greatly displeased Tolkien.<ref>{{B|IV}}</ref> [[Simon Tolkien]] J.R.R. Tolkien's grandson wrote the following:<br />
<br />
{{Blockquote|I vividly remember going to church with him in Bournemouth. He was a devout Roman Catholic and it was soon after the Church had changed the liturgy from Latin to English. My Grandfather obviously didn't agree with this and made all the responses very loudly in Latin while the rest of the congregation answered in English. I found the whole experience quite excruciating, but My Grandfather was oblivious. He simply had to do what he believed to be right. <ref>{{webcite|author=[[Simon Tolkien]]|articleurl=https://www.simontolkien.com/mygrandfather|articlename=My Grandfather - JRR Tolkien|dated=2003|website=simontolkien.com|accessed=11 January 2024}}</ref>|}}<br />
<br />
==Influence on invented languages==<br />
[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Excerpt from the Mass.jpg|thumb|Excerpt from the canon of the Mass in Latin and [[Tengwar]] transcription by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]]]<br />
===Quenya ===<br />
[[Quenya]], the elvish language of the [[Noldor]] and [[Vanyar]], is very similar to Latin from both a linguistic perspective and in the way it was used. By the [[Third Age]] Quenya had fallen out of vernacular use and was mostly a scholarly pursuit. It was considered prestigious and mostly used ceremonially and in important or old literature and song. It is because of this that Tolkien refers to Quenya as an Elven-Latin.<ref>{{App|Elves}}</ref><ref>{{L|347}}</ref><br />
<br />
Quenya phonology and spelling are most similar to Latin with Finnish phonological rules.<ref>{{App|E1}}</ref> <br />
Grammar in Quenya is also based on Latin grammar though to a lesser extent than Finnish. Quenya and Latin are highly inflected languages allowing both to have flexible word order.<ref group=note>Although Quenya and Latin both have fairly free word order the most common order in Quenya is subject-verb-object while Latin is most commonly subject-object-verb.</ref><br />
<br />
===Nevbosh and Naffarin===<br />
One of Tolkien's first attempts at creating a language was [[Nevbosh]].<ref>[[Michael D.C. Drout]], ed., ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]]''</ref> Tolkien then went on to create [[Naffarin]] in the 1910s, based partially on Nevbosh. These both included aspects of Latin and Spanish.<ref>[[Michael D.C. Drout]], ed., ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]]'', p. 222</ref><ref>{{MC|6}}</ref><br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{WP|Latin}}<br />
* [http://glaemscrafu.jrrvf.com/english/latin.html Texts and sound samples] at [[Glǽmscrafu]]<br />
*[https://antigonejournal.com/2022/01/farmer-giles-tolkien-latin/ The joys of Latin and Christmas feasts: J.R.R. Tolkien's ''Farmer Giles of Ham''] by Mateusz Stróżyński<br />
*[http://www.legonium.com/hobbitus-i Hobbitus-i], an illustrated summary of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in Latin by Anthony Gibbins<br />
*[Critical review of ''Hobbitus Ille''] by Robert Ziomkowski.<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
[[Category:Languages (real-world)]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Aragorn&diff=385160Aragorn2024-01-27T13:30:09Z<p>Sage: Cleanup etymology section; educated guesses superseded by Tolkien's explanation</p>
<hr />
<div>{{sources}}{{Disambig-more|Elessar|[[Elessar (disambiguation)]]}}{{arnorian infobox<br />
| name=Aragorn<br />
| image=[[File:Yulia Alekseeva - Aragorn in Rivendell.jpg|275px]]<br />
| caption="Aragorn in Rivendell" by [[:Category:Images by Yulia Alekseeva|Yulia Alekseeva]]<br />
| pronun=[[Sindarin|S]], {{IPA|[ˈaraɡorn]}}<br />
| othernames=''See [[Aragorn#Other names|below]]''<br />
| titles=[[Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]<br/>[[High King of the Dúnedain]]<br/>[[King of Gondor and Arnor]]<ref>{{S|Rings}}</ref><br/>[[King of the West]]<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref><br/>Lord of the [[Westlands]]<br />
| position=[[Rangers of the North|Ranger]]<br/>Leader of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] (after [[Gandalf]]'s death)<br/>King of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]<br />
| location=[[Rivendell]]<br/>[[Gondor]]<br/>[[Arnor]]<br/>[[Rohan]]<br/>[[Rhûn]] and [[Harad]]<ref>{{FR|Council}}, p. 248</ref><br />
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]<br />
| language=[[Westron]]<br/>[[Sindarin]]<br/>[[Quenya]]<br />
| birth=[[1 March]], {{TA|2931}}<br />
| birthlocation=[[Eriador]]<br />
| rule={{TA|2933}} - {{TA|3019|n}} (Chieftain)<br/>{{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|120}} (King)<br />
| death=[[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<ref>{{App|B5}}, entry '''1541''', p. 1098</ref><br />
| deathlocation=[[Gondor]]<br />
| age=210<br />
| notablefor=Reuniting the [[Reunited Kingdom|Kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor]]<br />
| house=[[House of Isildur]]<br/>Founder of the [[House of Telcontar]]<br />
| parentage=[[Arathorn II]] (father)<br/>[[Gilraen]] (mother)<br/>[[Elrond]] (foster father)<br />
| siblings=<br />
| spouse=[[Arwen]]<br />
| children=[[Eldarion]]<br/>At least two daughters<ref name="Tale">{{App|Tale}}</ref><br />
| gender=Male<br />
| height=At least 6'6<nowiki>''</nowiki> (1.98 m)<ref name="RC">{{HM|RC}}, p. 272 citing from a note written by J.R.R. Tolkien approximately in 1969</ref><ref>{{NM|P2vi}}, p. 194</ref><br />
| hair=Dark, flecked with grey<ref name="Sign">{{FR|Sign}}</ref> <br />
| eyes=Grey<ref name="Sign"/><br />
| clothing=High leather boots, dark-green cloak (as a [[Rangers of the North|Ranger]])<ref name="Sign"/><br>Pure white mantle, black mail girt with silver (as a King)<ref>{{RK|Steward}}</ref><br />
| weapons=[[Andúril]]<br />
| steed=[[Roheryn]]<br/>[[Hasufel]]<br />
}}<br />
<center>{{quote|Tall as the sea-kings of old, he stood above all that were near; ancient of days he seemed and yet in the flower of manhood; and wisdom sat upon his brow, and strength and healing were in his hands, and a light was about him.|''[[The Return of the King]]'', "[[The Steward and the King]]"}}</center><br />
<br />
'''Aragorn II''' was the son of [[Arathorn II]] and [[Gilraen]]. He was the last [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and a direct descendant through many<ref group="note">Aragorn II is of the 39th generation descended from Isildur, through 23 generations of the Kings of Arnor and Arthedain (beginning with [[Valandil (King of Arnor)|Valandil]] and ending with [[Arvedui]]) and 15 generations of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain (beginning with [[Aranarth]] and ending with Arathorn II).</ref> generations of [[Isildur]], the last [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of both [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Aragorn would become the greatest [[Men|Man]] of his time, leading the [[Dúnedain|Men of the West]] against [[Sauron]]'s forces, helping to destroy [[the One Ring]], and reuniting the [[Reunited Kingdom|Kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
=== Early life ===<br />
Aragorn was born in {{TA|2931}} to the Chieftain Arathorn II and received the name Aragorn. His grandmother, [[Ivorwen]], noted with [[foresight]] that Aragorn would one day wear on his breast a green stone.<ref>{{PM|Foreword}}</ref><br />
<br />
A legend says that the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] had brought such a stone, called the [[Elfstone|Elessar]], from [[Valinor]]. He gave the Elessar to the [[Elves|Elven]] Lady [[Galadriel]] and remarked prophetically that she would pass it to another, who will also be called Elessar.<ref>{{UT|6}}</ref> From this would come Aragorn's royal name ''Elessar'' ([[Quenya]] for "Elfstone").<br />
[[File:Anna Kulisz - Elrond and Estel.jpg|thumb|left|''Elrond and Estel'' by [[:Category:Images by Anna Kulisz|Anna Kulisz]]]]<br />
When Aragorn was two years old, his father was slain when an [[Orcs|Orc]] arrow pierced his eye. As was the tradition of his people, Aragorn was fostered in [[Rivendell]] by [[Elrond]] as if he were his own son. The [[Wise]] decided that his identity was to be kept secret, as he would be vulnerable to [[Sauron|the Enemy]]. Aragorn was called '''''[[Estel]]''''' ([[Sindarin]] for "Hope") instead. During his life in Rivendell he accompanied the twin sons of Elrond, [[Elrohir]] and [[Elladan]], on their journeys.<ref name="Tale"/><br />
<br />
"Estel" grew to be fair and noble, and was seemingly more mature than his age. When Aragorn was twenty-one years old, after returning from a journey with the [[twins]] in {{TA|2952}}, Elrond decided to reveal his true name and ancestry. As part of this revelation, Elrond delivered to him the heirlooms of [[House of Isildur|his House]]: the shards of [[Narsil]] and the [[Ring of Barahir]]. Elrond also said that he should earn the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]]. The next day, full of hope, Aragorn was sitting in the forest singing a part of the ''[[Lay of Leithian|Lay of Lúthien]]''; as he sang of the meeting [[Beren]] and [[Lúthien]], [[Arwen]], daughter of Elrond, who had newly returned from [[Lothlórien]], appeared to him. Aragorn thought that Lúthien herself had appeared, and fell in love.<ref name="Tale"/><br />
[[File:Stephen Hickman - Aragorn and Arwen.jpg|thumb|left|''Aragorn and Arwen'' by [[Stephen Hickman]]]]<br />
<br />
=== Life as a Ranger ===<br />
Estel took up his proper name as Aragorn, sixteenth of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, and after he took leave of his mother and Elrond he went into [[The Wild]].<ref name="Tale"/> In {{TA|2953}} he was not present in Rivendell for the last meeting of the [[White Council]]. Aragorn met [[Gandalf|Gandalf the Grey]] in {{TA|2956}}, and they became great friends.<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> At Gandalf's advice he started to become interested in [[the Shire]] and became known as '''''Strider''''' in this region.<br />
[[File:Catherine Chmiel - Ecthelion,Thorongil and Boromir study.jpg|thumb|right|''"Thorongil" with Ecthelion II'' by [[Catherine Karina Chmiel]]]]<br />
From {{TA|2957}} to {{TA|2980}} Aragorn took great journeys aiding the [[West]] against [[Sauron]] and his allies. After serving King [[Thengel]] of [[Rohan]], he went to [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Ecthelion II]] of [[Gondor]],<ref name="TA"/> who was in dire need of able men to guard his realm from [[Mordor]]. Aragorn kept his identity secret but as he wore a silver star upon his cloak, and was swift and keen-eyed, the [[Gondorians]] called him '''''Thorongil''''' (Sindarin for "Eagle of the Star"). He was a great leader by land and sea and Ecthelion trusted and loved him most. Some believed that there was rivalry between him and the Steward's son, [[Denethor]], who probably knew his identity as [[Heir of Isildur]], and suspected that he and Gandalf worked to supplant him. Thorongil however saw himself only as the servant of the [[Stewards of Gondor|Steward]], whom he advised to not trust [[Saruman]] and instead to welcome Gandalf (whom Denethor didn't trust or love).<br />
<br />
Ecthelion was anticipating an attack from Sauron who had just returned, and Thorongil warned him that in that event the [[Southern Fiefs]] would be vulnerable to the [[Corsairs of Umbar]]. He was allowed by Ecthelion to take a few ships and lead an [[Surprise Attack on Umbar|attack against Umbar]]; at night he burned many ships, and in a fight slew the [[Captain of the Haven]] with only few casualties. Great honour awaited him in [[Minas Tirith]] but he did not return; while in [[Pelargir]], he sent a farewell message to Ecthelion, speaking of other tasks calling him, and saying that fate would not bring him again to Gondor soon. To the grief and wonder of his companions he crossed the [[Anduin]] and was last seen staring at the [[Mountains of Shadow]].<ref>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> He left Gondor to travel into the far East and South "exploring the hearts of men good and evil" and learning about the "plots and devices" of the servants of the Dark Lord. His exploits ensured the survival of the [[West]] much later during the [[War of the Ring]].<br />
<br />
Later in 2980 on his return to Rivendell he entered [[Lothlórien]], and there once again met Arwen in [[Caras Galadhon]]. For one season they wandered together in Lothlórien. At midsummer he gave her the heirloom of his House, the [[Ring of Barahir]], and Arwen pledged her hand to him in marriage.<ref name="Tale"/><br />
<br />
Elrond gave his foster son permission to marry his daughter, on the condition that he must first become king of both Gondor and Arnor, for only a king would be worthy of Arwen's hand. This harsh condition had a precedent: King [[Thingol]]'s request that [[Beren]] obtain a [[Silmarils|Silmaril]] from [[Morgoth]] before marrying his daughter [[Lúthien]].<ref name="Tale"/><br />
<br />
=== Hunt for Gollum ===<br />
In the year {{TA|3001}}, as a now revealed [[Sauron]] continued to regain power in [[Mordor]], Aragorn began assisting [[Gandalf]] in his search for news of [[Gollum]]. Gandalf suspected that the ring [[Bilbo Baggins]] found near Gollum's lake was in fact [[the One Ring]]. In {{TA|3007}}, he briefly returned to [[Eriador]] where he visited his mother for the last time. She died before that year's spring.<br />
<br />
In {{TA|3009}} Gandalf and Aragorn renewed their hunt for Gollum, searching intermittently in the [[vales of Anduin]], [[Mirkwood]], and [[Rhovanion]], even to the confines of [[Mordor]], without knowing that around that time Gollum ventured into Mordor, and was captured by Sauron.<ref name="TA"/> [[Third Age 3017|After eight years]] Gollum was released and Aragorn finally overtook him in the [[Dead Marshes]]<ref name="TA"/> on [[1 February]]. With Gollum he travelled through the northern [[Emyn Muil]], to prevent being found by Sauron's spies, and crossed the Anduin at the [[Sarn Gebir]]. He travelled further north along the edges of [[Fangorn Forest]] and through Lothlórien,<ref name="UT">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref> where the Elves sent a message to Gandalf.<ref>{{UT|Hunt}}, Note 5</ref> He travelled alongside the Anduin to the north until he arrived at the [[Carrock]]. With the aid of the [[Beornings]] he crossed the Anduin with Gollum and entered [[Mirkwood]]. He took Gollum to [[Thranduil]] to be held captive.<ref name="UT"/><ref name="TA"/> He then returned west where he met with Gandalf at [[Sarn Ford]] and learned of [[Frodo Baggins]]' plan to leave the Shire with the Ring in late September. Aragorn then continued his own journey.<ref name="Strider">{{FR|Strider}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== The War of the Ring ===<br />
When Aragorn returned to his area, the [[Elves]] who followed [[Gildor Inglorion]] told Aragorn the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]] had been seen, Gandalf had been missing and there were no messages from him. Aragorn and his [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] kept watch over the border of [[the Shire]] and the [[East Road]] waiting for sight of Frodo but there was no news of them leaving [[Buckland]].<ref name="Strider"/><br />
<br />
While staying in [[Bree]], Aragorn crossed the paths of four hobbits in [[The Prancing Pony]]. Aragorn watched as the hobbits clumsily hid their names and intentions, and as [[Frodo Baggins]], the leader of the party, fell from a table and disappeared as he put the ring on. Aragorn, whose name was given as Strider, seemed to show no surprise, only annoyance at Frodo’s foolish vanishing act. He arranged for an interview that night, where he warned them of the Black Riders and [[Bill Ferny]] then bluntly requested that they use him as a guide. After some consideration, and a note given them by the forgetful [[Barliman Butterbur]] from Gandalf condoning him, Frodo agreed.<br />
[[File:Jef Murray - Amon Sûl.jpg|thumb|left|[[Jef Murray]] - ''Amon Sûl'']]<br />
Aragorn’s plan to reach Rivendell was to first head toward [[Archet]] and bear right to [[Weathertop]]. After the ambush at Weathertop and the wounding of Frodo, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] took over the position as leader of the Hobbits. After a while they met [[Glorfindel]], a friend of Aragorn’s, and it was not much later that they arrived in Rivendell.<br />
[[File:Darrell Sweet - The Reforging of the Sword.jpg|thumb|[[Darrell Sweet]] - ''The Reforging of the Sword'']]<br />
After the Council of Elrond, Aragorn became a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. As a preparation for his travel, the ancient shards of [[Narsil]], the heirloom of his House, were reforged after 3 millennia. Aragorn carried the Sword Reforged, and renamed it [[Andúril]].<br />
<br />
Aragorn's intentions were to travel with the [[Fellowship of the Ring|company]] for a while before returning to [[Gondor]] with [[Boromir]]. Aragorn encouraged the taking of the [[Caradhras|Redhorn Pass]], which ended in disaster. He conceded to Gandalf’s choice to pass through [[Moria]], but warned Gandalf to be cautious if he entered Moria, because he had a very evil memory from his previous visit to Moria. Indeed, after Gandalf fell into the abyss with [[Durin's Bane]], Aragorn was naturally elected leader of the company, despite some resentment by Boromir.<br />
<br />
==== Leading the Fellowship of the Ring ====<br />
Aragorn again amazed the rest of the Fellowship by his apparent closeness to the people of [[Lothlórien]], and his friendship with [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]]. At their departure, Galadriel offered him the [[Elfstone]] as a wedding gift from the family of the Elven bride to the groom, foretelling his marriage to Arwen.<ref>{{MR|P3II3}}</ref> It was worn by Aragorn ever after and from that he later took the name '''Elessar'''.<br />
<br />
Even at the [[Rauros|Falls of Rauros]] he was undecided, leaving it to Frodo for the final decision. For though it was obvious he wished to go to [[Minas Tirith]] with Boromir, he yet felt that it was his duty to go where the [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]] chose.<br />
<br />
[[File:Inger Edelfeldt - Death of Boromir.jpg|thumb|200px|right|''Death of Boromir'' by [[Inger Edelfeldt]]]]<br />
After Frodo escaped him and Boromir perished, he with the remaining members of the Fellowship, namely [[Legolas]] and [[Gimli]], chose to try and save [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] from the [[Uruk-hai]] that had ambushed them, forming the group that would later be known as the [[Three Hunters]].<br />
<br />
