The Departure of Boromir
The narrative picks up just after Frodo and Sam have left the rest of the Fellowship and have headed toward Mordor to destroy the Ring. Aragorn races in pursuit of Frodo, but he finds it difficult to follow the hobbit’s tracks. Suddenly, Aragorn hears the voices of Orcs going into battle, followed by the battle horn of Boromir, the other human warrior in the Fellowship. Aragorn fears that Boromir is in danger. Indeed, the Orcs wound Boromir fatally, and when Aragorn reaches him, Boromir is nearly dead. Boromir confesses to having tried, unsuccessfully, to take the Ring from Frodo earlier. Boromir dies, and Aragorn weeps over his friend’s body.
Legolas the Elf and Gimli the Dwarf join Aragorn. Legolas regrets that he has been chasing the wrong group of Orcs, leaving Boromir without defense. Aragorn announces that Boromir is dead, having been killed defending the hobbits. Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn carry Boromir’s body on a bier to the river and launch a funeral boat. Legolas and Aragorn sing bits of prophetic songs that concern the death of Boromir and his role in the larger scheme of destiny.
Legolas asks where the hobbits are now, but Aragorn says he does not know. He explains that he sent Boromir to follow Merry and Pippin, but neglected to ask whether Frodo was with them. Aragorn now realizes his error. He speculates that Frodo separated from his colleagues because he did not wish to expose them to the dangers of the quest. Aragorn says that the Dwarves, Elves, and Men must stick together in their mission to find Frodo.
Legolas the Elf and Gimli the Dwarf join Aragorn. Legolas regrets that he has been chasing the wrong group of Orcs, leaving Boromir without defense. Aragorn announces that Boromir is dead, having been killed defending the hobbits. Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn carry Boromir’s body on a bier to the river and launch a funeral boat. Legolas and Aragorn sing bits of prophetic songs that concern the death of Boromir and his role in the larger scheme of destiny.
Legolas asks where the hobbits are now, but Aragorn says he does not know. He explains that he sent Boromir to follow Merry and Pippin, but neglected to ask whether Frodo was with them. Aragorn now realizes his error. He speculates that Frodo separated from his colleagues because he did not wish to expose them to the dangers of the quest. Aragorn says that the Dwarves, Elves, and Men must stick together in their mission to find Frodo.
The Riders of Rohan
Looking on the ground, Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn at first see only their own tracks and those of Orcs; they are unable to tell whether the hobbits have passed by. Aragorn is at a loss, without a clue as to where the hobbits have gone. Suddenly, however, he notices some Hobbit prints near the river, but he is not sure when they were left.
At the foot of a steep slope, the group finds five Orc corpses huddled together. Aragorn notices that the slain creatures are from a different Orc tribe, and guesses that the Orcs have been quarreling among themselves. Gimli hopes that the captive hobbits have not suffered as a result of the Orc quarrel. Legolas, with his incredible eyesight, sees an eagle flying twelve leagues away, and guesses that the Orcs are there. If true, this suggests that the Orcs are moving with the greatest possible speed, proceeding not just at night but also by daylight, against their nature.
Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli notice that the earth becomes greener as they enter the fields of Rohan. Aragorn spots Hobbit footprints on the ground and guesses them to be Pippin’s. He also finds a brooch from an Elf cloak on the ground. As it is unlikely that the brooch was dropped by chance, Aragorn reasons that Pippin left it as a sign for his rescuers to find. They all rejoice in this proof that one of the hobbits, at least, seems to be alive.
Through the cold uplands of Rohan, the group follows the swiftly moving Orcs, whose speed is remarkable. Suddenly Legolas sees horsemen moving in the distance, though he glimpses no Hobbits among them. The riders are not Orcs, but Men. Though Gimli is cautious, Aragorn asserts that the horsemen—presumably the Riders of Rohan—are mighty but just; they would not assault strangers without listening to them first.
The horsemen approach, and the leader introduces himself as Éomer, Third Marshal of Riddermark. Aragorn announces that he is hunting Orcs, and Éomer admits that he mistook Aragorn’s group for Orcs themselves. Aragorn explains that he is in the service of no man, but is merely searching for his Hobbit friends, whom the Orcs have taken captive. Éomer relates that a great battle has just taken place between his riders and the Orcs. The Orcs were destroyed, with no sign of any Hobbit bodies among the slain.
It is not clear, however, whether Éomer even knows what a Hobbit is. Gimli explains that Hobbits are neither children nor Dwarves, but Halflings. Éomer, having thought that Halflings were merely characters from old tales, is surprised to learn that they actually exist. Éomer explains that the powerful wizard Saruman has been corrupted and is now a dangerous enemy preparing for war in nearby Isengard. Aragorn relates to Éomer that Gandalf the Grey, who has greatly aided the Fellowship, has been killed.
Éomer states that it is not customary for strangers to be allowed to wander freely in Rohan, but he permits passage to the group, and even gives them all horses to ride. They ride all day, but still find no trace of Pippin or Merry. In the forest of Fangorn, they build a fire with wood the Riders gathered earlier. Legolas tells of the treelike Ents rumored to live in Fangorn. Gimli has a vision of an old man in a large cloak and a wide-brimmed hat, whom he takes to be Saruman. When the group wakes, they find that their horses are gone.
At the foot of a steep slope, the group finds five Orc corpses huddled together. Aragorn notices that the slain creatures are from a different Orc tribe, and guesses that the Orcs have been quarreling among themselves. Gimli hopes that the captive hobbits have not suffered as a result of the Orc quarrel. Legolas, with his incredible eyesight, sees an eagle flying twelve leagues away, and guesses that the Orcs are there. If true, this suggests that the Orcs are moving with the greatest possible speed, proceeding not just at night but also by daylight, against their nature.
Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli notice that the earth becomes greener as they enter the fields of Rohan. Aragorn spots Hobbit footprints on the ground and guesses them to be Pippin’s. He also finds a brooch from an Elf cloak on the ground. As it is unlikely that the brooch was dropped by chance, Aragorn reasons that Pippin left it as a sign for his rescuers to find. They all rejoice in this proof that one of the hobbits, at least, seems to be alive.
Through the cold uplands of Rohan, the group follows the swiftly moving Orcs, whose speed is remarkable. Suddenly Legolas sees horsemen moving in the distance, though he glimpses no Hobbits among them. The riders are not Orcs, but Men. Though Gimli is cautious, Aragorn asserts that the horsemen—presumably the Riders of Rohan—are mighty but just; they would not assault strangers without listening to them first.
The horsemen approach, and the leader introduces himself as Éomer, Third Marshal of Riddermark. Aragorn announces that he is hunting Orcs, and Éomer admits that he mistook Aragorn’s group for Orcs themselves. Aragorn explains that he is in the service of no man, but is merely searching for his Hobbit friends, whom the Orcs have taken captive. Éomer relates that a great battle has just taken place between his riders and the Orcs. The Orcs were destroyed, with no sign of any Hobbit bodies among the slain.
It is not clear, however, whether Éomer even knows what a Hobbit is. Gimli explains that Hobbits are neither children nor Dwarves, but Halflings. Éomer, having thought that Halflings were merely characters from old tales, is surprised to learn that they actually exist. Éomer explains that the powerful wizard Saruman has been corrupted and is now a dangerous enemy preparing for war in nearby Isengard. Aragorn relates to Éomer that Gandalf the Grey, who has greatly aided the Fellowship, has been killed.
Éomer states that it is not customary for strangers to be allowed to wander freely in Rohan, but he permits passage to the group, and even gives them all horses to ride. They ride all day, but still find no trace of Pippin or Merry. In the forest of Fangorn, they build a fire with wood the Riders gathered earlier. Legolas tells of the treelike Ents rumored to live in Fangorn. Gimli has a vision of an old man in a large cloak and a wide-brimmed hat, whom he takes to be Saruman. When the group wakes, they find that their horses are gone.
The Uruk-Hai
While Aragorn’s group hunts for the hobbits, Pippin and Merry lie captive in the Orc camp, bound hand and foot. Pippin has a dark dream in which he calls out to Frodo but sees only Orcs around him. Pippin recalls the great battle in which Boromir appeared, at first causing great fear among the Orcs, but then unable to summon any other warriors with his horn. Pippin’s last memory of the battle is of seeing Boromir trying to pull an arrow out of his own body. Pippin regrets that Gandalf ever asked him to come along, as he feels like little more than a burden.
Pippin hears the Orcs talking among themselves. One orc asks why the hobbits cannot simply be killed. Another answers that orders have been given not to kill, search, or plunder the hobbits; they must be captured alive. Pippin is aware that the two orcs are speaking the Common Tongue, as the different Orc tribes cannot understand one another. Nevertheless, he notes that the various Orcs sometimes lapse back into their native tongue when speaking with their own; in these instances, he cannot follow their speech, which sounds angry and snarling to him.
There is apparently some hostility among the various Orc tribes. Uglúk, an orc from the Uruk-hai clan, is proud to call himself the servant of Saruman the Wise, the White Hand. The other orc insults Saruman, and a fight breaks out in which one orc dies, falling on top of Pippin. Pippin is able to rub his hand bindings against the blade of the fallen orc’s knife, thus freeing his hands. Not noticing that Pippin’s hands are free, Uglúk orders the hobbits to move quickly in march with the rest of the Orc horde. Suddenly, the hobbits are snatched up by the Isengard Orcs, who double their speed and pull out ahead of the others. The Isengard Orcs attempt to leave behind the other Orcs, who pursue them unsuccessfully.
