The One Ring: A History Lesson

A warning a the beginning: this will be a long post. The section I read today is filled with historical connections, current contexts, and memorable quotes. I hope to tie it into the work I've done so far as well as comment on many of the moving passages.

"As time went on, people began to notice that Frodo also showed signs of 'good preservation': outwardly he retained the appearance of a robust and energetic hobbit just out of his tweens" (p. 52, The Fellowship of the Ring). Indeed, it had been nearly 17 years since the Party at Bag End and Frodo was approaching 50 yet did not look a day older. There was one change in Frodo: he was feeling restless. He thought often how Bilbo left for his adventure at 50 years old. Somehow the Shire felt was claustrophobic.

Continued strange rumors swirled around the Shire. Sam Gamgee found himself at The Green Dragon pub arguing with Ted Sandyman about the truth in these stories. Sam was a believer while Ted was not. They debated giants, or possible walking trees, dragons, and Elves. Elves had always captivated Sam and he was sad to hear they were leaving Middle-earth and hoped one day to see some. The conversation turned again to Bilbo and Frodo and Ted declared them both "cracked" and this silenced Sam into thoughtful reflection.

Frodo had not seen Gandalf for nearly 9 years; he had visited briefly for several years after the Party but never revealed much and soon stopped coming altogether. To Frodo's great surprise and delight the Wizard came unexpectedly. Frodo thought him to look more careworn since they last met; Gandalf noticed Frodo had not aged a day. They spoke deep into the night and Gandalf stayed the next morning. "Gandalf was thinking of a spring, nearly eighty years before, when Bilbo had run out of Bag End without a handkerchief. His hair was perhaps whiter than it had been then, and his face more lined with care and wisdom; but his eyes were as bright as ever, and he smoked and blow smoke-rings with the same vigour and delight" (p. 55, The Fellowship of the Ring). Frodo interrupted Gandalf's reflection asking him to finish what he began to say the night previous but decided the dark was not the time to talk about such things.

It was about the magic Ring Bilbo had left Frodo and the wizard was implying it was far more dangerous than anyone had any idea about. "'In Eregion long ago many Elven-rings were made, magic rings as you call them, and they were of course, of various kinds: some more potent some less. The lesser rings were only essays in the craft before it was full-grown, and to the Elven-smiths they were but trifles--yet still to my mind dangerous for mortals. But the Great Rings, the Rings of Power, they were perilous" (p. 56, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf explained that mortals who possessed and used a Ring of Power did not die, nor did they gain more life, rather they fade until invisible and devoured by dark power. This explained Bilbo's feelings as he spoke with Gandalf nearly 17 years earlier.

Frodo asked how long Gandalf had known about the Ring and the danger. Gandalf explained he still did not know for sure (there was one more test) but his mind was made up. But he thought out loud about when he first suspected something about the Ring. "'Let me see--it was in the year that the White Council drove the dark power from Mirkwood, just before the Battle of Five Armies, that Bilbo found his ring. A shadow fell on my heart then, though I did not know yet what I feared. I wondered often how Gollum came by a Great Ring, as plainly it was--that at least was clear from the first. Then I heard Bilbo's strange story of how he had "won" it, and I could not believe it. When I at last got the truth out of him, I saw at once that he had been trying to put his claim to the ring beyond doubt. Much like Gollum with his "birthday present". The lies were too much alike for my comfort. Clearly the ring had an unwholesome power that set to work on its keeper at once. That was the first real warning I had that all was not well. I told Bilbo often that such rings were better left unused; but he resented it, and soon got angry. There was little else I could do. I could not take it from him without doing greater harm; and I had no right to do so anyway. I could only watch and wait. I might perhaps have consulted Saruman the White, but something always held me back" (p. 57, The Fellowship of the Ring). A good thing that Gandalf never consulted Saruman (whom Frodo had never heard of). The White Wizard's treachery was not yet known.

Gandalf told Frodo that Saruman was the head of his order and Ring-lore was his province. Indeed, all that Saruman shared with the White Council led them to believe the One Ring was destroyed so Gandalf uneasily assumed his fears were misguided. Until the night of the party after Bilbo disappeared. "'He said and did things then that filled me with a fear that no words of Saruman could allay" (p. 57, The Fellowship of the Ring). Frodo was worried about any permanent damage done to Bilbo. Gandalf was not 100% certain but felt Bilbo would be alright: "'But there is only one Power in this world that knows all about the Rings and their effects; and as far as I know there is no Power in the world that knows all about hobbits. Among the Wise I am the only one that goes for hobbit-lore: an obscure branch of knowledge, but full of surprises. Soft as butter they can be, and yet sometimes as tough as old tree roots" (p. 58, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf was encouraged that Bilbo had given up the Ring by his own will. Gandalf's true worry was for Frodo whom he encouraged Bilbo to pass the Ring on to as well as the Shire if the Dark Power should find out about the Ring.

But first Gandalf had to be certain and asked Frodo to hand over the Ring and Frodo went to do so. "He unfastened it and handed it slowly to the wizard. It suddenly felt very heavy, as if either it or Frodo himself was in some way reluctant for Gandalf to touch it" (p. 58, The Fellowship of the Ring). Indeed, the Ring was already starting to possess Frodo. Gandalf took the Ring and tossed it into the fire. He then fetched it out and gave it to Frodo who saw fine lines, as if some kind of writing was appearing on the Ring. This confirmed Gandalf's guess. It was two lines from ancient Elven-lore here told in full:

'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky, Seven for the Dwarf-lords in their halls of stone, Nine for Mortal Men doomed to die, One for the Dark Lord on his dark throne In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie. One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to bind them, One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them In the Land of Mordor where Shadows lie" (p. 59-60, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Gandalf declared Frodo's magic ring as the One Ring; the Ruling Ring that Sauron greatly desired. Frodo was very afraid and wondered how it ever came to be in his possession. Gandalf began to explain beginning with Sauron rising to power again in Mirkwood to his present fortress of Mordor. Frodo lamented that he wished this had not happened in his lifetime. Gandalf agreed: "'So do I...and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us'" (p. 60, The Fellowship of the Ring). And there is my favorite quote of all of Tolkien's writings on Middle-earth. I (and you) am only given a certain allotment of time; and we don't know how much that will be. I had no control over where I was born (American verses Africa for example); I had no control of when I was born (the Middle ages versus the information age); I had no control over the  circumstances in which I live (Global Recession verses Global War). But these are the times I have been given to live in (as determined by God my faith decrees) now I must decide how to live each day. Will I proactively engage in social justice and the Truth of the Gospel, spend hours on end in a fantasy world I love to blog about, invest my life and love the people around me, etc. I would be a much better man if I hung Gandalf's quote upon the mirror I look into every morning and spend 60 seconds pondering it before I went about my day.

Gandalf felt, however, that the edge was still on the side of good for Sauron still lacked possession of the One Ring. He explained to Frodo that the three Elven-rings were still hidden, the seven Dwarven rings were either in Sauron's possession or destroyed by dragons, while the nine of men were under his dominion. The men to whom they were given were now Ringwraiths, servants obedient to Sauron's will. But it had been sometime since the Nine walked abroad. If Sauron recovered the Ring he would have the power to control Middle-earth, even the three Elven-rings, for much of Sauron's power was poured into the One Ring. "'And this is the dreadful chance, Frodo. He believed that the One had perished; that the Elves destroyed it, as should have been done. But he knows now that it has not perished, that it has been found. So he is seeking it, seeking it, and all his thought is bent on it. It is his great hope and our great fear'" (p. 61, The Fellowship of the Ring). I think this is why the Ring seems to have a far quicker impact on Frodo than Bilbo who used it much more. Now that Sauron knows it exists he has bent his will on it creating a greater effect on whoever was possessing the Ring. That's my theory anyway.

Frodo was in disbelief; how could the Ring not have been destroyed? Gandalf recalled, in brief, the deeds of Elendil and Gil-Galad in the last great alliance of Elves and Men. How Isildur cut the Ring from Sauron's finger and took it for himself, the disaster at Gladden Fields and the washing of the Ring down the Anduin. For many years Sauron's shadow remained hidden until he took shape in Mirkwood.   In the river the Ring was lost from history and passed into legend (I love the way this is worded in the prologue of Peter Jackson's movie). But Gandalf learned enough to fill in the gaps.