He met [[Éomer]] in the fields of [[Rohan]], and an instant friendship formed, both feeling the honesty and lordliness of the other. Éomer took a risk for his sake, giving him horses, with the promise that one day Aragorn would return to [[Edoras]]. Aragorn, tracking the Hobbits, followed into [[Fangorn Forest]], where he met the resurrected [[Gandalf|Gandalf the White]]. After the restoration of [[Théoden]], he rode to [[Helm's Deep]] to fight in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]]. There he, alongside his new-found “brother” Éomer, and King Théoden, marshaled the defence against [[Saruman]]’s army. His revealed majesty upon the battlements of the Hornburg as he waited for the dawn caused some of the [[Dunlendings|Wild men]] to pause and shudder, and he heralded the return of Gandalf with [[Erkenbrand]].<br />
<br />
After Pippin’s terrifying experience with the [[Orthanc-stone]], Gandalf presented it in a formal manner to Aragorn, its rightful master, who hinted that it would be used by him eventually. After the departure of Gandalf and Pippin to Minas Tirith, he rode for a while longer with Théoden, meeting up with his friend [[Halbarad]] of the North, [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], and a company of staunch and fearless Rangers. Elladan and Elrohir gave him a message from Elrond: "''The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the [[Paths of the Dead]]''". Halbarad bore a gift from the Lady Arwen – the [[Standard of Elendil]]. Aragorn knew the path set before him.<br />
<br />
==== The Return of the King ====<br />
A little while later Aragorn took his companions and his rangers and set out for [[Dunharrow]], departing from the King’s company. His course was clear: to take the Paths of the Dead, to summon the [[Oathbreakers|Dead Men]]. In Dunharrow, he met the lady [[Éowyn]], who had fallen in love with him. After making it clear that he could not accept her love, he turned towards the evil road with the dawn.<br />
<br />
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Thus Came Aragorn.jpg|thumb|right|''Thus Came Aragorn'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
The [[Grey Company]] passed through the [[Dark Door]] and the [[Dwimorberg]], the Dead following, and coming at last to the [[Stone of Erech]], Aragorn summoned them to his aid. They drew their swords and blew their horns in answer, and swept down upon the [[Corsairs of Umbar|Corsairs]] at [[Pelargir]] and drove the mariners away. Aragorn released them, and took the [[Black Ships]] north to Minas Tirith, where the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] raged. The Standard of Elendil broke forth, and his Dúnedain swept down, giving the final blow to the army of [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)|Gothmog]]. The counter-attacked army of [[Sauron]] crumbled utterly, but Aragorn did not enter the city.<br />
<br />
Aragorn, furling his banner, appointed [[Imrahil]] the temporary lord of the City, as the law demanded. Eventually, however, Aragorn did come to the [[Houses of Healing]], where he tended and restored Merry, Éowyn, and [[Faramir]], in accordance with the prophecy “''The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known''”. Many of the people of Minas Tirith came to Aragorn and followed him, asking that he heal those they knew. Aragorn worked late into the night, before finally leaving the city, hooded and cloaked. When in the morning the people saw the banner of [[Dol Amroth]], they wondered if the Return of the King had been but a dream.<ref name=Houses>{{RK|Houses}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Inger Edelfeldt - The Crowning of Aragorn.jpg|thumb|left|''The Crowning of Aragorn'' by [[Inger Edelfeldt]]]]<br />
Aragorn held [[Last Debate|council]] with his trusted companions, namely Gandalf, Éomer, Imrahil, and Elrond’s sons – Halbarad had fallen in battle. He agreed to draw forth the forces of [[Mordor]] for the benefit of the [[Quest of the Ring]], and so arranged matters for the [[Battle of the Morannon]]. After the destruction of the Ring in [[Mount Doom|Orodruin]] and victory at the [[Morannon]], Aragorn returned at last in the triumphant manner that befitted his position. He was crowned at the gates of Minas Tirith, winning the hearts of the people of [[Gondor]].<br />
<br />
=== Reign as Elessar ===<br />
Aragorn ruled the [[Reunited Kingdom]] of Gondor and Arnor until year 120 of the [[Fourth Age]].<br />
<br />
Some days after his coronation, Gandalf took Elessar up the slopes of Mount [[Mindolluin]], and there he found the scion of [[Nimloth of Númenor|Nimloth]], the symbol of his mastery of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]. Elrond and Arwen came to Gondor and Elrond gave Elessar the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]] signifying the Kingship of Arnor. He wedded Arwen on Midsummer's day of 3019, and then was forced to bid his old friends farewell. He turned back to his new kingdom as the [[Fourth Age]] dawned and the Ringbearers left the shores of Middle-earth forever.<br />
<br />
One of his first tasks in the re-ordering of his realm was the restoration of [[Orthanc]] and ordered the [[Orthanc-stone]] to be returned there. With this opportunity, many secrets and hoarded treasures were revealed including the [[Elendilmir]] which Saruman took from Isildur's body. Elessar received the Elemdilmir with reverence and took it with him as he established his full kingship of [[Arnor]].<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref><br />
<br />
Elessar gave his [[Steward]] Faramir the title [[Lord of Emyn Arnen]] and created him as [[Prince of Ithilien]]<ref>{{RK|Steward}}</ref>. He declared the [[Drúadan Forest]] to belong to the [[Drúedain]] and a protected enclave of his Kingdom.<ref>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> He also re-established the Great [[Council of Gondor]] whose chief councillor was the Steward<ref>{{L|244}}</ref>. He also renewed the [[Oath of Cirion]] with Éomer.<br />
<br />
As for [[the Shire]], he declared it a Free Land under the protection of the Northern Sceptre and forbade Men from entering it. He appointed the [[Thain]], the [[Master of Buckland]], and the [[Mayor of Michel Delving]] Counsellors of the North-kingdom. Also he offered to the Shire the [[Westmarch|lands]] up to the [[Tower Hills|Emyn Beraid]].<ref name=later>{{App|Later}}</ref><br />
<br />
He founded the royal [[House of Telcontar]], he had a son, [[Eldarion]], and a number of daughters.<br />
<br />
King Elessar died after 210 years of life and 122 years of rule and was succeeded by his son [[Eldarion]]. His wife Arwen, now mortal, gave up her life shortly afterwards in year 121, aged 2,901.<br />
<br />
== Personality ==<br />
Aragorn held his heritage in high esteem and was willing to commit to a single path in life in the name of love.<ref name="Tale"/> He possessed a nigh indomitable will, as he psychically challenged [[Sauron]] for control of the [[Palantir]] of [[Orthanc]] and proved to be victorious.<ref name=Company>{{RK|Company}}</ref> Yet this will did not prevent him from honoring his own word and the words of his forebears.<ref name=Debate>{{RK|Debate}}</ref> <br />
<br />
== Etymology ==<br />
{{Pronounce|Aragorn Elessar.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''''Aragorn''''' is a [[Sindarin]] name. In a late 1950s manuscript Tolkien explains it as meaning "revered king".<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 31 entry S ''Ara(n)gorn''</ref><ref name=PE17Turgond>{{PE|17}}, p. 113 entry S '''Turgond-'''</ref> It contains the phonetic reduction ''ara'' of ''[[aran]]'' ("king") and the adjective ''[[gorn|(n)gorn]]'' ("dreaded, revered").<ref name=PE17Turgond/><br />
<br />
The [[Quenya]] form of ''Aragorn'' was '''''Arakorno'''''.<ref name="WP">{{PE|17}}, p. 70 f. entry Q '''ar''' in the translation of the sentence into Quenya ''Sanome tarne Olórin, Arakorno, [...]''</ref><br />
<br />
== Other names ==<br />
* '''Aragorn II''' - Aragorn's name as [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]. He was possibly named after [[Aragorn I]].<br />
* [[Thorongil]] - [[Sindarin|S]] "Eagle of the Star", a pseudonym used in [[Gondor]] and [[Rohan]]. Pronounced {{IPA|[θoˈroŋɡil]}}.<br />
* '''Elessar''' - [[Quenya|Q]] "Elfstone", Aragorn's name as a king. Despite popular use as such, Aragorn was never known as "Aragorn Elessar", "Aragorn II Elessar" or "[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|King Aragorn]]". Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈlesːar]}}.<br />
* '''Edhelharn''' - The [[Sindarin]] equivalent of Elessar, used in the King's Letter.<ref>{{SD|XI2}}, p. 128ff</ref> '''Edhelharn''' is the [[Sindarin]] word for [[Elfstone]] ([[Quenya|Q]]. ''[[Elessar]]''). Derived from the words ''[[edhel]]'' "elf" and ([[Lenition|lenited]]) ''[[sarn]].'' Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈðel.harn]}}. <br />
* [[Elfstone]] - The [[Westron|Common Speech]] version of the previous two.<br />
* [[Envinyatar|''Envinyatar'']] - [[Quenya|Q]] "the Renewer". This title was claimed by Aragorn after the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. It referred to the prophecy that he would renew the hope of the Dúnedain by reuniting the Two Kingdoms.<br />
* [[Estel]] - [[Quenya|Q]]. Usually glossed as "Hope", the concept ''estel'' more widely means "hope, trust, a temper of mind, steady fixed in purpose, and difficult to dissuade and unlikely to fall into despair or abandon its purpose". Pronounced {{IPA|[ˈestel]}}.<br />
* [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] - A sobriquet given by the men of [[Bree]]. Aragorn used it mockingly.<br />
* '''Wingfoot''' - An honorary name given by [[Éomer]] after the pursuit of the [[Uruk-hai]] through the [[Eastemnet]].<ref>{{TT|III2}}</ref><br />
* [[Telcontar]] - A [[Quenya]] form of "Strider", this was the name of Elessar's Royal House. It was not used independently. Pronounced {{IPA|[telˈkontar]}}.<br />
* [[Heir of Isildur|Isildur's Heir]] - A poetic address, as he was the heir of [[Isildur]].<br />
* '''The Dúnadan''' - "[[Dúnedain|Man of the West]]", a name given by [[Bilbo Baggins]] when their friendship evolved.<br />
* '''Longshanks''' - another, though less frequently used, sobriquet in Bree, ascribed to [[Bill Ferny]]. The legs of the [[Bree-landers|Bree-men]] were shorter than the legs of the [[Dúnedain]].<br />
* '''Arakorno''' - A rare Quenya form of Aragorn, which only appeared in a discussion about the words for Quenya.<ref name="WP"/> Pronounced {{IPA|[ˌaraˈkorno]}}.<br />
<br />
== Genealogy ==<br />
This is an abbreviated family tree; see '''''[[Ancestry of Aragorn II]]''''' for Aragorn's full line of descent.<br />
<br />
<div style="overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; border: 1px solid #AAAAAA; padding: 3px; background: #EEEEEE;"><br />
{{familytree/start}}<br />
{{familytree | EAR |y| ELW | | GAL |y| CEL |GAL=[[Galadriel]]|CEL=[[Celeborn]]|EAR=[[Eärendil]]|ELW=[[Elwing]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |)|-|-|-|.| | | |!| | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | ROS | | RON |y| CLB | | |ROS=[[Elros]]|RON=[[Elrond]]|CLB=[[Celebrían]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |:| | | | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | KON | | | | |!| | | | | |KON=<small>''[[Kings of Númenor]]''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |:| | | | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | LOA | | | | |!| | | | | |LOA=<small>''[[Lords of Andúnië]]''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |:| | | | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | ELE | | | | |!| | | | | |ELE=[[Elendil]]}}<br />
{{familytree | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | ISI | | ANA | | |!| | | | | |ISI=[[Isildur]]|ANA=[[Anárion]]}}<br />
{{familytree | |:| | | |:| | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | KOA | | KOG | | |!| | | | | |KOA=<small>''[[Kings of Arnor]]''</small>|KOG=<small>''[[Kings of Gondor]]''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | |:| | | |:| | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | KOA | | OND | | |!| | | | | |OND=[[Ondoher]]|KOA=<small>''[[Kings of Arthedain]]''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | |:| | | |!| | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | ARV |V| FIR | | |!| | | | | |ARV=[[Arvedui]]|FIR=[[Fíriel]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |:| | | | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | COD | | | | |!| | | | | |COD=<small>''[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain]]''</small>}}<br />
{{familytree | | | |:| | | | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | ART |y| GIL |!| | | | | |ART=[[Arathorn II]]|GIL=[[Gilraen]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | ARA |y| ARW | | | | |ARA='''ARAGORN '''|ARW=[[Arwen]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | |}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | ELD | | SDS | | | | |ELD=[[Eldarion]]|SDS=''several sisters''}}<br />
{{familytree/end}}<br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== Relation to Arwen ===<br />
Arwen was a very distant cousin of Aragorn. By their marriage, the long-sundered lines of the [[Half-elven]] were joined.<ref name="Numenor">{{App|A1i}}</ref> Their union also served to unite and preserve the bloodlines of the kings of the three kindreds of the High Elves ([[Ingwë]], [[Finwë]], and brothers [[Elwë]], [[Olwë]], and [[Elmo]]) as well as the only line with [[Maiar]]in blood through Arwen's great-great-grandmother, [[Melian]]. There were at least two marriages between descendants of Elendil in Aragorn's ancestry, so Aragorn was related to Arwen by blood along at least three lines.<br />
<br />
Through his father, Arathorn II, Aragorn was Arwen's first cousin sixty-two times removed through his ancestor Arvedui and sixty-seven times removed through his ancestor Fíriel. Both of these lines descend through four<ref name="Numenor"/> generations of the Kings of Númenor, Silmariën, eighteen<ref>{{UT|Kings}}</ref> generations of the Lords of Andúnië, and Elendil, as well as Aranarth and fifteen<ref name="North">{{App|North}}</ref> succeeding generations of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, including Aragorn himself. Aragorn's mother Gilraen was also descended from Aranarth,<ref name="North"/> but the number of generations between them is unknown.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the legendarium ==<br />
In the earliest unpublished versions of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' (see ''[[The History of The Lord of the Rings]]''), the character that later became Aragorn was called '''''[[Trotter]]''''' instead of Strider, and was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] instead of a [[Men|Man]]. He had wooden feet, because he had once traveled to Mordor and been tortured there with the character envisioned as a relative of Bilbo and Frodo. This name would carry over when the character was revised into a man and would remain in use for much of the book's composition. During writing of the latter portions of Book II, Tolkien would temporarily rename the character, ''[[Elfstone]]'' on the proposition that a man should not have an Elvish name. Another name considered was ''[[Ingold]].''<ref name="comp">{{HM|RC}}</ref> <br />
<br />
== Portrayal in adaptations ==<br />
{{Gallery<br />
|title=Aragorn in adaptations<br />
|height=150<br />
|width=250<br />
|lines=2<br />
|File:War in Middle Earth - Aragorn and Frodo against a Nazgul.png|Aragorn with [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Strider.jpg|Strider in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]<br />
|File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Aragorn.jpg|Aragorn in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Aragorn.jpg|Aragorn in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring (video game) - Aragorn.JPG|Aragorn in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Aragorn.jpg|Aragorn in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''<br />
|File:2011-12-23 00061.jpg|Aragorn in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''<br />
|File:LEGO Aragorn poster.png|Aragorn as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''<br />
}}<br />
<br />
=== Films ===<br />
'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'':'''<br />
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[John Hurt]]. Some critics have accused this character of looking too much like a [[wikipedia:Stereotypes_of_Native_Americans|Native American stereotype]].{{Citation needed}}<br />
<br />
'''1980: ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Theodore Bikel]] in the 1980 [[Rankin/Bass]] animated film. His role is dramatically reduced to a handful of scenes and there is no mention of any previous involvement with the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. <br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is played by [[Viggo Mortensen]], though [[Stuart Townsend]] was originally cast in the role. Townsend was deemed too young. Mortensen had just two weeks to train for his first scene, the standoff with the [[Nazgûl]] at [[Weathertop]]. Utilizing the modern "reluctant hero" trope, Mortensen portrays Aragorn as full of self-doubt, while he is much more sure of himself in the book.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn's part in this film is largely similar to the events in book. The most significant difference is that, in the book, there was no [[Wargs|Warg]] attack on the party traveling to Helm's Deep and Aragorn did not fall down a cliff.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn finally steps into his role as king after having a lot of self-doubt beforehand.<br />
<br />
'''2014: ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies]]'':'''<br />
:Although he is not physically present, he is mentioned by [[Thranduil]] to his son, [[Legolas]]. Thranduil tells Legolas to seek a young ranger known as "Strider" and that Legolas would have to discover Strider's true name for himself. In the continuity of the films, Aragorn would have been 27 rather than a ten-year-old child.<br />
<br />
=== Television ===<br />
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''<br />
:Aragorn is portrayed by [[Kari Väänänen]], the same actor who played [[Gollum]] in the series.<br />
<br />
=== Radio series ===<br />
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Godfrey Kenton]].<br />
<br />
'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Tom Luce]].<br />
<br />
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Robert Stephens]]. For his early scenes, according to [[John McAndrew]] (Pippin) Stephens adopted an accurate Bristol accent to help suggest the disguise Strider adopted in Bree.<br />
<br />
'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by Boris Farkaš.<br />
<br />
=== Games ===<br />
'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is a playable character. He has brown hair and is bearded, he bears a golden sword.<br />
<br />
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:[[Daran Norris]] provided the voice of Aragorn, who is one of the three playable characters.<br />
<br />