Finally losing the other Orcs, the Isengard Orcs, stop to give Pippin and Merry Orc-liquor, which allows them to march a long distance. The Orcs halt and throw Pippin to the ground. They begin to search the bodies of the two hobbits, believing Pippin and Merry to be the possessors of the Ring. The hobbits demand to be untied before they will offer anything to Grishnákh, the Isengard orc who is searching them.
Suddenly, a rider appears and kills the hobbits’ Orc captor. Pippin and Merry lie frightened on the ground, covered by their Elf cloaks, which make them invisible. They eat some lembas cakes to regain their energy, and they decide to leave an Elf-brooch behind in the hopes that a rescuer might find it (as Aragorn indeed finds it later). The hobbits flee into the woods, not seeing that the rider kills Uglúk.
Pippin hears the Orcs talking among themselves. One orc asks why the hobbits cannot simply be killed. Another answers that orders have been given not to kill, search, or plunder the hobbits; they must be captured alive. Pippin is aware that the two orcs are speaking the Common Tongue, as the different Orc tribes cannot understand one another. Nevertheless, he notes that the various Orcs sometimes lapse back into their native tongue when speaking with their own; in these instances, he cannot follow their speech, which sounds angry and snarling to him.
There is apparently some hostility among the various Orc tribes. Uglúk, an orc from the Uruk-hai clan, is proud to call himself the servant of Saruman the Wise, the White Hand. The other orc insults Saruman, and a fight breaks out in which one orc dies, falling on top of Pippin. Pippin is able to rub his hand bindings against the blade of the fallen orc’s knife, thus freeing his hands. Not noticing that Pippin’s hands are free, Uglúk orders the hobbits to move quickly in march with the rest of the Orc horde. Suddenly, the hobbits are snatched up by the Isengard Orcs, who double their speed and pull out ahead of the others. The Isengard Orcs attempt to leave behind the other Orcs, who pursue them unsuccessfully.
Finally losing the other Orcs, the Isengard Orcs, stop to give Pippin and Merry Orc-liquor, which allows them to march a long distance. The Orcs halt and throw Pippin to the ground. They begin to search the bodies of the two hobbits, believing Pippin and Merry to be the possessors of the Ring. The hobbits demand to be untied before they will offer anything to Grishnákh, the Isengard orc who is searching them.
Suddenly, a rider appears and kills the hobbits’ Orc captor. Pippin and Merry lie frightened on the ground, covered by their Elf cloaks, which make them invisible. They eat some lembas cakes to regain their energy, and they decide to leave an Elf-brooch behind in the hopes that a rescuer might find it (as Aragorn indeed finds it later). The hobbits flee into the woods, not seeing that the rider kills Uglúk.
Treebeard
Speeding through the forest, Merry and Pippin stop to drink water from the Entwash River. Munching on some of their few remaining lembas cakes, they worry about their lack of food and supplies. To their surprise, Merry and Pippin are suddenly addressed by what appears to be a fourteen-foot-tall walking tree. The creature is an Ent, an ancient treelike creature, named Fangorn or Treebeard. He is kind to the hobbits, and he explains his history to them. Treebeard identifies himself as one of the oldest creatures in Middle-earth. He is the shepherd of the other trees in the forest, many of which are Ents like him. Fangorn offers to carry Merry and Pippin to his home and to give them food and drink. On the way, Fangorn provides information about the Ents and their history. Many trees in the forest are simply Ents that have fallen asleep, who must be roused to action by some stirring motivation. The Ents have lost their wives, as the Ent-wives wandered off one day long ago. As a consequence, there are no young Ents in the forest.
As Pippin and Merry are being carried to the Ent-house, they ask Fangorn why they have heard stories warning them about the Ent forest. Fangorn agrees that it is an odd land, and expresses surprise that the hobbits ever made it into the forest in the first place. During the hobbits’ meal at the Ent-house, Fangorn gives them some Ent food, a nourishing liquid that they drink greedily. Pippin and Merry learn about the Ents’ growing fury at the Orcs and at Saruman, who has been mutating the Orcs into a new breed of monsters unafraid of sunlight (most Orcs fear the sun, and therefore come out only at night). Fangorn says that Saruman is evil and that Saruman’s Isengard forces must be stopped through an alliance between Rohan, the Ents, and Aragorn’s group.
After a night’s sleep, Fangorn takes the hobbits to an Entmoot, or gathering of the Ents, in which the tree beings discuss a possible alliance with Rohan. The hobbits discover a variety of tree creatures of different shapes and sizes assembled. While the Ents debate in a low murmur, Merry and Pippin wonder how the Ents could possibly move on Isengard, which is a ring of rocky hills with a pillar of rock in the middle—not a place that trees could reach easily.
Merry and Pippin are invited to the home of an Ent named Bregalad or Quickbeam, who explains that the Orcs have been cruel to the Ents, cutting down trees for no reason. The hobbits suddenly hear the mighty roar of the Ent assembly, which has been stirred to action. Pippin at first cannot believe his eyes when he thinks he sees trees in motion, but it is true—the forest itself begins to move. The tree creatures all march toward Isengard to wage battle with Saruman and his Orc forces. Bregalad marches next to Fangorn, who reflects that the Ents may be marching to their doom. Fangorn points the way on to Isengard.
As Pippin and Merry are being carried to the Ent-house, they ask Fangorn why they have heard stories warning them about the Ent forest. Fangorn agrees that it is an odd land, and expresses surprise that the hobbits ever made it into the forest in the first place. During the hobbits’ meal at the Ent-house, Fangorn gives them some Ent food, a nourishing liquid that they drink greedily. Pippin and Merry learn about the Ents’ growing fury at the Orcs and at Saruman, who has been mutating the Orcs into a new breed of monsters unafraid of sunlight (most Orcs fear the sun, and therefore come out only at night). Fangorn says that Saruman is evil and that Saruman’s Isengard forces must be stopped through an alliance between Rohan, the Ents, and Aragorn’s group.
After a night’s sleep, Fangorn takes the hobbits to an Entmoot, or gathering of the Ents, in which the tree beings discuss a possible alliance with Rohan. The hobbits discover a variety of tree creatures of different shapes and sizes assembled. While the Ents debate in a low murmur, Merry and Pippin wonder how the Ents could possibly move on Isengard, which is a ring of rocky hills with a pillar of rock in the middle—not a place that trees could reach easily.
Merry and Pippin are invited to the home of an Ent named Bregalad or Quickbeam, who explains that the Orcs have been cruel to the Ents, cutting down trees for no reason. The hobbits suddenly hear the mighty roar of the Ent assembly, which has been stirred to action. Pippin at first cannot believe his eyes when he thinks he sees trees in motion, but it is true—the forest itself begins to move. The tree creatures all march toward Isengard to wage battle with Saruman and his Orc forces. Bregalad marches next to Fangorn, who reflects that the Ents may be marching to their doom. Fangorn points the way on to Isengard.
The White Rider
Meanwhile, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas suffer from freezing weather on the trail of Merry and Pippin. They fear that the hobbits may have perished in the fierce battle between the Riders of Rohan and the Orcs. Gimli and Aragorn find the knife and the cut ropes that bound the hands of Pippin, giving them hope that the two hobbits are still alive somewhere in the forest. They find Hobbit tracks and follow them up to the river where the hobbits bathed.
Debating what to do next, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are suddenly surprised by an old man in a cloak and wide-brimmed hat in the forest. Taking him for the evil Saruman, they are about to shoot him when Aragorn advises them to address him first, to be sure who he is. The stranger speaks to them familiarly, as though he knows them all. Gimli implores the old man to tell them where their friends are. Rather than answer, the old man jumps on a tall rock and throws off his gray clothes, revealing white garments beneath. Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are stunned to recognize their former companion Gandalf the Grey, reborn as Gandalf the White. Gandalf mysteriously says that he has “passed through fire and deep water” since his plunge into the chasm with the Balrog in the Mines of Moria (as recounted in The Fellowship of the Ring).
Gandalf explains Saruman’s evil intention to seize the Ring for his own use. Sauron, the great Enemy, had asked for Saruman’s help, but Saruman betrayed Sauron by dividing the Isengarders against Rohan, thereby aiding Gandalf’s forces. Gandalf notes that Sauron’s mistake is in concentrating his forces abroad in search of the Ring-bearing Frodo, rather than guarding the entrance to Mordor so that Frodo’s entry might be blocked. It has apparently not occurred to Sauron that Frodo might be trying to return the Ring to Mordor to destroy it. Gandalf also predicts that the Ents, now fully roused to action, will be powerful in a way no one can foresee. Aragorn is confident that Gandalf will be a superb leader of their forces, and he hails Gandalf as the White Rider. Gandalf mounts his horse, Shadowfax, and they all make their way toward Isengard.
Debating what to do next, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are suddenly surprised by an old man in a cloak and wide-brimmed hat in the forest. Taking him for the evil Saruman, they are about to shoot him when Aragorn advises them to address him first, to be sure who he is. The stranger speaks to them familiarly, as though he knows them all. Gimli implores the old man to tell them where their friends are. Rather than answer, the old man jumps on a tall rock and throws off his gray clothes, revealing white garments beneath. Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are stunned to recognize their former companion Gandalf the Grey, reborn as Gandalf the White. Gandalf mysteriously says that he has “passed through fire and deep water” since his plunge into the chasm with the Balrog in the Mines of Moria (as recounted in The Fellowship of the Ring).