Indeed, a being named Smeagol found the Ring. Gandalf believed Smeagol was some distant relation of Hobbits, the father's of the father's of the Stoors. Smeagol was fishing with a friend named Deagol who was accidentally thrown from his boat and happened to find the Ring at the bottom of the water. Smeagol watched the whole incident and was instantly captivated by the Ring when he saw it imploring Deagol to give it to him for his birthday. Deagol refused saying he had already given Smeagol his present and it was his find. Smeagol proceeded to kill Deagol, hide the body, and put the Ring one. In this way he discovered he was invisible and would use it to learn hurtful secrets about his friends and family. So much so that when he was visible he was shunned from his community since no one liked him anymore. Hating people and hating the sun (Smeagol had always had an interest in what laid underneath the ground) he made his way into the Misty Mountains and there became Gollum.

Frodo was aghast; could Gandalf mean the same Gollum that Bilbo had encountered on his journey? How could he be related to Hobbits? Gandalf was certain for he knew more of Hobbit beginnings then Hobbits themselves, plus the way the two understood each other so well during their riddles in the dark contest was another clue. Plus Gollum proved very tough, as hobbits can be, possessing the Ring for so long and never fading. Gandalf surmised there was yet a corner of Gollum's mind that was free of the Ring and hated it. This was incomprehensible to Frodo that Gollum would hate his precious. Gandalf explained that Gollum both hated and loved the Ring and himself as well. But in the end it wasn't Gollum who possessed the Ring. "'A Ring of Power looks after itself, Frodo. It may slip off treacherously, but its keeper never abandons it. At most he plays with the idea of handing it on to some one else's care--an that only at an early stage, when it first begins to grip. But as far as I know Bilbo alone in history has ever gone beyond playing, and really done it. He needed all my help, too'" (p. 64, The Fellowship of the Ring).

At the thought that it was the Ring that decided to leave Gollum and not vice versa Frodo wondered at the chances of Bilbo stumbling upon it. Indeed, the Ring had left Isildur once before. And now it ended up with Bilbo was the most unlikely person imaginable to find the Ring. Gandalf had only one conclusion: "'Behind that there was something else at work, beyond any design of the Ring-maker. I can put it no plainer than saying that Bilbo was meant to find the Ring, and not by its maker. In which case you were meant to have it. And that may be an encouraging thought'" (p. 65, The Fellowship of the Ring). Though Frodo did not find it very encouraging I find myself encouraged. What a wise and faith filled statement by Gandalf. I don't know why he says this, had he had communication with Manwë or perhaps Eru? Or maybe just faith in them. But he saw other power at work in this situation besides evil. Application to my life: I live a Christian faith that says God is sovereign. I don't always know why evil things happen in my life, or in the lives of those I care about, or in the lives of those I have never met. But my faith drives me to believe that God is working, ultimately, for His glory and the good of those that believe in Him. Indeed, this is the most overt statement in Tolkien's Middle-earth about divine providence and the way it is worded is beautiful.

Frodo, as you can imagine, was still trying to grasp the situation. Basically he is in possession of the most evil being in the world's most prized possession who is coming to find it and won't be nice to the person keeping it from him. Frodo demanded to know how Gandalf came to be so sure of all this information or if the Wizard was guessing still. Of the Ring-lore, Elendil and Isildur, all was known to the Wise. As for the bit with Gollum Gandalf had pieced together after seeing Gollum himself! And this was truly amazing to Frodo. Gandalf retold how he long endured time with Gollum piecing together bits of the story through the creature's many lies. But he eventually gained the whole story up until the game of Riddles with Bilbo; after that Gollum said little clearly. Eventually, Gandalf figured out, about a year or two after encountering Bilbo Gollum left the Misty Mountains to gain back his stolen Ring; Bilbo had revealed his identity to Gollum and by then the hobbit was well-known for his travel and adventures with Thorin and company.

It seemed Gollum made his way to Dale and Esgorath and most likely learned there where Bilbo's homeland was. But before he could make his way to the Shire he was drawn away from his mission. At least that's what the Wood Elves of Thranduil discovered while tracking Gollum for Gandalf. (I have to wonder if Legolas was in that tracking party!) Gollum was making his way through Mirkwood but turned Southwards after leaving the Wood Elves realm. "'And then I made a great mistake. Yes, Frodo, and not the first; though I fear it may prove the worst. I let the matter be'" (p. 67, The Fellowship of the Ring). I love that Gandalf can freely admit his mistake. At that point Saruman's counsel still said the Ring was destroyed and Gandalf only had vague misgiving's about Bilbo's magic ring and so he did not pursue the matter.

But after Bilbo gave the Ring to Frodo Gandalf decided he must once again search for Gollum. "'And my search would have been in vain, but for the help that I had from a friend: Aragorn, the greatest traveller and huntsman of this age of the world'" (p. 67, The Fellowship of the Ring). Long they searched together until Gandalf left to pursue other matters (perhaps make his way to Minis Tirith to read the Ring-lore himself) but Aragorn did not give up the search. "'My friend returned out of great perils bringing the miserable creature with him'" (p. 68, The Fellowship of the Ring). And here Gandalf's mistake was exposed. For Gollum, being drawn to Mordor as all wicked things are, was captured by Sauron and tortured revealing to the Dark Lord what he knew. Even as Gandalf and Frodo spoke Sauron was searching for the Shire.

This alarmed Frodo very much and he wondered aloud that it was a pity that Bilbo did not kill Gollum when he had the chance. That pity, of course, was what stayed Bilbo's hand. Gandalf was sure this was  why the Ring did not do more harm to Bilbo. He took ownership of it in the spirit of pity and mercy. Even still, Frodo was certain that Gollum deserved to die. "'Deserves it! I daresay he does. Many that live deserve death. And some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgement. For even the very Wise cannot see all ends. I have not much hope that Gollum can be cured before he dies, but there is a chance of it. And he is bound up with the fate of the Ring. My heart tells me that he has some part to play yet, for good or ill, before the end; and when that comes, the pity of Bilbo may rule the fate of many--yours not least'" (p. 69, The Fellowship of the Ring). Again, such wise words by Gandalf. Many that live deserve death and some that die deserve life, true still, just as the fact that I cannot give people what they deserve. I am not the judge and trust me--you don't want me to be.

Frodo was beginning to see his dangerous situation. "'Why did you let me keep it? Why didn't you make me throw it away, or, or destroy it?'" (p. 69, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf knew he couldn't make or let Frodo do anything for it would do the hobbit more harm than good. Throwing it was no good for the Ring's sole purpose was to return to Sauron and Sauron's sole goal at the moment was finding it. As for destroying it, that could only happen at one place in Middle-earth: the Cracks of Doom in Orodruin, the Fire-mountain. Gandalf admitted that he was deeply troubled that Frodo was in such danger but assured him that while away for the past 9 years he had always set a guard upon the Shire.

Again Frodo wondered why he had been chosen though he wished the Ring was destroyed. "'You may be sure that it was not for any merit that others do not possess: not for power or wisdom, at any rate. But you have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have'" (p. 70, The Fellowship of the Ring). I have found myself asking the same questions as Frodo--why did God choose me? It certainly was not because of any good deeds or righteousness or purity of my own accord--my merits. And yet I have been chose and must seek for obedience to Christ with such strength, and heart, and wits I may possess. So I amen to Frodo's words: "'But I have so little of any of these things!'" (p. 70, The Fellowship of the Ring).

In a last ditch effort Frodo tried to give the Ring to Gandalf; surely he possessed the wisdom and power to destroy it. This set Gandalf springing to his feet with a stearn NO! He asked Frodo to never tempt him again saying he would only become like Sauron should he take the Ring; even out a desire to do good, and pity (see Olorin) was gate to Gandalf's heart, pity for weakness and Frodo fit that bill. No, the decision to act was Frodo's alone. All the wizard could do was offer to walk with him on the journey: "'I will help you bear this burden, as long as it is yours to bear'" (p. 71, The Fellowship of the Ring). I'm picking out some of the most memorable quotes in this early chapter of Fellowship of the Ring; if you've seen the movie you may recognize some of these lines--but the context of the conversation has been moved out of Bag End and along Frodo's quest.