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:Aragorn is one of the three playable characters, as well as narrator for most of the game. He is versatile in both melee and ranged attacks. Viggo Mortensen reprises his role from the film trilogy.<br />
<br />
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:Aragorn is a playable character, his storyline is dubbed "Path of a King". He journeys through Paths of the Dead with Legolas and Gimli, later they fight on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate. Chris Edgerly takes over for Mortensen as Aragorn's voice actor.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Free People side. He is present in Lothlorien, Battle of Hornburg and Siege of the Minas Morgul.<br />
<br />
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, he also accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode.<br />
<br />
'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is now the Hero for the Men of the West faction.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:In the Prologue, Aragorn saves Men/Hobbit characters from brigands, but is forced to leave soon, as he has to intercept Frodo in Bree. Later arriving at the Prancing Pony, the characters meet him again and help him look in the surrounding area for Hobbits, who did not arrive in time. When the player returns, Aragorn and the Hobbits have already departed, and their next meeting is in Rivendell, where Aragorn entrusts the player with defence of the North while the Fellowship is gone. Later, in [[Lothlórien]], Aragorn is seen residing in [[Caras Galadhon]].<br />
<br />
'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is a playable hero available in several missions.<br />
<br />
'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''<br />
:Aragorn is an important character of the game, and is mentioned as one of the much honored heroes of the [[War of the Ring]] in the introduction of the game.<ref name="Prologue">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</ref><br />
:He is a friend of two of the game's main characters, [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]] and [[Andriel]]. Aragorn had met [[Andriel]] during his visits at [[Rivendell]],<ref name="Backstory Andriel">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/heroes/backstory#elfAnchor|articlename=Elven Character: Andriel's History|dated=|website=War in the North|accessed=25 December 2011}}</ref> while he had met Eradan, when he served as Ranger at Sarn Ford. Aragorn was impressed by his skills and bravery, and taught him much about tracking. Eradan was a companion of Aragorn on many of his journeys. Aragorn trusted Eradan much, though he never told him what the reason was behind the protection of [[the Shire]].<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/heroes/backstory#dunedainAnchor|articlename=Human Character: Eradan's History|dated=|website=War in the North|accessed=24 December 2011}}</ref><br />
<br />
:Eradan, Andriel and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] meet Aragorn in the Prancing Pony to warn him, on Halbarad's request, after the Nazgûl attacked and defeated the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] at [[Sarn Ford]], and entered the Shire. They also tell him about a conversation between the Witch-king and [[Agandaûr]], which the three heroes overheard shortly after the attack. Agandaûr summoned the [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] and assembled an army in [[Fornost]], which plans to aid the Nazgûl in their search for [[the One Ring]]. Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, to stop Agandaûr and his army.<ref name="Prologue"/> While Eradan, Andriel, Farin, [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] stopped Agandaûr's army,<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Chapter 1: Fornost''</ref> Aragorn met with [[Frodo Baggins]] and left Bree.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs'', Bree</ref><br />
<br />
'''2012: ''[[Lego|Lego The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:A mini figure of Aragorn is included in the [[Lego#Sets|sets]] '''Attack at Weathertop''', '''The Battle of Helm's Deep''', '''The Battle at the Black Gate''', and '''The Pirate ship ambush'''.<ref name="2012 sets">{{webcite|author=Calisuri|articleurl=http://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/02/12/53563-more-lord-of-the-rings-lego-details-from-toy-fare-2012/|articlename=More Lord of the Rings LEGO Details from Toy Fare 2012|dated=12 February 2012|website=TORN|accessed=18 February 2012}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
*'''[[Timeline of Aragorn]]'''<br />
*[http://dare.ubvu.vu.nl/bitstream/1871/10975/1/Aragorn_Final.pdf "Aragorn Seen Through Different Media"] by [[Connie Veugen]], compares the introduction of Strider in Ralph Bakshi's film, the 1981 BBC radio play, Peter Jackson's film and [[Vivendi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|video game]], ''The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
{{references|notes}}<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Aragorn}}<br />
<br />
== Titles ==<br />
{{seq-start}}<br />
{{seq-head<br />
| race=arnorian<br />
| house=Founder of the [[House of Telcontar]]<small><br/>Cadet branch of the [[House of Isildur]]</small><br />
| born=[[1 March]], {{TA|2931}}<br />
| died=[[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prow=2<br />
| prev=[[Arathorn II]]<br />
| list=16th [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]<br />
| dates={{TA|2933}} – [[1 May]], {{TA|3019|n}}<br />
| next=Position abolished<br />
| nvac=None<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| list=39th [[Heir of Isildur|Heir]] of [[Isildur]]<br />
| dates={{TA|2933}} - [[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
| next=[[Eldarion]]<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prev=[[Gandalf]]<br />
| list=Leader of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]<br />
| dates=[[15 January]] - [[22 August]], {{TA|3019}}<br />
| next=Position abolished<br />
| nvac=None<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| pvac=Vacant<br />
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärnur]]''', 969 years earlier<br />
| list=34th [[Kings of Gondor|King of Gondor]]<br />
| dates=[[1 May]], {{TA|3019}} – [[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
| next=[[Eldarion]]<br />
| nrow=4<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| pvac=Vacant<br />
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärendur (King of Arnor)|Eärendur]]''', 2,158 years earlier<br />
| list=11th [[Kings of Arnor|King of Arnor]]<br />
| dates=[[1 May]], {{TA|3019}} – [[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| pvac=Vacant<br />
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Isildur]]''', 3,017 years earlier<br />
| list=1st [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]<br />
| dates=[[1 May]], {{TA|3019}} – [[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| pvac=None<br />
| prev=New title<br />
| list=Head of the [[House of Telcontar]]<br />
| dates=[[1 May]], {{TA|3019}} – [[1 March]], {{FoA|120}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq-end}}<br />
<br />
{{councilofelrond}}<br />
{{fellowship}}<br />
{{FellowshipRoute}}<br />
{{northernline}}<br />
{{southernline}}<br />
{{lordoftheringsfilms}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]<br />
[[Category:Chieftains of the Dúnedain]]<br />
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]<br />
[[Category:House of Isildur]]<br />
[[Category:House of Telcontar]]<br />
[[Category:Mariners]]<br />
[[Category:Rulers of Arnor]]<br />
[[Category:Rulers of Gondor]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin names]]<br />
[[Category:Third Age characters]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Aragorn II.]]<br />
[[fi:Aragorn II]]<br />
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/hommes/3adunedain/dunedain_du_nord/aragorn_ii]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Evendim_(disambiguation)&diff=385150Evendim (disambiguation)2024-01-26T19:53:01Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>The term '''''Evendim ''''' may refer to:<br />
* '''[[Evendim]]''', the [[Hobbitish]] name for the evening dusk.<br />
*[[Lake Evendim|Evendim]], the [[Westron]] name for lake [[Nenuial]] ("Water of Twilight") in northern [[Eriador]].<br />
* [[Hills of Evendim]], a series of hills in northern Eriador, around that lake.<br />
<br />
{{Disambig}}</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Evendim_(disambiguation)&diff=385149Evendim (disambiguation)2024-01-26T19:52:17Z<p>Sage: </p>
<hr />
<div>The term '''''Evendim ''''' may refer to:<br />
* '''''[[Evendim]]''''', the [[Hobbitish]] name for the evening dusk.<br />
*''[[Lake Evendim|Evendim]]'', the [[Westron]] name for lake [[Nenuial]] ("Water of Twilight") in northern [[Eriador]].<br />
* ''[[Hills of Evendim]]'', a series of hills in northern Eriador, around that lake.<br />
<br />
{{Disambig}}</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Dor-en-Ernil&diff=385139Dor-en-Ernil2024-01-26T14:41:11Z<p>Sage: The words and their meaning are pretty self-evident and there is no need to credit a specific linguist for analyzing them</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Steamey - Imrazôr and Mithrellas.jpg|thumb|Steamey - ''Imrazôr and Mithrellas'']]<br />
'''Dor-en-Ernil''' was a region in the south of [[Gondor]].<ref>{{RK|Map}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Geography==<br />
Though its boundaries are not clearly established, it appears to have been part of - or perhaps synonymous with - the mountainous coastland fief known as [[Belfalas]]<ref>{{VT|42a}}, entry ''Belfalas'' "The land between Morthond and Serni (the shoreward parts of Dor-en-Ernil)"</ref> or the wider sense of [[Dol Amroth]].<ref>{{VT|42a}}, Note 4 to the account of Halifirien "the people of Dor-en-Ernil (Dol Amroth)"</ref> Extending out from its western shores was a smaller mountainous peninsula on which was built Dol Amroth,<ref>{{FR|Map}}</ref> the stronghold of the [[Princes of Dol Amroth]].<ref>{{UT|8e}}, Note 39</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
''Dor-en-Ernil'' is a [[Sindarin]] name. It means "Land of the Prince"<ref>{{VT|42a}}, p. 12</ref> analyzed as ''[[dor]]'' ("land"), ''[[en]]'' ("of") and ''[[ernil]]'' ("prince").<ref>{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=https://www.eldamo.org/content/words/word-3344692657.html|articlename=S. ''Dor-en-Ernil'' loc.|website=Eldamo|accessed=01 May 2022}}</ref> The context in which the name was used suggests that the name referred to the [[Princes of Dol Amroth]].<ref name=Amroth14>{{UT|Amroth}}, Note 14</ref><br />
<br />
==Other versions of the legendarium==<br />
[[Christopher Tolkien]] notes that the name appears only in the [[Map of Rohan, Gondor, and Mordor]], the label being on the other side of the mountains from Dol Amroth.<ref name=Amroth14/> The name does not appear in the [[General Map of Middle-earth]]. Christopher Tolkien put the label on the same location, but among the wider context in the newer map that he drew for the book ''[[Unfinished Tales|Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth]]''.<ref>{{UT|Map}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
'''2014: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:Dor-en-Ernil was an area in the region of Central Gondor, located south of the [[Ringló Vale]] and west of Lower [[Lebennin]]. During the [[War of the Ring]], it was attacked by [[Corsairs of Umbar]] and [[Haradrim]]. The fishing village of "Gaerlond" and the inland village of "Tungobel" were both burned, the lighthouse of "Barad Rill" was toppled, and the [[Warning beacons of Gondor|beacon]] "Dol Brannor" was seized by the Enemy. The river [[Gilrain]] and the city of [[Linhir]] formed the eastern border. The hills to the west, between Dor-en-Ernil and the Havens of [[Belfalas]] were mostly inaccessible but were identified in dialogue as the "Emyn Ernil".<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Gondor]]<br />
[[Category:Regions]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Dor-en-Ernil]]<br />
[[fi:Dor-en-Ernil]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Helmingas&diff=385090Helmingas2024-01-25T00:54:19Z<p>Sage: /* Etymology */</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Helmingas''' was probably a name for the [[Rohirrim]], indicating the followers of and descendants of King [[Helm]], just as the name [[Eorlingas]] referred to the people of [[Rohan]] who followed the first King of Rohan, [[Eorl|Eorl the Young]].<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
On [[4 March]] {{TA|3019}} during the [[Battle of the Hornburg]],<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> when [[Orcs]] managed to penetrate the [[Deeping Wall]], [[Gamling]] cried, "Helm! Helm! Forth Helmingas! " to rally the Rohirrim who defended [[Hornburg]] to repel the invaders.<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 535</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
''Helmingas'' is a name in the language of Rohan, represented by [[Old English]]. It consists of ''[[Helm#Etymology|Helm]]'' and ''[[-ings|-ingas]]'' ("people").<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 407</ref><br />
<br />
Helmingas appears only once in the text, spoken by Gamling, and when he does, [[Westfold-men]] gather with him. The Index of [[The Lord of the Rings (50th Anniversary Edition)|50th Anniversary Edition of ''The Lord of the Rings'']] (edited by [[Wayne G. Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull]]) seems to interpret Helmingas and Westfold-men as somehow synonymous, and connects the two.<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Old English names]]<br />
[[Category:Rohirrim]]<br />
[[fi:Helmin pojat]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Westfold-men&diff=385089Talk:Westfold-men2024-01-25T00:28:18Z<p>Sage: /* Helmingas */</p>
<hr />
<div>Just to clarify, the Westfold-men only just in Westfold and not any other regions of Rohan right? It seems fairly obvious and my three seconds of googling seem to say so but just thrown off by the fact this page describes where the region is instead of just saying Westfold. [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 21:10, 25 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:If you use the History function on the top right of the Westfold-men page you will see that almost all content was added by Hyarion, so I suggest that you ask Hyarion. Apart from that I am not aware of any source written by J.R.R. Tolkien, which contains a precise definition of what the term Westfold-men means and where Westfold-men usually live as their "native" locations. The normal use of words in English suggests that the Westfold-men are men from the Westfold or men of the Westfold. J.R.R. Tolkien once used "with many men of Westfold at his back" in the chapter Helm's Deep where he also used the terms Westfold-men and Westfolders. He also used "gathering of such men of Westfold as he could" in the chapter The Battles of the Fords of Isen in Unfinished Tales. After I saw that you had added the Sources tag to the Westfold-men page, I decided to review and correct the Westfold page and to add references to it. The eastern boundary of Westfold is not known, but I found statements about the (approximate) western and northern boundaries and the southern boundary can be inferred from general statements about the borders of Rohan and from the maps. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 15:12, 26 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
::Hyarion was the founder of this wiki and while he was populating it with articles he copypasted a lot from the Encyclopedia of Arda website some of which are useless (have almost zero useful information). Now it might seem wrong, but back then, when this was a small wiki fed by few people it seemed like a starting point. Since then many/most of those copied articles have been rewritten, according to the Wiki's policy and style. The thing is, that there are still quite a few here; their tone and style is distincly different than the articles of this wiki as it has evolved now. I haven't checked if this article is from there, but from what i see, I bet my two cents that this is the case with this article. I propose it should be rewritten or just deleted. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 17:29, 27 December 2023 (UTC)<br />
<br />
== Helmingas ==<br />
Quick explanation of why I included Helmingas in the article since it was questioned and then removed<br />
<br />
# Helmingas and Westfold-men are used seemingly synonymously in the same sentence. (pg. 535)<br />
# In the index, entry Westfold. "men of" lists Helmingas, Westfolders. The entry for Helmingas says to see Westfold.<br />
<br />
This is of course just my interpretation and anyone more knowledgeable please prove me wrong if I am. [[User:Aragorn II|Aragorn II]] ([[User talk:Aragorn II|talk]]) 21:41, 24 January 2024 (UTC)<br />
:Thank you. As for the first point, the phrase seems to suggest they are synonymous but I think this is not enough to prove it, as the phrase can be interpreted differently, and also there is nothing in the story of Helm or of Westfold. As for the second point, the index was not made by Tolkien but by the editors, who, since they don't provide another source, their starting point was obviously the very phrase you mentioned, so it is their (mis)interpretation too. However, as I said to Akhorahil, even if we disagree with them, it is notable enough to be included in some footnote. But not enough so as to try to find a connection between Helm and Westfold, or to assume that the Westfolders were the "people of Helm". [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 00:28, 25 January 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Helmingas&diff=385059Talk:Helmingas2024-01-24T15:15:22Z<p>Sage: /* who are they? */</p>
<hr />
<div>== who are they? ==<br />
"Gamling the Old looked down from the Hornburg, hearing the great voice of the dwarf above all the tumult. 'The Orcs are in the Deep!' he cried. 'Helm! Helm! Forth Helmingas,' he shouted as he leaped down the stair from the Rock with many men of Westfold at his back."<br />
<br />
Is it enough context to suggest that the "sons of Helm" are specifically the Rohirrim of Westfold? When I first read the passage I thought it is just another name for the Eorlingas (they are sons of Eorl, and and all other kings, including Helm) or just the Rohirrim who man the Helm's Deep; the appearance of the men of Westfold after Gamling can be a coincidence (could be any other Rohirrim). There is nothing in the article of [[Helm]] to suggest that he had a connection to Westfold or its men so that they are colled his "sons". [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 11:05, 23 January 2024 (UTC)<br />
<br />