Gandalf explains Saruman’s evil intention to seize the Ring for his own use. Sauron, the great Enemy, had asked for Saruman’s help, but Saruman betrayed Sauron by dividing the Isengarders against Rohan, thereby aiding Gandalf’s forces. Gandalf notes that Sauron’s mistake is in concentrating his forces abroad in search of the Ring-bearing Frodo, rather than guarding the entrance to Mordor so that Frodo’s entry might be blocked. It has apparently not occurred to Sauron that Frodo might be trying to return the Ring to Mordor to destroy it. Gandalf also predicts that the Ents, now fully roused to action, will be powerful in a way no one can foresee. Aragorn is confident that Gandalf will be a superb leader of their forces, and he hails Gandalf as the White Rider. Gandalf mounts his horse, Shadowfax, and they all make their way toward Isengard.
The King of the Golden Hall
The Company, led once again by Gandalf, marches toward Isengard, camping at night. The next morning, Legolas glimpses a golden building far in the distance, which Gandalf identifies as Edoras, the court of Théoden, King of Rohan. Gandalf cautions them to ride carefully, as war is afoot and the Riders of Rohan are always on the watch.
As Gandalf and the group arrive at the court of Edoras, guards ask them to identify themselves, addressing them in the local language of Rohan rather than in the Common Tongue. The guards declare that no one is welcome in Edoras in times of war, explaining that someone named Wormtongue has issued these orders. Hearing the name Wormtongue, Gandalf becomes angry and demands to speak to Théoden himself. Gandalf and his companions are allowed entry, although they are forced to leave their weapons with the doorman, Háma, despite Aragorn’s protests. When Gandalf refuses to leave his staff at the door, Háma is suspicious, but allows the wizard to keep the staff with him.
Entering the royal hall, Gandalf’s group meets the aged King Théoden, his wily counselor Gríma Wormtongue, and Theoden’s niece, Éowyn. Wormtongue immediately issues a verbal attack on Gandalf, accusing the wizard of always seeking favors and never offering aid. Gandalf erupts in a rage, using his staff to bring down a powerful thunder that sends Wormtongue to the floor. Gandalf denounces Wormtongue, explaining to Théoden that his counselor had given advice that allowed the Isengarders to become stronger. Gandalf calls upon Théoden to recover his rightful strength as king and to fight off Saruman. Gandalf asks Théoden whether the king is holding Éomer prisoner. Théoden admits that it is so, and that he did so on the advice of the deceitful Wormtongue. Gandalf asks Théoden to release Éomer and to array forces against Isengard.
Théoden confronts Wormtongue, accusing him of treachery. Wormtongue tries to defend himself, but Théoden remains firm, and gives his advisor the ultimatum of either fighting alongside him against Isengard or leaving the country immediately. Wormtongue flees. Gandalf asks for Shadowfax as a gift (the horse was merely borrowed from Théoden before). Théoden offers weapons and coats of mail to everyone in Gandalf’s group, though the wizard himself rides unprotected. From the hall, Éowyn watches the group ride off.
As Gandalf and the group arrive at the court of Edoras, guards ask them to identify themselves, addressing them in the local language of Rohan rather than in the Common Tongue. The guards declare that no one is welcome in Edoras in times of war, explaining that someone named Wormtongue has issued these orders. Hearing the name Wormtongue, Gandalf becomes angry and demands to speak to Théoden himself. Gandalf and his companions are allowed entry, although they are forced to leave their weapons with the doorman, Háma, despite Aragorn’s protests. When Gandalf refuses to leave his staff at the door, Háma is suspicious, but allows the wizard to keep the staff with him.
Entering the royal hall, Gandalf’s group meets the aged King Théoden, his wily counselor Gríma Wormtongue, and Theoden’s niece, Éowyn. Wormtongue immediately issues a verbal attack on Gandalf, accusing the wizard of always seeking favors and never offering aid. Gandalf erupts in a rage, using his staff to bring down a powerful thunder that sends Wormtongue to the floor. Gandalf denounces Wormtongue, explaining to Théoden that his counselor had given advice that allowed the Isengarders to become stronger. Gandalf calls upon Théoden to recover his rightful strength as king and to fight off Saruman. Gandalf asks Théoden whether the king is holding Éomer prisoner. Théoden admits that it is so, and that he did so on the advice of the deceitful Wormtongue. Gandalf asks Théoden to release Éomer and to array forces against Isengard.
Théoden confronts Wormtongue, accusing him of treachery. Wormtongue tries to defend himself, but Théoden remains firm, and gives his advisor the ultimatum of either fighting alongside him against Isengard or leaving the country immediately. Wormtongue flees. Gandalf asks for Shadowfax as a gift (the horse was merely borrowed from Théoden before). Théoden offers weapons and coats of mail to everyone in Gandalf’s group, though the wizard himself rides unprotected. From the hall, Éowyn watches the group ride off.
Helm’s Deep
Gandalf’s group rides south of the River Isen. Legolas sees shapes moving in the distance, but he is unable to distinguish them clearly. The next day, Gandalf becomes alarmed, and with a word to his trusty horse, Shadowfax, speeds off, ordering the group to proceed to Helm’s Deep and to stay far from the plains of Isen.
Obeying Gandalf without knowing his reasoning, the group goes to the Deep, a narrow gorge in the mountains on the far side of the Westfold Vale. Théoden reveals that Saruman knows the region very well, and he foresees that there will be a great battle between the Orcs and the armies of Rohan. Théoden and his Riders arrive at the Deeping Wall, a great fortification near Helm’s Deep. They do not have enough provisions for a long encampment, having prepared for a quick battle rather than a long siege.
Suddenly, the battle begins with a great thunder, as the area around the Deeping Wall is flooded with Orcs. Many arrows are launched on both sides, and Legolas and Gimli fight valiantly. After many hours, the forces of Rohan grow tired. Aragorn is worried to see that the Orcs have crept beneath the Wall and have lit a flaming trail of Orc-liquor below the Riders. Aragorn goes into the Hornburg, the nearby citadel, to find that Éomer has not arrived. Aragorn learns that the Orcs have used their flaming liquid to blast through the Wall and seize it. Aragorn feels demoralized even though he is told that the Hornburg has never once been taken. The Orcs jeer at the Riders in the citadel, telling them to come out and meet their fate at the hands of the Uruk-hai. Suddenly, the roar of trumpets is heard, and King Théoden appears in martial splendor. The Orcs, gripped with fear, begin to retreat, dispersing throughout the land surrounding Helm’s Deep. The Hornburg yet again remains safe. Suddenly, a horseman clad in white appears in the distance. The Riders of Rohan hail Gandalf, the White Rider, on the back of Shadowfax.
Obeying Gandalf without knowing his reasoning, the group goes to the Deep, a narrow gorge in the mountains on the far side of the Westfold Vale. Théoden reveals that Saruman knows the region very well, and he foresees that there will be a great battle between the Orcs and the armies of Rohan. Théoden and his Riders arrive at the Deeping Wall, a great fortification near Helm’s Deep. They do not have enough provisions for a long encampment, having prepared for a quick battle rather than a long siege.
Suddenly, the battle begins with a great thunder, as the area around the Deeping Wall is flooded with Orcs. Many arrows are launched on both sides, and Legolas and Gimli fight valiantly. After many hours, the forces of Rohan grow tired. Aragorn is worried to see that the Orcs have crept beneath the Wall and have lit a flaming trail of Orc-liquor below the Riders. Aragorn goes into the Hornburg, the nearby citadel, to find that Éomer has not arrived. Aragorn learns that the Orcs have used their flaming liquid to blast through the Wall and seize it. Aragorn feels demoralized even though he is told that the Hornburg has never once been taken. The Orcs jeer at the Riders in the citadel, telling them to come out and meet their fate at the hands of the Uruk-hai. Suddenly, the roar of trumpets is heard, and King Théoden appears in martial splendor. The Orcs, gripped with fear, begin to retreat, dispersing throughout the land surrounding Helm’s Deep. The Hornburg yet again remains safe. Suddenly, a horseman clad in white appears in the distance. The Riders of Rohan hail Gandalf, the White Rider, on the back of Shadowfax.
The Road to Isengard
Éomer, Théoden, Gandalf, Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn all gather on the plain near Helm’s Deep after the victory over the Orcs. Éomer expresses wonder that Gandalf came at just the right time. Though the men are weary from battle, Gandalf urges the King to assemble a party to ride with him to Isengard to meet Saruman. Théoden chooses Éomer and twenty Riders to accompany them. Gandalf rides in the company of Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli. They sleep in preparation for the journey the next day. The slain Orcs are gathered on the fields.
The party sets out for Isengard the next day, passing through a forest of strange trees along the way. Gimli praises the beauty of caves to Legolas, who prefers the woods. Legolas is surprised to see eyes among the trees, and Gandalf explains that the forest is full of Ents, who are not enemies. The Riders of Rohan grieve over their slain fellow warriors, whose bodies litter the fields around them. Eventually, they reach the Misty Mountains. They sense that the area known as Nan Curunír, or the Wizard’s Vale, is burning. They see a strange black liquid pass over the ground near them. Gandalf orders his men to ignore it and wait until it passes.
