Of Dis the Dwarf-woman

Dis is the only Dwarf-woman mentioned in the histories of Middle-earth. King Elessar, after the War of the Ring had histories of all peoples recorded and, for whatever reason, Gimli son of Gloin only mentioned Dis. From a genealogy (p. 361, The Return of the King) it is noted that she was the mother of Fili and Kili who played prominent roles in the journey to Erebor (otherwise known as The Hobbit). No other distinguishing characteristics are given about her other than she was born in 2760 Third Age. However, there are some interesting tidbits we learn about Dwarf-women in general.

Only a few Dwarf-women existed, not even a third of the total Dwarven population. They seldom journey unless a great need arises. "They are in voice and appearance, and in garb if they must go on a journey, so like to the dwarf-men that the eyes and ears of other peoples cannot tell them apart. This has given rise to the foolish opinion among Men that there are no dwarf-women, and that the Dwarves 'grow out of stones'" (p. 360, The Return of the King). Nice use of the appendix material by Peter Jackson in The Two Towers extended edition movie if you've seen it. Gimli is explaining to Eowyn about Dwarf-women and quotes this almost verbatim. I'll admit I first thought that was a bit of over-the top Gimli-ism's by Jackson but apparently not so. 

Because there are so few Dwarf-women, some of those choose not to marry or will not take husband if they cannot have the one they, want fewer than one third of Dwarven-men marry. Couple that with the male Dwarves are often occupied by there crafts and not interested in marriage this can lead to a precariously difficult to sustain population. "It is because of the fewness of women among them that the kind of the Dwarves increases slowly, and is in peril when they have no secure dwellings" (p. 360, The Return of the King). I think this sheds light on Mîm the Petty-dwarf's situation whom encountered Turin long ago in the First Age. 

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2760

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 360

Saruman Occupies Isengard

Saruman offered to take command of Isengard and repair it for defensive purposes and this proffering by the wizard was well received by Beren the Steward of Gondor and Frealaf King of Rohan. "The Rohirrim were grievously reduced by war and dearth and loss of cattle and horses; and it was well that no great danger threatened them again for many years, for it was not until the time of King Folcwine that they recovered their former strength" (p. 348, The Return of the King). "It was for this reason that Beren welcomed Saruman, and gave him the keys of Orthanc; and from that year on (2759) Saruman dwelt in Isengard" (p. 334, The Return of the King).

Saruman had come praising the valor of the Rohirrim and attended the coronation of Frealaf as King. Furthermore he had the permission of Beren to take control of Orthanc as well as the Ring of Isengard. The Rohirrim in turn could rest at ease with a trusted ally in Orthanc and concentrate on defending the Fords of Isen which were the most vulnerable parts of Rohan. In the beginning Saruman was indeed perceived to be a strong friend to Rohan and Gondor. "There can be little doubt that Saruman made his offer in good faith or at least with good will towards the defence of the West, so long as he himself remained the chief person in that defence, and the head of its council" (p. 373, Unfinished Tales). For in his wisdom Saruman saw the strategic importance of Isengard as bulwark against invasion of Eriador or an attempt to surround Gondor.

And through the years, though he hid his intentions well, Saruman had evil plans for Rohan knowing that Fords were of little importance without Isengard and could not hold defenses against it. Indeed "...afterwords there was little doubt in men's minds that Saruman went to Isengard in hope to find the Stone still there, and with the purpose of building up a power of his own" (p. 348, The Return of the King). "Saruman had no doubt from his investigations gained a special knowledge of the Stones, things that would attract his attention, and had become convinced that the Orthanc-stone was still intact in its tower" (p. 404, Unfinished Tales). After the last meeting of the White Council (yet to come) he began building the strength of Isengard for his own purposes. "His friends and servants he drew then from all who hated Gondor and Rohan, whether Men or other creatures more evil" (p. 348, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2758-59

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 347-348; 334 and Unfinished Tales, pages 373; 404-405

Helm Hammerhand

The 9th and last King of the first line of Rohan was Helm Hammerhand. "He was a grim man of great strength" (p. 346, The Return of the King). When he became King the Dunlendings still controlled Isengard. One of their number, Freca, who claimed descent from King Freawine, grew very rich and paid little heed to King Helm. In turn, Helm did not trust Freca but would invite him to the King's counsel to which Freca would come if the mood struck him. At one such counsel Freca made a bold request.

"To one of these councils Freca rode with many men, and he asked the hand of Helm's daughter for his son Wulf. But Helm said: 'You have grown big since you were last here; but it is mostly fat, I guess'; and men laughed at that, for Freca was wide in the belt" (p. 346, The Return of the King). This, of course, enraged Freca who insinuated the King's refusal would lead to Helm's ruin. Helm did not directly respond saying matters of the kingdom must first be addressed. At the end of the counsil Helm forced Freca to walk with him outside by laying his great hands on his shoulders. Freca's men came at once but Helm wished to talk with their lord alone and seeing they were outnumbered by the King's men they backed away. And so Helm spoke with Freca.

"'Now Dunlending,' said the king, 'you have only Helm to deal with alone and unarmed. But you have said much already, and it is my turn to speak. Freca, your folly has grown with your belly. You talk of a staff! If Helm dislikes a crooked staff that is thrust on him, he breaks it. So!' With that he smote Freca such a blow with his fist that he fell back stunned, and died soon after" (p. 347, The Return of the King). Hence the moniker Hammerhand. Freca's people were declared enemies of Rohan and were pursued by Helm.

In four years time great troubles came upon Gondor and Rohan. Gondor was attacked along all its coasts by the Corsairs. "Three great fleets, long prepared, came up from Umbar and the Harad, and assailed the coasts of Gondor in great force; and the enemy made many landings, even as far north as the mouth of the Isen" (p. 334, The Return of the King).

"At the same time Rohan was again invaded from the East, and the Dunlendings seeing their chance came over the Isen and down from Isengard. It was soon known that Wulf was their leader" (p. 347, The Return of the King). The Rohirrim were quickly defeated and many either fled or were capture for servitude. "Helm was driven back with great loss from the Crossings of Isen and took refuge in the Hornburg and the ravine behind (which was after known as Helm's Deep). There he was besieged. Wulf took Edoras and sat in Meduseld and called himself king. There Haleth Helm's son fell, last of all, defending the doors" (p. 347, The Return of the King).

In a stroke of both tragedy and good fortune the Long Winter began and Rohan was covered in snow from November to March 2758-59. This brought misery to the Rohirrim but their enemies also suffered great losses. As food ran scarce in the Hornburg Hama, Helm's younger son, led out a sortie and was lost in the snowstorms and never returned. Pushed by famine and grief Helm became a fierce thorn in the Dunlendings side. "He would go out by himself, clad in white, and stalk like a snow-troll into the camps of his enemies, and slay many men with his hands. It was believed that if he bore no weapon no weapon would bite on him. The Dunlendings said that if he could find no food he ate men. That tale lasted long in Dunland" (p. 347, The Return of the King). To mark his going out Helm would blow a great horn and though he was only one man the enemies would flee in fear before that sound.

"One night men heard the horn blowing, but Helm did not return. In the morning there came a sun-gleam, the first for long days, and they saw a white figure standing still on the Dike, alone, for none of the Dunlendings dared come near. There stood Helm, dead as a stone, but his knees were unbent. Yet men said that the horn was still heard at times in the Deep and the wraith of Helm would walk among the foes of Rohan and kill men with fear" (p. 348, The Return of the King). Wow, Helm Hammerhand was one bad dude. And yet another story of the Rohirrim proving these are among the hardiest and toughest peoples in Middle-earth.

"At the end of his reign Rohan suffered great loss, by invasion and the Long Winter. Helm and his sons Haleth and Hama perished. Frealaf, Helm's sister's son, became king" (p. 349, The Return of the King).  When the Long Winter finally ended Frealaf led a band of desperate Rohirrim out of Dunharrow (where many other Rohirrim had fled) into Edoras and killed Wulf in Meduseld. At last help form Gondor, via Beregond son of Beren the Steward, came and the Dunlendings were driven out of the land, including Isengard. "Helm was brought from the Hornburg and laid in the ninth mound. Ever after the white simbelmyne grew there most thickly, so that the mound seemed to be snow-clad. When Frealaf died a new line of mounds was begun" (p. 348, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2691-2758

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 346-347; 334; and 348-349

Kings of the Mark

Here follows the Kings of the Mark who followed Eorl the Young:

Brego was the the second King driving his enemies out of the Wold after Eorl fell in battle. He lived from 2512-2570. "In 2569 he completed the great hall of Meduseld. At the feast his son Baldor vowed that he would tread the 'Paths of the Dead' and did not return. Brego died of grief the next year" (p. 349, The Return of the King).

Aldor the Old was the next King living from 2544-2645. He was the second son of Brego and became known as "the Old" for his long rule (75 years) and life (101 years). It was Aldor that drove out the remaining Dunlendings over the Isen and brought peace to Rohan. "Of the next three kings little is said, for Rohan had peace and prospered in their time" (p. 349, The Return of the King).