:The context is not enough to suggest that the term "Helmingas" refers specifically to the Rohirrim of the Westfold. Helm was the King of Rohan and not merely the Lord of the Westfold. Like all the Kings since the moving of the King's House to Edoras from Aldburg, he had his home in Edoras in the Folde and not in the Westfold. He only flew to the fortress of Aglarond (known as the Hornburg and later known with the rest of the fortifications after Helm as Helm's Deep) when the Dunlendings invaded Rohan, because the Hornburg was more defensible than Edoras. Hammond & Scull translate -ingas less literally as "people of" and not as "sons of" on p. 407 in The Lord of the Rings A Reader's Companion. At the battle of Helm's Deep the defenders of Helm's Deep probably did not only consist of men from the Westfold. Since Helm as a King of Rohan who fought at the Hornburg the motivation call "Helmingas" is meant to summon all the Rohirrim as the people of Helm. Hammond & Scull write on p. 407 that "Eorlingas" means the "people of Eorl, the Rohirrim". Helm is simply another King of Rohan like Eorl, the first King of Rohan so why should adding -ingas to his name signify a different people? The entry Helmingas see Westfold: men of and the entry Westfolg (Helmingas, Westfolders, etc.) in the index of the 50th anniversary edition of LOTR are not authoritative, because they were compiled by Hammond & Scull and only content within square brackets in the index was written by J.R.R. Tolkien according to the introduction of the index. --[[User:Akhorahil|Akhôrahil]] ([[User talk:Akhorahil|talk]]) 14:35, 24 January 2024 (UTC)<br />
::However it is notable that H&S (mis)interpreted the name Helmingas as referring to the Westfolders, and should be included in the article. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 15:15, 24 January 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Westfold-men&diff=385038Westfold-men2024-01-23T13:17:20Z<p>Sage: some tweaks, add {{fact}} and removed oou reference to Tolkien</p>
<hr />
<div>'''Westfold-men''' also known as '''Westfolders'''<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 532</ref> or '''[[Helmingas]]'''<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 535</ref>{{fact}} were [[Men]] of [[Rohan]] who lived in the region of the [[Westfold]].<br />
==History==<br />
Some of the original Westfold-men may have been [[Gondorians]] of [[Calenardhon]] until it was given to the Rohirrim in {{TA|2510}}.<ref>{{UT|Eorl}}</ref> Those people likely built or helped build Helm's Deep which was located in Westfold.<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 528</ref> They took pride in being the descendants of King [[Helm]] and his followers{{fact}} as evident from the name Helmingas.{{fact}}<br />
<br />
At the time of the [[War of the Ring]] their commander was [[Erkenbrand]].<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 529</ref> They participated in the [[Battles of the Fords of Isen]] and suffered many losses.<ref>{{App|B3}}</ref> Erkenbrand then led his men to [[Helm's Deep]].<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 527</ref> Some Westfold-men were already at Helm's Deep,<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 531</ref> but Erkenbrand and the men under his command had not arrived by the time the battle had begun and it was feared that they has been overtaken and would not come.<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, pp. 529-31</ref> Erkenbrand and his men (1000 in total) arrived in a dire hour of need during the battle led by [[Gandalf]].<ref>{{TT|Deep}}, p. 541</ref><br />
==Etymology==<br />
Westfold is a combination of "West" and fold from [[Old English]] folde ("earth", "land", "country").<ref>{{HM|N}}, entry '''Folde''', pp. 770-71</ref><br />
<br />
Helmingas was a name for the [[Rohirrim]] of the Westfold{{fact}} and referred to the followers of and descendants of King Helm. It is a combination of [[Helm]] and ''[[-ings|-ingas]]''.<br />
==Other versions of the legendarium==<br />
In an early draft of the chapter [[Helm's Deep (chapter)|Helm's Deep]] the men who served [[Saruman]] were from Westfold and spoke the "Tongue of Westfold".<ref>{{WR|1|II}}, p. 8 and p. 21</ref><br />
==See also==<br />
*[[Helmingas]]<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Rohirrim]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Helmingas&diff=385037Talk:Helmingas2024-01-23T11:05:54Z<p>Sage: /* who are they? */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>== who are they? ==<br />
<br />
"Gamling the Old looked down from the Hornburg, hearing the great voice of the dwarf above all the tumult. 'The Orcs are in the Deep!' he cried. 'Helm! Helm! Forth Helmingas,' he shouted as he leaped down the stair from the Rock with many men of Westfold at his back."<br />
<br />
Is it enough context to suggest that the "sons of Helm" are specifically the Rohirrim of Westfold? When I first read the passage I thought it is just another name for the Eorlingas (they are sons of Eorl, and and all other kings, including Helm) or just the Rohirrim who man the Helm's Deep; the appearance of the men of Westfold after Gamling can be a coincidence (could be any other Rohirrim). There is nothing in the article of [[Helm]] to suggest that he had a connection to Westfold or its men so that they are colled his "sons". [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 11:05, 23 January 2024 (UTC)</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Mrs_Bracegirdle&diff=384704Mrs Bracegirdle2024-01-15T14:53:03Z<p>Sage: Warner bros couldnt have invented her as it bought NLC quite later</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Adaptation}}<br />
{{hobbit infobox<br />
| name=Mrs. Bracegirdle<br />
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring - Mrs. Bracegirdle.jpg|150px]]<br />
| caption=Mrs. Bracegirdle from ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=<br />
| titles=<br />
| position=<br />
| location=[[Party Field]], [[Hobbiton]]<br />
| affiliation=[[The Shire]]<br />
| language=[[Westron]]<br />
| birth=<br />
| birthlocation=<br />
| rule=<br />
| death=<br />
| deathlocation=<br />
| age=<br />
| notablefor=<br />
| family=[[Bracegirdle Family|Bracegirdle]]<br />
| parentage=<br />
| siblings=<br />
| spouse=<br />
| children=Many<br />
| gender=Female<br />
| height=<br />
| hair=<br />
| eyes=<br />
| clothing=<br />
| weapons=<br />
| steed=<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Mrs. Bracegirdle''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] of [[The Shire]] who was one of the attendees of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]]. Mrs. Bracegirdle was invented by [[New Line Cinema]] for [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' film series]], where she was portrayed by [[Lori Dungey]].<br />
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==History==<br />
Mrs. Bracegirdle was one of the attendees of [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]]. When she greets [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], he is surprised at the number of children she has.<br />
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There are two Mr. Bracegirdles known to have attended Bilbo's birthday party, [[Bruno Bracegirdle|Bruno]] and his son [[Hugo Bracegirdle|Hugo]]. Bruno may have had a wife since he had two children, but he was 88 years old and both of his children were adults. Hugo was 51 years old, though he is not known to have had a wife or children.<ref>{{App|Boffin}}</ref><br />
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{{References}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hobbits from adaptations]]<br />
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) characters]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Oath_of_Eorl&diff=384565Oath of Eorl2024-01-11T16:56:49Z<p>Sage: /* Later history */</p>
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<div>[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Oathtaking of Cirion and Eorl 2020.jpg|300px|thumb|''The Oathtaking of Cirion and Eorl'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
{{Quote|In happy hour did Eorl ride from the North, and never has any league of peoples been more blessed, so that neither has ever failed the other, nor shall fail.|'' [[Aragorn]] to [[Eomer]] to in [[The Return of the Ring]]'', "[[The Steward and the King]]"}}<br />
<br />
The '''Oath of Eorl''', also called the '''Oath of Cirion''',<ref>{{VT|42a}}, p. 20</ref> was the alliance sworn between the nations of [[Rohan]] and [[Gondor]].<ref name=Eorl>{{UT|Eorl}}</ref><br />
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Also agreed was whenever help was needed, the two kingdoms would aid each other.<ref name=Eorl/> The signal that help was needed was the [[Red Arrow]], a symbol of danger. For faster communication between the two allies, the [[warning beacons of Gondor]] were used. These beacons were placed on seven hills along the northern ridge of the [[White Mountains]].<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===The Oath===<br />
The Oath was first sworn in {{TA|2510}} by [[Cirion]], the twelfth Ruling Steward of Gondor, and by [[Eorl]], King of the [[Éothéod]] (later first King of Rohan) following the [[Battle of the Field of Celebrant]]. The Oath stated that the province of [[Calenardhon]] would be forever of Rohan, established its borders, and an alliance between the kingdoms. The two rulers swore their oaths on the [[Halifirien]] hill at the site of the [[Tomb of Elendil]].<ref name=Eorl/><br />
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Eorl spoke his oath in [[Rohanese]]: <br />
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{{blockquote|Hear now all peoples who bow not to the Shadow in the East, by the gift of the Lord of the Mundburg we will come to dwell in the land that he names Calenardhon, and therefore I vow in my own name and on behalf of the Éothéod of the North that between us and the Great People of the West there shall be friendship for ever: their enemies shall be our enemies, their need shall be our need, and whatsoever evil, or threat, or assault may come upon them we will aid them to the utmost end of our strength. This vow shall descend to my heirs, all such as may come after me in our new land, and let them keep it in faith unbroken, lest the Shadow fall upon them and they become accursed.|Eorl}}<ref name=Eorl/><br />
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In addition to his oath, Cirion spoke an invocation in [[Quenya]] and the [[Westron|Common Speech]], calling the [[Valar]] and [[Ilúvatar|Eru]] to witness the oaths that were taken:<br />
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{{blockquote|Vanda sina termaruva Elenna-nóreo alcar enyalien ar Elendil Vorondo voronwë. Nai tiruvantes i hárar mahalmassen mi Númen ar i Eru i or ilyë mahalmar eä tennoio.|Cirion}}<ref name=Eorl/><br />
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Which in Westron translates to "This oath shall stand in memory of the glory of the Land of the Star, and of the faith of Elendil the Faithful, in the keeping of those who sit upon the thrones of the West and of the One who is above all thrones for ever."<ref name=Eorl/><br />
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Eru's name was very rarely invoked in oaths,<ref name=Note>{{UT|8e}}, note 44</ref> and indeed had not been since the time of the [[Last Alliance]]<ref name=Eorl/>. Among people of Númenórean descent, it was held that only the King could call upon Eru, but Cirion had that authority as Steward and regent for the King.<ref name=Note/><br />
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===Later history===<br />
In {{TA|2710}}, King [[Déor]] asked the help of [[Egalmoth (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Egalmoth]] to drive off the [[Dunlendings]] from the occupied [[Ring of Isengard]], but the Steward was unable to send help,<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref> possibly because of a renewed war against the [[Orcs]]<ref>{{PM|Elendil}}, manuscript C, The Ruling Stewards of Gondor, 18. Egalmoth p. 205</ref>.<br />
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During the rule of [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]], both nations where overwhelmed; Gondor by the [[Corsairs of Umbar]] and Rohan by the Dunlendings, and couldn't help each other. After the [[Long Winter]] however, as the Rohirrim started to repel the invaders, Gondor sent help from both west and east of the [[White Mountains]] to assist them.<ref>{{App|Stewards}}</ref><ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref><br />
[[File:Peter Xavier Price - And They Clasped Hand in Hand.jpg|thumb|''And they clasped hand in hand'' by [[Peter Xavier Price]]]]<br />
Gondor sent great help to King [[Folcwine]] who reconquered the [[west-march]] from the Dunlendings. In {{TA|2885}}, when [[Ithilien]] was invaded in great strength, Folcwine sent many men, led by his twin prince sons, to Gondor. With their aid Steward [[Túrin II]] won a victory at the [[Crossings of Poros]], though the princes [[Fastred (son of Folcwine)|Fastred]] and [[Folcred]] were slain.<ref>{{App|Mark}}</ref><br />
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During the [[War of the Ring]], the [[Red Arrow]] was brought to King [[Théoden]] of Rohan by [[Hirgon|a messenger of Gondor]] while [[Minas Tirith]] was besieged by [[Sauron]], and Théoden rode out with the [[Muster of Rohan]] to the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]]. <br />
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The Oath was renewed by [[Aragorn]] and [[Éomer]] upon their accessions to the thrones of Gondor and Rohan.<br />
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==External links==<br />
*[http://glaemscrafu.jrrvf.com/english/cirion.html Text, translation and audio] at [[Glǽmscrafu]]<br />
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{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Oaths and prophecies]]<br />
[[Category:Quenya texts]]<br />
[[Category:Third Age]]<br />
[[de:Eid von Eorl]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo/evenements/3a/serment_d_eorl]]<br />
[[fi:Cirionin vala]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Samwise_Gamgee&diff=384527Samwise Gamgee2024-01-08T18:15:03Z<p>Sage: /* Later life */</p>
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<div>{{Expansion}}<br />
{{hobbit infobox<br />
| name=Samwise Gamgee<br />
| image=[[File:Anna Kulisz - Sam Gamgee.jpeg|250px]]<br />
| caption="Samwise" by [[:Category:Images by Anna Kulisz|Anna Kulisz]]<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=''[[Banazîr]]'' ([[Hobbitish|H]])<br />''[[Perhael]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]])<br />
| titles=[[Mayor of Michel Delving]], Ring-Bearer (for a short time) <br />
| position=Gardener, chief investigator, [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]]<br />
| location=[[Bagshot Row|3 Bagshot Row]], [[Hobbiton]]<br/>[[Bag End]], [[Hobbiton]]<br/>[[Tol Eressëa]]<br />
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]<br />
| language=[[Westron]]<br />
| birth=[[6 April]] {{TA|2980}}<ref group="note">In the second edition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', Sam's year of birth was added to ''[[Appendix B|The Tale of Years]]''; it was, however, {{TA|2983}}. This contradicts both the ''[[Longfather Tree of Master Samwise]]'' and a later entry in ''The Tale of Years''. The incorrect date has been corrected in the [[The Lord of the Rings (50th Anniversary Edition)|50th anniversary edition]]. See also ''[[The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion]]'', p. 716.</ref><br />
| birthlocation=The [[Shire]]<br />
| rule={{FoA|6}} - {{FoA|55|n}}<br />
| sailedwest=After {{FoA|61}}<br />
| sailedto=[[Grey Havens]]<br />
| age=102<br />
| notablefor=Being counted among the Fellowship of the Ring and following [[Frodo Baggins]] into Mordor.<br />
| family=[[Gamgee Family|Gamgee]]; founded the [[Gardner Family|Gardner family]]<br />
| parentage=[[Gaffer Gamgee|Hamfast Gamgee]] and [[Bell Goodchild]]<br />
| siblings=[[Hamson Gamgee|Hamson]], [[Halfred Gamgee|Halfred]], [[Daisy Gamgee|Daisy]], [[May Gamgee|May]] and [[Marigold Gamgee|Marigold]]<br />
| spouse=[[Rose Cotton]]<br />
| children=[[Elanor Gardner|Elanor]], [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]], [[Rose Gardner|Rose]], [[Merry Gardner|Merry]], [[Pippin Gardner|Pippin]], [[Goldilocks Gardner|Goldilocks]], [[Hamfast Gardner|Hamfast]], [[Daisy Gardner|Daisy]], [[Primrose Gardner|Primrose]], [[Bilbo Gardner|Bilbo]], [[Ruby Gardner|Ruby]], [[Robin Gardner|Robin]], and [[Tolman Gardner|Tolman]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| height=<br />
| hair=<br />
| eyes=Brown<ref name="breaking">{{FR|Breaking}}</ref><br />
| skin colour=Brown-handed<br />
| clothing=<br />
| weapons=[[Daggers of Westernesse|Dagger of Westernesse]], also [[Sting]]<br />
| steed=[[Bill the Pony|Bill]]<br />
}}<br />
<center>{{quote|I am glad you are here with me. Here at the end of all things, Sam|[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] in ''[[The Return of the King]]'', "[[Mount Doom]]"}}</center><br />
<br />
'''Samwise Gamgee''', commonly known as '''Sam''', was [[Frodo Baggins]]' servant and the only original member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] to remain with him to the very end of the journey to [[Mount Doom]].<br />
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==History==<br />
===Early life===<br />
Samwise lived with his father, [[Gaffer Gamgee|Hamfast Gamgee]], better known as the "Gaffer", on [[Bagshot Row]] in [[the Shire]], close to [[Bag End]]. Sam's mother was [[Bell Gamgee|Bell Goodchild]]; he had five siblings: [[Hamson Gamgee|Hamson]], [[Halfred Gamgee|Halfred]], [[Daisy Gamgee|Daisy]], [[May Gamgee|May]], and [[Marigold Gamgee|Marigold]]. He was a friend of the [[Cotton Family|Cotton family]] and used to play in [[Bywater Pool]] with [[Wilcome Cotton II|Jolly]], [[Tolman Cotton Junior|Tom]], [[Carl Cotton|Nibs]], and [[Rose Cotton|Rosie Cotton]] specifically.<ref>{{RK|VI3}}</ref><br />
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A gardener by trade, Sam seemed to be a simple [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] of plain speech. He helped his Gaffer tending the garden of Bag End and was taught the art of rope making by his [[Hobson|grandfather]] and his uncle [[Andwise Roper|Andy]]. In his work at Bag-End, he was acquainted with [[Bilbo Baggins]]. Bilbo taught him [[tengwar|letters]], and nurtured his love for [[Elves]], poetry, and his belief that the world contains greater wonders than most hobbits are aware of. This set him apart from the beginning to the Gaffer's dismay.<ref>{{FR|Party}};{{TT|Taming}}</ref> Sam often wandered outside [[Hobbiton]] and knew well the area twenty miles around.<ref name=three>{{FR|Three}}</ref><br />