At long last Frodo grasped his situation. He, at least for the immediate future, must be the Ring-bearer and he must leave Bag End as well as the Shire. Part of him, despite the danger, was really quite excited to follow in Bilbo's footsteps. At any rate he resolved he must go. "'My dear Frodo!' exclaimed Gandalf. 'Hobbits really are amazing creatures, as I have said before. You can learn all there is to know about their ways in a month, and yet after a hundred years they can still surprise you at a pinch'" (p. 72, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf counselled Frodo to leave soon and to go by the name Underhill while on the road. He also told Frodo he did not need to travel alone should he have a companion of the utmost trust. That's when something caught the wizard's attention. Quick as lightening he jumped to the open window and pulled a surprised Sam Gamgee through. Angrily he interrogated Sam asking what he had heard.

Sam, quite terrified, spilled everything: "'I heard a deal that I didn't rightly understand, about an enemy, and rings, and Mr. Bilbo, sir, and dragons, and a fiery mountain, and--and Elve, sir'" (p. 73, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf laughed and decided not to turn Sam into anything unnatural. Indeed the wizard felt Sam would be of better use as a traveling companion for Frodo which pleased the hobbit greatly: "'Me, sir!' cried Sam, springing up like a dog invited for a walk. 'Me go and see Elves and all! Hooray!' he shouted, and then burst into tears" (p. 73, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3018, April 12-13

Today's reading comes from: The Fellowship of the Ring, pages 52-73

The Hunt for the Ring

In 3017 Gollum was catpured in Mordor. He was tortured until all that could be learned about the Ring was forced from him and then released by Sauron. "He did not trust Gollum, for he divined something indomitable in him, which could not be overcome, even by the Shadow of Fear, except by destroying him" (p. 337, Unfinished Tales). However, Sauron was willing to take his chances for he perceived Gollum's malice against those who had stolen the Ring from him and he hoped that tracking Gollum he would find it. All Sauron had to work with, for the moment, were two pieces of information: Shire and Baggins. However, Gollum had no real understanding where that land was and Sauron had certainly never been concerned with Hobbits before. Gollum, indeed, did not fear Sauron as the Enemy had perceived. Rather, Gollum now saw Sauron has his cheif rival for the Ring. "Thus it was that he dared to pretend that he believed that the land of the Halflings was near to the places where he had once dwelt beside the banks of the Gladden" (p. 336, Unfinished Tales).

But releasing Gollum did not go according to Sauron's plan. "Gollum soon disappeared into the Dead Marshes, where Sauron's emissaries could not or would not follow him" (p. 342, Unfinished Tales). For a season Sauron lost track of Gollum's whereabouts. This brought much doubt to the Dark Lord's mind. After long debate he decided to use the Ringwraiths to hunt for the Ring. "They were by far the most powerful of his servants, and the most suitable for such a mission, since they were entirely enslaved to their Nine Rings, which he now himself held; they were quite incapable of acting against his will, and if one of them, even the Witch-king their captain, had seized the One Ring, he would have brought it back to his Master" (p. 343, Unfinished Tales).

But using the Ringwraiths posed several obstacles. All, save the Witch-king, tended to stray in daylight, all, save the With-king, feared water (and there would be several rivers to cross). Fear was their chief instrument which was best utilized when they were invisible and all together which would not be possible on this quest. Because of this lack of secrecy Sauron doubted using them for fear his enemies would learn their errand. At last desperation drove him to release the Nine. Sauron had no idea that anyone other than Gollum and "Baggins" had any idea about the Ring. For Gollum did not know of the relationship of Bilbo and Gandalf. So he dispatched the Ringwraiths as Black Riders to search areas where Gollum purposely misled. This proved a small but very costly mistake for Sauron; for otherwise the Black Riders would have reached the Shire much sooner.

Gollum, meanwhile, did not avoid captivity for long. Aragorn tracked and captured Gollum on February 1st, 3018. Aragorn drove Gollum out of the Emyn Muil and crossed the Anduin with his prisoner to avoid Sauron's spies. He bound Gollum to some driftwood and swam across the river with him (in February no less!) and from there "...continued his journey north by tracks as westerly as he could find, through the skirts of Fanghorn, and so over Limlight, then over Nimrodel, and Silverlode through the eaves of Lorien, and then on, avoiding Moria and the Dimrill Dale, over Gladden until he came near the Carrock. There he crossed over Anduin again, with the help of the Beornings, and passed into the Forest. The whole journey, on foot, was not much short of nine hundred miles, and this Aragorn accomplished with weariness in fifty days, reaching Thranduil on the twenty-first of March" (p. 343, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3017-3018

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 336-343

Theoden's Failing Health

As has been noted before, Saruman had been slowly giving Rohan more trouble over the years. "The chief obstacles to an easy conquest of Rohan by Saruman were Theodred and Eomer: they were vigorous men, devoted to their King, and high in his affections, as his only son and his sister-son; and they did all that they could to thwart the influence over him that Grima gained when the King's health began to fail" (p. 355, Unfinished Tales). Theoden began to grow ill which at an early age for the Rohirrim; it was perhaps brought on by subtle poisons given him by Grima.

As his health grew more frail his dependence on Grima grew stronger since his counsellor was shrewd and cunning. Grima sought to discredit all other counsellor's of the King so that he would be the only one. Theodred and Eomer remained steadfast to Theoden; Eomer loving only the King more than his cousin Theodred. Still Grima sought to portray Eomer as an ambitious man looking to steal the Kingship of Rohan from Theoden and the rightful heir Theodred.

Of the ordering of the military of Rohan the highest rank was Marshal of the Mark. Traditionally there were three Marshall's (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marshall). During this time and through the War of the Ring (3019 Third Age) there was no official 1st Marshal as Theoden (up until his illness) was a great horseman and warrior and let out the mustering of Edoras when need be. (Though Sauron's power grew during Theoden's life his realm was mostly at peace.) Elfhelm was the name of the commanding officer though he did not carry the 1st Marshal Rank.

Theodred was 2nd Marshal who has based out of Helm's Deep. Eomer was 3rd Marshal based out of his home in Aldburg in the Folde. "Here Eorl has his house; it passed after to Brego son of Eorl removed to Edoras into the hands of Eofor, third son of Brego, from whom Eomund, father of Eomer, claimed descent" (p. 367, Unfinished Tales).

However, as Theoden became ill there was no central command established and this was counseled by Grima. "The King becoming decrepit and seldom leaving his house, fell into the habit of issuing orders to Hama, Captain of his household, to Elfhelm, and even to the Marshals of the Mark, by mouth of Grima Wormtongue. This was resented, but the orders were obeyed, within Edoras" (p. 367, Unfinished Tales). When the time came for fighting against Saruman Theodred took command on his own accord drawing many fighting men with him from Edoras and other areas.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3014
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 355 and 367

Death of Gilraen

Gilraen, the mother of Aragorn, decided to leave the shelter and protection of Elrond in Rivendell and travelled to her people in Eriador. There she lived alone with only a few occasional visits from her son, who was often on long journeys and valiant quests. During one reunion she foretold that it would be their last meeting before she parted from Middle-earth. Aragorn hoped it would not be so. He wanted her to see past the gathering darkness that clouded the lands of Middle-earth. But she answered only: "'Omen i-Estel Edain, u-chebin estel anim'" when translated to English this means: "'I gave Hope to the Dúnedain, I have kept no hope for myself'" (both quotes p. 342, The Return of the King). Aragorn was heavy-hearted and Gilraen, as she foretold, died before the next spring.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3006-3007
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 342

The New Master of Bag End

There ends up being about 18 years of time between Bilbo's disappearance and Frodo's journey and I will cover some of those events in the next several posts. Peter Jackson and his creative team essentially cut out these years for the movie adaptation. For now Frodo was the new Master Baggins of Bag End and rather enjoying it. For well over a year Bilbo's strange birthday party was talked about in great detail and it never did leave Hobbit-lore. "It became a fireside-story for young hobbits; and eventually Mad Baggins, who used to vanish with a bang and a flash and reappear with bags of jewels and gold, became a favourite character of legend and lived on long after all true events were forgotten" (p. 51, The Fellowship of the Ring).