Riding on for several days, the group finally arrives at Saruman’s stronghold at Isengard. They see the great stone tower called Orthanc, where Saruman lies in wait, surrounded by a deep gorge on all sides. Once Isengard was abloom with gardens and orchards, but ever since it has been under Saruman’s control, it has been barren and desolate. At the gates of Isengard, Gandalf’s group is surprised to find Merry and Pippin lounging and smoking. It is the first time Théoden has ever seen Hobbits. After a brief chat, Merry and Pippin deliver the message that Fangorn is waiting to meet with Gandalf on the northern wall of Isengard. Gandalf sets out to meet the Ent, accompanied by Théoden.
The party sets out for Isengard the next day, passing through a forest of strange trees along the way. Gimli praises the beauty of caves to Legolas, who prefers the woods. Legolas is surprised to see eyes among the trees, and Gandalf explains that the forest is full of Ents, who are not enemies. The Riders of Rohan grieve over their slain fellow warriors, whose bodies litter the fields around them. Eventually, they reach the Misty Mountains. They sense that the area known as Nan Curunír, or the Wizard’s Vale, is burning. They see a strange black liquid pass over the ground near them. Gandalf orders his men to ignore it and wait until it passes.
Riding on for several days, the group finally arrives at Saruman’s stronghold at Isengard. They see the great stone tower called Orthanc, where Saruman lies in wait, surrounded by a deep gorge on all sides. Once Isengard was abloom with gardens and orchards, but ever since it has been under Saruman’s control, it has been barren and desolate. At the gates of Isengard, Gandalf’s group is surprised to find Merry and Pippin lounging and smoking. It is the first time Théoden has ever seen Hobbits. After a brief chat, Merry and Pippin deliver the message that Fangorn is waiting to meet with Gandalf on the northern wall of Isengard. Gandalf sets out to meet the Ent, accompanied by Théoden.
Flotsam and Jetsam
Gandalf and Théoden leave Isengard to meet Fangorn. Aragorn and his cohorts, staying behind, are given human food obtained by the Ents, a welcome change from the Orc food that disgusts them. The two hobbits offer Gimli some tobacco from barrels they have discovered at Isengard. The dwarf regrets not having a pipe with which to smoke the tobacco, but Pippin gives Gimli a pipe of his own, which Gimli may keep. Gimli is grateful.
Pippin tells the tale of his adventures since he was separated from his friends. Aragorn returns the hobbits’ knives and the Elf-brooch that he found on the way. Merry tells of the Ent assembly and the trees’ decision to go to battle against Saruman, describing the Ents’ speed and great strength in destroying the stone walls of the wizard’s fortress. The hobbits also relate Gandalf’s meeting with Treebeard to seek help. The Ents responded by breaking the dams nearby and flooding the earth under Isengard with water. The Orcs in the lower areas were wiped out.
Pippin tells the tale of his adventures since he was separated from his friends. Aragorn returns the hobbits’ knives and the Elf-brooch that he found on the way. Merry tells of the Ent assembly and the trees’ decision to go to battle against Saruman, describing the Ents’ speed and great strength in destroying the stone walls of the wizard’s fortress. The hobbits also relate Gandalf’s meeting with Treebeard to seek help. The Ents responded by breaking the dams nearby and flooding the earth under Isengard with water. The Orcs in the lower areas were wiped out.
The Voice of Saruman
Gandalf and his group set off for the gates of Orthanc to try to make contact with Saruman. Watching the windows of the tower, Gandalf calls out Saruman’s name, but gets no response. Finally, a window opens and they hear the voice of Gríma Wormtongue, Saruman’s a spy in Théoden’s court. Wormtongue asks what the visitors want. Gandalf impatiently demands to speak to Saruman himself. Finally Saruman speaks. He addresses the travelers in a sad and self-pitying voice, using his powers in an attempt to persuade and placate them.
Saruman first speaks to the Riders of Rohan, claiming that he only wants peace for all. Théoden and his men are initially dazzled by Saruman, but Gimli interrupts the wizard to accuse him of deceit. Saruman tries to maintain his cool, but he explodes in rage when Gandalf rebukes him. Gandalf responds by breaking Saruman’s staff. Saruman falls down. The enraged Wormtongue, hidden from view, seeks revenge by throwing a glowing crystal sphere out of the tower window. The globe misses Gandalf and rolls along the ground. Pippin picks it up.
The group prepares to leave Orthanc. As they do, they hear a piercing cry from Saruman’s quarters. Gandalf knows that Saruman has realized the loss of the precious globe that Wormtongue threw out the window. As they leave the gates, Gandalf introduces Fangorn to Legolas and Gimli. Gandalf asks the Ent to fill the gorge around Orthanc with water, ensuring that Saruman can never escape. Fangorn promises that the Ents will do so.
Saruman first speaks to the Riders of Rohan, claiming that he only wants peace for all. Théoden and his men are initially dazzled by Saruman, but Gimli interrupts the wizard to accuse him of deceit. Saruman tries to maintain his cool, but he explodes in rage when Gandalf rebukes him. Gandalf responds by breaking Saruman’s staff. Saruman falls down. The enraged Wormtongue, hidden from view, seeks revenge by throwing a glowing crystal sphere out of the tower window. The globe misses Gandalf and rolls along the ground. Pippin picks it up.
The group prepares to leave Orthanc. As they do, they hear a piercing cry from Saruman’s quarters. Gandalf knows that Saruman has realized the loss of the precious globe that Wormtongue threw out the window. As they leave the gates, Gandalf introduces Fangorn to Legolas and Gimli. Gandalf asks the Ent to fill the gorge around Orthanc with water, ensuring that Saruman can never escape. Fangorn promises that the Ents will do so.
The Palantír
As Gandalf and Théoden retreat from Isengard, the wizard carries Merry with him on Shadowfax, while Aragorn carries Pippin. Merry and Gandalf chat. They ride late into the night and then stop to camp. Pippin asks Merry whether Gandalf seems different now that he has come back from the dead, and Merry replies that the wizard seems both happier and more serious.
Merry is sleepy and tired of Pippin’s questioning, and he soon falls asleep. But Pippin, unable to sleep, is tormented by curiosity about the crystal globe Wormtongue threw out of the tower. Pippin sneaks over to the sleeping Gandalf and snatches the globe. Gazing into it, Pippin is appalled by the sight of a dark flying creature approaching him, and then an image of an evil figure addressing him. He drops the globe and cries out in fear.
Gandalf awakens, angered at Pippin, as the globe is a palantír, one of the seven ancient seeing-stones that Sauron has turned to evil uses as devices to communicate with his minions from his tower in Mordor. Pippin’s glimpse into thepalantír not only enabled the hobbit to see visions, but allowed Sauron to see Pippin and into the hobbit’s thoughts. Aragorn notes that the palantír explains how Saruman was able to communicate with Sauron, and Gandalf notes that thepalantír likely played a large part in the corruption of the formerly good Saruman. Gandalf also says that the sight of Pippin in the globe will confuse the Dark Lord, and that the group can make good use of the delay caused by this confusion. The wizard explains that the winged creature Pippin saw in the globe is one of the Nazgûl, the Ringwraiths who pursued the hobbits earlier in the novel. Gandalf proposes to take Pippin away on Shadowfax and to ride as far as the court of Edoras.
Merry is sleepy and tired of Pippin’s questioning, and he soon falls asleep. But Pippin, unable to sleep, is tormented by curiosity about the crystal globe Wormtongue threw out of the tower. Pippin sneaks over to the sleeping Gandalf and snatches the globe. Gazing into it, Pippin is appalled by the sight of a dark flying creature approaching him, and then an image of an evil figure addressing him. He drops the globe and cries out in fear.
Gandalf awakens, angered at Pippin, as the globe is a palantír, one of the seven ancient seeing-stones that Sauron has turned to evil uses as devices to communicate with his minions from his tower in Mordor. Pippin’s glimpse into thepalantír not only enabled the hobbit to see visions, but allowed Sauron to see Pippin and into the hobbit’s thoughts. Aragorn notes that the palantír explains how Saruman was able to communicate with Sauron, and Gandalf notes that thepalantír likely played a large part in the corruption of the formerly good Saruman. Gandalf also says that the sight of Pippin in the globe will confuse the Dark Lord, and that the group can make good use of the delay caused by this confusion. The wizard explains that the winged creature Pippin saw in the globe is one of the Nazgûl, the Ringwraiths who pursued the hobbits earlier in the novel. Gandalf proposes to take Pippin away on Shadowfax and to ride as far as the court of Edoras.
The Taming of Sméagol
The narrative returns to Frodo and Sam on the third day after they departed from their companions at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring. The hobbits wander the barren slopes of the mountains called Emyn Muir, striving to make their way to Mordor, but frequently getting lost and having to retrace their steps. Standing on the edge of a tall cliff, they can see the way down into Mordor, but have no way to descend the cliff. Sam complains to Frodo about their desperate situation. He has been lugging cooking gear for days, but there is nothing to cook. The hobbits survive only on old lembas cakes, and Sam yearns for a pint of beer and a chunk of bread. He expresses his hope that they have lost Gollum, the creature who has been pursuing them for some time. Frodo agrees, but says that he is more troubled by the unending hills of the landscape, which torture his feet. He observes that there is no turning back, as Orc warriors now patrol the banks of the river they have crossed.