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On [[12 April]] Sam was in ''[[The Green Dragon]]'' and discussed with [[Ted Sandyman]] the strange rumours he heard around the Shire, including his [[Hal Gamgee|cousin Hal]] seeing a "Tree-man", and the [[Elves]] who leave [[Middle-earth]]. Ted called his cousin crazy and dismissed all rumours. In the evening, he returned to [[the Hill]] thinking about the hard work he has to do when he saw [[Gandalf]] arriving to visit Frodo, after many years.<ref name=shadow>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref><br />
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===Eavesdropping on Frodo and Gandalf===<br />
Sam was one of the "[[Conspirators]]" who were summoned by [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry Brandybuck]] in order to watch over [[Frodo Baggins]] and the [[The One Ring|Ring]] inherited by Frodo from Bilbo. Being the closest to Frodo, Sam was their "chief investigator" who was to eavesdrop on his talks with Gandalf the [[Wizards|Wizard]].<ref>{{FR|Conspiracy}}</ref><br />
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He eavesdrops on Frodo and Gandalf's discussion while working at the garden of Bag End. It was when Gandalf revealed to Frodo that Bilbo's ring is [[Sauron]]'s One Ring, and on the mention that Frodo must leave the Shire, Sam choked. Initially suspected as a spy, Sam feigned innocent curiosity. Sam begged Gandalf not to turn him into anything "unnatural". Sam then immediately asked to be taken to see Elves when they went away. Gandalf decided to make Sam Frodo's first companion.<ref name=shadow/> <br />
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===From Hobbiton to Crickhollow===<br />
Sam joined Frodo on his journey to [[Bree]] and [[Rivendell]], as to outside appearances as Frodo's gardener. He lied that he had the lightest baggage after Frodo complained about the weight of his, and he offered to take more. Sam and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin Took]] followed Frodo to his new house at [[Crickhollow]] and when they were encountered by [[Black Riders]] Sam mentioned that one of those was asking his father about Frodo. Later they met one of the [[Wandering Companies]] of Elves; the experience of meeting Elves the first time left him speechless (although they were different than he expected, ''"so old and young, and so gay and sad, as it were,"'' as Sam described them<ref name="short">{{FR|Mushrooms}}, p. 87</ref>); the hobbits camped with them and Sam was like in a living dream, mentioning it as one of the most important events of his life. He was enchanted especially by their singing.<ref name=three/> The Elves warned him not to leave Frodo on his journey, and Sam denied he would ever think about it.<ref name=short/><br />
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The next day Sam insisted that Pippin should leave some elven bread for their breakfast. That morning, Sam felt changed, feeling that he had to fulfill a role that lies beyond the Shire, something more important than meeting Elves or [[dragons]] or seeing mountains.<ref name=short/><br />
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At Crickhollow where his and the Conspirators' role was revealed. Merry joined the travellers on their way to Bree.<br />
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===Crickhollow to Rivendell===<br />
The hobbits decided to risk travelling through the [[Old Forest]] to avoid Black Riders. There [[Old Man Willow]] put a spell of sleepiness on the four hobbits. Once Merry and Pippin slept by the tree and Frodo bathed his feet in the [[Withywindle]], the willow tree tried to drown Frodo and swallowed Merry and Pippin, but Sam proved the most resistant. He saved Frodo from drowning and tried to start a fire to frighten Old Man Willow but the tree threatened to squeeze the hobbits in two if he did not put it out. They were saved by Tom Bombadil and stayed in his house for two days. Sam was the only hobbit who slept contentedly.<ref>{{FR|Forest}}; {{FR|Bombadil}}</ref><br />
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They passed through [[Barrow-downs]] and came to [[the Prancing Pony]] at Bree where they were joined by "[[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]]". Sam did not trust the ranger at first, but Frodo accepted his help as they could not get to Rivendell otherwise. [[Sauron]]'s spies had opened the stables of the inn and all the mounts went loose, therefore before leaving the village, the company purchased a [[Ponies|pony]] from [[Bill Ferny]]. Sam loved and tended the animal, and named him [[Bill the Pony|Bill]], after his owner. Upon their departure, Bill Ferney saw and taunted them. In response, Sam threw an apple at his head.<ref>{{FR|Sign}}; {{FR|Strider}}; {{FR|Knife}}</ref><br />
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As they came to [[Weathertop]], Sam recited a poem about Gil-Galad that Bilbo had taught him.<ref>{{FR|Knife}}, p. 186</ref> After Frodo was stabbed by a Ringwraith, his distrust toward Strider only grew, and he was distraught when he learned that Frodo's wound might subdue him to the Black Riders' will. When the group came to the old place where [[Tom]], [[Bert]], and [[William]] had been turned to stone, he sang "[[The Stone Troll]]", an original composition of his, for the others.<ref>{{FR|Flight}}</ref><br />
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===Fellowship of the Ring===<br />
When they reached [[Rivendell]], Sam was beside Frodo's bed while he was recovering from the [[Morgul-wound]] he was inflicted on Weathertop and hardly left except to run messages. Once Frodo awoke, Sam led him to join the rest of the party. He had begged to wait on Frodo but was told that for this time he was a guest of honor. When Frodo reunited with Bilbo, Sam sat near near them and listened as they spoke together until he fell asleep.<ref>{{FR|II1}}</ref><br />
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The following day, Sam eavesdropped on the [[Council of Elrond]] and remained silent until it was revealed that Frodo would be the [[Ring-bearers|Ringbearer]]. Then Sam was unable to contain himself any longer and revealed himself, asking if Frodo was meant to go alone, to which [[Elrond]] responded that he at least should accompany Frodo as it is impossible to separate them, even when Frodo is invited to a secret council and Sam is not.<ref>{{FR|Many}}; {{FR|Council}}, p. 270-271</ref><br />
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[[File:John_Howe_-_Watcher_in_the_Water.jpg|thumb|150px|left|''Watcher in the Water'' by [[John Howe]]]]<br />
Sam insisted on bringing Bill along on the journey, saying he would pine if he did not come. At that point, he lamented that he had not brought rope but found that it was too late to find some now.<ref>{{FR|South}}, p. 280</ref> Sam was dismayed when he learned they were to enter [[Moria]], and he was even more dismayed that they had to send Bill away when they entered Moria when wolves were about. Sam saved Frodo's life as the [[Watcher in the Water]] tried to seize him with one of its tentacles. As they passed by fissures and chasms there, Sam once again remarked that he wished he had brought rope. Sam received a scratch along his scalp for his first orc kill in the mines. When Frodo was pinned against the wall by an Orc-spear, Sam hacked and broke the spear-shaft.<ref>{{FR|Journey}};{{FR|Bridge}}</ref><br />
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In [[Lothlórien]], the Elves remarked that Sam breathed so loudly that they could shoot him in the dark. Sam was the only one of the four hobbits who had no trouble sleeping upon the Elves' [[flet]], and he remarked that he will go on sleeping whether or not he rolled off in his slumber.<ref>{{FR|Lorien}}, p. 342, 344</ref> In [[Cerin Amroth]], once the Fellowship was unblindfolded, Sam was surprised by the bright daylight in an Elven realm, and he remarked that he "thought that Elves were all for moon and stars: but this is more elvish than anything I ever heard tell of".<ref>{{FR|Lorien}}, p. 351</ref><br />
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Sam made a verse in honour of Gandalf's fireworks. He, along with Frodo, looked into the [[Mirror of Galadriel]] where he saw trees being felled and that the Old Mill had been replaced by a large red-brick building. Sam considered going back to help those at home, but, being warned by [[Galadriel]] not to let the mirror decide his choices, Sam decided to finish his task with Frodo. At their parting from Lórien, Galadriel [[Gifts of Galadriel|gave]] Sam a [[Sam's garden box|box]] containing earth from her orchard.<ref>{{FR|Mirror}};{{FR|Farewell}}</ref><br />
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===Journey to Mordor===<br />
At the [[Falls of Rauros]] Frodo tried to leave the Fellowship secretly by boat, but Sam pursued him and leapt into the water although he could not swim. Thus after the [[Breaking of the Fellowship]], Sam was the only member of the Fellowship to remain with Frodo.<ref>{{FR|Breaking}}</ref><br />
When [[Gollum]] joined up with them, Sam remained distrustful of his loyalty to Frodo, and treated him with disdain, and partially (though unintentionally) pushed Gollum to betray Frodo in [[Shelob's Lair]].{{citation needed}} <br />
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As Sam, Frodo, and Gollum travelled, Sam began to worry about their food supplies running short and he, unlike Frodo, still thought of the return journey.<ref>{{TT|Passage}}</ref> In [[Ithilien]], he decided to risk a fire and stew rabbit, but he accidentally let it smoke which attracted the attention of [[Faramir]] and his rangers who were also in that region. There, to Sam's delight, he got the chance to see an [[oliphaunt]]. Faramir took the hobbits to [[Henneth Annûn]] where Sam accidentally revealed the purpose of their quest, but Faramir did not hinder it and Sam judged his quality to be "the very highest.", saying he reminded him of Gandalf.<ref>{{TT|Herbs}}; {{TT|Window}}</ref><br />
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Gollum led the hobbits to the [[Stairs of Cirith Ungol]], where Sam, in a conversation with Frodo, reflected on whether their adventure would be put in tales and songs to be told by a fireside and noted that they were part of a greater tale than themselves.<ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><br />
[[File:Irvin Rodriguez - Samwise the Stouthearted.jpg|thumb|''Samwise the Stouthearted'' by [[:Category:Images by Irvin Rodriguez|Irvin Rodriguez]]]]<br />
Gollum betrayed the hobbits in [[Shelob's lair]], hoping to find the Ring among Frodo's bones once [[Shelob]] had eaten him. However, Sam pierced Shelob's flesh, being the first person ever to have done so, but not before Shelob seemingly killed Frodo.<br />
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Grieving for Frodo, Sam took the Ring. At first, he was tempted to go on a quest for revenge on Gollum but instead chose to complete the quest. However, upon learning that Frodo still lived, he rescued him from the [[Tower of Cirith Ungol]] and returned the Ring to him. Because he held the Ring for a time, he is considered one of the [[Ring-bearers]].<ref>{{TT|Choices}};{{RK|Tower}}</ref><br />
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Together, Sam and Frodo crossed [[Mordor]] to [[Mount Doom]]. Sam himself carried Frodo up the slope for part of the way. There, Gollum tried to attack the hobbits and Sam spared his life now he had an idea of what it had been like for Gollum to be Ring-bearer—a choice which soon led to success in their quest. After the destruction of the Ring, both Sam and Frodo were honoured by [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] for their deeds. <ref>{{RK|Doom}}; {{RK|Field}}</ref><br />
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===Later life===<br />
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Sam and Rosie Cotton.jpg|thumb|left|''Sam and Rosie Cotton'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
After the [[War of the Ring]], and the [[Scouring of the Shire]], Sam planted saplings in all the places where specially beautiful and beloved trees had been destroyed, and he put a grain of Galadriel's soil at the root of each. He was especially shocked that [[the Party Tree]] was cut down and planted a silver nut in the [[Party Field]] where it had once been, and the nut grew into a [[Mallorn]] tree. <br />
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He married [[Rose Cotton|Rose "Rosie" Cotton]] on [[1 May]] {{SR|1420}}.<ref>{{App|Chief}}</ref> In honor for restoring the Shire his family was given the name [[Gardner Family|Gardner]]. <br />
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They had thirteen children: [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor the Fair]], [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]], [[Rose Gardner|Rose]], [[Merry Gardner|Merry]], [[Pippin Gardner|Pippin]], [[Goldilocks Gardner|Goldilocks]], [[Hamfast Gardner|Hamfast]], [[Daisy Gardner|Daisy]], [[Primrose Gardner|Primrose]], [[Bilbo Gardner|Bilbo]], [[Ruby Gardner|Ruby]], [[Robin Gardner|Robin]], and [[Tolman Gardner|Tolman]]. When Frodo sailed on the [[White Ship]], at the end of the Third Age, Sam inherited Bag End and was entrusted the [[Red Book of Westmarch]].<br />
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After [[Will Whitfoot]] resigned his post as [[Mayor of Michel Delving]] (the largest town in the Shire and the "unofficial capital"), in {{FoA|6}}, Sam was elected Mayor of the Shire, that would be the first of seven consecutive 7-year terms.<ref name=later/> Soon after his election he established a rule of succession and inheritance in situations such as the headless [[Baggins family]], since Bilbo and Frodo went over the sea and was impossible to presume death.<ref>{{L|214}}</ref> During his service, King Elessar appointed the Mayor as a [[Counsellor of the North-kingdom]]. In {{SR|1436}} he met King Elessar on the [[Brandywine Bridge]] and was awarded the [[Star of the Dúnedain]]. In {{SR|1442}} he left [[Tolman Cotton Junior]] as deputy Mayor so that he rode to Gondor with his wife and his daughter Elanor, maid of honour to Queen Arwen, to spend a year there. When Elanor married [[Fastred of Greenholm]], he requested from Thain Peregrin to make him [[Warden of Westmarch]] in {{SR|1462}}.<ref name=later>{{App|Later}}</ref><br />
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After his wife died in {{FoA|61}}, on [[22 September]] Sam left Bag End, and went to the [[Tower Hills]] where he was last seen by Elanor, entrusting to her the Red Book; according to her, he went to the [[Grey Havens]] to sail across the Sea<ref name=later/> and be reunited with Frodo in the [[Undying Lands]].<br />
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==Characteristics==<br />
Sam has brown eyes. At some points his hands are described as brown.<Ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><ref>{{RK|Tower}}</ref><br />
This could indicate he belongs to the [[Harfoots]], as they are described as having browner skin than the [[Fallohides]], to which breed Merry, Pippin and Frodo belong.<ref>{{FR|Hobbits}}</ref> Or it could simply be a tan from years of working outside. His face is often described as red-faced, turning scarlet or blushing. At one point his face is said to have turned white, before flushing scarlet.<br />
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Sam was a representative hobbit. He was vulgar and cocksure, but his devotion to Frodo moderated his conceit. For him, his service and loyalty was the measure of his heroicism and bravery.<ref>{{L|246}}</ref><br />
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==Etymology==<br />
''Samwise'' means "simple minded" or "half-minded". ''Gamgee'' is explained as a corruption of the name ''[[Gammidgy]]'', a village in the Shire. Both names are presented as translations of the [[Westron]] form of Sam's name '''[[Banazîr]] Galpsi''' (from the complete form [[Galbasi]]) (q.v. for more information).<ref>{{App|Translation}}</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien's English translation, ''Samwís Gamwich'', could have come to ''Samwise Gamgee'' in modern English.<br />
<br />
The [[Sindarin]] version of Samwise is '''''[[Perhael]]'''''. In the [[King's Letter]], contained in the unpublished "[[Epilogue]]", King Elessar refers to Sam as ''Perhael (i sennui Panthael estathar aen)'', Sindarin for "Halfwise (who should rather be called Fullwise)."<br />
<br />
==Inspiration==<br />
[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] took the name from ''Gamgee Tissue'', a surgical dressing invented by a 19th century [[Birmingham]] surgeon called Joseph Sampson Gamgee. "Gamgee" became the colloquial name in Birmingham for cotton wool. Here, Tolkien describes why he had chosen that name for his character:<br />
{{blockquote|The choice of Gamgee was primarily directed by alliteration, but I did not invent it. It was caught out of childhood memory, as a comic word or name. It was in fact the name when I was small (in Birmingham) for 'cotton-wool'. (Hence the association of the Gamgees with the Cottons.) I knew nothing of its origin.|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]:'' [[Letter 257]]}}<br />
<br />
It is possible that Tolkien may have subconsciously recalled Dr. Gamgee (who died in 1886 but is commemorated by a plaque at the Birmingham Medical Institute, only yards from Tolkien's childhood home) but he claimed to be genuinely surprised when, in March 1956, he received a letter from one Sam Gamgee, who had heard that his name was in ''The Lord of the Rings'' but had not read the book. Tolkien replied on March 18:<br />
{{blockquote|Dear Mr. Gamgee,<p>It was very kind of you to write. You can imagine my astonishment when I saw your signature! I can only say, for your comfort, I hope, that the 'Sam Gamgee' of my story is a most heroic character, now widely beloved by many readers, even though his origins are rustic. So that perhaps you will not be displeased at the coincidence of the name of this imaginary character of supposedly many centuries ago being the same as yours.|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]:'' [[Letter 184]]}}<br />
<br />
He proceeded to send Mr Gamgee a signed copy of all three volumes of the book. However, the incident sparked a nagging worry in Tolkien's mind, as he recorded in his journal: <br />
{{blockquote|For some time I lived in fear of receiving a letter signed 'S. Gollum'. That would have been more difficult to deal with.|''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]''}}<br />
<br />
==Commentary==<br />
In one of his letters, Tolkien described Sam is as the "chief hero" and placed special emphasis on his "rustic love" for Rosie.<ref>{{L|131}}</ref> He was known for rescuing Frodo at [[Cirith Ungol]], and carrying him up [[Mount Doom]]. He was one of only two Ring-bearers strong enough to surrender the Ring voluntarily.<br />
<br />