Frea was Aldor's oldest son (and fourth child) and he lived from 2570-2659. He ruled only 14 years due to the long life of his father.

Freawine was the fifth king living from 2594-2680.

Goldwine was the sixth king living from 2619-2699.

Deor was the seventh king living from 2644-2718. "In his time the Dunlendings raided often over the Isen. In 2710 they occupied the deserted ring of Isengard, and could not be dislodged" (p. 349, The Return of the King). Here is how the Dunlending occupation came to be. Both Rohan and Gondor gave little heed to the realm of Isengard thinking it a natural defense and knowing the ring of Isengard to be watched by a small Gondorian remnant. However, unbeknownst to all, the chieftains of this remnant died out. A family of the remnant took control who were of mixed blood and friendly with the Dunlendings allowing them passage into the land. The Dunlendings filtered into the land making many settlements and soon became openly hostile toward Rohan. "Deor therefore led an expedition northwards, and was met by a host of Dunlendings. These he overcame; but he was dismayed to find that Isengard was also hostile. Thinking that he had relieved Isengard of a Dunlendish siege, he sent messengers to its Gates with words of good will, but the Gates were shut upon them and the only answer they got was by bowshot" (p. 373, Unfinished Tales). For the Dunlendings had taken control of Isengard killing those who did not willingly accept them as lords. At the time Gondor could not aid Rohan and Isengard remained long occupied.

Gram was the eighth king living from 2668-2741.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2512-2741

Toady's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 349 and Unfinished Tales, pages 372-373

Of the Rohirrim and the Dunlendings

"No alliance of peoples was ever more faithfully kept on both sides than the alliance of Gondor and Rohan under the Oath of Cirion and Eorl; nor were any guardians of the wide grassy plains of Rohan more suited to their land than the Riders of the Mark" (p. 371, Unfinished Tales). This faithfulness was due to the sacrifice of blood by Eorl's people and the generous gift of land by Cirion's people--both gifts invaluable.

The land given to the eotheod was sparsely populated with only a few people living in the marshlands between the Greyflood and Isen rivers. These people were called by the Rohirrim 'Wild Men' and were akin in race and speech to the Druedain. It's seems that a remnant of the Druedain survived into the Third Age and settled in this region. The other people's, West of the Misty Mountains, in the land of Rohan were called the Dunlendings: "a sullen folk, akin to the ancient inhabitants of the White Mountain valleys whom Isildur cursed" (p. 370, Unfinished Tales). From these people came the men of Bree but those that did not migrate North. The Dunlendings had no love for Rohan and Gondor. "Only in Dunland did Men of this race hold to their old speech and manners: a secret folk, unfriendly to the Dúnedain, hating the Rohirrim" (p. 370, Unfinished Tales).

The Kings never bothered with the Dunlendings for they were too few to pose any real threat. Their defenses were always focused on the East where most of the opposition came. So for a while the Dunlendings settled in greater numbers beyond the Isen. But after the Rohirrim settled in Calenardhon (the Riddermark) their King's began to drive out the Dunlendings. "But under Brego and Aldor the Dunlendings were rooted out again and driven away beyond the Isen, and the Fords of Isen were guarded. Thus the Rohirrim earned the hatred of the Dunlendings, which was not appeased until the return of the King, then far off in the future. Whenever the Rohirrim were weak or in trouble the Dunlendings renewed their attacks" (p. 371, Unfinished Tales).

The Rohirrim were given control of all the land including the fortresses, save one. The Tower of Orthanc remained a Gondorian possession. This proved to be a border of Rohan along with the Forest of Fanghorn (the Entwood). As intimidating as these two places were they could not provide much protection if left unmanned. Still only a small people of Gondor led by a hereditary chief were left as guard to the Ring of Isengard and the tower itself was shut with the keys residing in Minis Tirith. And it seemed the Rohirrim had little to do with these people. "They meddled little with the 'Lord of Isengard' and his secret folk, whom they believed to be dealers in dark magic" (p. 371, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2510-2699
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 370-372

Eorl the Young, First King of the Mark

Eorl the Young was the first King of the Mark. He lived from 2485-2545 Third Age taking over as leader of his people at the age of 16. "He was so named because he succeeded his father in youth and remained yellow-haired and ruddy to the end of his days. These were shortened by a renewed attack of the Easterlings. Eorl fell in the battle in the Wold, and the first mound was raised. Felarof was laid there also" (p. 349, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2485-2545
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 349

Chieftains of the Dúnedain

The Chieftains of the Dúnedain preserved the line of the Kings in the North; Aranarth son of Arvedui was the first. "Arahael his son was fostered in Rivendell, and so were all the sons of the chieftains after him; and there also were kept the heirlooms of their house: the ring of Barahir, the shards of Narsil, the star of Elendil, and the sceptre of Annuminas" (p. 323, The Return of the King). The sceptre, though not used in Númenor, was the most ancient work of Men being nearly 5000 years old when passed to Elessar.

"When the kingdom ended the Dúnedain passed into the shadows and became a secret and wandering people, and their deeds and labours were seldom sung or recorded" (p. 323, The Return of the King). This does not mean the Dúnedain were not active. Often holding evil at bay in the region of Eriador. Even still they mostly lived out their long lives. It is said that Aragorn I was killed by wolves as they were ever a peril in Eriador.

In the days of the chieftain Arahad I Orcs, who were growing in numbers in the Misty Mountains, revealed themselves (in the same year Gondor was attacked in the south and Rohan came to its aid). "In 2509 Celebrian wife of Elrond was journeying to Lorien when she was waylaid in the Redhorn Pass, and her escort being scattered by the sudden assault of Orcs, she was seized and carried off" (p. 323, The Return of the King). Her sons Elladan and Elrohir rescued her but not before she suffered a poison wound. Elrond was able to heal her but she lost all joy in Middle-earth and in the following year went to the Havens and passed over the Sea.

The Orcs again began roaming and ravaging during the days of Arassuil chieftain of the Dúnedain. They were met by the sons of Elrond along with the Dúnedain. "It was at this time that a large band came so far west as to enter the Shire, and were driven off by Bandobras Took" (p. 324, The Return of the King). As we can see the Middle-earth seems to be filling with more and more evil as the Shadow in Dol Guldur grow.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 2300-2510

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 323-324

The Tradition of Isildur

Most of this story dates back to the very beginning of the Third Age; however, it does fit nicely with yesterday's read about the burial mound of Elendil where Cirion and Eorl made their oaths.

It said that upon taking the Kingship of the Dúnedain Isildur journeyed to the borders of all his land. Finding Amon Anwar, the Hill of Awe, he had a small path built to the summit. There was found a green treeless place Isildur had leveled with a raised a mound on the far east end. In the mound Isildur placed a casket that had been taken along the journey and declared: "'This is a tomb and memorial of Elendil the Faithful. Here it shall stand at the mid-point of the Kingdom of the South in the keeping of the Valar, while the Kingdom endures; and this place shall be a hallow that none shall profane. Let no man disturb its silence and peace, unless he be an heir of Elendil'" (p. 308, Unfinished Tales).

After finishing the stone stair Isildur  made those with him swear secrecy. None but the King, and those the King deemed, shall climb the summit of the stairs. Yet Isildur left instructions that the King should visit the hallow from time to time, once when the King's heir was grown to manhood and at anytime the King needed wisdom during times of distress. When the King took his heir to Amon Anwar it was then that all the secrets of the kingdom were revealed.

Nearly all the King's followed this instruction until the time of Romendacil I, when Gondor was first attacked by outside forces. At that time Romendacil had the Tradition of Isildur written on a scroll and sealed to be given to the new King should the current King die suddenly in battle. After the line of Kings ended the Tradition of Isildur was known only to the Stewards and here is what they decided:

"They judged that by the words 'an heir of Elendil' Isildur had meant one of the royal line descended from Elendil who had inherited the throne: but that he did not foresee the rule of the Stewards. If then Mardil had exercised the authority of the King in his absence, the heirs of Mardil who had inherited the Stewardship had the same right and duty until a King returned; each Steward therefore had the right to visit the hallow when he would and to admit to it those who came with him, as he thought fit. As for the words 'while the Kingdom endures', they said that Gondor remained a 'kingdom', ruled by a vice-regent, and that the words must therefore be held to mean 'as long as the state of Gondor endures'" (p. 309, Unfinished Tales).

But the Stewards went seldom to Amon Anwar, save taking their heir. "Sometimes it remained several years unvisited, and has Isildur had prayed it was in the keeping of the Valar; for though the woods might grow tangled and be avoided by men because of the silence, so that the upward path was lost, still when the way was re-opened the hallow was found unweathered and unprofaned, ever-green and at peace under the sky, until the Kingdom of Gondor was changed" (p. 309, Unfinished Tales). The Kingdom of Gondor was changed in the days of Cirion on Eorl. For in reward for the help given by the Rohirrim Cirion ceded a large portion of the kingdom of Gondor to Eorl. This, Cirion felt, wholly changed the Tradition of Isildur.

