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Legolas

2011-11-13T13:55:25Z

LegolasFan: /* Fellowship of the Ring */

{{sources}}
{{cleanup}} 
{{disambig-two|the elf of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]|the elf in ''[[The Fall of Gondolin]]''|[[Legolas (Elf of Gondolin)]]}}
{{sindar infobox
| image=[[Image:Jenny Dolfen - Legolas2.jpg|250px]]
| name=Legolas
| othernames=Greenleaf
| titles=Prince of [[Mirkwood]]
| position=
| realm=[[Woodland Realm]]; [[Ithilien]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Sindarin]] and [[Westron]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death={{FoA|120}}
| deathlocation=Sailed [[Aman|West]] (not dead)
| age=
| house=
| parentage=[[Thranduil]]
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Green and brown garb
| weapons=Bow and long white knife
| steed=
}} '''Legolas''' was a [[Sindar|Sindarin]] Elf of the [[Silvan Elves|Silvan]] realm of [[Mirkwood]], the only recorded son of King [[Thranduil]]. He became famous because of his membership in the [[Fellowship of the Ring]], in which he served as one of their most valuable assets because of his superior sight, hearing, lightness of foot, and unrivaled archery. Despite this, however, he played only a minor role in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', and the least is known about him, perhaps, of all the members in the company.

==History==
===Early History===
Legolas was alive during the [[Battle of Five Armies]] and it is most likely that he participated in it even though no proof of it can be given.

===Fellowship of the Ring===
His first real mention was at the [[Council of Elrond]], as a messenger from his father [[Thranduil]]. He was dressed in green and brown, and his eyes were keen. His message was specifically to [[Gandalf]] – namely, that [[Gollum]] had escaped. [[Aragorn]] then immediately wondered out loud how Thranduil’s people could permit this. Legolas was quick to state that it was not through lack of watchfulness; if anything, from over-kindness, and related the details to the council. He spoke little for the rest of the council, if at all, but later volunteered (or was chosen by [[Elrond]]) to participate in the [[Quest of the Ring]] as the only elven member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. His capabilities would be welcomed, and would be his primary claim to fame for the rest of his life.

For the early part of the quest they walked in single file, with Legolas at the back due to his keen eyes. Later, however, we appear to find him at the head of the company as they entered [[Hollin]], for The Lord of the Rings states “[[Gimli]]… had come up with Legolas, and was gazing out before him…”. Though all in the Company could feel the wholesomeness of the country, only Legolas could hear the stones lament the lost presence of the [[Elves]], and his words were poignant.

As they ascended [[Caradhras]], Legolas could walk on top of the snow, whereas the others were forced to trudge. He also attempted (unsuccessfully) to light a fire. The storm troubled him least of all the company, and it is written “he alone of the Company remained still light of heart”. After they were determined to retreat, [[Boromir]] and Aragorn tried to push a path through the snow to get out, while Legolas danced lightly on top, passing them easily. He soon spotted the way out for the rest of the company, and a bit of sarcasm edged his speech at Boromir’s words that they (the “strongest”) must seek a way out, when he said “There is the greatest wind-drift of all just beyond the turn, and there our Strong Men were almost buried”. The paragraphs in this section suggest the attributes of youth and unquenchable gaiety.

Perhaps a bit grumpy with the irrepressibility of the elf, Boromir during the vote as to whether or not they should pass through [[Moria]], asked “What do Legolas and the little folk say?” Legolas voted against the passage with Boromir, but was overruled, especially when [[Warg]] voices were heard. During their defense against these beasts, Legolas did more than perhaps all the rest of the company except Gandalf, shooting numerous wargs. He collected his arrows unharmed (except for one) after the fight.

Legolas played only the most minor of parts in Moria. Though it is said that he had eyes that could see well in the dark, strangely, he seems not to possess this quality in the caves. For it is written that [[Frodo Baggins]] (due to his [[Morgul-knife]] wound) could see better than any of the company in the dark, except perhaps Gandalf. Legolas had to drag Gimli from the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]] when the [[Dwarves|dwarf]] almost refused to go. He was also the first of the Company to recognize [[Durin's Bane]] as a [[Balrogs|Balrog]], or at least the first to express his dismay at the fact.

Legolas was most enthusiastic about coming to [[Lothlórien]], describing it to the rest of the Company, and mourning the fact that it was winter and they could not witness it in the pinnacle of its glory. As they rested by the [[Nimrodel (river)|Nimrodel]], Legolas told the company tales of Lothlórien, and sang the [[Song of Nimrodel]] to them. Upon hearing the other Elves of Lórien, Legolas listened and responded in their own tongue, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise]] queried as to what they were saying, Legolas slyly responded that they said he breathed so loudly that the elves claimed they could shoot him in the dark. Samwise was horrified until Legolas added that they need not fear the elves.