The relationship between Frodo and Sam is, in many respects, at the centre of ''The Lord of the Rings''. Sam's humbleness and plain speaking are frequently emphasised in contrast to Frodo's gentility, and he often shows deference to Frodo, calling him "Mister Frodo" or "Master". At the same time, a strong bond of love and trust grows between them, portrayed most poignantly during the events of Cirith Ungol, where Sam vows to return to his (apparently) dead master, to be reunited with Frodo in death. <br />
<br />
[[Tolkienists]] regard Sam as Frodo's ''[[wikipedia:Batman (army)|batman]]''. In the British Army, a batman was an orderly who acted as the personal servant of an officer. It was a role with which Tolkien (who served as an Army officer in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I First World War]) would have been extremely familiar. Sam undertakes all of the typical roles of a batman &mdash; he runs errands for Frodo, cooks, transports him (or at least carries him), and carries his luggage. Tolkien confirmed this interpretation when he wrote in a private letter that:<br />
{{blockquote|My Sam Gamgee is indeed a reflection of the English soldier, of the privates and batmen I knew in the 1914 war, and recognized as so far superior to myself|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]''}}<br />
<br />
This may be compared to the relationship between [[wikipedia:Don_Quixote|Don Quixote]] and his squire, [[wikipedia:Sancho Panza|Sancho Panza]], and the gradual "Quixotization" of Sancho.<br />
<br />
==In other stories==<br />
In the illustrated short story ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'', the local police officer is a Sergeant [[Boffin Family|Boffin]] who - at the behest of [[Gaffer Gamgee]] - seeks to lock up Mr Bliss as a thief for failing to pay for his car. Sergeant Boffin also has a son named Sam.<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'' (2011 edition), p. 62</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
{{Gallery<br />
|title=Samwise Gamgee in adaptations<br />
|height=150<br />
|width=200<br />
|lines=3<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Sam Gamgee.png|Sam in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]<br />
|File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''<br />
|File:Lego - Sam mini figure.png|Sam as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:[[Victor Platt]] provided the voice of Sam.<br />
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''<br />
:[[Michael Scholes]] was the voice of Sam, and [[Billy Barty]] played him in rotoscoped footage. <br />
<br />
'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Sam is provided by [[Lou Bliss]].<br />
<br />
'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''<br />
:[[Roddy McDowall]] provided the voice of Sam.<br />
<br />
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:A young [[Bill Nighy|William Nighy]] portrays Sam as a warm and caring person. No dialectical or social difference was made. <br />
<br />
'''1992: ''[[Tales from the Perilous Realm (1992 radio series)|Tales from the Perilous Realm]]'':'''<br />
:In the two episodes of "The Adventures of Tom Bombadil", [[Jonathan Adams]] portrayed Sam with a very rustic accent.<br />
<br />
'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Samwise Gamgee is provided by Stano Dančiak. Dančiak, though a slightly older actor than the other actors portraying the four hobbits, was well-known for his convincing "smart everyman" roles. This is utilised in the series to emphasize that Sam comes from a more ordinary family and humbler social standing than Frodo, Pippin and Merry. Sam is portrayed as resourceful, honest, loyal, caring, and capable of finding bravery when he least expects it. He is also very curious about the world outside of The Shire, including Elven and Dwarven culture and lore. He is addressed almost entirely by his abbreviated name, Sam.<br />
<br />
'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''<br />
:Sam is played by [[Sean Astin]].<br />
<br />
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:[[Scott Menville]] provided the voice for Sam in all but the X-box version; there, [[Cliff Broadway]] took over. The role of Sam is greatly diminished: after being caught eavesdropping by Gandalf, Sam is to be Frodo's companion, but he does not appear again until Frodo reaches [[Farmer Maggot]].<br />
<br />
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:Sam is a playable character in several missions: escape from [[Osgiliath]], Shelob's Lair, Cirith Ungol and the Crack of Doom. <br />
<br />
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise only makes a single appearance in the Lothlorien mission.<br />
<br />
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''<br />
:Unlike most other characters, Frodo and Sam make no appearance in Skirmish battles - they only appear in the storyline campaign.<br />
<br />
'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''<br />
:Sam and other Hobbits are no longer permanent units, they are now a temporary power boost available to Free People forces.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise is first found in Rivendell, preparing for the departure. Later, he is found on [[Cerin Amroth]] in Lothlorien, alongside Frodo. A series of a session plays depicts Sam, Frodo and Gollum's journey through the [[Dead Marshes]], the Pass of [[Cirith Ungol]] and [[Mordor]]. The player later meets Sam and Frodo again at the [[Field of Cormallen]].<br />
<br />
:The game's "Guardian" class ("Tank" in MMO terms) is based on Samwise due to the dedication he showed Frodo. Samwise insists that he is no Guardian and not fit to be one - because his heroic deeds have not happened yet. The player has to double-check and discovers that whoever talked of Sam as a great Guardian, apparently had misheard the word "Gardener".<br />
<br />
'''2010: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise appears in the game as a non-playable character, with [[Sean Astin]] reprising his role. He narrates the story of Aragorn to his children when the latter is to come to the Shire.<br />
<br />
{{References|n}}<br />
{{seq-start}}<br />
{{seq-head<br />
| race=hobbit<br />
| house=[[Gamgee Family]]<br />
| born=[[6 April]] {{TA|2980}}<br />
| died=Sailed west in {{FoA|61}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prev=[[Frodo Baggins]]<br />
| list=[[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]]<br />
| dates=[[13 March|13]] - [[14 March]], {{TA|3019}}<br />
| next=[[Frodo Baggins]]<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prev=[[Will Whitfoot]]<br />
| list=[[Mayor of Michel Delving]]<br />
| dates={{FoA|6}} - {{FoA|55|n}}<br />
| next=Unknown<br />
}}<br />
{{seq-end}}<br />
<br />
{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}<br />
{{ringbearers}}{{lordoftheringsfilms}}<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Chroniclers of Arda]]<br />
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]<br />
[[Category:Gamgee]]<br />
[[Category:Hobbits]]<br />
[[Category:Mayors of Michel Delving]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Third Age characters]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Samweis Gamdschie]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Samwise_Gamgee&diff=384526Samwise Gamgee2024-01-08T18:10:03Z<p>Sage: /* Later life */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Expansion}}<br />
{{hobbit infobox<br />
| name=Samwise Gamgee<br />
| image=[[File:Anna Kulisz - Sam Gamgee.jpeg|250px]]<br />
| caption="Samwise" by [[:Category:Images by Anna Kulisz|Anna Kulisz]]<br />
| pronun=<br />
| othernames=''[[Banazîr]]'' ([[Hobbitish|H]])<br />''[[Perhael]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]])<br />
| titles=[[Mayor of Michel Delving]], Ring-Bearer (for a short time) <br />
| position=Gardener, chief investigator, [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]]<br />
| location=[[Bagshot Row|3 Bagshot Row]], [[Hobbiton]]<br/>[[Bag End]], [[Hobbiton]]<br/>[[Tol Eressëa]]<br />
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]<br />
| language=[[Westron]]<br />
| birth=[[6 April]] {{TA|2980}}<ref group="note">In the second edition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', Sam's year of birth was added to ''[[Appendix B|The Tale of Years]]''; it was, however, {{TA|2983}}. This contradicts both the ''[[Longfather Tree of Master Samwise]]'' and a later entry in ''The Tale of Years''. The incorrect date has been corrected in the [[The Lord of the Rings (50th Anniversary Edition)|50th anniversary edition]]. See also ''[[The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion]]'', p. 716.</ref><br />
| birthlocation=The [[Shire]]<br />
| rule={{FoA|6}} - {{FoA|55|n}}<br />
| sailedwest=After {{FoA|61}}<br />
| sailedto=[[Grey Havens]]<br />
| age=102<br />
| notablefor=Being counted among the Fellowship of the Ring and following [[Frodo Baggins]] into Mordor.<br />
| family=[[Gamgee Family|Gamgee]]; founded the [[Gardner Family|Gardner family]]<br />
| parentage=[[Gaffer Gamgee|Hamfast Gamgee]] and [[Bell Goodchild]]<br />
| siblings=[[Hamson Gamgee|Hamson]], [[Halfred Gamgee|Halfred]], [[Daisy Gamgee|Daisy]], [[May Gamgee|May]] and [[Marigold Gamgee|Marigold]]<br />
| spouse=[[Rose Cotton]]<br />
| children=[[Elanor Gardner|Elanor]], [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]], [[Rose Gardner|Rose]], [[Merry Gardner|Merry]], [[Pippin Gardner|Pippin]], [[Goldilocks Gardner|Goldilocks]], [[Hamfast Gardner|Hamfast]], [[Daisy Gardner|Daisy]], [[Primrose Gardner|Primrose]], [[Bilbo Gardner|Bilbo]], [[Ruby Gardner|Ruby]], [[Robin Gardner|Robin]], and [[Tolman Gardner|Tolman]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| height=<br />
| hair=<br />
| eyes=Brown<ref name="breaking">{{FR|Breaking}}</ref><br />
| skin colour=Brown-handed<br />
| clothing=<br />
| weapons=[[Daggers of Westernesse|Dagger of Westernesse]], also [[Sting]]<br />
| steed=[[Bill the Pony|Bill]]<br />
}}<br />
<center>{{quote|I am glad you are here with me. Here at the end of all things, Sam|[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] in ''[[The Return of the King]]'', "[[Mount Doom]]"}}</center><br />
<br />
'''Samwise Gamgee''', commonly known as '''Sam''', was [[Frodo Baggins]]' servant and the only original member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] to remain with him to the very end of the journey to [[Mount Doom]].<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===Early life===<br />
Samwise lived with his father, [[Gaffer Gamgee|Hamfast Gamgee]], better known as the "Gaffer", on [[Bagshot Row]] in [[the Shire]], close to [[Bag End]]. Sam's mother was [[Bell Gamgee|Bell Goodchild]]; he had five siblings: [[Hamson Gamgee|Hamson]], [[Halfred Gamgee|Halfred]], [[Daisy Gamgee|Daisy]], [[May Gamgee|May]], and [[Marigold Gamgee|Marigold]]. He was a friend of the [[Cotton Family|Cotton family]] and used to play in [[Bywater Pool]] with [[Wilcome Cotton II|Jolly]], [[Tolman Cotton Junior|Tom]], [[Carl Cotton|Nibs]], and [[Rose Cotton|Rosie Cotton]] specifically.<ref>{{RK|VI3}}</ref><br />
<br />
A gardener by trade, Sam seemed to be a simple [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] of plain speech. He helped his Gaffer tending the garden of Bag End and was taught the art of rope making by his [[Hobson|grandfather]] and his uncle [[Andwise Roper|Andy]]. In his work at Bag-End, he was acquainted with [[Bilbo Baggins]]. Bilbo taught him [[tengwar|letters]], and nurtured his love for [[Elves]], poetry, and his belief that the world contains greater wonders than most hobbits are aware of. This set him apart from the beginning to the Gaffer's dismay.<ref>{{FR|Party}};{{TT|Taming}}</ref> Sam often wandered outside [[Hobbiton]] and knew well the area twenty miles around.<ref name=three>{{FR|Three}}</ref><br />
<br />
On [[12 April]] Sam was in ''[[The Green Dragon]]'' and discussed with [[Ted Sandyman]] the strange rumours he heard around the Shire, including his [[Hal Gamgee|cousin Hal]] seeing a "Tree-man", and the [[Elves]] who leave [[Middle-earth]]. Ted called his cousin crazy and dismissed all rumours. In the evening, he returned to [[the Hill]] thinking about the hard work he has to do when he saw [[Gandalf]] arriving to visit Frodo, after many years.<ref name=shadow>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Eavesdropping on Frodo and Gandalf===<br />
Sam was one of the "[[Conspirators]]" who were summoned by [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry Brandybuck]] in order to watch over [[Frodo Baggins]] and the [[The One Ring|Ring]] inherited by Frodo from Bilbo. Being the closest to Frodo, Sam was their "chief investigator" who was to eavesdrop on his talks with Gandalf the [[Wizards|Wizard]].<ref>{{FR|Conspiracy}}</ref><br />
<br />
He eavesdrops on Frodo and Gandalf's discussion while working at the garden of Bag End. It was when Gandalf revealed to Frodo that Bilbo's ring is [[Sauron]]'s One Ring, and on the mention that Frodo must leave the Shire, Sam choked. Initially suspected as a spy, Sam feigned innocent curiosity. Sam begged Gandalf not to turn him into anything "unnatural". Sam then immediately asked to be taken to see Elves when they went away. Gandalf decided to make Sam Frodo's first companion.<ref name=shadow/> <br />
<br />
===From Hobbiton to Crickhollow===<br />
Sam joined Frodo on his journey to [[Bree]] and [[Rivendell]], as to outside appearances as Frodo's gardener. He lied that he had the lightest baggage after Frodo complained about the weight of his, and he offered to take more. Sam and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin Took]] followed Frodo to his new house at [[Crickhollow]] and when they were encountered by [[Black Riders]] Sam mentioned that one of those was asking his father about Frodo. Later they met one of the [[Wandering Companies]] of Elves; the experience of meeting Elves the first time left him speechless (although they were different than he expected, ''"so old and young, and so gay and sad, as it were,"'' as Sam described them<ref name="short">{{FR|Mushrooms}}, p. 87</ref>); the hobbits camped with them and Sam was like in a living dream, mentioning it as one of the most important events of his life. He was enchanted especially by their singing.<ref name=three/> The Elves warned him not to leave Frodo on his journey, and Sam denied he would ever think about it.<ref name=short/><br />
<br />
The next day Sam insisted that Pippin should leave some elven bread for their breakfast. That morning, Sam felt changed, feeling that he had to fulfill a role that lies beyond the Shire, something more important than meeting Elves or [[dragons]] or seeing mountains.<ref name=short/><br />
<br />
At Crickhollow where his and the Conspirators' role was revealed. Merry joined the travellers on their way to Bree.<br />
<br />
===Crickhollow to Rivendell===<br />
The hobbits decided to risk travelling through the [[Old Forest]] to avoid Black Riders. There [[Old Man Willow]] put a spell of sleepiness on the four hobbits. Once Merry and Pippin slept by the tree and Frodo bathed his feet in the [[Withywindle]], the willow tree tried to drown Frodo and swallowed Merry and Pippin, but Sam proved the most resistant. He saved Frodo from drowning and tried to start a fire to frighten Old Man Willow but the tree threatened to squeeze the hobbits in two if he did not put it out. They were saved by Tom Bombadil and stayed in his house for two days. Sam was the only hobbit who slept contentedly.<ref>{{FR|Forest}}; {{FR|Bombadil}}</ref><br />
<br />
They passed through [[Barrow-downs]] and came to [[the Prancing Pony]] at Bree where they were joined by "[[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]]". Sam did not trust the ranger at first, but Frodo accepted his help as they could not get to Rivendell otherwise. [[Sauron]]'s spies had opened the stables of the inn and all the mounts went loose, therefore before leaving the village, the company purchased a [[Ponies|pony]] from [[Bill Ferny]]. Sam loved and tended the animal, and named him [[Bill the Pony|Bill]], after his owner. Upon their departure, Bill Ferney saw and taunted them. In response, Sam threw an apple at his head.<ref>{{FR|Sign}}; {{FR|Strider}}; {{FR|Knife}}</ref><br />
<br />
As they came to [[Weathertop]], Sam recited a poem about Gil-Galad that Bilbo had taught him.<ref>{{FR|Knife}}, p. 186</ref> After Frodo was stabbed by a Ringwraith, his distrust toward Strider only grew, and he was distraught when he learned that Frodo's wound might subdue him to the Black Riders' will. When the group came to the old place where [[Tom]], [[Bert]], and [[William]] had been turned to stone, he sang "[[The Stone Troll]]", an original composition of his, for the others.<ref>{{FR|Flight}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Fellowship of the Ring===<br />
When they reached [[Rivendell]], Sam was beside Frodo's bed while he was recovering from the [[Morgul-wound]] he was inflicted on Weathertop and hardly left except to run messages. Once Frodo awoke, Sam led him to join the rest of the party. He had begged to wait on Frodo but was told that for this time he was a guest of honor. When Frodo reunited with Bilbo, Sam sat near near them and listened as they spoke together until he fell asleep.<ref>{{FR|II1}}</ref><br />
<br />
The following day, Sam eavesdropped on the [[Council of Elrond]] and remained silent until it was revealed that Frodo would be the [[Ring-bearers|Ringbearer]]. Then Sam was unable to contain himself any longer and revealed himself, asking if Frodo was meant to go alone, to which [[Elrond]] responded that he at least should accompany Frodo as it is impossible to separate them, even when Frodo is invited to a secret council and Sam is not.<ref>{{FR|Many}}; {{FR|Council}}, p. 270-271</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:John_Howe_-_Watcher_in_the_Water.jpg|thumb|150px|left|''Watcher in the Water'' by [[John Howe]]]]<br />
Sam insisted on bringing Bill along on the journey, saying he would pine if he did not come. At that point, he lamented that he had not brought rope but found that it was too late to find some now.<ref>{{FR|South}}, p. 280</ref> Sam was dismayed when he learned they were to enter [[Moria]], and he was even more dismayed that they had to send Bill away when they entered Moria when wolves were about. Sam saved Frodo's life as the [[Watcher in the Water]] tried to seize him with one of its tentacles. As they passed by fissures and chasms there, Sam once again remarked that he wished he had brought rope. Sam received a scratch along his scalp for his first orc kill in the mines. When Frodo was pinned against the wall by an Orc-spear, Sam hacked and broke the spear-shaft.<ref>{{FR|Journey}};{{FR|Bridge}}</ref><br />
<br />
In [[Lothlórien]], the Elves remarked that Sam breathed so loudly that they could shoot him in the dark. Sam was the only one of the four hobbits who had no trouble sleeping upon the Elves' [[flet]], and he remarked that he will go on sleeping whether or not he rolled off in his slumber.<ref>{{FR|Lorien}}, p. 342, 344</ref> In [[Cerin Amroth]], once the Fellowship was unblindfolded, Sam was surprised by the bright daylight in an Elven realm, and he remarked that he "thought that Elves were all for moon and stars: but this is more elvish than anything I ever heard tell of".<ref>{{FR|Lorien}}, p. 351</ref><br />
