Enchanted River

From Tolkien Gateway
Throwing a Rope by Matěj Čadil

The Enchanted River rose in the Mountains of Mirkwood, and flowed northwards in a great loop to meet the Forest River under the canopy of the trees of Mirkwood.[1] Its water was black, and carried a curse that gave the river its name - any person coming into contact with its enchanted water immediately fell into a long, deep sleep.[2]

About halfway along its length, the Enchanted River flowed across the Elf-path that led west to east through Mirkwood to the Elvenking's Halls, and it seems that a ferry was maintained there, presumably for the use of the Wood-elves. At least, Bilbo Baggins and the Dwarves found a boat kept on the eastern bank of the River, which they used to cross it on their journey to Erebor. However, Bombur fell in the river and lost consciousness, and his companions had to pull him out and carry him for several days with ropes.[3]

Portrayal in adaptations[edit | edit source]

1982-97: Middle-earth Role Playing:

The Enchanted River, said to be called Gûlduin or Gûlhir in Sindarin, is 100 miles long.[4][5]

2013: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug:

The Enchanted River appears only in the extended edition. As in the book, Bombur falls in it and the other Dwarves have to carry him. They are forced to find another way past the river, which causes them to get lost in the forest.

References