Sam and Frodo continue to follow the cliff northward for several more days, finally arriving at a spot where it appears they might be able to climb down. Sam insists on going first, against Frodo’s objections. Sam lowers himself down the cliff, when suddenly a great dark shape appears overhead with a horrible wind and a crack of thunder. Sam loses his hold on the rock and falls, but is saved by a narrow ledge below. Frodo tries to hide his face in fear, but he loses his foothold and falls down onto a ledge below. It begins to rain. Sam suddenly remembers that he has a strong, thin Elf rope in his bag. He measures it out, and finds that it is long enough to allow the two hobbits to lower themselves to the ground below.
After descending safely, Sam and Frodo prepare to go onward to Mordor. Sam regrets abandoning the rope, which is still attached to a rock overhead and cannot be untied. Suddenly, as if by magic, the rope is released and falls into his hands. Frodo suspects that the knot was not tied well, but both wonder whether it was perhaps enchantment that freed the rope.
As the hobbits huddle in the cold, Frodo spots a crawling insect-like creature on a distant cliff, clinging to the wall by its hands. Sam realizes the creature is Gollum. As the creature draws nearer, he leaps on Sam. They wrestle. Frodo draws his knife Sting from its sheath and thrusts it against Gollum’s neck, demanding obedience from the creature. Gollum is suddenly subservient and vows total servitude, but Frodo does not trust him entirely. Gollum suddenly bounds away, attempting escape. The hobbits get him back and harness him with the Elf rope, which causes Gollum great pain. Gollum again vows obedience, and this time he seems sincere. The creature leads his Hobbit masters onward to Mordor.
Sam and Frodo continue to follow the cliff northward for several more days, finally arriving at a spot where it appears they might be able to climb down. Sam insists on going first, against Frodo’s objections. Sam lowers himself down the cliff, when suddenly a great dark shape appears overhead with a horrible wind and a crack of thunder. Sam loses his hold on the rock and falls, but is saved by a narrow ledge below. Frodo tries to hide his face in fear, but he loses his foothold and falls down onto a ledge below. It begins to rain. Sam suddenly remembers that he has a strong, thin Elf rope in his bag. He measures it out, and finds that it is long enough to allow the two hobbits to lower themselves to the ground below.
After descending safely, Sam and Frodo prepare to go onward to Mordor. Sam regrets abandoning the rope, which is still attached to a rock overhead and cannot be untied. Suddenly, as if by magic, the rope is released and falls into his hands. Frodo suspects that the knot was not tied well, but both wonder whether it was perhaps enchantment that freed the rope.
As the hobbits huddle in the cold, Frodo spots a crawling insect-like creature on a distant cliff, clinging to the wall by its hands. Sam realizes the creature is Gollum. As the creature draws nearer, he leaps on Sam. They wrestle. Frodo draws his knife Sting from its sheath and thrusts it against Gollum’s neck, demanding obedience from the creature. Gollum is suddenly subservient and vows total servitude, but Frodo does not trust him entirely. Gollum suddenly bounds away, attempting escape. The hobbits get him back and harness him with the Elf rope, which causes Gollum great pain. Gollum again vows obedience, and this time he seems sincere. The creature leads his Hobbit masters onward to Mordor.
The Passage of the Marshes
Gollum guides Frodo and Sam through the marshland that surrounds Mordor. The creature was once on the run from Orcs in the area, so he knows it well. Gollum is fearful of the sun, which he calls the “Yellow Face,” so he prefers to travel by night. The hobbits continue to feed on lembas cakes, and they offer some to Gollum, but he finds Elf products painful to eat. He chokes and spits out the cake, constantly yearning for fish and complaining that he will soon starve. As the hobbits get ready to camp for the night, Sam worries that Gollum may trick them while they are sleeping, so he waits until Gollum falls asleep first. Sam whispers the word “fish” in Gollum’s ear, and when he gets no reaction, he is satisfied that the creature poses no danger, at least not on this night. Frodo and Sam both fall asleep, despite Sam’s insistence on keeping one eye open, fixed on Gollum.
The next morning, the hobbits awaken to find Gollum gone. They again discuss their concerns about their food supply. Sam repeats that while he is not fond of lembas cakes, they are at least nourishing and keep him on his feet. But even the lembas are running out; Sam calculates that they have only enough left for three more weeks. Suddenly, Gollum reappears and says he is hungry. He leaves again, but soon returns with his face dirty with mud. The hobbits believe that they can trust him.
Gollum leads Frodo and Sam through the foul-smelling Dead Marshes, which are haunted by the slain warriors of a great past battle. Ghostly, floating lights surround them on the path. Gollum tells the hobbits to ignore the lights, which could lead them into the realm of the dead. They proceed onward for several days, nearly fainting from the stench of the marshes. One night, the dark shape of a Nazgûl flying overhead strikes fear into all three of the travelers. Gollum warns that the Nazgûl see everything, and report back to their master, the Dark Lord. Frodo is deeply disturbed by the idea that a great power is constantly watching him.
On the fifth morning, they wake to see that they are very close to Mordor. The land is desolate and unwelcoming, full of poison pits. Even the stinking marshland dries up, leaving an expanse of completely barren ground. That night, Frodo hears the dozing Gollum in conversation with himself, torn between his need to get his “Precious” and his conflicting vow to obey the hobbits. Gollum recognizes that Frodo is the master of the Ring, and that he must serve the master of his “Precious.” Frodo realizes that Gollum knows the Nazgûl are searching for the Ring just as he is. Gollum says something about never letting the servants of the Dark Lord get the Ring.
The next morning, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum have nearly arrived at the gates of Mordor. The hobbits thank Gollum for fulfilling his promise of guiding them to the gates. A Nazgûl flies overhead for the third time, which Gollum claims is a very bad omen. Gollum refuses to proceed, and Frodo must threaten him with a knife to make him go forward.
The next morning, the hobbits awaken to find Gollum gone. They again discuss their concerns about their food supply. Sam repeats that while he is not fond of lembas cakes, they are at least nourishing and keep him on his feet. But even the lembas are running out; Sam calculates that they have only enough left for three more weeks. Suddenly, Gollum reappears and says he is hungry. He leaves again, but soon returns with his face dirty with mud. The hobbits believe that they can trust him.
Gollum leads Frodo and Sam through the foul-smelling Dead Marshes, which are haunted by the slain warriors of a great past battle. Ghostly, floating lights surround them on the path. Gollum tells the hobbits to ignore the lights, which could lead them into the realm of the dead. They proceed onward for several days, nearly fainting from the stench of the marshes. One night, the dark shape of a Nazgûl flying overhead strikes fear into all three of the travelers. Gollum warns that the Nazgûl see everything, and report back to their master, the Dark Lord. Frodo is deeply disturbed by the idea that a great power is constantly watching him.
On the fifth morning, they wake to see that they are very close to Mordor. The land is desolate and unwelcoming, full of poison pits. Even the stinking marshland dries up, leaving an expanse of completely barren ground. That night, Frodo hears the dozing Gollum in conversation with himself, torn between his need to get his “Precious” and his conflicting vow to obey the hobbits. Gollum recognizes that Frodo is the master of the Ring, and that he must serve the master of his “Precious.” Frodo realizes that Gollum knows the Nazgûl are searching for the Ring just as he is. Gollum says something about never letting the servants of the Dark Lord get the Ring.
The next morning, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum have nearly arrived at the gates of Mordor. The hobbits thank Gollum for fulfilling his promise of guiding them to the gates. A Nazgûl flies overhead for the third time, which Gollum claims is a very bad omen. Gollum refuses to proceed, and Frodo must threaten him with a knife to make him go forward.
The Black Gate Is Closed
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum finally arrive at the gates of Mordor. They behold the Teeth of Mordor, the tall towers built earlier by the Men of Gondor after the fall of Sauron, but then later reoccupied by the Dark Lord upon his return to power.
At the sight of the closely guarded gate, Sam wonders how they will enter. Gollum replies that they must not enter, prompting Sam to ask why they bothered traveling to Mordor in the first place if they cannot go inside. Gollum replies that he fulfilled his part of the agreement, guiding the hobbits to the gate. Sam is angry, again asking why they bothered going to Mordor at all. Frodo affirms that he must enter Mordor at all costs. At the hobbits’ insistence, Gollum admits that there is another way into the kingdom, a secret way that he discovered earlier. Sam distrusts Gollum, but the hobbits have little choice but to follow the creature’s lead. Frodo reminds Gollum that he has sworn by his “Precious” to guide them safely and not betray them.
Gollum directs Sam and Frodo toward a road that bends south around Mordor, telling them that the road extends for a hundred leagues, but warning that they should not go that way. Frodo asks if there is a third way. Gollum admits that there is a third path running around to the back of the kingdom, past a fortress built long ago by tall Men with shining eyes. Frodo realizes that Gollum refers to the former fortress of Isildur, the warrior who defeated Sauron and won the Ring from him. Part of the fortress is a tall tower called the Tower of the Moon. Sam asks whether the tower is occupied, and Gollum replies that it is guarded by Orcs and by even worse creatures called Silent Watchers. Sam remarks that this third path sounds just as risky as the first one, but Gollum says the Dark Lord is focusing his attention elsewhere. Gollum admits that the rear path past the Tower of the Moon is dangerous, but that it is worth trying. The hobbits are suspicious, but they accept Gollum’s advice.