<br />
Sam made a verse in honour of Gandalf's fireworks. He, along with Frodo, looked into the [[Mirror of Galadriel]] where he saw trees being felled and that the Old Mill had been replaced by a large red-brick building. Sam considered going back to help those at home, but, being warned by [[Galadriel]] not to let the mirror decide his choices, Sam decided to finish his task with Frodo. At their parting from Lórien, Galadriel [[Gifts of Galadriel|gave]] Sam a [[Sam's garden box|box]] containing earth from her orchard.<ref>{{FR|Mirror}};{{FR|Farewell}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Journey to Mordor===<br />
At the [[Falls of Rauros]] Frodo tried to leave the Fellowship secretly by boat, but Sam pursued him and leapt into the water although he could not swim. Thus after the [[Breaking of the Fellowship]], Sam was the only member of the Fellowship to remain with Frodo.<ref>{{FR|Breaking}}</ref><br />
When [[Gollum]] joined up with them, Sam remained distrustful of his loyalty to Frodo, and treated him with disdain, and partially (though unintentionally) pushed Gollum to betray Frodo in [[Shelob's Lair]].{{citation needed}} <br />
<br />
As Sam, Frodo, and Gollum travelled, Sam began to worry about their food supplies running short and he, unlike Frodo, still thought of the return journey.<ref>{{TT|Passage}}</ref> In [[Ithilien]], he decided to risk a fire and stew rabbit, but he accidentally let it smoke which attracted the attention of [[Faramir]] and his rangers who were also in that region. There, to Sam's delight, he got the chance to see an [[oliphaunt]]. Faramir took the hobbits to [[Henneth Annûn]] where Sam accidentally revealed the purpose of their quest, but Faramir did not hinder it and Sam judged his quality to be "the very highest.", saying he reminded him of Gandalf.<ref>{{TT|Herbs}}; {{TT|Window}}</ref><br />
<br />
Gollum led the hobbits to the [[Stairs of Cirith Ungol]], where Sam, in a conversation with Frodo, reflected on whether their adventure would be put in tales and songs to be told by a fireside and noted that they were part of a greater tale than themselves.<ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><br />
[[File:Irvin Rodriguez - Samwise the Stouthearted.jpg|thumb|''Samwise the Stouthearted'' by [[:Category:Images by Irvin Rodriguez|Irvin Rodriguez]]]]<br />
Gollum betrayed the hobbits in [[Shelob's lair]], hoping to find the Ring among Frodo's bones once [[Shelob]] had eaten him. However, Sam pierced Shelob's flesh, being the first person ever to have done so, but not before Shelob seemingly killed Frodo.<br />
<br />
Grieving for Frodo, Sam took the Ring. At first, he was tempted to go on a quest for revenge on Gollum but instead chose to complete the quest. However, upon learning that Frodo still lived, he rescued him from the [[Tower of Cirith Ungol]] and returned the Ring to him. Because he held the Ring for a time, he is considered one of the [[Ring-bearers]].<ref>{{TT|Choices}};{{RK|Tower}}</ref><br />
<br />
Together, Sam and Frodo crossed [[Mordor]] to [[Mount Doom]]. Sam himself carried Frodo up the slope for part of the way. There, Gollum tried to attack the hobbits and Sam spared his life now he had an idea of what it had been like for Gollum to be Ring-bearer—a choice which soon led to success in their quest. After the destruction of the Ring, both Sam and Frodo were honoured by [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] for their deeds. <ref>{{RK|Doom}}; {{RK|Field}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Later life===<br />
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Sam and Rosie Cotton.jpg|thumb|left|''Sam and Rosie Cotton'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
After the [[War of the Ring]], and the [[Scouring of the Shire]], Sam planted saplings in all the places where specially beautiful and beloved trees had been destroyed, and he put a grain of Galadriel's soil at the root of each. He was especially shocked that [[the Party Tree]] was cut down and planted a silver nut in the [[Party Field]] where it had once been, and the nut grew into a [[Mallorn]] tree. <br />
<br />
He married [[Rose Cotton|Rose "Rosie" Cotton]] on [[1 May]] {{SR|1420}}.<ref>{{App|Chief}}</ref> In honor for restoring the Shire his family was given the name [[Gardner Family|Gardner]]. <br />
<br />
They had thirteen children: [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor the Fair]], [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]], [[Rose Gardner|Rose]], [[Merry Gardner|Merry]], [[Pippin Gardner|Pippin]], [[Goldilocks Gardner|Goldilocks]], [[Hamfast Gardner|Hamfast]], [[Daisy Gardner|Daisy]], [[Primrose Gardner|Primrose]], [[Bilbo Gardner|Bilbo]], [[Ruby Gardner|Ruby]], [[Robin Gardner|Robin]], and [[Tolman Gardner|Tolman]]. When Frodo sailed on the [[White Ship]], at the end of the Third Age, Sam inherited Bag End and was entrusted the [[Red Book of Westmarch]].<br />
<br />
After [[Will Whitfoot]] resigned his post as [[Mayor of Michel Delving]] (the largest town in the Shire and the "unofficial capital"), in {{FoA|6}}, Sam was elected Mayor of the Shire, that would be the first of seven consecutive 7-year terms.<ref name=later/> Soon after his election he established a rule of succession and inheritance in situations such as the headless [[Baggins family]], since Bilbo and Frodo went over the sea and was impossible to presume death.<ref>{{L|214}}<ref> During his service, King Elessar appointed the Mayor as a [[Counsellor of the North-kingdom]]. In {{SR|1436}} he met King Elessar on the [[Brandywine Bridge]] and was awarded the [[Star of the Dúnedain]]. In {{SR|1442}} he left [[Tolman Cotton Junior]] as deputy Mayor so that he rode to Gondor with his wife and his daughter Elanor, maid of honour to Queen Arwen, to spend a year there. When Elanor married [[Fastred of Greenholm]], he requested from Thain Peregrin to make him [[Warden of Westmarch]] in {{SR|1462}}.<ref name=later>{{App|Later}}</ref><br />
<br />
After his wife died in {{FoA|61}}, on [[22 September]] Sam left Bag End, and went to the [[Tower Hills]] where he was last seen by Elanor, entrusting to her the Red Book; according to her, he went to the [[Grey Havens]] to sail across the Sea<ref name=later/> and be reunited with Frodo in the [[Undying Lands]].<br />
<br />
==Characteristics==<br />
Sam has brown eyes. At some points his hands are described as brown.<Ref>{{TT|Stairs}}</ref><ref>{{RK|Tower}}</ref><br />
This could indicate he belongs to the [[Harfoots]], as they are described as having browner skin than the [[Fallohides]], to which breed Merry, Pippin and Frodo belong.<ref>{{FR|Hobbits}}</ref> Or it could simply be a tan from years of working outside. His face is often described as red-faced, turning scarlet or blushing. At one point his face is said to have turned white, before flushing scarlet.<br />
<br />
Sam was a representative hobbit. He was vulgar and cocksure, but his devotion to Frodo moderated his conceit. For him, his service and loyalty was the measure of his heroicism and bravery.<ref>{{L|246}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
''Samwise'' means "simple minded" or "half-minded". ''Gamgee'' is explained as a corruption of the name ''[[Gammidgy]]'', a village in the Shire. Both names are presented as translations of the [[Westron]] form of Sam's name '''[[Banazîr]] Galpsi''' (from the complete form [[Galbasi]]) (q.v. for more information).<ref>{{App|Translation}}</ref><br />
<br />
Tolkien's English translation, ''Samwís Gamwich'', could have come to ''Samwise Gamgee'' in modern English.<br />
<br />
The [[Sindarin]] version of Samwise is '''''[[Perhael]]'''''. In the [[King's Letter]], contained in the unpublished "[[Epilogue]]", King Elessar refers to Sam as ''Perhael (i sennui Panthael estathar aen)'', Sindarin for "Halfwise (who should rather be called Fullwise)."<br />
<br />
==Inspiration==<br />
[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] took the name from ''Gamgee Tissue'', a surgical dressing invented by a 19th century [[Birmingham]] surgeon called Joseph Sampson Gamgee. "Gamgee" became the colloquial name in Birmingham for cotton wool. Here, Tolkien describes why he had chosen that name for his character:<br />
{{blockquote|The choice of Gamgee was primarily directed by alliteration, but I did not invent it. It was caught out of childhood memory, as a comic word or name. It was in fact the name when I was small (in Birmingham) for 'cotton-wool'. (Hence the association of the Gamgees with the Cottons.) I knew nothing of its origin.|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]:'' [[Letter 257]]}}<br />
<br />
It is possible that Tolkien may have subconsciously recalled Dr. Gamgee (who died in 1886 but is commemorated by a plaque at the Birmingham Medical Institute, only yards from Tolkien's childhood home) but he claimed to be genuinely surprised when, in March 1956, he received a letter from one Sam Gamgee, who had heard that his name was in ''The Lord of the Rings'' but had not read the book. Tolkien replied on March 18:<br />
{{blockquote|Dear Mr. Gamgee,<p>It was very kind of you to write. You can imagine my astonishment when I saw your signature! I can only say, for your comfort, I hope, that the 'Sam Gamgee' of my story is a most heroic character, now widely beloved by many readers, even though his origins are rustic. So that perhaps you will not be displeased at the coincidence of the name of this imaginary character of supposedly many centuries ago being the same as yours.|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]:'' [[Letter 184]]}}<br />
<br />
He proceeded to send Mr Gamgee a signed copy of all three volumes of the book. However, the incident sparked a nagging worry in Tolkien's mind, as he recorded in his journal: <br />
{{blockquote|For some time I lived in fear of receiving a letter signed 'S. Gollum'. That would have been more difficult to deal with.|''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]''}}<br />
<br />
==Commentary==<br />
In one of his letters, Tolkien described Sam is as the "chief hero" and placed special emphasis on his "rustic love" for Rosie.<ref>{{L|131}}</ref> He was known for rescuing Frodo at [[Cirith Ungol]], and carrying him up [[Mount Doom]]. He was one of only two Ring-bearers strong enough to surrender the Ring voluntarily.<br />
<br />
The relationship between Frodo and Sam is, in many respects, at the centre of ''The Lord of the Rings''. Sam's humbleness and plain speaking are frequently emphasised in contrast to Frodo's gentility, and he often shows deference to Frodo, calling him "Mister Frodo" or "Master". At the same time, a strong bond of love and trust grows between them, portrayed most poignantly during the events of Cirith Ungol, where Sam vows to return to his (apparently) dead master, to be reunited with Frodo in death. <br />
<br />
[[Tolkienists]] regard Sam as Frodo's ''[[wikipedia:Batman (army)|batman]]''. In the British Army, a batman was an orderly who acted as the personal servant of an officer. It was a role with which Tolkien (who served as an Army officer in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I First World War]) would have been extremely familiar. Sam undertakes all of the typical roles of a batman &mdash; he runs errands for Frodo, cooks, transports him (or at least carries him), and carries his luggage. Tolkien confirmed this interpretation when he wrote in a private letter that:<br />
{{blockquote|My Sam Gamgee is indeed a reflection of the English soldier, of the privates and batmen I knew in the 1914 war, and recognized as so far superior to myself|''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]''}}<br />
<br />
This may be compared to the relationship between [[wikipedia:Don_Quixote|Don Quixote]] and his squire, [[wikipedia:Sancho Panza|Sancho Panza]], and the gradual "Quixotization" of Sancho.<br />
<br />
==In other stories==<br />
In the illustrated short story ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'', the local police officer is a Sergeant [[Boffin Family|Boffin]] who - at the behest of [[Gaffer Gamgee]] - seeks to lock up Mr Bliss as a thief for failing to pay for his car. Sergeant Boffin also has a son named Sam.<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[Mr. Bliss]]'' (2011 edition), p. 62</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
{{Gallery<br />
|title=Samwise Gamgee in adaptations<br />
|height=150<br />
|width=200<br />
|lines=3<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Sam Gamgee.png|Sam in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]<br />
|File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]<br />
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Samwise Gamgee.jpg|Sam in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''<br />
|File:Lego - Sam mini figure.png|Sam as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:[[Victor Platt]] provided the voice of Sam.<br />
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''<br />
:[[Michael Scholes]] was the voice of Sam, and [[Billy Barty]] played him in rotoscoped footage. <br />
<br />
'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Sam is provided by [[Lou Bliss]].<br />
<br />
'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''<br />
:[[Roddy McDowall]] provided the voice of Sam.<br />
<br />
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''<br />
:A young [[Bill Nighy|William Nighy]] portrays Sam as a warm and caring person. No dialectical or social difference was made. <br />
<br />
'''1992: ''[[Tales from the Perilous Realm (1992 radio series)|Tales from the Perilous Realm]]'':'''<br />
:In the two episodes of "The Adventures of Tom Bombadil", [[Jonathan Adams]] portrayed Sam with a very rustic accent.<br />
<br />
'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''<br />
:The voice of Samwise Gamgee is provided by Stano Dančiak. Dančiak, though a slightly older actor than the other actors portraying the four hobbits, was well-known for his convincing "smart everyman" roles. This is utilised in the series to emphasize that Sam comes from a more ordinary family and humbler social standing than Frodo, Pippin and Merry. Sam is portrayed as resourceful, honest, loyal, caring, and capable of finding bravery when he least expects it. He is also very curious about the world outside of The Shire, including Elven and Dwarven culture and lore. He is addressed almost entirely by his abbreviated name, Sam.<br />
<br />
'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''<br />
:Sam is played by [[Sean Astin]].<br />
<br />
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:[[Scott Menville]] provided the voice for Sam in all but the X-box version; there, [[Cliff Broadway]] took over. The role of Sam is greatly diminished: after being caught eavesdropping by Gandalf, Sam is to be Frodo's companion, but he does not appear again until Frodo reaches [[Farmer Maggot]].<br />
<br />
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''<br />
:Sam is a playable character in several missions: escape from [[Osgiliath]], Shelob's Lair, Cirith Ungol and the Crack of Doom. <br />
<br />
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise only makes a single appearance in the Lothlorien mission.<br />
<br />
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''<br />
:Unlike most other characters, Frodo and Sam make no appearance in Skirmish battles - they only appear in the storyline campaign.<br />
<br />
'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''<br />
:Sam and other Hobbits are no longer permanent units, they are now a temporary power boost available to Free People forces.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise is first found in Rivendell, preparing for the departure. Later, he is found on [[Cerin Amroth]] in Lothlorien, alongside Frodo. A series of a session plays depicts Sam, Frodo and Gollum's journey through the [[Dead Marshes]], the Pass of [[Cirith Ungol]] and [[Mordor]]. The player later meets Sam and Frodo again at the [[Field of Cormallen]].<br />
<br />
:The game's "Guardian" class ("Tank" in MMO terms) is based on Samwise due to the dedication he showed Frodo. Samwise insists that he is no Guardian and not fit to be one - because his heroic deeds have not happened yet. The player has to double-check and discovers that whoever talked of Sam as a great Guardian, apparently had misheard the word "Gardener".<br />
<br />
'''2010: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]'':'''<br />
:Samwise appears in the game as a non-playable character, with [[Sean Astin]] reprising his role. He narrates the story of Aragorn to his children when the latter is to come to the Shire.<br />
<br />
{{References|n}}<br />
{{seq-start}}<br />
{{seq-head<br />
| race=hobbit<br />
| house=[[Gamgee Family]]<br />
| born=[[6 April]] {{TA|2980}}<br />
| died=Sailed west in {{FoA|61}}<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prev=[[Frodo Baggins]]<br />
| list=[[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]]<br />
| dates=[[13 March|13]] - [[14 March]], {{TA|3019}}<br />
| next=[[Frodo Baggins]]<br />
}}<br />
{{seq<br />
| prev=[[Will Whitfoot]]<br />
| list=[[Mayor of Michel Delving]]<br />
| dates={{FoA|6}} - {{FoA|55|n}}<br />
| next=Unknown<br />
}}<br />
{{seq-end}}<br />
<br />
{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}<br />
{{ringbearers}}{{lordoftheringsfilms}}<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Chroniclers of Arda]]<br />
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]<br />
[[Category:Gamgee]]<br />
[[Category:Hobbits]]<br />
[[Category:Mayors of Michel Delving]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Third Age characters]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Samweis Gamdschie]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Letter_214&diff=384525Letter 2142024-01-08T18:05:24Z<p>Sage: /* Summary */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{letter infobox<br />
| #=214<br />
| to=A.C. Nunn (draft)<br />
| date=Undated, probably late [[1958]] or early [[1959]]<br />
| subject=Hobbit birthday, marriage, and inheritance customs<br />
}}{{letter|214}}<br />
==Background==<br />
Reader A.C. Nunn pointed out an apparent contradiction in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'': In "[[A Long-expected Party]]" it is stated that [[Hobbits]] ''gave'' presents to others on their birthdays, but in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]" [[Gollum]] said the [[the One Ring|One Ring]] was his "birthday present" and his account of how he got it indicated that his people ''received'' presents on their birthdays. Nunn asked if (1) [[Sméagol]]’s people were not [[Hobbits]], or (2) if the present-giving custom had changed, or (3) if the customs of [[Stoors]] differed from other Hobbits, or (4) if the text was in error. Nunn called Tolkien a "model of scholarship" and asked if he could research the matter. <br />