So after the great Oath Taking that forever sealed the allegiance of the two Kingdoms, Gondor and Rohan, Cirion had the tomb of Elendil removed. "For he judged that the 'Tradition of Isildur' was now made void. The hallow was no longer 'at the mid-point of the Kingdom in the South', but on the borders of another realm; and moreover the words, 'while the Kingdom endures' referred to the Kingdom as it was when Isildur spoke, after surveying its bounds and defining them" (p. 310, Unfinished Tales). Elendil's casket was taken to Minis Tirith but the green mound remained as a memorial. The hill was long held in reverence by both the people of Gondor and the people of Rohan who named it Halifirien in their tongue, meaning the Holy Mount.

In later days when the beacons of Gondor were set up this hill was included. "The Halifirien was the highest of the beacons, and like Eilenach, the next in height, appeared to stand up alone out of a great wood; for behind it there was a deep cleft, the dark Firien-dale, in the long northward spur of Ered Nimrais, of which it was the highest point" (p. 300, Unfinished Tales). There shifts of Beacon-wardens would stay keeping the path up the hill open. They were the only living men in the area and they were happy when their duty as warden was done. "Not because of the peril of the wild beasts, nor did any evil shadow out of the dark days lie upon the Wood; but beneath the sounds of the winds, the cries of birds and beasts, or at times the noises of horsemen riding in haste upon the Road, there lay a silence, and a man would find himself speaking to his comrades in a whisper, as if he expected to hear the echo of a great voice that called from far away and long ago" (p. 300, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1-2510

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 308-310 and 300-301

The Oaths of Cirion and Eorl

When the battle of the Field of Celebrant subsided and the enemy driven out all wondered how Cirion would repay Eorl and the Eotheod for their help. To the surprise of all Cirion asked Eorl to watch over the land for three months until he returned. Eorl agreed. Upon reaching Minis Tirith Cirion sent his most trustworthy servants to the Whispering Wood to prepare an ancient path that led to a hill; he asked them to keep the main entrance from the Road shrouded and to keep the errand a secret. They were instructed to only clear a small path, fell no trees, and stop when they reached a stone staircase. Should anyone ask what was going on they were to say only that the Steward of Gondor was preparing a meeting place for the Lord of the Riders.

In three months time, now summer, Cirion, his son Hallas, the Lord of Dol Amroth, and two others rode forth to meet Eorl. Cirion told Eorl he was about to lead him to the "Hill of Awe". Upon reaching the path a guard was set and Cirion led his contingent along with Eorl and his small group up the hill. Up they went and as they did so a silence fell upon them. Upon reaching the summit they found it to be flattened, void of trees and green as in the new warm spring. There they rested awhile until Cirion arose and declared his intentions.

"'I will now declare what I have resolved, with authority of the Stewards of the Kings, to offer to Eorl son of Leod, Lord of the Eotheod, in recognition of the valour of his people and of the help beyond hope that he brought to Gondor in a time of dire need. To Eorl I will give in free gift all the great land of Calenardhon from Anduin to Isen. There, if he will, he shall be king, and his heirs after him, and his people shall dwell in freedom while the authority of the Stewards endures, until the Great King returns. No bond shall be laid upon them other than their own laws and will, save in this only: they shall live in perpetual friendship with Gondor and its enemies shall be their enemies while both realms endure. But the same bond shall be laid also on the people of Gondor" (p. 303, Unfinished Tales).

Eorl was silent. He was overwhelmed by both the generosity and wisdom of Cirion. For Cirion was seeking to protect what was left of his realm and at the same time sought to fulfill the needs of his friend. For the Eotheod were now a thriving people and were outgrowing their settlement in the far North so the wide land offered, freely, would more than suit their needs. It would also bring Gondor's ally much closer to them and protect areas Gondor could no longer watch over. Simply brilliant on the part of Cirion. Plus this land would keep the Eotheod far form the Shadow of Dol Guldur. Pretty cool stuff; but it gets better.

"Yet beyond wisdom and policy both Cirion and Eorl were moved at that time by the great friendship that bound their peoples together, and by the love that was between them as true men. On the part of Cirion the love was that of a wise father, old in the cares of the world, for a son in the strength and hope of his youth; while in Cirion Eorl saw the highest and noblest man of the world that he knew, and the wisest, on whom sat the majesty of the Kings of Men of long ago" (p. 303, Unfinished Tales). Awesome! Makes me think of the true men in my life and the love I have for them. Eorl finally spoke, accepting Cirion's offer wishing to seal it with an oath that would not be forgetten. Cirion agreed and  led the group up the stone stair to a low mound on which grew alfirin, a white flower.

The Lord of Dol Amroth went forth and saw the mound had a stone engraved with markings; he turned to inquire of Cirion what this place was. Cirion asked him if he read the markings. "'I  have,' said the Prince, 'and therefore I wonder for the letters are lambe, ando, lambe, but there is no tomb for Elendil, nor has any man since his day dared to use that name" (p. 304, Unfinished Tales). Cirion revealed that this was indeed the tomb of Elendil the Faithful, prepared by his son Isildur and he brought the company to this spot so all would realize the solemnity of the oaths they were about to make. After a time of silence Cirion asked Eorl if he was ready to make his oath and so he said:

"Hear now all peoples who bow not to the Shadow in the East, by the Gift of the Lord of the Mundberg 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 Eotheod 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 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" (p. 304-305, Unfinished Tales).

Cirion then answerd affirming all that Eorl had said and adding to it (first in Quenya): "This oath shall stand in memory of the glory of the Land of the Star, and of the faith of Elendil the Faithful, in keeping of those who sit upon the thrones of the West and of the One who is above all thrones for ever" (p. 305, Unfinished Tales). What oathes indeed, sealed in the presence of Eru, the One. After the oath-taking they sat and defined the boundaries of the new kingdom with only Orthanc remaining a Gondorian possession in the land. It was decided which sections of the Road were to be maintained by which kingdom and the Hill of Awe, called Halifirien by the Eotheod, was now hallowed to both peoples and therefore cared for by both.

"In later times the day of the Oath-taking was reckoned as the first day of the new kingdom, when Eorl took the title King of the Mark of the Riders...The term Mark signified a borderland, especially one serving as a defence of the inner lands of a realm. The Sindarin names Rohan for the Mark and Rohirrim for the people were devised first by Hallas, son and successor of Cirion, but were often used not only in Gondor but by the Eotheod themselves" (p. 306-307, Unfinished Tales).

Eorl parted soon after to gather his people and it would be sometime before they would be settled in Rohan. He left about half his troops to protect the land but needed the other half to aid the rest of his people on the long journey. Cirion realized the sacrifice Eorl had made to come and now thought his gift was too small. For indeed Cirion was a humble man, generous, and noblest of all the Stewards of Gondor. He trusted that the Oath he made was not in vain and the two parted in hope and good cheer.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2510
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 301-308

The Ride of Eorl

In the spring of 2509 Third Age Cirion, Steward of Gondor, became aware of a great host mustering to attack Gondor. Men were gathering at the eaves of Mirkwood, though not necessarily well armed, in greater numbers then had ever come against Gondor. "In this peril Cirion's thoughts turned at last in desperation to the Eotheod, and he determined to send messengers to them" (p. 296, Unfinished Tales). This must have been pure desperation as the Eotheod were far away after settling in the North. This would involve traversing mountains, rivers, Orc infested lands, and the Shadow of Dol Guldur. Calling for volunteers Cirion chose six riders of great courage to be sent out in pairs with a message to Eorl, lord of the Eotheod, known by many as a valiant and wise man, though only 25 years old.

"Yet Cirion had but faint hope that even if the messages were received it would be answered" (p. 297, Unfinished Tales). For Cirion was pleading to an ancient friendship Gondor had with the Northmen. As it was Cirion assembled his troops and leaving his son, Hallas, in Minis Tirith, rode North to Calenardhon to face the imminent threat. The messengers went in pairs one day apart. One only made it safely to Eorl. "He was Borondir, a great rider of a family that claimed descent from a captain of the Northmen in the service of the Kings of old. Of the others no tidings were ever heard, save Borondir's companion. He was slain by arrows in ambush near Dol Guldur, from which Borondir escaped by fortune and the speed of his horse" (p. 297, Unfinished Tales). Weary and without food he reached Eorl barely able to relay the message of the Steward. Eorl thought briefly and said: "'I will come. If the Mundberg falls, whither shall we flee from darkness?'" (p. 297, Unfinished Tales). The name Mundberg pops up a couple times in the reading, it seems to be the Eotheod name for Gondor. The more I read about the Eotheod (soon to be Rohan) the more I love these people!