In the present, however, Bilbo was really thought of as going mad and most felt Gandalf was to blame. They hoped the wizard would leave Frodo be. But it seemed Frodo was only taking after old mad Bilbo. The very next year Frodo threw a 112th birthday party for Bilbo and he never went into mourning. He didn't believe Bilbo was dead even though he didn't know where he was if others asked. Year after year Frodo continued a birthday celebration for Bilbo until, for the most part, folks grew used to it.

Frodo never married, just like Bilbo, but he did keep some rather close friends unlike the older hobbit. Most of these were younger hobbits who enjoyed Bilbo's stories and they included: Folco Boffin, Fredegar Bolger, Peregrin (Pippin) Took, and Meriadoc (Merry) Brandybuck. They often were seen out and about in the Shire on some errand or adventure. But Frodo was also seen wandering alone, far from home, on the borders of the Shire. "Merry and Pippin suspected that he visited the Elves at times, as Bilbo had done" (p. 51-52, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Indeed, Frodo was trying to gather any news that he could for it had been several years since he had last seen Gandalf and many rumors of the outside world were being spread. "Elves, who seldom walked in the Shire, could now be seen passing westward through the woods in the evening, passing and not returning; but they were leaving Middle-earth and were no longer concerned with its troubles" (p. 52, The Fellowship of the Ring). The chief source of information were the dwarves who travelled along the ancient East-West Road on their way to the Blue Mountains. The Road ran through the Shire and at it's westernmost end were the Grey Havens. Frodo sought to speak with the dwarves. "They were troubled, and some spoke in whispers of the Enemy and the Land of Mordor" (p. 52, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Of Sauron the hobbits knew little save some legends of a dark and gloomy past. And yet this news still seemed unsettling to them nonetheless. "It seemed that the evil power in Mirkwood had been driven out by the White Council only to reappear in greater strength in the old strongholds of Mordor" (p. 53, The Fellowship of the Ring). Along with the Shadow Orcs and Trolls were multiplying as well. Yet another sign that things were not as peaceful as many in Hobbiton believed.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3001-3004
Today's reading comes from: The Fellowship of the Ring, pages 51-53

Bilbo's Magic Ring

Bilbo made his way to Bag End thoroughly pleased with the effect of his disappearance from the Party. He quickly changed into some old patched and weatherworn travel clothes (no doubt from his journey to the Lonely Mountain), put his magic ring in an envelope addressed to Frodo and at the last moment put the envelope in his pocket. That is when Gandalf came in, none too pleased with Bilbo's joke. Gandalf had created the blinding flash of light just as Bilbo disappeared in hopes of giving the guests an explanation of sorts about Bilbo's disappearing act. Gandalf confirmed that Bilbo meant to go through with his whole plan of leaving the Shire and, most importantly, giving the Ring to Frodo.

Bilbo confirmed saying how he felt he needed a change, perhaps, to feel better. "'Why, I feel all thin, sort of stretched, if you know what I mean: like butter that has been scraped over too much bread. That can't be right. I need a change, or something'" (p. 41, The Fellowship of the Ring). He wished to see mountains again and to finish his book. Bilbo made Gandalf promise to look after Frodo to which the wizard wholeheartedly agreed. But the ring was another matter. At first Bilbo said he had left it for Frodo but then realized it was in his pocket. The hobbit began to have doubts about that part of the plan. Gandalf meanwhile was insistent on this point, seeing it as the only truly good part of everything that happened.

Bilbo grew very annoyed with Gandalf. "'You are always badgering me about my ring; but you have never bothered me about the other things that I got on my journey'" (p. 41-42, The Fellowship of the Ring). Being a wizard Gandalf said he had a professional interest in magic rings and reaffirmed that Bilbo had possessed the Ring quite long enough. Now Bilbo became angry blaming his anger on Gandalf. "'It is mine, I tell you. My own. My precious. Yes, my precious.' The wizard's face remained grave and attentive, and only a flicker in his deep eyes showed that he was startled and indeed alarmed. 'It has been called that before,' he said, 'but not by you'" (p. 42, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Still Bilbo was obstinate and Gandalf had an unexpected showdown on his hands. He tried to persuade the hobbit based on their friendship and finally revealed a bit of his power so that the room seemed to shrink. This seemed to snap Bilbo back into reality. "'I don't know what had come over you, Gandalf,' he said. 'You have never been like this before. What is it all about? It is mine isn't it? I found it, Gollum would have killed me, if I hadn't kept it. I am not a thief, whatever he said'" (p. 42, The Fellowship of the Ring). Gandalf assured Bilbo he thought nothing less of him but the wizard did seem troubled.

Bilbo apologized admitting that he felt as if the Ring were an eye watching him and he always needed it by his side and often thought about putting it on. On one hand Bilbo thought it might be nice to be free of it but on the other hand he did not wish to give it away and his mind went back and forth. "'Then trust mine,' said Gandalf. 'It is quite made up. Go away and leave it behind. Stop possessing it. Give it to Frodo, and I will look after him'" (p. 43, The Fellowship of the Ring). Finally, reluctantly, Bilbo agreed. I like what Gandalf said to Bilbo. The words of a dear friend who is loving and looking out for another dear friend. I have been in that place Bilbo was where I knew something in my life (whether an actual physical possession or not) must go but I did not have the will to let it go. And it took the help of friends, who's minds were quite made up, who could look at my life from another perspective and see what's best, to help me take that step. That's why I love Tolkien's writings. There are snippets, here and there, in the midst the epic battles and characters that cause me to pause and reflect on my own life: where I've been and where I'm headed.

As Bilbo was ready to set out three dwarves appeared from various places in Bag End to accompany him. Bilbo said his goodbye to Gandalf affirming he was happier and freer than he had been in some time (probably due, in some measure, to leaving the Ring). He set off singing his traveling song:

"'The Road goes ever on and on Down from the door where it began. Now far ahead the Road has gone, And I must follow, if I can, Pursuing it with eager feet, Until it joins some larger way Where many paths and errands meet. And whither then? I cannot say'" (p. 44, The Fellowship of the Ring). Frodo arrived soon afterword to find Gandalf sitting in deep thought. Gandalf confirmed that Bilbo had left as he planned and announced Frodo as the Master of Bag End now, including the magic Ring. He cautioned Frodo to keep it secret and keep it safe and went off to bed.

The next day Frodo was left with quite a mess. Hundreds of confused Hobbits arrived at Bag End to see what exactly happened the night before. Frodo simply said Bilbo left on a journey and had presents for certain individuals. Indeed, there were many packages labeled for different hobbits. Some were generally welcomed and needed (especially by the poorer families) while others were one last joke or jab. For example one package was labeled: " For LOBELIA SACKVILLE-BAGGINS, as a PRESENT;  on a case of silver spoons. Bilbo believed that she acquired a good many of his spoons, while he was away on his former journey. Lobelia knew that quite well. When she arrived later in the day, she took the point at once, but she also took the spoons" (p. 46, The Fellowship of the Ring). That's funny; a good play by Bilbo and the fact that she still took the spoons.

Once the presents started being distributed a rumor spread around Hobbiton that all of Bag End was available. Many more came and Frodo, along with his good friend Merry Brandybuck, could not keep them out. It was a long afternoon of turning people away and escorting free-loaders out of the house. Some were even beginning to knock holes in walls looking for Bilbo's fabled gold treasure. The Sackville-Bagginses were particularly hard to remove and they insisted to see all of Bilbo's will and legal documents to verify that Frodo was now indeed the legal heir. For Otho Sackville-Baggins would have been the rightful heir had not Frodo been adopted.