Four Nazgûl appear in the sky overhead, and the hobbits know that Sauron is observing them. Frodo and Sam grab their knives, but they know that escape is impossible. Gollum senses that other Men are heading toward Mordor too—Men with long dark hair, gold rings, and red flags. He describes them as very fierce, saying that he has never seen anything like them. There are always Men entering Mordor now. Sam asks whether the men have “oliphaunts” with them, as he has heard the creatures described in old poetry. Gollum has never seen an oliphaunt. He urges the hobbits to sleep through the daylight hours, and proceed again at night.
At the sight of the closely guarded gate, Sam wonders how they will enter. Gollum replies that they must not enter, prompting Sam to ask why they bothered traveling to Mordor in the first place if they cannot go inside. Gollum replies that he fulfilled his part of the agreement, guiding the hobbits to the gate. Sam is angry, again asking why they bothered going to Mordor at all. Frodo affirms that he must enter Mordor at all costs. At the hobbits’ insistence, Gollum admits that there is another way into the kingdom, a secret way that he discovered earlier. Sam distrusts Gollum, but the hobbits have little choice but to follow the creature’s lead. Frodo reminds Gollum that he has sworn by his “Precious” to guide them safely and not betray them.
Gollum directs Sam and Frodo toward a road that bends south around Mordor, telling them that the road extends for a hundred leagues, but warning that they should not go that way. Frodo asks if there is a third way. Gollum admits that there is a third path running around to the back of the kingdom, past a fortress built long ago by tall Men with shining eyes. Frodo realizes that Gollum refers to the former fortress of Isildur, the warrior who defeated Sauron and won the Ring from him. Part of the fortress is a tall tower called the Tower of the Moon. Sam asks whether the tower is occupied, and Gollum replies that it is guarded by Orcs and by even worse creatures called Silent Watchers. Sam remarks that this third path sounds just as risky as the first one, but Gollum says the Dark Lord is focusing his attention elsewhere. Gollum admits that the rear path past the Tower of the Moon is dangerous, but that it is worth trying. The hobbits are suspicious, but they accept Gollum’s advice.
Four Nazgûl appear in the sky overhead, and the hobbits know that Sauron is observing them. Frodo and Sam grab their knives, but they know that escape is impossible. Gollum senses that other Men are heading toward Mordor too—Men with long dark hair, gold rings, and red flags. He describes them as very fierce, saying that he has never seen anything like them. There are always Men entering Mordor now. Sam asks whether the men have “oliphaunts” with them, as he has heard the creatures described in old poetry. Gollum has never seen an oliphaunt. He urges the hobbits to sleep through the daylight hours, and proceed again at night.
Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit
Sam, Frodo, and Gollum proceed through the desolate landscape of Mordor. Gradually, they notice that the land is becoming greener, more fragrant, and less barren, and they welcome the change. As always, they travel by night and rest by day. They do not travel on the open road, but near it. They worry about their dwindling food supply. After several days, they arrive in a country full of woods and streams once known as Ithilien. Gollum coughs and sputters in the verdant setting, but the hobbits rejoice in the reappearance of greenery and water. They stop at a stream to drink and bathe. Again, they are troubled by hunger. Sam sends Gollum off to hunt some food for them all, reminding him that Hobbit food is different from the food the creature is accustomed to eating. Sam watches the sleeping Frodo, observing the fine lines visible on Frodo’s aging face. Sam acknowledges that he feels deep love for Frodo.
Gollum returns with rabbits, which he does not want to cook, preferring to devour them raw. Sam proceeds to make a nice dinner for himself and Frodo, calling upon Gollum again to gather wild herbs for his rabbit stew. Frodo awakens and sees the cooking fire burning. Sam informs Frodo of the nice dinner being prepared, but Frodo warns Sam about the dangers of fire in the open field.
Suddenly Frodo and Sam hear voices nearby, and they see four tall Men wielding spears. The warriors wonder whether the hobbits are Elves or perhaps Orcs. One of the Men identifies himself as Faramir, Captain of Gondor. The hobbits identify themselves as halflings. Faramir says that the hobbits cannot be travelers, as uninvited travelers are not allowed in his land. Frodo explains the hobbits’ separation from Aragorn and Boromir. At the mention of the name of Boromir, Faramir is startled and becomes stern.
Two men named Mablung and Damrod guard Frodo and Sam, telling the hobbits of their enemies, the Southrons, who threaten to attack. Sam wonders where Gollum is. Suddenly, they hear noises of battle and the name of Gondor called out. Damrod announces that the Southrons are attacking and that Faramir’s men are setting out to meet them. The hobbits climb into a position where they can see what is going on, and they witness their first battle among Men.
Suddenly, Damrod calls out for help from a large elephant-like creature called the Mûmak, which arrives from the forest and crushes the enemy. Sam is pleased that he has seen his first oliphaunt, as the creature is called. Damrod tells the hobbits to sleep, as the Gondor captain will soon return and they will have to flee the enemy. Sam replies that the troops of Gondor will not disturb him when they leave. Damrod answers that it is not likely that the captain will allow Sam to stay, but will instead force him to travel with the troops.
Gollum returns with rabbits, which he does not want to cook, preferring to devour them raw. Sam proceeds to make a nice dinner for himself and Frodo, calling upon Gollum again to gather wild herbs for his rabbit stew. Frodo awakens and sees the cooking fire burning. Sam informs Frodo of the nice dinner being prepared, but Frodo warns Sam about the dangers of fire in the open field.
Suddenly Frodo and Sam hear voices nearby, and they see four tall Men wielding spears. The warriors wonder whether the hobbits are Elves or perhaps Orcs. One of the Men identifies himself as Faramir, Captain of Gondor. The hobbits identify themselves as halflings. Faramir says that the hobbits cannot be travelers, as uninvited travelers are not allowed in his land. Frodo explains the hobbits’ separation from Aragorn and Boromir. At the mention of the name of Boromir, Faramir is startled and becomes stern.
Two men named Mablung and Damrod guard Frodo and Sam, telling the hobbits of their enemies, the Southrons, who threaten to attack. Sam wonders where Gollum is. Suddenly, they hear noises of battle and the name of Gondor called out. Damrod announces that the Southrons are attacking and that Faramir’s men are setting out to meet them. The hobbits climb into a position where they can see what is going on, and they witness their first battle among Men.
Suddenly, Damrod calls out for help from a large elephant-like creature called the Mûmak, which arrives from the forest and crushes the enemy. Sam is pleased that he has seen his first oliphaunt, as the creature is called. Damrod tells the hobbits to sleep, as the Gondor captain will soon return and they will have to flee the enemy. Sam replies that the troops of Gondor will not disturb him when they leave. Damrod answers that it is not likely that the captain will allow Sam to stay, but will instead force him to travel with the troops.
The Window on the West
Sam falls asleep and awakens to find Faramir interrogating Frodo. Faramir wants to know why the hobbits originally set out from Rivendell, and under what circumstances they parted with Boromir. Faramir knows of a prophecy that states that a Halfling will arrive bearing something of great value, and he asks Frodo what this object is. Frodo answers only that he is on an errand to deliver the object elsewhere. Frodo makes a great effort not to speak ill of Boromir, even though Boromir tried to seize the Ring for himself. Faramir, knowing that Boromir is dead and attempting to trick Frodo, announces that Boromir will clear up everything when he arrives. Frodo, however, is unaware of Boromir’s death. Faramir hints that he suspects Frodo of betraying Boromir.
Faramir reveals to Frodo that Boromir is his brother. He asks Frodo whether he recalls any particular object Boromir possessed, and Frodo remembers Boromir’s horn. Faramir recounts how once he was staring at the sea, and either in a dream or in real life he saw Boromir floating by on a boat, his horn broken. Faramir says he knew that Boromir was sailing to the land of the dead, and that he had been killed. Frodo says that it must have been a mere vision, as Boromir had undertaken to go home across the fields of Rohan, far from water. Faramir addresses the dead Boromir in deep grief, asking for answers to his questions about what happened to Boromir before death. Faramir knows that there has been some wrongdoing, but he no longer suspects Frodo.
Faramir announces to the hobbits that he must take them back to Minas Tirith, the great city of Gondor. On the way, Faramir commends Frodo’s truthfulness, though fully aware that Frodo has withheld the fact that the hobbits did not like Boromir. Faramir tries again to extract information about the valuable object—which he knows only as Isildur’s Bane—that he knows Frodo is carrying. Faramir suspects that Isildur’s Bane killed Boromir, perhaps because it caused contention among the men. Frodo answers that there was no fighting in the ranks, and Faramir understands that the cause of the problem was Boromir alone.
When the woodlands begin to grow thinner, Faramir orders his men to blindfold Frodo and Sam so that they will not know the location of the hideout where they are headed. When the blindfolds are removed, the hobbits see the splendid Window of the Sunset, as Faramir calls the waterfall-covered window of the cave in which they are hiding.
Faramir offers Frodo and Sam food and drink. While they eat, Faramir recounts the former glory of the kingdom of Gondor and its later slide into weakness as the kingdom offered land to the Rohirrim in exchange for military defense. As they talk, Sam accidentally blurts out the fact that Boromir had sought to get the Ring. Faramir is shocked that his brother was guilty, but he appreciates Sam’s honesty, and affirms that he has no interest in getting the Ring for himself. Frodo tells Faramir of his own mission to throw the Ring into the Crack of Doom to destroy it. Faramir is astonished.