==Summary==<br />
Tolkien drafted a reply to A.C. Nunn's letter that was never sent. In the draft he went into many details of Hobbit customs and other lore not found elsewhere.<br />
<br />
Tolkien claimed that he was no model of scholarship but only a "recorder" when it came to matters of the [[Third Age]]. The faults in his records are not due to errors but omissions and incompleteness of information, due to the necessity of compression for the narrative of the story, which meant that alternatives (1) and (4) above could be dismissed. Although [[Gandalf]] said "I guess" when he stated that Sméagol’s people were of Hobbit-kind in more modern language he would have said "I deduce".<br />
<br />
Alternative (2) was possible, but since the records described Hobbits rather than "Hobbits of the Shire" in particular, the custom of giving presents was in some form common to all varieties, including Stoors. Alternative (3) was naturally true, but even a deep-rooted custom could be different in the differing branches. When some Stoors migrated back to [[Rhovanion|Wilderland]] in {{TA|1356}} they lost contact with the other Hobbits. Over 1,100 years elapsed before the [[Déagol]]-Sméagol incident and at the time of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]'s party in {{TA|3001}} it had been nearly 1,650 years since the separation. Hobbits were slow to change but the remigrant Stoors went back to a wilder and more primitive life while the [[the Shire|Shire]]-folk developed a more settled and elaborate social life. Tolkien said that the customs of the riverside Stoors must remain conjectural but that he could lay out the facts concerning the Shire in some detail.<br />
<br />
"Birthdays" had considerable social importance. A birthday celebrant was called a ''[[ribadyan]]'' (which, according to [[Appendix F]] would be rendered a ''byrding''). Birthday customs were regulated by fairly strict etiquette, in many cases reduced to formalities. On birthdays the ''byrding'' gave and received presents. In "A Long-expected Party" the narrator omitted the reception of gifts by Bilbo since it did not concern the Party, but it was the older custom and thus most formalized. When the narrator had Gandalf talking to a hobbit about Sméagol and Déagol he would not comment on the custom.<br />
<br />
The receiving of gifts was an ancient ritual connected with kinship, originally a means of recognizing a ''byrding’s'' membership in a family (anciently a short time after birth when the child’s name was announced). Parents gave no presents to children (except for rare cases of adoption) but the head of the family was supposed to give something, even if only a token. The giving of gifts was a personal matter not limited to kinship, and a form of “thanksgiving” for services, benefits, and friendships.<br />
<br />
When Hobbits reached age three they gave presents to their parents, supposedly something "produced" by the child (found, grown, or made by the ''byrding''). This may have begun the custom of giving on birthdays, and why it was "correct" that things given be presents owned or produced by the giver. In the Shire at the time of the Party "expectation of receiving" was limited to near kin and those living within 12 miles (a "twelve-mile cousin" was a stickler for the law in Hobbit expression). Received gifts had to be delivered in person, properly before the birthday (or by nuncheon on the day itself at the latest), and received in private. (Precisely to avoid embarrassments that occur in our wedding-exhibitions, said Tolkien. As an aside, he stated that only flowers were gifted at Hobbit weddings.)<br />
<br />
Déagol was a relative of Sméagol (as were all in their small community) and had already given a customary present to him before they went fishing. Déagol was a mean little soul and begrudged having given the gift; Sméagol being meaner and greedier used his birthday as the excuse to claim the Ring. Sméagol implied that Déagol’s gift was poor and insufficient.<br />
<br />
Present giving by the ''byrding'' varied much in form in different time and places, and according to the age and status of the ''byrding''. The master or mistress of a Shire house would give to all under their roof, in their service, and usually to near neighbors, although they could extend the list of recipients as they pleased. The withholding of a usual gift was taken as a rebuke. "Not very expensive" was the rule so Bilbo’s giving at his Party was exceptionally generous. The giving of a party was another common ceremony, and all invited received presents from the host.<br />
<br />
Tolkien stated that all these details do form a definite picture of sentiment and custom, even if more could be said. He might have put them into the [[The Lord of the Rings Prologue|Prologue]] but that it was too long and overloaded according to some critics. However, he had written all of the details (in this draft) because there was no shorter way to answer A.C. Nunn’s inquiry. Since the giving of information always opens further vistas he ventured to add more data lest what was given would prompt further inquiries.<br />
<br />
Gandalf represented Sméagol’s grandmother as a family ruler of high repute, even calling her a "matriarch", which called for comment. Hobbits were universally monogamous and "[[Wikipedia:Patrilineality|patrilinear]]" (family names descended in the male-line) and normally the titular family head was the eldest male. In the large powerful families (such as the [[Took Family|Tooks]]) the head of what we would call a clan was the eldest male of the most direct line of descent. But family "government" was not a monarchy, it was a "[[Wikipedia:Diarchy|diarchy]]" in which master and mistress held equal if separate status. If the master died first his titular headship of the clan was taken by his wife and did not descend to the son while she lived. Under the right circumstances a long-lived woman of forceful character could be the "head of the family" until she had full-grown grandchildren. [[Laura Grubb|Laura Baggins]] was head of the [[Baggins]] of Hobbiton until age 102, holding the title for 16 years before her son [[Bungo Baggins|Bungo]] succeeded her. Bilbo only became the Baggins’ head when his mother [[Belladonna Baggins|Belladona]] died in {{SR|1334}}.<br />
<br />
Due to strange events the Baggins headship was in doubt. [[Otho Sackville-Baggins]] was heir to the title, but after Bilbo returned alive in {{SR|1342}} after being presumed dead no one would presume him dead again. When [[Samwise Gamgee|Master Samwise]] reported that Bilbo and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] went over the sea in {{SR|1421}} it was still impossible to presume death; in {{SR|1427}} newly elected [[Mayor of Michel Delving|Mayor]] Samwise established a rule of succession and inheritance in such situations. Presumably [[Ponto Baggins II|Ponto II]] then became the head of the Baggins.<br />
<br />
Tolkien supplied an example of a Hobbit matriarch: [[Lalia Clayhanger|Lalia the Great]], wife of [[Fortinbras Took II|Fortinbras II]], who served as head of the [[Took Family]]. He died in {{SR|1380}} while she outlived him by 22 years (she missed Bilbo’s Party not because of age but because of her size and immobility). Her son [[Ferumbras Took III|Ferumbras III]] had no wife because no Hobbit lady wished to live with Lalia in the [[Great Smials]]. She died in {{SR|1402}} when her clumsy attendant tipped her over the threshold and down the steps to the garden. The attendant was rumored to be [[Pearl Took]], the sister of [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]].<br />
<br />
The office of the [[Thain]], being of military origin, descended strictly through the male line. In other great families the headship might pass through the daughter of the deceased to the head’s eldest grandson. In such cases the heir took the name of his mother’s family while retaining the father’s family name in second place; this was the case with [[Otho Sackville-Baggins]], who obtained headship of the Sackvilles through his mother [[Camellia Sackville|Camellia]]. His ambition to achieve the rare distinction of being the head of two families was rather absurd but explained his exasperation with Bilbo and his adoption of Frodo.<br />
<br />
There was no reason to suppose that the Stoors of Wilderland were strictly matriarchal and there was no trace of such in the [[Eastfarthing]] or [[Buckland]]. Gandalf’s use of "matriarch" was not "anthropological" but only meant a dominant female who had outlived her husband. It was likely that in the recessive and decadent Stoors of Wilderland that the women-folk tended to preserve better the past and so were of special importance. This did not mean though that any fundamental change had occurred in their marriage-customs. Monogamy was universal in the West – other systems were regarded as repugnant and only done "under the Shadow".<br />
<br />
Tolkien appended a note stating that he had started this letter nearly four months before. His wife smashed her left arm in their garden and so 1958 was a frustrating year, which had left him no time to deal with the ''[[Silmarillion]]''. At this point his draft ended.<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*[http://www.tolkienlibrary.com/press/1176-beyond-birthdays-letter-214.php Beyond Birthdays: An exploration and analysis of Letter 214] by Ted Fruchtman<br />
{{letters}}<br />
<br />
[[fi:Kirje 214]]<br />
[[de:Brief 214]]</div>Sagehttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Talk:Aragorn&diff=384223Talk:Aragorn2023-12-28T16:17:39Z<p>Sage: /* Etymology section */ new section</p>
<hr />
<div>Especially after looking at the review on the Yrch website, I would like to suggest again that we automatically direct to the primary character of a certain name with a note at the top to reach a disambiguation page for the others, like is done in Wikipedia. So anyone searching for Aragorn would go automatically to Aragorn II. I know that last time this was brought up it was decided against, but I would like to renew the suggestion now. --[[User:Narfil Palùrfalas|Narfil Palùrfalas]] 20:30, 5 June 2006 (EDT)<br />
<br />
:We seem to be fairly stubborn (in a good way) about our stance on this issue. Unfortunately it seems to be fairly even sides and I think we will just have to wait until more contributors with opinions on the matter come along. I'm willing to be swayed but at present I still believe treating characters and articles equally is a better approach.<br />
<br />
:When I see someone searching for Aragorn I see fans who aren't aware that Aragorn of the Fellowship is really the second, thus they learn new information. Then I see the scholars looking for information on the first Aragorn, and they are able to locate it more quickly than being redirected to an article they don't wish to be at, and having to click yet another link to find what they are looking for. <br />
<br />
:Which reminds me, this article should contain information on not only what ''Aragorn'' means in other langauges, but how [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] derived it. --[[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] 22:39, 5 June 2006 (EDT)<br />
<br />
::I agree with Hyarion on no automatic redirects. Major characters are in '''bold''', so the uneducated user should be able to find what they are looking for without any problems. --[[User:Ebakunin|Ebakunin]] 23:14, 5 June 2006 (EDT)<br />
<br />
== Titles box ==<br />
<br />
I have several issues with the information in the box in the titles section.<br />
# The [[House of Telcontar]] is not a cadet branch of the [[House of Isildur]], for cadet means junior in the sense that there is a senior branch in existence simultaneously, at least in the beginning. The House of Isildur is, however, in the quite unusual position that the senior branch has always continued, no junior branch ever taking over as new senior branch, and the House of Telcontar is merely the continuation of that one senior branch.<br />
# The box suggests that the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] ended on 16 February, T.A. 3019, or at the very least that it became leaderless at that point. Yet the article on the Fellowship itself correctly states that it was only broken, not disbanded on '''2'''6 February, T.A. 3019, being disbanded by King Elessar in the chapter ''Many Partings'' at Isengard (that being on 22 August, T.A. 3019). This clearly implies Aragorn was up to that time still, or again, its leader.<br />
# ‘House of Telcontar’ is used as a title, which it isn’t, the title should be ‘Head of the House of Telcontar’.<br />
I think all these are errors that should be corrected. — [[User:Mithrennaith|Mithrennaith]] 01:35, 7 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
: I agree with you at point 2 and 3. But I don't really understand what you mean with point 1. --[[User:Amroth|Amroth]] 14:35, 7 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
::The House of Telcontar cannot be a cadet branch of the House of Isildur, because there never was any branch of the House of Isildur senior to it. It never split off from the House of Isildur, it is the continuation of the most senior branch the House of Isildur ever had. — [[User:Mithrennaith|Mithrennaith]] 17:50, 7 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
:::I’ve got two further points:<br />
::::4. The previous [[Kings of Arnor|King of Arnor]] was not [[Arvedui]], 1046 (actually 1044) years earlier, but [[Eärendur (King of Arnor)|Eärendur]], 2158 years earlier.<br>5. As the vacancy of the northern kingship since Arvedui, the vacancy of the kingship of Gondor since [[Eärnur]] has been miscalculated as if Aragorn commenced his rule in 3021 instead of 3019: it should be 969 years, instead of 971.<br />
:::— [[User:Mithrennaith|Mithrennaith]] 04:01, 8 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
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::::Feel free to change all of these! The information in the current box I just copied from the previous one without thought. --{{User:Mith/sig}} 10:52, 8 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
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:::::If I remember good then the descendents of [[Argeleb I]] claimed to be the King of Arnor. --[[User:Amroth|Amroth]]<br />
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::::::It's a common misconception (often peddled by editors of this site), but they ''claimed'' to be Kings of Arnor, but were still Kings of Arthedain. In Appendix A it lists them as "Kings of Arthedain", and not Arnor. --{{User:Mith/sig}} 12:45, 8 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
:::::::But [[Arthedain]] and [[Cardolan]] accepted it, and [[Rhudaur]] was destroyed. --[[User:Amroth|Amroth]]<br />
::::::::And still, in all lists, as in [[Appendix A]] I ii and in [[The Heirs of Elendil]], they are listed as "Kings of Arthedain".<br />
::::::::I think I will change these points. I’m just wondering where else ‘cadet branch’ may have been misused (think I saw another case pass by when I was on a ramble checking life-spans of Dúnadan Kings). — [[User:Mithrennaith|Mithrennaith]] 19:51, 8 September 2010 (UTC)<br />
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== Aragorn: Other Names ==<br />
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In ''The Two Towers'', Éomer the Third Marshal of the Riddermark calls Aragorn "Wingfoot". I was wondering if that could be added to the list of Other Names for Aragorn. Thanks! {{unsigned|Cecelia Kjolsrud}}<br />
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:It's already there, but we appreciate your concern! --[[User:DoctorWellington|DoctorWellington]] 23:07, 28 November 2018 (UTC)<br />
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::Thanks! {{unsigned|Cecelia Kjolsrud}}<br />
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== Beard ==<br />
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From NOME:<br />
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> ''A note was sent to Patricia Finney (Dec. 9/72), answering a question about beards, that mentioned some of the male characters which she and a friend did not imagine as having beards. I replied that I myself imagined Aragorn, Denethor, Imrahil, Boromir, Faramir as beardless. This, I said, I supposed not to be due to any custom of shaving, but a racial characteristic. None of the Eldar had any beards, and this was a general racial characteristic of all Elves in my "world". Any element of an Elvish strain in human ancestry was very dominant and lasting (receding only slowly — as might be seen in Númenóreans of royal descent, in the matter of longevity also). The tribes of Men from whom the Númenóreans were descended were normal, and hence the majority of them would have beards. But the royal house was half-elven, having two strains of Elvish race in their ancestry through Lüthien of Doriath (royal Sindarin) and Idril of Gondolin (royal Noldorin). The effects were long-lasting: e.g. in a tendency to a stature a little above the average, to a greater (though steadily decreasing) longevity, and probably most lastingly in beardlessness. Thus none of the Númenórean chieftains of descent from Elros (whether kings or not) would be bearded. It is stated that Elendil was descended from Silmarién, a royal princess. Hence Aragorn and all his ancestors were beardless.''<br />
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Is there art of Aragorn without a beard that would be more suitable for the main image? [[User:Fornad01|Fornad]] ([[User talk:Fornad01|talk]]) 11:17, 12 August 2023 (UTC)<br />
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:I nominate [https://tolkiengateway.net/w/images/6/6e/Yulia_Alekseeva_-_Aragorn_in_Rivendell.jpg this one], as per the Discord discussions. - [[User:IvarTheBoneless|IvarTheBoneless]] ([[User talk:IvarTheBoneless|talk]]) 17:04, 26 November 2023 (UTC)<br />
::I concur. [[User:JR Snow|JR Snow]] ([[User talk:JR Snow|talk]]) 10:10, 27 November 2023 (UTC)<br />
:::Changed! [[User:Fornad01|Fornad]] ([[User talk:Fornad01|talk]]) 13:51, 27 November 2023 (UTC)<br />
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== Etymology section ==<br />
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I propose we clean up the Etymology section; after giving the etymology/meaning from Tolkien himself, I think it is unnecessary to include various fanon theories. I guess they have some nerdy interest, showing how the fandom interpreted the name all these decades before the recent publication of the etymology, but I think it is outside the scope of the encyclopedic article. <br />
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Eg. saying that Ruth Noel proposed some meaning, ignoring Tolkien's statement, is both a useless information, and a criticism of RN, unrelated to Aragorn. [[User:Sage|Sage]] ([[User talk:Sage|talk]]) 16:17, 28 December 2023 (UTC)</div>Sage