Eorl assembled his riders as quickly as possible. Leaving only a small force to defend their land along with men too old and boys too young to ride forth. Nearly 7500 set out in a eohere. Long they travelled and none hindered their way. "In part this was due to events unknown to them, which had come to pass since Borondir set out; but other powers also were at work" (p. 298, Unfinished Tales). I am not entirely sure what all those events may have been. As for the other powers at work: as they drew near Dol Guldur a mist enshrouded the riders; at first they were uneasy but found their path well lit in the midst of the mist while being camouflaged from watchful eyes. Borondir attributed this good stroke to the Lady of the Golden Wood (Galadriel no doubt). "'Maybe,' said Eorl. 'But at least I will trust the wisdom of Felarof. He scents no evil. His heart is high, and his weariness is healed: he strains to be given his head. So be it! For never have I had more need of secrecy and speed!'" (p. 299, Unfinished Tales).

And by the arts of Galadriel the eohere sprang forward; the beating of the hooves silenced by the mist and all feeling as spry as the day the journey began. For two days they travelled as such until the mist lifted and they found themselvs far from Dol Guldur. This allowed Eorl to reach the Field of Celebrant in the nick of time. For Cirion and Gondor's army were in peril. They were cutoff from retreat and assailed by Orcs as well as men. The details of the battle are not clear other than the victory Eorl brought. "All hope was lost when, unlooked for, the Riders came out of the North and broke upon the rear of the enemy. Then the fortunes of the battle were reversed, and the enemy was driven with slaughter over Limlight" (p. 299, Unfinished Tales). Good stuff and very reminiscent of Theoden's ride to Denethor's aid years later. They say history repeats itself; I suppose that's true in Middle-earth as well. Once again this story displays Tolkien's ever present idea that hope can break through even at the very moment of despair. Perhaps it's a lesson he learned in his own life; or an encouragement to his readers to always be watchful for hope and never give in to despair.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2509 (March-April)
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 296-299

Eorl and the Mearas

Eorl was considered the first King of the Mark. He was the leader of the Eotheod. His father, Leod, was killed while trying to tame a wild horse when Eorl was only 16. Eorl vowed vengeance and sought long for the horse that killed his father. When he finally found it he surprised the men he was with by not killing it; rather calling to it: "'Come hither, Mansbane, and get a new name!'" (p. 346, The Return of the King). To the wonder of all, save Eorl perhaps, the horse drew nigh to the youth. "Felorf I name you. You loved your freedom, and I do not blame you for that. But now you owe me a great weregild, and you shall surrender your freedom to me until your life's end" (p. 346, The Return of the King). There's something about the Rohirrim very manly folk (My operating definition of masculinity is: Rejecting passivity, Embracing integrity, Accepting responsibility, and Leading courageously).

The horse submitted to Eorl and allowed him to ride. Eorl rode only bareback with no bit or bridle all his days. It was said the horse understood all the words of men, would only allow Eorl to mount it, and was as long lived as men (as its descendants afterwords). "These were the mearas, who would bear no one but the King of the Mark or his sons, until the time of Shadowfax. Men said that Bema (whom the Eldar call Oromë) must have brought their sire from West over the sea" (p. 346, The Return of the King). The Eotheod delighted in horses and in all feats of horsemanship.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2501-2502
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 346 and 344-345

Movement of the Eotheod

The Eotheod withdrew into the far North. "The new land of the Eotheod lay north of Mirkwood, between the Misty Mountains westward and the Forest River eastward" (p. 295, Unfinished Tales). This was of great concern to Gondor as the Eotheod had long been trustworthy allies against all foes. The two realms still communicated via messengers but that was few and far between. For they now were 450 miles apart as the crow flies, nearly 800 for those traveling on the ground.

When Gondor was raided (by Orcs and Uruks from Mordor and the Cosairs from Umbar) after the Watchful Peace the unguarded North was ever in the Stewards minds. When Cirion became Steward he did his best to fortify the North with what he could spare and sending spies across the lands between Mirkwood and Dagorlad. "He was thus soon aware that new and dangerous enemies coming out of the East were steadily drifting in from beyond the Sea of Rhûn. They were slaying or driving north up the River Running and into the Forest the remnant of the Northmen, friends of Gondor that still dwelt east of Mirkwood" (p. 296, Unfinished Tales). Unfortunately with the strength of Gondor waned and Cirion could not aid the remnant or afford to send out any more spies as too many never returned.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2489
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 295-296

Denethor and Boromir, the Firsts

The Stewards were now ruling in Gondor. There would be 26 total with Denethor II being the last. "At first they had quiet, for those were the days of the Watchful Peace, during which Sauron withdrew before the power of the White Council and the Ringwraiths remained hidden in the Morgul Vale" (p. 333, The Return of the King). But when the Stewardship of Denethor I came Gondor would never again have peace, even when not at open war.

"In the last years of Denethor I the race of uruks, black orcs of great strength, first appeared out of Mordor, and in 2475 they swept across Ithilien and took Osgiliath. Boromir son of Denethor (after whom Boromir of the Nine Walkers was later named) defeated them an regained Ithilien; but Osgiliath was finally ruined, and its great stone bridge was ruined" (p. 333, The Return of the King). The Nine Walkers, in case you aren't sure, is the Fellowship of the Ring. Interestingly there is a scene in the extended edition of the movies where Boromir II retakes Osgiliath from the enemy; I cannot rightly remember if that actually happened or perhaps Peter Jackson took this story and weaved into the movie.

Boromir II was a great captain as well as very noble. Even the Witch-king feared him. But during the fighting he received a Morgul-wound which never fully left him. The wound sapped him of his strength and days and he died only 12 years after his father Denethor I.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2475
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 333

The White Council

This jam-packed paragraph recounts some of the actions of the Istari, though not mentioned for a while they have not been idle. Remember Mithrandir is Gandalf and Curunir is Saruman. From here I'm just quoting what I read:

"Ever most vigilant was Mithrandir, and he it was that most doubted the darkness in Mirkwood, for many deemed that it was wrought by the Ringwraits, he feared that it was indeed the first shadow of Sauron returning; and he went to Dol Guldur, and the Sorcerer fled from him, and there was watchful peace for a long while. But at length the Shadow returned and its power increased; and in that time was first made the Council of the Wise that is called the White Council, and therein were Elrond and Galadriel and Círdan, and other lords of the Eldar, and with them were Mithrandir and Curunir. And Curunir (that was Saruman the White) was chosen the be their chief, for he had most studied the devices of Sauron of old. Galadriel indeed had wished that Mithrandir should be the head of the Council, and Saruman begrudged them that, for his pride and desire of mastery was grown great; but Mithrandir refused the office, since he would have no ties and no allegiance, save to those that sent him, and he would abide in no place nor be subject to any summons. But Saruman now began to study the lore of the Rings of Power, their making and their history" (p. 300, The Silmarillion).

Saruman has never been a fan of Gandalf being around. And you can see how devastating Saruman's betrayal would eventually be as he was the head of the Council, the one spearheading the efforts to overthrow Sauron. But what struck me the most was that Gandalf refused to lead the Council (and all the inherent recognition and renown) so as to not interfere with the mission he'd been sent on. Now being apart of the Council aided that mission to be sure; but he did not want to be distracted from what was truly important for what had the appearance of importance. I think that is a life lesson. I can be caught up in what looks important and neglect that which truly is. This world will tell me, for example, I need more money (work more) to have more stuff (appear important). And yet what I really need to time for reflection, prayer, exercise, being with friends and family. Things that nobody (for the most part) would know I was doing or not. Lord, may I be like Gandalf rejecting that which looks important and embracing that which actually is important.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 2463
Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, page 300

The Stewards of Gondor

The Stewards, who came to rule after Earnur's foolish decision to ride out and face the Witch-king, were come from the House of Húrin. This was not the same Húrin, featured so prominently in the First Age. Rather a man of Númenorean race (though not royal lineage) who served as Steward to King Minardil (1621-1634 Third Age). From then on the Stewardship passed from father to son or nearest kin.

"Each new Steward indeed took office with the oath 'to hold the rod and rule in the name of the king, until he shall return'. But these soon became words of ritual little heeded, for the Stewards exercised all the power of the kings. Yet many in Gondor still believed that a king would indeed return in some time to come; and some remembered the ancient line of the North, which it was rumoured still lived on in the shadows. But against such thoughts the Ruling Stewards hardened their hearts. Nonetheless the Stewards never sat on the ancient throne; and they wore no crown, and held no sceptre" (p. 333, The Return of the King).