Finally everyone was cleared from the house and Frodo sat for some tea when a knock came. He ignored it even has it increased. Finally Gandalf's head popped into the window: "'If you don't let me in, Frodo, I shall blow your door right down your hole and out through the hill'" (p. 48, The Fellowship of the Ring). They began to talk about the days events when Frodo mentioned he had thoughts of putting on Bilbo's Ring to disappear; of course Gandalf said that was not to be done and he had come to speak with Frodo about the Ring. He asked Frodo what he knew about the Ring. Frodo only knew what Bilbo had told him about it: it's discovery and use on the journey; he did confirm to Gandalf that he heard the true tale and not the one that Bilbo gave to the dwarves. Frodo thought the real story more believable and that it was odd for Bilbo to lie like that. Gandalf agreed: "'So did I. But odd things may happen to people that have such treasures--if they use them. Let it be a warning to you to be very careful with it. It may have other powers than just making you vanish when you wish to'" (p. 49, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Frodo did not completely understand and neither did Gandalf. In fact, Gandalf said he'd be leaving immediately to learn more about the Ring. He told Frodo not to worry but to avoid using it and, once again, to keep it secret and safe. Frodo was distraught for he thought Gandalf was staying on for another week but it seemed the wizard's interaction with Bilbo the night before changed his mind. "'I may be away for a good while; but I'll come and see you again, as soon as I can. Expect me when you see me! I shall slip in quietly. I shan't often be visiting the Shire openly again'" (p. 49, The Fellowship of the Ring). And with that Gandalf gave his final goodbyes leaving a puzzled Frodo behind.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3001, September 22nd-23rd

Today's reading comes from: The Fellowship of the Ring, pages 40-51

A Long-Expected Party

This is the first extended read I have had from The Fellowship of the Ring which has always been my of the Lord of the Rings series. The amount of detail is so rich it's hard to believe. I feel fairly grounded in the histories and legends of Middle-earth, at this point, which helps but the totality and complexity of The Lord of the Rings is immense. I'll try not to get too out of hand in my blog posting; I've already split this first chapter into two parts since I was in over my head pretty quickly, in a good way of course.

Bilbo Baggins was turning eleventy-one (111) and announced a birthday party for the Ages. All the Shire was buzzing with excitement. He had been back from his adventure for sixty years and was regarded as extremely eccentric, rich, and well-preserved (unchanged would be more to the point). Many felt he was overly blessed and in the end no good would come of it. All the same because of his legendary wealth (as many supposed he had) they were excited about the party all the same.

Bilbo never married and was friendly with many but had no real close relationships. That is until a cousin of his reached his tweens (the irressponsible 20's according to Hobbits). They shared the same birthday (September 22nd) and Frodo was always Bilbo's favorite relation. Frodo's parents (Drogo and Primula) had died when he was young in a boating accident. So Bilbo had adopted Frodo and named him heir to Bag End which thoroughly angered the Sackville-Bagginses who had never forgiven Bilbo for returning. Adding to the festivity of Bilbo's party was the fact that Frodo was turning 33, coming of age for Hobbits, which only made the event grander.

During this time Ham "Gaffer" Gamgee was in demand. He had been Bilbo's gardener for 40 years being a young lad when he returned from the adventure and passing over the job to his youngest son Sam Gamgee. Many would gather around Gaffer at The Ivy Bush inn for a round of drinks and stories. Gaffer always spoke well of Bilbo. "With perfect truth: for Bilbo was very polite to him, calling him 'Master Hamfast', and  consulting him constantly upon the growing of vegetables--in the matter of 'roots', especially potatoes, the Gaffer was recognized as the leading authority by all in the neighborhood (including himself)" (p. 30, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Leading up to the party stories were swapped about Bilbo's character, his riches, the death of Frodo's parents, the disappointment of the Sackville-Bagginses, his strange friends including Dwarves and Gandalf the Wizard, and so on. Sam, it seems, was captivated by Bilbo's tales of adventure which Gaffer did not approve of. "'Elves and Dragons! I says to him. Cabbages and potatoes are better for me and you. Don't go getting mixed up in the business of your betters, or you'll land in trouble too big for you, I says to him'" (p. 32, The Fellowship of the Ring). Spot on advice but the affable Sam proved it was not too big for him.

As the party drew nigh all sorts of carts with strange packages came to Bag End. Some marked with Gandalf's signature rune, others marked DALE on the boxes. Mid-way through September some Dwarves and another guest arrived. "He wore a pointed blue hat, a long grey cloak, and a silver scarf" (p. 33, The Fellowship of the Ring); Gandalf had arrived. Overlooking Bilbo's garden the two old friends talked. Gandalf asked Bilbo if he meant to go through with his plan and Bilbo confirmed, including his little joke at the end. Gandalf sighed seemingly in disapproval.

The next week orders went out all over the Shire for all sorts of food, supplies, and services. Then invitations went out to nearly all in the Shire (a few were forgotten but no matter; they came anyway). The excitement was at a fevered-pitch. Bilbo had to erect a sign "NO ADMITTANCE EXCEPT ON PARTY BUSINESS" (p. 34, The Fellowship of the Ring). Tents, pavillions, gates, and an open air kitchen went up in the field by Bag End.

"Then the weather clouded over. That was on Wednesday the eve of the Party. Anxiety was intense. Then Thursday, September the 22nd, actually dawned. The sun got up, the clouds vanished, flags were unfurled and the fun began" (p. 34, The Fellowship of the Ring). Bilbo greeted all guests at the gate. As was Hobbit custom on birthdays he gave gifts to all who came (and more to some who got back in line). You stood a good chance of getting a gift at least once a week in Hobbiton and though they weren't much the people loved them. Bilbo's gifts were, however, altogether better than anything they had seen. "Many of them had indeed been ordered a year before, and had come all the way from the Mountain and from Dale, and were of real dwarf-make" (p. 35, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Three official meals were served. There was song and dance. And of course fireworks. "The fireworks were by Gandalf: they were not only brought by him, but designed and made by him; and the special effects, set pieces, and flights of rockets were let off by him. But there were also generous distributions of squibs, crackers, backarappers, sparklers, torches, dwarf-candles, elf-fountains, goblin-barkers, and thunder-claps. The art of Gandalf improved with age" (p. 35, The Fellowship of the Ring). Flowers, butterflies, eagles, and ships, among other effects, flew through the sky. "And there was one last surprise, in honour of Bilbo, and it startled the hobbits exceedingly, as Gandalf intended" (p. 36, The Fellowship of the Ring). This of course was a rocket designed to appear like Smaug when ignited  sending frightened hobbits running and falling every which way.

The final dinner was served followed by the speech (which none were looking forward to). Everyone ate well but at the great pavilion a select 144 guests ate with Bilbo and Frodo. They ate so well in fact that they were quite ready to listen to Bilbo as they finished "filling up the corners" (p. 37, The Fellowship of the Ring). Bilbo started well acknowledging the guests and thanking them for coming. When he mentioned he had brought them for a purpose ears pricked up. Or three rather. the first was to express his great fondness for his fellow hobbits which was very much appreciated until he said: "'I don't know half of you half as well as I should like; and I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve.' This was unexpected and rather difficult. There was some scattered clapping, but most of them were trying to work it out and see if it came to a compliment" (p. 38, The Fellowship of the Ring). I laugh every time I read that or see it in the film.

The second purpose was of course to celebrate both he and Frodo's birthday. Together they totalled 144 years, One Gross, the reason why 144 were selected to sit with them. Of course to refer to people as gross was very uncouth. "No cheers. This was ridiculous" (p. 38, The Fellowship of the Ring). Bilbo continued recounting that 60 years ago he was arriving at Esgorath (Lake-town) by barrel. "Obstinate silence. They all feared that a song or some poetry was now imminent; and they were getting bored" (p. 38, The Fellowship of the Ring). But Bilbo intentioned to say only a little more.

Bilbo declared his third purpose: to say goodbye. Upon saying goodbye he vanished to the astonishment of all who were watching. "There was a blinding flash of light, and the guests all blinked. When they opened their eyes Bilbo was nowhere to be seen" (p. 39, The Fellowship of the Ring). Most everyone thought the joke in bad taste and even Frodo who was in the know thought something was odd about it. But to quell the unrest Frodo ordered another round of wine served while he pondered all that Bilbo had just said and done.

"As for Bilbo Baggins, even while he was making his speech, he had been fingering the golden ring in his pocket: his magic ring that he had kept secret for so many years. As he stepped down he slipped it on his finger, and he was never seen by any hobbit in Hobbiton again" (p. 39-40 The Fellowship of the Ring).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 3001, September

Today's reading comes from: The Fellowship of the Ring, pages 29-40

The Shire

As my chronological read through Middle-earth draws me ever nigh to the great War of the Ring I thought this would be a good spot to post some updates on Shire life. "The Shire at this time had hardly any 'government'. Families for the most part managed their own affairs. Growing food and eating it occupied most of their time. In other matters they were, as a rule, generous and not greedy, but contented and moderate, so that the estates, farms, workshops, and small trades tended to remain unchanged for generations" (p. 18, The Fellowship of the Ring).