Faramir reveals to Frodo that Boromir is his brother. He asks Frodo whether he recalls any particular object Boromir possessed, and Frodo remembers Boromir’s horn. Faramir recounts how once he was staring at the sea, and either in a dream or in real life he saw Boromir floating by on a boat, his horn broken. Faramir says he knew that Boromir was sailing to the land of the dead, and that he had been killed. Frodo says that it must have been a mere vision, as Boromir had undertaken to go home across the fields of Rohan, far from water. Faramir addresses the dead Boromir in deep grief, asking for answers to his questions about what happened to Boromir before death. Faramir knows that there has been some wrongdoing, but he no longer suspects Frodo.
Faramir announces to the hobbits that he must take them back to Minas Tirith, the great city of Gondor. On the way, Faramir commends Frodo’s truthfulness, though fully aware that Frodo has withheld the fact that the hobbits did not like Boromir. Faramir tries again to extract information about the valuable object—which he knows only as Isildur’s Bane—that he knows Frodo is carrying. Faramir suspects that Isildur’s Bane killed Boromir, perhaps because it caused contention among the men. Frodo answers that there was no fighting in the ranks, and Faramir understands that the cause of the problem was Boromir alone.
When the woodlands begin to grow thinner, Faramir orders his men to blindfold Frodo and Sam so that they will not know the location of the hideout where they are headed. When the blindfolds are removed, the hobbits see the splendid Window of the Sunset, as Faramir calls the waterfall-covered window of the cave in which they are hiding.
Faramir offers Frodo and Sam food and drink. While they eat, Faramir recounts the former glory of the kingdom of Gondor and its later slide into weakness as the kingdom offered land to the Rohirrim in exchange for military defense. As they talk, Sam accidentally blurts out the fact that Boromir had sought to get the Ring. Faramir is shocked that his brother was guilty, but he appreciates Sam’s honesty, and affirms that he has no interest in getting the Ring for himself. Frodo tells Faramir of his own mission to throw the Ring into the Crack of Doom to destroy it. Faramir is astonished.
The Forbidden Pool
Frodo is awakened late in the night, as Faramir seeks advice on a matter. Frodo asks whether it is morning already, and Faramir tells him the dawn is just breaking, but that they must leave right away. Faramir takes the hobbit to a cliff by the river, and Sam joins them. For a while, Frodo wonders why he was roused from sleep to come watch the river. Sam, too, is curious. He remarks on the beauty of the landscape, but suggests it is not enough to justify getting up so early in the morning. Faramir says that the landscape is not the reason they have come. He tells Frodo to look down and identify a small, dark creature moving in the water. Frodo gazes down and recognizes Gollum, who has followed them, unseen by Faramir’s men until now. Faramir asks what kind of a creature it is. His men inquire as to whether they should try to kill it or not. Frodo begs them not to do so.
Faramir asks whether Gollum knows about the treasure Frodo is carrying. Frodo replies that Gollum does know about it, and indeed carried it himself for some time. Now, Frodo explains, Gollum just wants fish to eat. Faramir’s guard reminds his lord that the punishment for anyone trespassing in their kingdom is death. Frodo offers to speak to Gollum instead. Frodo goes down to the water and addresses the creature, who pouts about having been abandoned and refuses to come. Finally, Frodo persuades Gollum to leave the water, leading him toward the area where Faramir’s men are waiting for him. The men apprehend Gollum, who feels betrayed by Frodo and spits on him as he is led away.
Faramir demands to interrogate Gollum, who initially refuses to cooperate. Frodo tries to persuade the creature to trust him. Faramir asks whether Gollum has ever been in this area before. Gollum claims he has not. Faramir does not believe Gollum, but he ultimately accepts the truthfulness of the creature’s statement. Frodo sticks with his assertion that Gollum should not be harmed, begging Faramir’s men not to hurt Gollum. Faramir agrees, on the condition that Gollum be considered Frodo’s servant.
However, Faramir privately warns Frodo to be wary of Gollum, whom he still does not trust. Faramir says that there is evil growing in Gollum, and that he is curious about how this “creeping thing” came into the possession of the Ring earlier. Faramir says that one day, when he and Frodo are old and chair-bound, Frodo can tell him the story. Faramir also warns against Frodo’s passing over the mountains, saying that there is great danger there. Frodo replies that this is the only way he can go, as he must avoid the gates of Mordor that they passed earlier. Faramir says it is a hopeless task.
Faramir asks whether Gollum knows about the treasure Frodo is carrying. Frodo replies that Gollum does know about it, and indeed carried it himself for some time. Now, Frodo explains, Gollum just wants fish to eat. Faramir’s guard reminds his lord that the punishment for anyone trespassing in their kingdom is death. Frodo offers to speak to Gollum instead. Frodo goes down to the water and addresses the creature, who pouts about having been abandoned and refuses to come. Finally, Frodo persuades Gollum to leave the water, leading him toward the area where Faramir’s men are waiting for him. The men apprehend Gollum, who feels betrayed by Frodo and spits on him as he is led away.
Faramir demands to interrogate Gollum, who initially refuses to cooperate. Frodo tries to persuade the creature to trust him. Faramir asks whether Gollum has ever been in this area before. Gollum claims he has not. Faramir does not believe Gollum, but he ultimately accepts the truthfulness of the creature’s statement. Frodo sticks with his assertion that Gollum should not be harmed, begging Faramir’s men not to hurt Gollum. Faramir agrees, on the condition that Gollum be considered Frodo’s servant.
However, Faramir privately warns Frodo to be wary of Gollum, whom he still does not trust. Faramir says that there is evil growing in Gollum, and that he is curious about how this “creeping thing” came into the possession of the Ring earlier. Faramir says that one day, when he and Frodo are old and chair-bound, Frodo can tell him the story. Faramir also warns against Frodo’s passing over the mountains, saying that there is great danger there. Frodo replies that this is the only way he can go, as he must avoid the gates of Mordor that they passed earlier. Faramir says it is a hopeless task.
Journey to the Cross-Roads
Faramir bids farewell to Frodo and Sam as the hobbits continue their journey into Mordor. He warns them to beware of the territory nearby, and never to drink from any of the waters flowing out of Imlad Morgul, the Valley of Living Death. Faramir presents Frodo and Sam with packed food for their journey, as well as staves to support them in their fatigue. Gollum is brought out of captivity, and all three are blindfolded as they are taken out of Faramir’s hideaway.
As the journey continues, Gollum reports that the area is dangerous and full of watching eyes. Frodo asks whether a dark shape in the distance is the valley of Morgul. Gollum answers that it is indeed the valley, and says that they must move quickly to a place called the Cross-roads.
One night, Frodo and Sam awaken to find Gollum gone. Sam expresses relief that they are finally free of him, but Frodo reminds him of the help Gollum has given them in the past. Sam is suspicious, believing Gollum to be capable of tricks. Meanwhile, the atmosphere is changing; the daylight is somewhat dark and the air feels heavy and warm. One afternoon, Gollum wakes Frodo and Sam with an urgent entreaty to get moving as soon as possible. He directs them eastward, up a slope to the Southward Road, which leads to the place he calls the Cross-roads. Gollum asserts that this is the only way to go. As they proceed toward the Southward Road, they spot a headless statue of one of the ancient kings of Gondor, now desecrated with graffiti. Sam finds the head lying nearby, a crown of golden flowers growing on it. Frodo comments that the forces of the evil Sauron cannot hold sway forever in the realm.
As the journey continues, Gollum reports that the area is dangerous and full of watching eyes. Frodo asks whether a dark shape in the distance is the valley of Morgul. Gollum answers that it is indeed the valley, and says that they must move quickly to a place called the Cross-roads.
One night, Frodo and Sam awaken to find Gollum gone. Sam expresses relief that they are finally free of him, but Frodo reminds him of the help Gollum has given them in the past. Sam is suspicious, believing Gollum to be capable of tricks. Meanwhile, the atmosphere is changing; the daylight is somewhat dark and the air feels heavy and warm. One afternoon, Gollum wakes Frodo and Sam with an urgent entreaty to get moving as soon as possible. He directs them eastward, up a slope to the Southward Road, which leads to the place he calls the Cross-roads. Gollum asserts that this is the only way to go. As they proceed toward the Southward Road, they spot a headless statue of one of the ancient kings of Gondor, now desecrated with graffiti. Sam finds the head lying nearby, a crown of golden flowers growing on it. Frodo comments that the forces of the evil Sauron cannot hold sway forever in the realm.
The Stairs of Cirith Ungol
Gollum draws Sam and Frodo away from their rapt contemplation of the statue, telling them that time is short. He guides them along the Southward Road until they reach the valley of Minas Morgul. All three are momentarily transfixed by the sight of the Tower of the Moon rising in the distance, but Gollum finally urges them onward again. The way is hard, and the land is full of a horrid stench that makes it hard for the hobbits to breathe. Frodo begs for a moment’s rest, but Gollum and Sam insist on continuing. As they start moving again, Minas Morgul erupts in a deafening thunder, and troops appear. Frodo sees a great mass of cavalrymen all dressed in sable, guided by a horseman whom Frodo identifies as the Lord of the Nazgûl.