I love this background context about the Stewards; I think it will make the interaction between Aragorn and Denethor II much more meaningful. Also, this is the first reading in some time that strikes a spiritual parallel in my life. I think stewardship is a very Biblical idea; that God has placed humans on earth as stewards of His creation. And so the attitude becomes: am I guarding, safekeeping, growing, etc. whatever it is (my kids, money, plot of land) for God? Or do I view it all as mine? As the reading indicates the Stewards hardened their hearts to the idea that the King would return and they would then turn the kingdom over to someone else. I agree, it's easy for words to become "ritual little heeded" and whether an active decision or gradual indifference my heart can become hard. Take, for example, the Lord's prayer, which I have recited for years. Do I pay attention to the words that so easily roll of my tongue? Do I reflect on them? Do I even understand what it is I am praying (hence adding in the last verse if you clicked on the link)? So this is a good reminder to check my heart; I am but a steward and one day I will give an account to the King (whether He returns or calls me home) for all that I was
entrusted with.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2050 and on
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 333

The Last King of Gondor

Earnur, son of Earnil, became King of Gondor in 2043 Third Age and he lacked his father's wisdom. "He was a man of strong body and hot mood; but he would take no wife, for his only pleasure was in fighting, or in the exercise of arms. His prowess was such that none in Gondor could stand against him in those weapon-sports in which he delighted, seeming rather a champion than a captain or king, and retaining his vigour and skill to a later age than was then usual" (p. 332, The Return of the King). It was Earnur who rode valiantly against the Witch-king years ago though his horse gave way. And the Witch-king never forgot the role Earnur played in the defeat of Angmar.

So when Earnur became King the Witch-king, now the King of Minas Morgul, challenged him to single combat. This aligned with Earnur's greatest pleasures. Adding further fuel to the fire the Witch-king noted that Earnur fled before him the last time the two had met. "For that time Mardil the Steward restrained the wrath of the king" (p. 332, The Return of the King). For Minas Tirith, where the King's resided, stood ever vigilant against the evil of Minas Morgul and could not afford for it's King to ride out to a duel.

"Earnur had held the crown only seven years when the Lord of Morgul repeated his challenge, taunting the king that to the faint heart of his youth he had now added the weakness of age" (p. 332, The Return of the King). At this Earnur's wrath was stoked and none, Mardil included, could stop the King from going forth (I wonder if, perhaps, he had a wife if she could have talked him down?). Earnur rode forth with a small escort of knights and none was ever seen or heard from again. Mardil, known as the Good Steward, ruled Gondor in Earnur's name for many years since there had been no witnesses of his (all but certain) death.

This left Gondor in a potential crisis. Many Dúnedain were killed in the Kin-strife as well other wars and battles. As the population waned many decided to give up their lineage and take wives who were not of Númenorean descent. "So it was that no claimant to the crown could be found who was of pure blood, or whose claim all would allow; and all feared the memory of the Kin-strife, knowing that if any such dissension arose again, then Gondor would perish. Therefore, though the years lengthened, the Steward continued to rule Gondor, and the crown of Elendil lay in the lap of King Earnil in the Houses of the Dead, where Earnur had left it" (p. 332-333, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2043-2050
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 332-333

Of the Palantiri

As the Northern Kingdom of the Dúnedain fell and Gondor's strength waned the palantiri were lost both physically and intellectually. "There remained only the Anor-stone in Minas Tirith and the Orthanc-stone" (p. 403, Unfinished Tales). Two main reasons led to the palantiri passing from knowledge: ignorance and apathy. No one knew what happened to the stone in Minas Ithil (now Minas Morgul) and some suspected that it was destroyed by the defenders before the Ringwraiths captured the tower. However, it seems that it was captured along with the tower and therefore came into the possession of Sauron. "It was for this reason, it may be supposed, that the Anor-stone, about which all the records of the Stewards are silent until the War of the Ring, was kept as a closely-guarded secret, accessible only to the Ruling Stewards and never by them used (it seems) until Denethor II" (p. 403, Unfinished Tales).

In terms of apathy: as Gondor declined so did interest in ancient history. "Gondor after the Kings declined into a 'Middle Age' of fading knowledge, and simpler skills" (p. 403, Unfinished Tales). The Seven Stones of old were generally forgotten by the general public as messages were sent by errand riders or beacons in times of urgent need. In this regard the Orthanc-stone seems to have been disregarded by the Stewards as Gondor's influence in that area declined greatly after the Dark Plague in 1635. During this time Isengard was possession of Gondor  however the tower of Orthanc was long deserted.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 2005
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 403-404

Minas Morgul and Minas Tirith

During the reign of Earnil the Nazgul openly advanced on Gondor. "It was thus in the reign of King Earnil, as later became clear, that the Witch-king escaping from the North came to Mordor, and there gathered the other Ringwraiths, of whom he was the chief" (p. 332, The Return of the King). They captured Minas Ithil in 2002 and made it into a dreadful place. "Thereafter it was called Minas Morgul, the Tower of Sorcery; and Minas Morgul was ever at war with Minas Anor in the west" (p. 297, The Silmarillion). During this time Osgiliath was completely deserted and Minas Anor was renamed Minas Tirith, the Tower of the Guard. Long would this tower stand, where the White Tree still flowered at the house of the Kings, protecting the lands West of Anduin from evil such as Orcs and monsters.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2000-2002
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 332, and The Silmarillion, page 297

Erebor is Founded

The Dwarven remnant of Moria migrated North led by Thrain I, Nain's son. They settled in Erebor, the Lonely Mountain, near Mirkwood. This would be the same Lonely Mountain featured prominently in The Hobbit, both book and film. Thrain I was named King under the Mountain. "In Erebor he found the great jewel, the Arkenstone, Heart of the Mountain" (p. 353, The Return of the King). Thrain's son, Thorin I departed his father's people and went farther North to the Grey Mountains where another remnant of Durin's folk were gathering. But alas, dragons were multiplying in those days when evil was stirring at the beckon of the Shadow and they made war on the Dwarves. "At last Dain I, together with Fror his second son, was slain at the doors of his hall by a great cold-drake" (p. 353, The Return of the King). I'll have to do some research but I think a cold-drake is a dragon sans fire breathing--if a reader knows more details please leave a comment! Regardless, I'm loving this period of the Third Age. Though details are few (for example I'd love details of the final battle of Dain I and the dragon) it's reading like historical account. Tolkien's intent I'm sure and I am loving it.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1999
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 353

The Legend of Amroth and Nimrodel

Here are fragments and pieces of the story of Amroth, King of the Elves in Lorien, and Nimrodel. Most of the events take place around 1981 Third Age, just after the Dwarves awoke the Balrog and Moria fell. This disaster played into the story of the Elves.

Amdir, possibly Amroth's father (Celeborn and Galadriel may also have been Amroth's parents), was killed in the Battle of Dagorlad during the Last Alliance at the end of the Second Age. Amroth became King of the Elves in Lorien and patterned his cities in the manner of the Silvan Elves, living  high flets among the trees; earning him the name 'high climber'. "This he did because of his love for Nimrodel. For long years he had loved her, and taken no wife, since she would not wed with him" (p. 240, Unfinished Tales).

Nimrodel loved Amroth, however, her people did not think highly of the Elves from the West who had brought many wars with them upon their return to Middle-earth. Even after the Silvan tongue ceased to be used in Lorien she still spoke her native tongue by the River Nimrodel, to whom she gave her name. "But when the terror came out of Moria and the Dwarves were driven out, and in their stead Orcs crept in, she fled distraught alone south into empty lands [in the year 1981 of the Third Age]" (p. 241, Unfinished Tales). Amroth pursued her and found her near Fanghorn forest. "She dared not enter the wood, for the trees, she said, menaced her, and some moved to bar her way" (p. 241, Unfinished Tales).

There Nimrodel decided to give herself in marriage to Amroth but not before he brought her into a land of peace. Amroth knowing that could not be found in Middle-earth spoke to her about the Valar and Blessed Land and how a remnant of Elves in the South still built ships to pass over the Great Sea. "Amroth vowed that for her sake he would leave his people, even in their time of need, and with her seek for such a land" (p. 241, Unfinished Tales). I think it is interesting that for love Amroth would shirk all responsibility to his people. I suppose love can make us do crazy things.

Their journey took place during the reign of King Earnil II of Gondor (he reigned from 1945-2043 Third Age). Little is told of the journey but they became separated and Amroth looked for Nimrodel in vain. Finally he made his way to the Elf-haven, in Belfalas, and found only one sea-worthy vessel and a few Elves ready to depart."They welcomed Amroth, being glad to strengthen their small company; but they were unwilling to await Nimrodel, whose coming seemed to them now beyond hope" (p. 241, Unfinished Tales).

Yet Amroth was distraught and for his grief the Elves tarried. "Then in the autumn there came a great night of storm, one of the fiercest in the annals of Gondor" (p. 242, Unfinished Tales). It ripped the Elvish ship from its moorings and swept it out to sea. Though it was never seen in Middle-earth again it was built for the Great Journey and almost certainly made it to the Blessed Realm. Yet Amroth did not complete that journey. He slept during the storm and awoke to great anguish being far from shore.

"Crying aloud in despair Nimrodel! he dove into the sea and swam toward the fading shore. The mariners with their Elvish sight for a long time could see him battling with the waves, until the rising sun gleamed through the clouds and far off lit his bright hair like a spark of gold. No eyes of Elves or Men ever saw him again in Middle-earth. Of what befell Nimrodel nothing is said here, though there were many legends concerning her fate" (p. 242, Unfinished Tales).