What laws they had were attributed to the ancient King. They were respected even though there had been no King for nearly 1000 years. Only two real offices existed for Hobbits: the Thain and the Mayor of Michel Delving (the Shire in reality). The Took's (which Bilbo had relation too) had long been the preeminent family so the Thainship passed through their lineage. "The Thain was the master of the Shire-moot, and captain of the Shire-muster,  and the Hobbitry-in-arms, but as muster and moot were only held in times of emergency, which no longer occurred, the Thainship had ceased to be more than a nominal dignity" (p. 19, The Fellowship of the Ring).

The Mayor was elected "...every seven years at the Free Fair on the White Downs at the Lithe, that is midsummer" (p. 19, The Fellowship of the Ring). I quoted that to show the tremendous depth of Tolkien's creation. Most fantasy authors would say (in my opinion) there was a mayor, perhaps elected every 7 years; whereas as Tolkien lists the event, the location, and the time--for a character who will have no bearing on the central tale. Amazing stuff. The mayor's responsibility was to attend banquets (yum!),  and to oversee the only two services in the Shire: Postmaster and Shirrif. Hobbits, who could read and write that is, wrote constantly and the Postmaster was frequently the busier of the two.

However, as Sauron grew in power and as Saruman set a watch around the Shire the Shirrifs were more active. "The Shirrifs was the name of that the Hobbits gave to their police, or nearest equivalent that they possessed" (p. 19, The Fellowship of the Ring). Three for each Farthing (North, South, East, and West). Shirrifs oversaw the Bounders who watched over the borders of the Shire to make sure no wild animals or unwanted visitors became a problem. They were quite active as the War of the Ring drew close. "There were many reports and complaints of strange persons and creatures prowling about the borders, or over them: the first sign that not all was quite as it should be, and always had been except in tales and legends of long ago. Few heeded the sign, and not even Bilbo yet had any notion of what it portended" (p. 19, The Fellowship of the Ring).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 3000
Today's reading comes from: The Fellowship of the Ring, pages 18-19

Births of Eomer and Eowyn

Theoden became King of Rohan in 2980 Third Age. His younger sister (by 15 years) Theodwyn married Eomund in 2989. He was the chief Marshal of the Mark. She bore him two children: a son Eomer (born in 2991) and a daughter Eowyn (2995) who figure prominently in the War of the Ring. It was in Theoden's reign that the reach of Sauron was felt as Orcs began to raid the lands of Rohan. Eomund was a lover of horses and hater of Orcs and would ride out rashly against the enemies. "Thus it came about that he was slain in 3002; for he pursued a small band to the borders of Emyn Muil, and there was surprised by a strong force that lay in wait in the rocks" (p. 351, The Return of the King).

Soon after Theodwyn became ill and died causing King Theoden much grief. "Her children he took into his house, calling them son and daughter" (p. 351, The Return of the King). Theoden had a 24 year old son, Theodred, but no other children. For his wife had died giving birth to their son. Thus it was that Eomer and Eowyn grew up in the halls of the King and witnessed all that befell there.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2980-3002
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 351

Denethor II, The Last Steward of Gondor

"Denethor II was a proud man, tall, valiant, and more kingly than any man that had appeared in Gondor for many lives of men; and he was wise also, and far-sighted, and learned in lore" (p. 336, The Return of the the King). He succeeded his father Ecthelion II as Steward of Gondor in 2984 Third Age. He was, in some ways, akin to Thorongil whom many believed Ecthelion II held in higher esteem. But Thorongil had never sought to be anything more than a servant to Ecthelion II and had never outwardly strove against Denethor II. In fact in only one matter did the son and servant disagree. Thorongil had ever counselled Ecthelion not to trust Saruman the White but rather welcome Gandalf the Grey. Denethor had never respected Gandalf. When Denethor became Steward the Gandalf's visits to Gondor became more infrequent. In years after it was thought that Denethor, being foresighted and wise, had guessed who Thorongil really was and thought Gandalf was seeking to supplant his Stewardship.

Denethor was an able ruler of his realm. Though he listened to counsel he often made his own decisions. He married Finduilas of Dol Amroth but she died not long after they wed. Denethor loved her but many felt she withered in Minis Tirith longing for the Sea in the South where she was from. She bore him two sons: Boromir and Faramir. "After her death Denethor became more grim and silent than before, and would sit long alone in his tower deep in thought, forseeing that the assault of Mordor would come in his time" (p. 336, The Return of the King). Indeed, afterwards, it is supposed that he used the palantir to gain knowledge in desperate times being the first Steward to do so as well as the first person in many ages since the fall of Minis Ithil to Sauron where another palantir was housed.

"In this way Denethor gained his great knowledge of things that passed in his realm, and far beyond his borders, at which men marvelled; but he bought the knowledge dearly, being aged before his time by his contest with the will of Sauron" (p. 337, The Return of the King). Indeed, Denethor's pride grew and he mistrusted all save those who served him in the cause against Sauron. His most trusted and beloved servant was his eldest son Boromir who "...was a man after the sort of King Earnur of old, taking no wife and delighting chiefly in arms; fearless and strong, but caring little for lore, save the tales of old battles" (p. 337, The Return of the King). He was much loved by his father.

Faramir was the younger and of different temperament than Boromir. "He read the hearts of men as shrewdly as his father, but what he read moved him sooner to pity than to scorn. He was gentle in bearing, and a lover of lore and of music, and therefore by many in those days his courage was judged less than his brother's" (p. 337, The Return of the King). Faramir was indeed courageous but he did not rush into danger without purpose. Perhaps his biggest "sin" against his father was that he welcomed Gandalf and sought counsel from him whenver the wizard came to Minis Tirith. Boromir did not share his father's disdain for Faramir. Boromir loved his brother much and thought him the best man in Gondor and Faramir felt the same about Boromir. And as the events of the War of the Ring drew closer each would grow into manhood.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2984
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 336-337

Aragorn and Arwen Betrothed

After years of wandering in the wild, investigating the plans of Sauron, winning renown in both Gondor and Rohan, and forming friendship with Gandalf Aragorn decided to seek Rivendell for some rest being now 49 years old. He came to Lorien and was admitted into that haven by Lady Galadriel. Unbeknownst to Aragorn, Arwen was there too once visiting her mother's kin. Galadriel had Aragorn clothed in fine clothes fitting of his lineage and he looked like an Elf-lord of old. "And thus it was that Arwen first beheld him again after their long parting; and as he came walking towards her under the trees of Caras Galadhon laden with flowers of gold, her choice was made and her doom appointed" (p. 341, The Return of the King).

They spent many a day walking the woods together and they were glad. "And Arwen said: 'Dark is the Shadow, and yet my heart rejoices; for you, Estel, shall be among the great whose valour will destroy it'" (p. 341, The Return of the King). Aragorn was not as certain as she that he would be able to destroy Sauron. Still he claimed her hope and announced he utterly rejected the Shadow. In that moment Aragorn laid before her the tough choice she would need to make: love and death or immortality without him. She looked longingly into the West for she loved her father Elrond deeply. "'I will cleave to you, Dunadan, and turn from the Twilight. Yet there lies the land of my people and the long home of all my kin'" (p. 342, The Return of the King). You can see in the book the two made their choice long before the journey to destroy the Ring; for cinematic purposes that choice was portrayed as doubt throughout in the movies.

Elrond was grieved to hear of his daughters choice and he spoke with Aragorn when he arrived in Rivendell. "'My son, years come when hope will fade, and beyond them little is clear to me. And now a shadow lies between us. Maybe, it has been appointed so, that by my loss the kingship of Men may be restored. Therefore, though I love you, I say to you: Arwen Undomiel shall not diminish her life's grace for less cause. She shall not be the bride of any Man less than the King of both Gondor and Arnor. To me even our victory can only bring sorrow and parting--but to you hope of joy for a while. Alas, my son! I fear that to Arwen the Doom of Men may seem hard at the ending'" (p. 342, The Return of the King). Being the father of a daughter I totally get what Elrond is saying here; it doesn't seem harsh at all. Basically, he wants the best for Arwen and Aragorn's current ranger in the wild life won't cut it. It's a great challenge: be the man you are destined to be for only that man will be good enough for my daughter.