Suddenly, the horseman stops, and Frodo fears that he has spotted them. Frodo stands still, but almost against his will his hand moves toward the Ring hanging on his neck, which would give him the strength needed to confront the Lord of the Nazgûl. Frodo also touches the phial of Galadriel, which he had forgotten. Luckily, the Ringwraith ends his watchful pause and continues on his way.
Frodo remains extremely distressed, however. He fears that he has taken too long to reach Mordor and that it is too late to fulfill his mission of destroying the Ring. Gollum, however, urges the hobbits steadily onward, up an interminable set of stairs. Frodo becomes dizzy and feels that he cannot go on, but Gollum forces them to continue. Frodo looks down and sees that they are above Minas Morgul.
After what seems like miles uphill on the stairs of Cirith Ungol, as the twisting mountain is called, Gollum leads Frodo and Sam into a dark crevice to rest. They discuss the question of whether there is water at these heights and whether it is drinkable. The two hobbits fall into a discussion of the old songs and prophecies, wondering whether they themselves will become characters in future songs, sung by their own children perhaps.
Frodo and Sam also talk about how trustworthy Gollum is. Frodo asserts that no matter how selfish Gollum may be, he is no friend of the Orcs, and therefore may be considered a reliable guide. One night, Sam awakens to find Gollum caressing the sleeping Frodo. Sam accuses Gollum of sneaking around in the dark. Gollum is offended, saying he was not sneaking. Frodo wakes and settles the argument, telling Gollum he is free to go off by himself if he wishes. Gollum affirms that he must guide the hobbits to the end.
Suddenly, the horseman stops, and Frodo fears that he has spotted them. Frodo stands still, but almost against his will his hand moves toward the Ring hanging on his neck, which would give him the strength needed to confront the Lord of the Nazgûl. Frodo also touches the phial of Galadriel, which he had forgotten. Luckily, the Ringwraith ends his watchful pause and continues on his way.
Frodo remains extremely distressed, however. He fears that he has taken too long to reach Mordor and that it is too late to fulfill his mission of destroying the Ring. Gollum, however, urges the hobbits steadily onward, up an interminable set of stairs. Frodo becomes dizzy and feels that he cannot go on, but Gollum forces them to continue. Frodo looks down and sees that they are above Minas Morgul.
After what seems like miles uphill on the stairs of Cirith Ungol, as the twisting mountain is called, Gollum leads Frodo and Sam into a dark crevice to rest. They discuss the question of whether there is water at these heights and whether it is drinkable. The two hobbits fall into a discussion of the old songs and prophecies, wondering whether they themselves will become characters in future songs, sung by their own children perhaps.
Frodo and Sam also talk about how trustworthy Gollum is. Frodo asserts that no matter how selfish Gollum may be, he is no friend of the Orcs, and therefore may be considered a reliable guide. One night, Sam awakens to find Gollum caressing the sleeping Frodo. Sam accuses Gollum of sneaking around in the dark. Gollum is offended, saying he was not sneaking. Frodo wakes and settles the argument, telling Gollum he is free to go off by himself if he wishes. Gollum affirms that he must guide the hobbits to the end.
Shelob’s Lair
Gollum leads Sam and Frodo to a dark stone wall and to a cave within it, which they enter. The smell is overwhelmingly bad. Gollum reports that the cave is the entrance to a tunnel, but he does not say its name, Shelob’s Lair. Despite the possibility that the cave is filled with Orcs, Sam and Frodo know that they must enter.
The tunnel is totally dark, and the hobbits proceed by feeling the walls. Strangely, Gollum disappears, leaving the hobbits to find their way themselves. Suddenly, Frodo is aware of an intense feeling of hostility and danger emanating from the darkness. They hear a bubbling hiss, but can see nothing. Sam shouts to Frodo to raise the phial of Galadriel, a small container blessed by Galadriel that Frodo wears around his neck. The phial shines a strong light that illuminates hundreds of tiny eyes, all of them staring at the hobbits. The eyes belong to Shelob, a giant spider-monster ever hungry for creatures to devour, used by the evil Sauron to guard his passages.
Frodo is terrified, but he walks boldly toward the eyes, which retreat as he advances. The hobbits head for the end of the tunnel, but are held up by cobwebs stretched across the passageway. The cobwebs are too strong to be cut by a knife, and the hobbits fear they are trapped until Frodo remembers Sting, his Elf-made knife. They cut their way through, and the hobbits are within view of the exit from the tunnel. Frodo shouts that they should run and pulls ahead. Sam lifts the phial to see, notices that there are orcs ahead, though, and hides the phial. Suddenly Shelob attacks, moving swiftly between Sam and Frodo. Sam shouts a warning to his master, but he is silenced by the clammy hand of Gollum, who has betrayed the hobbits by leading them to Shelob. Sam removes himself from Gollum’s grasp and threatens to stab him, but Gollum moves quickly away.
The tunnel is totally dark, and the hobbits proceed by feeling the walls. Strangely, Gollum disappears, leaving the hobbits to find their way themselves. Suddenly, Frodo is aware of an intense feeling of hostility and danger emanating from the darkness. They hear a bubbling hiss, but can see nothing. Sam shouts to Frodo to raise the phial of Galadriel, a small container blessed by Galadriel that Frodo wears around his neck. The phial shines a strong light that illuminates hundreds of tiny eyes, all of them staring at the hobbits. The eyes belong to Shelob, a giant spider-monster ever hungry for creatures to devour, used by the evil Sauron to guard his passages.
Frodo is terrified, but he walks boldly toward the eyes, which retreat as he advances. The hobbits head for the end of the tunnel, but are held up by cobwebs stretched across the passageway. The cobwebs are too strong to be cut by a knife, and the hobbits fear they are trapped until Frodo remembers Sting, his Elf-made knife. They cut their way through, and the hobbits are within view of the exit from the tunnel. Frodo shouts that they should run and pulls ahead. Sam lifts the phial to see, notices that there are orcs ahead, though, and hides the phial. Suddenly Shelob attacks, moving swiftly between Sam and Frodo. Sam shouts a warning to his master, but he is silenced by the clammy hand of Gollum, who has betrayed the hobbits by leading them to Shelob. Sam removes himself from Gollum’s grasp and threatens to stab him, but Gollum moves quickly away.
The Choices of Master Samwise
In the midst of the struggle with the spider-monster Shelob, Sam discovers Frodo lying face up, paralyzed by the spider’s poison. The sight of his master in such an awful state fills Sam with courage and rage, and he charges Shelob. He manages to stab her in one eye, which goes dark. Heaving her belly up over Sam, Shelob prepares to crush the hobbit, but instead impales herself on his sword. Shelob shudders in pain and withdraws. Sam rushes to Frodo, and then charges Shelob again. The defeated spider flees. Sam calls out to Frodo, whom he at first believes to be asleep.
When Sam suddenly realizes that Frodo may be dead, he is stricken by the thought that he himself must now carry out the mission of destroying the Ring. He is upset by the idea of taking the Ring from Frodo’s body and carrying it himself, remembering that it was originally entrusted only to Frodo. But Sam decides that, as Frodo’s companion, he may legitimately inherit the mission. Sam takes the Ring. He attempts to flee, but hears Orc voices surrounding him. Without reflecting on his actions, Sam puts on the Ring, and feels as though the world has changed. As a result of wearing the Ring, Sam can understand the Orc language perfectly. The Orcs take up Frodo’s paralyzed body and carry it away.
Sam follows behind, listening to the guards’ conversation. One Orc, named Shagrat, is telling the other, Gorbag, that Shelob has been wounded. Gorbag is impressed that any creature was able to hurt Shelob and cut through the cords of her cobwebs. He imagines that the creature must be very powerful indeed. Shagrat announces that the orders given from above are to retrieve Frodo safe and sound, with a careful examination of all his possessions. Gorbag wonders whether Frodo is even alive at all, but Shagrat affirms that Shelob only eats living flesh, so that Frodo must still be living, although stunned. Sam is amazed to hear that Frodo is alive. The Orc guards carrying Frodo slam the doors behind them. Sam still has the Ring, but is separated from his friend.
When Sam suddenly realizes that Frodo may be dead, he is stricken by the thought that he himself must now carry out the mission of destroying the Ring. He is upset by the idea of taking the Ring from Frodo’s body and carrying it himself, remembering that it was originally entrusted only to Frodo. But Sam decides that, as Frodo’s companion, he may legitimately inherit the mission. Sam takes the Ring. He attempts to flee, but hears Orc voices surrounding him. Without reflecting on his actions, Sam puts on the Ring, and feels as though the world has changed. As a result of wearing the Ring, Sam can understand the Orc language perfectly. The Orcs take up Frodo’s paralyzed body and carry it away.
Sam follows behind, listening to the guards’ conversation. One Orc, named Shagrat, is telling the other, Gorbag, that Shelob has been wounded. Gorbag is impressed that any creature was able to hurt Shelob and cut through the cords of her cobwebs. He imagines that the creature must be very powerful indeed. Shagrat announces that the orders given from above are to retrieve Frodo safe and sound, with a careful examination of all his possessions. Gorbag wonders whether Frodo is even alive at all, but Shagrat affirms that Shelob only eats living flesh, so that Frodo must still be living, although stunned. Sam is amazed to hear that Frodo is alive. The Orc guards carrying Frodo slam the doors behind them. Sam still has the Ring, but is separated from his friend.