It would seem that somehow Nimrodel and Amroth were separated in the White Mountains. Some legends say she was alone and others, more probably, that she had some of her Elvish maidens with her. It is said that, in despair, she stopped by a river that reminded her of Nimrodel in Lorien. "There she fell into a deep sleep of weariness, and so long she slept that she did not come down into Belfalas until Amroth's ship had been blown out to sea, and he was lost trying to swim back to Belfalas. This legend was well known in the Dor-en-Ernil (the Land of the Prince), and no doubt the name was given in memory of it" (p. 243, Unfinished Tales).

Indeed, during the days of the War of the Ring at the end of the Third Age folk from Dol Amroth, led by their Prince, aided the King. "The legend of the prince's line was that one of their earliest fathers had wedded an Elf-maiden: in some versions it was indeed (evidently improbably) said to have been Nimrodel herself. In other tales, more probably, it was one of Nimrodel's companions who was lost in the upper mountain glens" (p. 248, Unfinished Tales). In fact the line was traced back to the first Lord of Dol Amroth, Galador, who took Mithrellas an Elven-lady as wife. She would have been of the lesser Silvan race, not the High Elves, who had been to the Blessed Land, but nonetheless it is clear that the Men of Dol Amroth had Elvish blood mixed with theirs.

Meanwhile, Lorien was left without a ruler since Amroth deserted his people and was lost at sea. "Celeborn and Galadriel returned to Lorien, and were welcomed by the people. There they dwelt while the Third Age lasted, but they took no title of King or Queen; for they said that they were only guardians of this small but fair realm, the last eastward outpost of the Elves" (p. 245, Unfinished Tales). Indeed, by the guardianship of Celeborn and Galadriel Lorien remained unspoiled by the upcoming events of the Third Age, including the War of the Ring. "In her wisdom Galadriel saw that Lorien would be a stronghold and point of power to prevent the Shadow from crossing the Anduin in the war that must inevitably come before it was again defeated (if that were possible); but that it needed a rule of greater strength and wisdom than the Silvan folks possessed" (p. 245, Unfinished Tales).

I particularly enjoyed this legend. How the fates of the people's of Middle-earth, though different races, are intertwined as it is in our world. The Dwarves awakening of the Balrog created a domino effect in the lives of Amroth and Nimrodel. Amroth perished allowing Galadriel to take up the governing of Lorien which would be a strategic location for years to come. Nimrodel, or at the very least one of her maidens, married a man beginning the folk of Dol Amroth--whom will be referenced in The Lord of the Rings stories (but was cut out of the movie interpretation).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1981
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 240-243; 248; and 245

The Dwarves Awaken a Balrog

Durin was the King of the Dwarves of Moria, being the 6th to bear that name. Even as the Shadow of Sauron grew in Mirkwood, near Moria, and evil things began to stir the Dwarves delved deeper and deeper in the mountain in search of mithril, the metal beyond price. "They roused from sleep a thing of terror that, flying from Thangorodrim, had laid hidden at the foundations of the earth since the coming of the Host of the West: a Balrog of Morgoth. Durin was slain by it, and the year after Nain I, his son, and then the glory of Moria passed, and its people were destroyed or fled far away" (p. 353. The Return of the King). This would be the Balrog that felled Gandalf generations later when the Fellowship attempted to pass through the Mines of Moria.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1980
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 353

Leaders of the Eotheod

This was basically just a quick read on a couple of leaders of the Eotheod, formerly the Northmen, who will become the Rohirrim of Rohan. "Frumgar, they say, was the name of the chieftain who led his people to Eotheod" (p. 345, The Return of the King). His son, Fram, won renown for killing the dragon Scatha bringing peace to the land. Yet, this act of valor created tension with the Dwarves who claimed the treasure Scatha had hoarded. And this tension would last for years. (Think of the initial interaction between Gimli the Dwarf and Eomer).

"Fram would not yield a penny, and sent to them instead the teeth of Scatha made into a necklace, saying: 'Jewels such as these you will not match in your treasuries, for they are hard to come by'" (p. 346, The Return of the King). It is said that the Dwarves killed Fram for this mockery but whatever may have happened there was no love between the Eotheod and the Dwarves.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1977 Third Age
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 345-346

End of the the North Kingdom

Even though Gondor, the Southern Kingdom of the Dúnedain, rejected Arvedui of the North's claim as King of all Dúnedain their leader did not do so out of hunger for power. "...Earnil was a wise man, and not arrogant, even if, as to most men in Gondor, the realm in Arthedain seemed a small thing, for all the lineage of its lords" (p. 330, The Return of the King). Therefore King Earnil  affirmed the kinship of the two kingdoms and as a token that they not be estranged offered help to Arvedui should need ever arrive. Unfortunately given the nearly 100 years of war with the Wainriders Earnil possessed little strength and ability to back up his words. For years the Northern Kingdom was left to defend itself from the advances of Angmar.

In 1973, Third Age, Arvedui called for aid from Earnil. The Witch-king of Angmar was preparing his final stroke against the Northern Kingdom and without out aid they would fall. "Then Earnil sent his son Earnur north with a fleet, as swiftly as he could, and with as great a strength as he could spare. Too late" (p. 331, The Return of the King). Arthedain was overrun in 1974 and the Witch-king captured Fornost driving the Dúnedain over the Lune, including the King's sons. "But King Arvedui held out upon the North Downs until the last, and then fled north with some of his guard; and they escaped by the swiftness of their horses" (p. 321, The Return of the King).

There Arvedui and his men hid in the tunnels of mountains until utter need of food and supply drove him to seek help from the Lossoth, the Snowmen of Forochel. "These are strange, unfriendly people, remnant of the Forodwaith, Men of the far-off days, accustomed to the bitter colds of the realm of Morgoth...The Lossoth house in the snow, and it is said that they can run on the ice with bones on their feet, and have carts without wheels" (p. 321, The Return of the King). Out of pity for Arvedui and his starving men (for they did not value his jewels and treasures) they built snow-huts and offered food to the King. They were not allies of the Dúnedain but the Lossoth had no love for the Witch-king.

"When Círdan heard from Aranarth son of Arvedui of the king's flight to the north, he at once sent a ship to Forochel to seek him" (p. 322, The Return of the King). After a long journey battling the icy and tricky winter winds the mariners were as close to Arvedui as the ice would allow. The Lossoth were filled with fearful awe for they had not seen a ship in the mostly inaccessible extreme North before. By now they had formed a friendship with Arvedui and took he and his men by sled to the ship.

"But the Snowmen were uneasy; for they said that they smelled danger in the wind" (p. 322, The Return of the King). Their chief urged Arvedui not to board the ship, encouraging him rather to take what supplies they had, and wait out the winter when the Witch-king's power was lesser (whom the Lossoth thought could control the winter weather) in the summer. Arvedui chose to go with Círdan's mariners. But he left the Lossoth with a gift: "'This is a thing worth beyond your reckoning. For its ancientry alone. It has no power, save the esteem in which those who hold it who love my house. It will not help you, but if ever you are in need, my kin will ransom it with great store of all that you desire'" (p. 322, The Return of the King). Indeed, it was a mighty gift, for it was the Ring of Barahir. "In this way the ring of the House of Isildur was saved; for it was afterwords ransomed by the Dúnedain. It is said it was none other than the ring which Felugund of Nargothrond gave to Barahir, and Beren recovered with great peril" (p. 322, The Return of the King).

Unfortunately, the foreboding of the Snowmen proved true. Upon leaving the ship was caught in a great storm and ice crushed its hull. All aboard the ship perished including Arvedui, last King of the North, and two of the palantiri he had with him.

Meanwhile Earnur, son of Earnil, arrived in Lindon. By now the Witch-king had conquered Arthedain. The people of Lindon were greatly encouraged by the number of ships and men that Gondor had sent forth. Therefore Círdan assembled all who would go and together with Earnur marched forth to bring war upon the Witch-king. The host of the west destroyed the Witch-king's troops. Earnur, at the head of his cavalry cut off the fleeing Witch-king. "At the same time a force under Glorfindel the Elf-lord came up out of Rivendell. Then so utterly was Angmar defeated that not a man nor an orc of that realm remained west of the Mountains" (p. 331, The Return of the King).

"But it is said that when all was lost suddenly the Witch-king himself appeared, black-robed and black-masked upon a black horse. Fear fell upon all who beheld him; but he singled out the Captain of Gondor for the fullness of his hatred, and with a terrible cry he rode straight upon him. Earnur would have withstood him; but his horse could not endure that onset, and it swerved and bore him away before he could master it" (p. 331, The Return of the King). Given Tolkien's description of the Witch-king here I would say Peter Jackson's movie interpretation was spot on. The Witch-king laughed a horrible laugh that none would forget yet Glorfindel, on his white horse, charged him. But night was drawing nigh and the Witch-king turn and fled. No one knew where he rode.