They spoke no more of this and once again Aragorn returned to the wilds to do his part against Sauron who was only growing stronger and stronger. Arwen remained in Rivendell and watched over him in thought and made a kingly standard for him in hope of that day that Aragorn would be the King he was destined to be.

This is rich detail in the relationship of Arwen and Aragorn. It makes me long to see it on screen and if you read carefully you'll noticed bits that Peter Jackson and company weaved into the movies if not entirely accurate. But I digress. I am a full believer that literature is one medium and cinema is another. The amount of detail, complexity, and layers that Tolkien created in Middle-earth can never fully be portrayed in any movie. And I think Peter Jackson's adaptation is top notch despite some flaws.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2980
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 341-342

Ecthelion II, Thengel, and Aragorn

These events are highlight Aragorn's involvement with the great kingdoms of Rohan and Gondor. Aragorn had left Elrond's house, after discussion with the Elf-lord concerning Arwen, and went into the wild. "For the next thirty years he laboured in the cause against Sauron; and he became friend of Gandalf the Wise, from whom he gained much wisdom. With him he went on many perilous journeys, but as the years wore on he more often alone" (p. 340, The Return of the King).

Meanwhile, Ecthelion II had become Steward of Gondor during this time. "Ecthelion II, son of Turgon, was a man of wisdom. With what power was left to him he began to strengthen his realm against the assault of Mordor. He encouraged all men of worth from near and far to enter his service, and those who proved trustworthy he gave rank and reward" (p. 335, The Return of the King). It was in this way that a man named Thorongil came to Gondor. No one knew from where originated or what his true name was but he had come from Rohan where he had served King Thengel.

Thengel had been called home to Rohan from Gondor after his father, Fengel, died and he went unwillingly. "But he proved a good and wise king; though the speech of Gondor was used in his house, and not all men thought that good" (p. 350, The Return of the King). He married late in life and had three children his only son being Theoden. His youngest daughter born in 2963 was named Theodwyn. "Her brother loved her dearly" (p. 350, The Return of the King). Thengel died in 2980 and it was in his time that Saruman declared himself Lord of Isengard and began giving Rohan some trouble concerning borders. Thorongil must have served Thengel during this time.

In his service to Gondor Thoringil proved to be one of Ecthelion's greatest counselors and allies. "Thorongil often counselled Ecthelion that the strength of the rebels in Umbar was a great peril to Gondor, and a threat to the fiefs of the south that would prove deadly, if Sauron moved to open war. At last he got leave of the Steward and gathered a small fleet, and he came upon Umbar unlooked for by night, and there burned a great part of the ships of the Corsairs. He himself overthrew the Captain of the Haven in the battle upon the quays, and then withdrew his fleet with small loss. But when they came back to Pelagir, to men's grief and wonder, he would not return to Minis Tirith, where great honour awaited him" (p. 335, The Return of the King).

Thorongil told Ecthelion II by message that other deeds called him and it would be many years before he would come back to Gondor, fate willing. He was seen departing toward the Mountain of Shadow but none knew his tasks and all were sad. Save one, Denethor, son of Ecthelion II, in line to become the next (and last) Steward of Gondor.

So who is Thorongil? You probably already guessed he is Aragorn. "For he went in many guises, and won renown under many names. He rode in the host of the Rohirrim, and fought for the Lord of Gondor by land and by sea; and then in the hour of victory he passed out of knowledge of Men of the West, and went alone far into the East and deep into the South, exploring the hearts of Men, both evil an good, and uncovering the plots and devices of the servants of Sauron" (p. 341, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2953-2980 (approximately)
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 340-341; 335-336; and 350

The Last Meeting of the White Council

The Tale of Years gives a brief synopsis of the meeting: "Last meeting of the White Council. They debate the Rings. Saruman feigns that he has discovered that the One Ring has passed down Anduin to the Sea. Saruman withdraws to Isengard, which he takes as his own, and fortifies it. Being jealous and afraid of Gandalf he sets spies to watch all his movements; and notes his interest in the Shire. He soon begins to keep agents in Bree and the Southfarthing" (p. 370, The Return of the King).

Saruman was jealous and hated Gandalf by this time because "...Saruman knew in his heart that the Grey Wanderer had the greater strength, and the greater influence upon the dwellers in Middle-earth, even though he hid his power and desired neither fear nor reverence" (p. 349, Unfinished Tales). Saruman, fearing and hating Gandalf, would often counsel against his rivals plans and treat him with less respect. But his distrust of Gandalf would have consequences for the Hobbits.

"It was in this way that Saruman came to give thought to the Halflings and the Shire, which otherwise he would have deemed beneath his notice. He had first no thought that the interest of his rival in this people had any connexion with the great concerns of the Council, least of all the Rings of Power. For indeed in the beginning it had no such connexion, and was due only to Gandalf's love for the Little People, unless his heart had some deep premonition beyond his waking thought. For many years he visited the Shire openly, and would speak of its people to any who would listen; and Saruman would smile, as at the idle tales of an old land-rover, but he took heed nonetheless" (p. 350, Unfinished Tales).

Saruman went so far as to explore, in disguise, the Shire himself until he thought he knew all he needed to know about it. Even so he set his spies to watch over it because he did not trust Gandalf or anyone for that matter. "He was himself so far fallen that he believed all others of the Council had each their deep and far reaching policies for their own enhancement, to which all that they did must in some way refer. So when long after he learned something of the finding of Gollum's Ring by the Halfling, he could believe only that Gandalf had known of this all the time; and this was his greatest grievance, since all that concerned the Rings he deemed his especial province" (p. 350, Unfinished Tales).

Saruman's watch upon the Shire had no evil intentions at the beginning. He even, after listening to Gandalf praise the Halfling's pipe-weed time and again, tried some of the Longbottom Leaf himself and soon began to use it regularly, in private of course. The pipe weed was Saruman's chief concern with the Shire. "Yet he dreaded lest this should be discovered, and his own mockery turned against him, so that he would be laughed at for imitating Gandalf, and scorned for doing so by stealth" (p. 351, Unfinished Tales). It would seem that after years of dwelling on the One Ring and it's power Saruman has grown a little paranoid.

So for the sake of his pride Saruman was secret in his dealings with the Shire. He ceased to visit the Shire altogether for he became aware that some of the hobbits had noted his visits. But the hobbits had mistaken him for Gandalf. Saruman did not wish Gandalf to know that he too was making use of the Halflings weed. "But Gandalf knew of these visits, and guessed their object, and he laughed, thinking this the most harmless of Saruman's secrets; but he said nothing to others, for it was never his wish that any one should be put to shame. Nonetheless he was not ill-pleased when the visits of Saruman ceased, doubting him already, though he could not himself yet foresee that a time would come when Saruman's knowledge of the Shire would prove perilous and of the greatest service to the Enemy, bringing victory to within a nail's breadth of his grasp" (p. 351, Unfinished Tales).

While this reading is mostly a case study of Saruman I think it also gives a key attribute of Gandalf as well. While Saruman is driven by power and dominance Gandalf is concerned about keeping other's dignity intact. Even if the other person, Saruman in this case, treats him with scorn. Overall I found this reading to be a fascinating look inside Saruman's thoughts and motivations which will lead to his ultimate betrayal.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2953
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 370; and Unfinished Tales, pages 349-351

Fengel, The 15th King of the Mark

Fengel was the 15th King of Rohan. Fengel was the son of Folcwine. Folcwine was a good king but his son did not follow suit. "He is not remembered with praise. He was greedy of food and gold, and at strife with his marshals, and with his children" (p. 350, The Return of the King). In fact, Fengel's only son, Thengel, left Rohan and lived in Gondor serving, with great honor, Turgon the Steward.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2870-2953
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 350

The Meeting of Aragorn and Arwen

Even as Sauron revealed himself Aragorn met Arwen for the first time. He was 20 years old and returning to Rivendell after performing great deeds with Elrond's sons. Elrond was pleased with Estel and revealed to him his true name, Aragorn, and his true lineage. He gave Aragorn the Ring of Barahir and the shards of Narsil."'With these you may yet do great deeds; for I foretell that the span of your life shall be greater than the measure of Men, unless evil befalls you or you fail the test. But the test will be hard and long'" (p. 338, The Return of the King). Even with these somber words Aragorn's heart was high.