"Earnur now rode back, but Glorfindel, looking into the gathering dark, said: 'Do not pursue him! He will not return to this land. Far off yet is his doom, and not by the hand of man will he fall' These words many remembered; but Earnur was angry, desiring only to be avenged for his disgrace" (p. 332, The Return of the King). Ah yes, here is the prophecy concerning the defeat of the Witch-king; and it would ring true years later when Eowyn of the Eotheod encountered the Witch-king. But for the present, Earnur's desire to prove his courage would be his downfall, as he would be the last King of the Southern kingdom of the Dúnedain.

Tied to this reading is a quick not about the Shire-folk, the Hobbits. Most of them went into hiding during the wars with Angmar. "To help the king they sent some archers who never returned; and others went also to the battle in which Angmar was overthrown" (p. 322-323, The Return of the King). When peace came to the land they prospered. "They chose a Thain to take the place of the King, and were content; though for a long time many still looked for the return of the King. But at last that hope was forgotten, and remained only in the saying When the King comes back, used for some good that could not be achieved, or of some evil that could not be amended" (p. 323, The Return of the King). Bucca of the Marish was the first Thrain in 1979 Third Age (379 Shire Reckoning). Indeed it would be over 1000 years before a King did return. It reminds me of my faith; that the Bible promises a second coming of Christ and yet he left over 2,000 years ago. It can be easy to forget that hope as the Hobbits (and others I'm sure) did. Lord, when I say come, Lord Jesus, may it be a prayer full of faith and hope and not just a saying about some unattainable good or irredeemable evil.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1973-1979
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 330-331; 321-323; and 345-346

The Dúnedain Reunited?

"On the death of Ondoher and his sons, Arvedui of the North-kingdom claimed the crown of Gondor, as the direct descendant of Isildur, and as husband of Fíriel, only surviving child of Ondoher" (p. 329, The Return of the King). However, his claim was rejected by Gondor  This sentiment was led by Pelendur, the Steward of King Ondoher. Essentially, Gondor's stance was that their crown would only be given to descendants of Anarion, Isilidur's younger brother. They claimed Gondor was given for possesion of Anarion (and therefore his descendants) by Isilidur when the older brother moved North. In addition, the claim was made that the crown was reckoned through sons only in Gondor so the lineage of Fíriel made little difference.

"To this Arvedui replied: 'Elendil had two sons, of whom Isildur was the elder and heir of his father. We have heard that the name of Elendil stands to this day at the head of the line of Kings of Gondor, since he was accounted the high king of all the lands of the Dúnedain. While Elendil still lived, the conjoint rule in the South was committed to his sons; but when Elendil fell, Isildur departed to take up the high-kingship of his father, and committed the rule in the South in like manner to the son of his brother. He did not relinquish his royalty in Gondor, nor intend that the realm of Elendil should be divided forever. Moreover, in Númenor of old the sceptre descended to the eldest child of the king, whether man or woman. It is true the law has not been observed in the lands of exile ever troubled by war; but such was the law of our people, to which we now refer, seeing that the sons of Ondoher died childless" (p. 330, The Return of the King).

Gondor did not responded by giving the crown to Earnil who had won the victory of the Battle of the Camp and saved Gondor. Furthermore he was of royal lineage. "Arvedui did not press his claim; for he had neither the power nor the will to oppose the choice of the Dúnedain of Gondor; yet the claim was never forgotten by his descendants even when their kingship had passed away. For the time was now drawing near when the North-kingdom would come to an end" (p. 330, The Return of the King). Looks like the goodwill initially forged between the Northern and Southern Dúnedain did not come to fruition after all. Indeed, Arvedui would be the last King of the North as prophesied by Malbeth the Seer at his birth who foretold that Arvedui would be the last if the Northern and Southern kingdoms did not unite. "'If not, then much sorrow and many lives of men shall pass, until the Dúnedain arise and are united again" (p. 330, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1944
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 329-330

Battle of the Camp

King Ondoher of Gondor knew the Wainriders were on the march. He divided his army into two forces, he taking the larger group North, and giving command of the smaller group to Earnil, a descendent of King Telumehtar, who led them South. "This had always been the custom of Gondor, that the King, if he willed, should command his army in a major battle, provided that an heir with undisputed claim to the throne was left behind" (p. 291, Unfinished Tales). Ondoher was a warrior and well loved by his troops, so he led them to battle with his eldest son Artamir and leaving behind his youngest son Faramir in Ithilien.

Earnil positioned his troops in the South leaving the Fords of Poros unguarded and encamping 40 miles North in the Southern Ithilien region. "King Ondoher had purposed to lead his host north through Ithilien and deploy it on the Dagorlad, a field of ill omen for the enemies of Gondor" (p. 292, Unfinished Tales). But news of the Wainriders movements came overlate to Ondoher and his purposes were not fulfilled. He was leading the main force with plans to set up a right and left wing on either side once the army had passed through Ithilien as they expected the assault to come from the North/North-east since the Wainriders had approached this way in the past. "But it was not so" (p. 292, Unfinished Tales). I just had to quote that; short, sweet, and to the point. Tolkien is letting us know the King is in trouble.

The Wainriders, strengthened by their kin in Rhovannion and the alliance with Khand moved secretly from the Sea of Rhûn and approached Ondoher's army from the East and found the Gondorians unprepared for their assault. Ondoher was facing a larger and stronger army than he expected on ground he did not choose. "Ondoher had only time to turn and face the assault with his right flank close to Morannon [the Gates of Mordor], and to send word to Minohtar, Captain of the Right Wing behind, to cover his left flank as swiftly as he could, when the chariots and horsemen crashed into his disordered line. Of the confusion of the disaster that followed few clear reports were ever brought to Gondor" (p. 292, Unfinished Tales).

The Wainriders recognized the King's banner. "The main charge was hurled against his banner, and it was captured, his Guard was almost annihilated, and he himself was slain and his son Artamir by his side. Their bodies were never recovered" (p. 292, Unfinished Tales). Much of the main host fled into the Dead Marshes. The Wainriders did not expect victory to come so easily or handily; in fact their main host was still far from battle. "Minohtar took command. He was a man both valiant and war-wise" (p. 293, Unfinished Tales). He quickly raised his banner rallying all Gondorian troops left on the field and as the Wainrider cavalry withdrew he set up his defenses. He sent order to Adrahil of Dol Amroth, Captain of the Left Wing to send his nearest troops to the right who were not engaged. Adrahil was also commanded to send messengers to Earnil and his troops to the South.

All was in place when the main host of the Wainriders arrived. "The first triumph of the Wainriders was now the beginning of their undoing" (p. 293, Unfinished Tales). For the slaughter of Ondoher gave them false confidence since it came so easily. Still it seemed the destruction of Gondor was imminent although the notes from the battle are sketchy. It appears that the Eotheod aided Ondoher in battle and unbeknownst to all Faramir, the King's youngest son, joined with the Eotheod in disguise. In the the first brutal assault the Eotheod fled toward the Dead Marshes and Faramir was killed just as his father and brother were. The leader of the Eotheod found Faramir just before death and discovered he was the Prince. "The leader of the Eotheod then went to join Minohtar at the head of the North Road in Ithilien, who at that very moment was giving an order for a message to be taken to the Prince in Minis Tirith, who was now the King." (p. 294, Unfinished Tales). It was then that Minohtar was informed of Faramir's death.

Though Minohtar was able to choose his ground (and it was not open fields as was the custom of the Wainriders) he could not long hold back the onslaught. Minohtar was overwhelmed and himself died of an arrow wound and the Gondorian's fled. "The chief commander of the Wainriders then called a halt to the advance, and held a feast" (p. 294, Unfinished Tales). Again their confidence was too high and they were unaware of Earnil and his troops approaching from the South. "Hastening north, he gathered to him all that he could of the retreating Northern Army and came up against the main camp of the Wainriders, while they were feasting and revelling, believing that Gondor was overthrown and nothing remained but to take the spoil. Earnil stormed the camp and set fire to the wains, and drove the enemy in a great route out of Ithilien. A great part of those that fled before him perished in the Dead Marshes" (p. 329, The Return of the King). This became known as the Battle of the Camp.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1944
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 291-295; and The Return of the King, pages 329-330

The Defeat of the Wainriders

Calimehtar was now King in Gondor and was determined to earn revenge against the Wainriders. The Northmen sent messengers to Calimehtar informing him that a revolt was being planned by those who were enslaved by the Wainriders. King Calimehtar also learned of where the Wainriders planned their next assault. "Calimehtar therefore, as soon as he could, led an army out of Ithilien, taking care that its approach should be well known to the enemy. The Wainriders came down with all the strength they could spare, and Calimehtar gave way before them, drawing them away from their homes" (p. 289, Unfinished Tales).