In this state he walked through the woods of Rivendell and to his amazement he saw a beautiful Elf-maiden walking along. He thought perhaps he was seeing a vision of Luthien for he had been singing the Lay of Lethien at that very moment. Behold! She walked before him with dark hair clad in a mantle of blue and silver. "For a moment Aragorn gazed in silence, but fearing that she would pass away and never be seen again, he called to her crying, 'Tinuviel, Tinuviel!' even as Beren had done in the Elder Days long ago. Arwen smiled and turned asking who called her by such a name.

Aragorn declared himself and she in turn declared she was Arwen, Elrond's daughter, also known as Undomiel. Aragorn was even more amazed, for living 20 years in the house of Elrond he had not heard the Elf lord or his sons even mention her. He wondered aloud if Elrond had kept her locked away as men often do with treasures. "'I have dwelt a long time in the land of my mother's kin, in far Lothlorien. I have but lately returned to visit my father again. It is many years since I walked in Imladris'" (p. 339, The Return of the King). Aragorn loved her from that time on.

Still, Aragorn was distraught knowing that she was Elven and he a man. His mother, Gilraen, confirmed this saying: "'And it is not fit that mortal should wed with the Elf-kin'" (p. 339, The Return of the King). Aragorn resolved to spend his days walking alone in the wild. Elrond perceived what was eating away at Aragorn and one day called him into his chamber. "'Aragorn, Arathorn's son, Lord of the Dunedain, listen to me! A great doom awaits you, either to rise above the height of all your fathers since the days of Elendil, or to fall into darkness with all that is left of your kin. Many years of trial lie before you. You shall have neither wife, nor bind any woman to you in troth, until your time comes and you are found worthy of it'" (p. 340, The Return of the King). Strong words from Master Elrond but good words.

Aragorn read what Elrond was saying. Elrond explained he did not mean just Arwen but if that was who Aragorn was thinking of she was too far above him. Plus he added that a doom lay upon them: that one day they, as all Elves, she would be leaving Middle-earth. Aragorn felt his plight was nearly identical to Beren's but he also had some measure of foresight. "'Master Elrond, the years of your abiding run short at last, and the choice must soon be laid on your children, to part either with you or with Middle-earth'" (p. 340, The Return of the King).

Elrond was certain there was no choice for Arwen unless Aragorn came between them resulting in a bitter parting. Aragorn had no inkling of what he desired of Elrond. Even still, Elrond loved Aragorn and would not withdraw that love. He only said many years would pass before they discussed this again and much evil would befall in that time.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2951

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 338-340

Sauron Reveals Himself

In the days of Turgon, Steward of Gondor, Sauron revealed himself. He had been driven from Mirkwood by Gandalf and the White Council in 2941 during Bilbo's adventure. Now it became widely known that the Necromancer was indeed Sauron and Mordor had been long prepared for him by his the Nazgul. "Then Barad-dur was raised once more, and Mount Doom burst into flame, and the last of the folk of Ithilien fled far away" (p. 335, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2951
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 335

Balin Visits Bilbo

Some years later, after Bilbo was settled in Bag End, there came a knock at his door. He had just thought of a title for his memoir: There and Back Again, a Hobbit's Holiday when he went to the door. He found Gandalf along with his old friend Balin. They soon began reminiscing about all the stories of their shared experience. That's the way of tested and true friendship I think. With my best bro's we fall into old times and tackle life's current difficulties whether we have seen each other daily or years in between. I think Tolkien knew deep friendship and weaved pictures of it into these great stories.

Balin caught Bilbo up on the news since they last saw one another. Bard had rebuilt Dale. The Master of Lake-town had taken his gold and ran away only to die in the wastelands. Lake-town was rebuilt and was prosperous. There was peace amongst the Dwarves, Elves, and Men in that area of Middle-earth. At long last they looked at the meaning of their journey and Gandalf said: "'You don't really suppose, do you, that all your adventures and escapes were managed by mere luck, just for your sole benefit? You are a very fine person, Mr. Baggins, and I am very fond of you; but you are only quite a little fellow in a wide world after all!' 'Thank goodness!' said Bilbo laughing, and handed him the tobacco-jar" (p. 317, The Hobbit).

What a perfect end to this story. What I love about this last interaction of the book is Gandalf, once again, pointing toward providence. Not only was Bilbo (unknowingly) guided by Manwë and Eru but it was for the benefit of the entirety of Middle-earth. I like that thought; it is encouraging. Plus I love that it ends with the tobacco jar; you can picture Gandalf, Balin, and Bilbo sitting by the hearth laughing and sending up smoke rings as the Wizard sends them chasing each other around the house in an array of colors. What a great story and read in it's chronological context even better!

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2949
Today's reading comes from: The Hobbit, pages 316-317

There And Back Again

Weary from their travels over the Misty Mountains Gandalf and Bilbo arrive at Rivendell and are warmly greeted by Elrond and the Elves. Gandalf recounted their adventures to many eager ears while Bilbo quietly rested for he and Gandalf had discussed much of it after leaving Beorn's house. But every now and then Bilbo perked up at a new telling; he learned that the business Gandalf had left the company for was a meeting of the White Council and that they had driven the Necromancer from southern Mirkwood. Gandalf lamented that he wished rather that enemy had been driven from the world and Elrond feared that would not happen for some time.

Bilbo finally went to sleep that night but was awoken by the Elves singing. "'Well, Merry People!' said Bilbo looking out. 'What time by the moon is this? Your lullaby would waken a drunken goblin! Yet I thank you.' 'And your snores would waken a stone dragon--yet we thank you,' they answered with laughter" (p. 311, The Hobbit). Within a week's time Gandalf and Bilbo were well rested and ready to move on for the hobbit was anxious to arrive at home. "'There is a long road yet,' said Gandalf. 'But it is the last road.' said Bilbo" (p. 311, The Hobbit). That's a beautiful line. Reminds me of my grandmother passed away about a year ago and her struggle to leave this life was a long road; but it is the last road, amen.

Each passing landmark brought memories back to Bilbo. Eventually they reached the spot where they encountered the trolls, Tom, Bert, and Bill. They found the troll-gold still hidden and buried and took it with them. When they reached the Shire and Bilbo could just make out his hill he burst into poem. "Gandalf looked at him. 'My dear Bilbo!' he said. 'Something is the matter with you! You are not the hobbit that you were.'" (p. 313, The Hobbit). Indeed, Bilbo had grown quite a bit through his adventure, finding his courage, using his wisdom, and relying on his strengths along the way.

But all was not quite perfect. For reaching Bag-End Bilbo found a most surprising and disconcerting site. An auction with all of his things being sold! Indeed the signs in the yard stated the auction would take place at 10:00am on June 22nd, it was now noon and most everything was sold. Obviously the return of Bilbo Baggins caused quite a reaction. It took years to convince some (particularly those who had gotten good deals at the auction) that he was indeed alive. Bilbo had to use most of his treasure to buy back his household goods and his silver spoons were never recovered. "Personally he suspected the Sackville-Bagginses. On their side they never admitted that the returned Baggins was genuine, and they were not on friendly terms with Bilbo ever after" (p. 314, The Hobbit). Peter Jackson makes a nice homage to this discord in the extended edition of The Fellowship of the Ring.

Indeed, Bilbo's biggest loss (although not to him) was his reputation. He never was looked at the same for going on his adventure. And being friends with likes of Wizards, Elves, and Dwarves did not help matters. It seemed only his nieces and nephews believed his tales; but one of those nephews will become quite important soon. Nonetheless Bilbo lived happily a good long time writing down his memoirs and telling no one, other than Frodo and Gandalf, about his secret Ring. Many of Bilbo's memoirs and poetry were end up in the Red Book. One particular poem, Errantry, was most likely written not long after his adventure to the Lonely Mountain as it contained references such as: under hill, over hill, spiders and webs, and elven-nights of Faerie, and of course adventures. Here is but one stanza: "He passed the archipelagoes where yellow grows the marigold, where countless silver fountains are, and mountains are of fairy-gold. He took to war and foraying, a-harrying beyond the sea, and roaming over Belmarie and Thellamie, and Fantasie" (p. 212, The Tolkien Reader). Perhaps a little nonsensical which makes perfect sense to a hobbit.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2942 (May 1st-June 22nd)
Today's reading comes from: The Hobbit, 308-316 and The Tolkien Reader, pages 211-214