Upon Dagorlad the battle raged. And at its height, with victory still undecided, the Northmen charged into battle in a great eored aided by horsemen of Gondor. This turned the battle and the Wainriders soon fled. "They had left well nigh a third of their host dead to rot upon the Dagorlad among bones of other and more nobler battles of the past" (p. 290, Unfinished Tales). Calimehtar did not pursue his enemy but the Northmen rode on driving the enemy to the sight of Mirkwood saying; "'Fly east not north, folk of Sauron! See, the homes you stole are in flames!'" (p. 290, Unfinished Tales). The revolt had taken place during battle as desperate outlaws and slaves attacked the Wainrider homesteads while their armies were engaged in battle. Yet, once again, many of the Northmen were lost and they never returned to their old homelands.

While the Wainriders were defeated the victory was not complete. But for a time, from 1899-1944 Third Age, Gondor had peace. "It was in the reign of Araphant in the North and Ondoher son of Calimehtar in the South that the two kingdoms again took counsel together after long silence and estrangement. For at last they percieved that some single power and will was directing the assault from many quarters upon the survivors of Númenor" (p. 329, The Return of the King). I was wondering when the Northern (Isildur's descendants) and Southern (Anarion's descendants) Dunedain would reconnect, if ever. And it's nice to see they realize all the internal wars, external wars, and plagues are not simply coincidence. Which gives an interesting thought; often in Christianity we can talk about how God is at work even if we don't always realize it (as I've commented even in this blog, take for example the Valar sending the Istari). And yet, I think often evil is at work even if we don't always realize it either.

"In the meanwhile the Wainriders licked their wounds, and plotted their revenge" (p. 290, Unfinished Tales). They had fled East but lusted after the land and riches of Gondor so they waited and regained their strength. Neither the Wainriders nor Gondor had any solid news of the other during this time of peace as each tried to regain strength. As the Wainriders multiplied and moved South they began to war the the peoples of Khand and others. "Eventually a peace and alliance was agreed between these enemies of Gondor, and an attack was prepared that should be made at the same time from north and south" (p. 291, Unfinished Tales). In 1936 Ondoher, son of Calimehtar, became King and was warned by the Northmen of raids on their land, a signal that the Wainriders in Rhovanion were gaining strength and possible aid from somewhere else. "But Gondor could do no more at that time than gather and train as great an army as it could find or afford. Thus when the assault came at last it did not find Gondor unprepared, though its strength was less than it needed" (p. 291, Unfinished Tales).

And even if the payoff wasn't immediate the there was much good that came from the renewed alliance between the Southern/Northern Dúnedain. "It was at that time that Arvedui heir of Araphant wedded Fíriel daughter of Ondoher (1940). But neither kingdom was able to send help to the other; for Angmar renewed its attack upon Arthedain at the same time as the Wainriders reappeared in great force" (p. 329, The Return of the King). Much good would also come from the alliance of Gondor/the Northmen as has been seen currently but more so in the histories to come. "But the greatest effect of the alliance lay far in the future which none could then foresee: the two great rides of the Rohirrim to the salvation of Gondor, the coming of Eorl to the Field of Celebrant, and the horns of King Theoden upon the Pelennor but for which the return of the King would have been in vain" (p. 290, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1899-1944

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 289-290; and The Return of the King, pages 329

Invasion of the Wainriders

There was peace after the great plague until the Wainriders attacked Gondor and what was left of the Northmen. The wars between the Wainriders and Gondor lasted nearly 100 years. "The Wainriders were a people, or a confederacy of many peoples, that came from the East; but they were stronger and better armed than any that had appeared before. They journeyed in great wains, and their chieftains fought in chariots" (p. 329, The Return of the King).

King Narmacil II gathered an army, including all that could be gathered from the Northmen, and battled the Wainriders. He, and a great many of his forces, were killed in the Battle of the Plains in 1856. This devastated the Northmen and a few fled and merged with the folk of Dale, some took refuge in Gondor, and another small remnant fled north between the Anduin River and Mirkwood forest and gathered many refugees. "This was the beginning of the Eotheod, though nothing was known of it in Gondor for many years. Most of the Northmen were reduced to servitude, and all their former lands were occupied by the Wainriders" (p. 289, Unfinished Tales).

There is some speculation that it was during this time, circa 1856, that the Ringwraiths re-entered Mordor with the destruction of the Northmen and the shrinking of Gondor's borders. Whatever the case it was later discovered that the Wainriders had been moved to war by Sauron's emissaries.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1851-1899

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 289; and The Return of the King, page 329

Umbar Is Recaptured

In Gondor Tarondor could do little as King other than reorder his land. Between plagues and wars Gondor had little strength. Tarondor had the longest reign of any King in Gondor but little to show for it. His son, Telumehtar, however took action. He raided the Corsairs and took Umbar by force killing the last descendants of Castamir in the fighting. However, the victory was short lived in Gondor as Umbar would soon be lost again by new evils fast approaching.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1810
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 328-329

The Great Plague of 1635

In 1635, Third Age, the Great Plague first appeared in the winter that would wreak havoc on Men (and Hobbits). At the time Argeleb II was ruling the North-kingdom of the Dúnedain and Telemnar was ruling in Gondor the South-kingdom of the Dúnedain. Of Telemnar's kingdom it was said, "...a plague came upon dark winds out of the east, and it smote the King and his children, and many of the people of Gondor perished" (p. 296, The Silmarillion). In the North-kingdom nearly all the people of Cardolan died as well. "The Hobbits and all other peoples suffered greatly, but the plague lessened as it passed northwards, and the northern parts of Arthedain were little affected" (p. 321, The Return of the King).

Another people group greatly affected by the Great Plague were the Northmen (later known as the Eotheod) who had aided Gondor in the Kin-strife. "These Northmen were descendents of the same race of Men as those who in the First Age passed into the West of Middle-earth and became allies of the Eldar in their wars with Morgoth" (p. 288, Unfinished Tales). As much as the large cities of Gondor were decimated by the Plague it was worse for the Northmen as they had little skill in healing and little protection from winter when the plague first hit for they were a widespread people. "When the Plague had passed it is said that more than half of the folk of Rhovanion had perished, and of their horses also" (p. 289, Unfinished Tales).

The results of so much death were widespread. In Gondor, Osgiliath was hit hard by the Plague and was partly deserted and fell into ruin. Also at the death of King Telemnar and his children the White Trees of Minas Anor died. "But Tarandor, his nephew, who succeeded him, replanted a seedling in the citadel" (p. 328, The Return of the King). Tarandor moved the King's house Minas Anor permentaly away from Osgiliath. But that was not the worst consequence that befell. "Then for weariness and fewness of men the watch on the borders of Mordor ceased and the fortresses that guarded the passes were unmanned" (p. 328, The Return of the King). Much evil, in the form of dark shapes, came of this stirring secretly in Mordor at first. "It is said that these were indeed the Ulairi, who Sauron called the Nazgul, the Nine Ringwraiths that had long remained hidden, but returned now to prepare the ways of their Master, for he had begun to grow again" (p. 296-297, The Silmarillion).

As for the Northmen, their great losses also proved ill for Gondor. "They were in fact a bulwark of Gondor, keeping its northern and eastern frontiers from invasion; though that was not fully realised by the Kings until the bulwark was weakened and at last destroyed" (p. 288, Unfinished Tales). A quick personal story; I have an affinity for the word bulwark. I didn't grow up in a home that regularly attended church though sometimes when visiting my grandparents we went to their old Lutheran church. I have vivid memories of this beautiful  limestone/sandstone building, with a stained glass windows, a balcony, and huge bell tower. And though I had little spiritual interest or knowledge I remember the powerful organ blasting the old hymn and everyone raising their voices to sing; "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing...". I didn't know what a bulwark was then, and I was probably taken by the word fortress as I was predisposed to battles, and knights, and fighting as any young boy. I guess interest in such things hasn't gone away as evidenced by this blog.

In the North-kingdom losses were also felt. "It was at this time that an end came of the Dúnedain of Cardalon, and evil spirits out of Angmar and Rhuduar entered into the deserted mounds and dwelt there" (p. 321, The Return of the King). Remember, the chief of the Ringwraiths was lord of Angmar. These burial mounds were the Barrowdowns and it is said they date back to the First Age built by the forefathers of the Edain. As a result the Dúnedain revered them and buried their lords in them as well. "Some say that the mound in which the Ring-bearer was imprisoned had been the grave of the last prince of Cardolan, who fell in the war of 1409"(p. 321, The Return of the King). I realize we are a long way from Frodo as of yet but that is a cool piece of legend.

"Later it was noted that these evil things happened even as the Shadow grew deep in Greenwood, and many evil things reappeared, signs of the arising of Sauron. It is true that the enemies of Gondor also suffered, or they might have overwhelmed it in its weakness; but Sauron could wait, and it may well be that the opening of Mordor was what he chiefly desired" (p. 328, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1635-1637
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 288-289; The Return of the King, page 321 and 328; The Silmarillion, pages 296-297