Legolas was called up to meet with the [[Galadhrim]], with Frodo only (Sam following, as always). The Galadhrim had heard him singing and knew he came from [[Mirkwood]]. They would readily accept all of the fellowship, save Gimli, because of his race and the grievances between his and theirs. Legolas was forced to answer for the company, with the reminder to keep an eye on "that dwarf". He was forced by the others to go blindfolded into Lórien, especially at the urging of Gimli, who hated the thought of going such. Indeed, he declared he would submit himself to this restraint only if "Legolas here shares my blindness". In the end, Legolas had no choice but to submit.

Legolas would not translate the Elven lamentations for Gandalf, saying that he had neither the skill nor the heart. During their time in Lórien, however (with the influence of the Lady [[Galadriel]] working her magic on the dwarf), he became fast friends with Gimli, a friendship that would never be broken. He was one of those of the Company that could handle boats, and so was assigned to one with the dwarf. He received a bow and quiver such as the Galadhrim used.

[[Image:Michael Kaluta - Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel.jpg|thumb|250px|''Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel'' by [[Michael Kaluta]].]]After ambushed by orc-archers on the [[Anduin]], Legolas quickly leaped out onto dry ground and searched for a mark to shoot at. As a dread fell on the Company, Legolas invoked the name of [[Elbereth Gilthoniel]], and shot the descending [[Fell beast]] from the sky, a masterful shot in the dark.

===The Three Hunters===
When ambushed on [[Amon Hen]], Legolas shot many [[orcs]] until his arrows ran out, then used his knife. Upon the [[breaking of the Fellowship]], he sang a lament for Boromir, who had fallen, with Aragorn, taking the part of the South Wind which came from the Sea. Legolas was of great aid to Aragorn in the days following, as he helped to track the [[Uruk-hai]] across [[Rohan]]. His eyes could see many leagues, and for a while he could see their quarry far ahead of them.

Legolas stood by his friend Gimli when confronted by the haughty [[Éomer]], threatening him with death if he attempted to harm the dwarf. He let Gimli ride behind him on the way to [[Fangorn Forest]]. Under its eaves, Legolas noticed how the tree beneath which they sat seemed glad of the fire. He was reluctant to enter Fangorn, having no knowledge about it save for the stories of the [[Onodrim]], and that it was very old. Though the night was very dark, he was also the first to notice the absence of the horses. Later he asserted to Aragorn that the beasts sounded joyful, confirming Aragorn’s own opinion.

Upon entering Fangorn itself, Legolas declared that he almost felt young again beside those trees. He commented that in earlier days he could have been happy there. Gimli snorted, saying “''I dare say you could. You are a Wood-elf, anyway, though Elves of any kind are strange folk.''” Legolas would later reverse this declaration at the [[Hornburg]]. When the [[Three Hunters]] met with the apparition of an old man, whom they believed to be [[Saruman]], despite Gimli’s round encouragement Legolas did not shoot him, feeling moral objections to this. The old man declared "''Put away that bow, Master Elf.''" Legolas dropped his bow, but later picked it up again, and was about to shoot when it was seen that beneath the old man’s robes there was white. Yet he recognized that it was [[Gandalf]] just in time, and shot his arrow high in the air to be consumed by fire. Gandalf coolly added "''Well met, I say to you again, Legolas!''"

===With the Rohirrim===
Legolas was a leader in the conversation with Gandalf, being the first to ask about Merry & Pippin, and Gandalf’s apparently miraculous escape. After the story, Gandalf delivered [[Galadriel]]’s messages to each of them, Legolas' being:

<poem style="font-style:italic; margin-left:20px;">
''Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
''In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
''If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
''Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more.
</poem>

Legolas again used his eyes for the help of the company, as he spied both the of [[Isengard]] and [[Edoras]] from afar. At the gates of [[Meduseld]], Legolas was the only one to lay down his weapons without hesitation. He played only a passive role in the healing of [[Théoden|Théoden King]], and later was arrayed in shining mail beside Aragorn. Gimli would not ride on Éomer's horse unless Legolas rode beside them, which he did gladly. Éomer declared "''Legolas upon my left, and Aragorn upon my right, and none will dare to stand before us!''"

[[Image:John Howe - Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep'' by [[John Howe]].]]As Legolas stood at the [[Hornburg]] at the eve of battle, he said that though he did not like the place, Gimli comforted him, and he was glad that the dwarf stood by his side. He also wished that a hundred archers of [[Mirkwood]] were there, noting the small number of bowmen among the [[Rohirrim]]. At the opening of the battle Legolas shot twenty at least, this figure being taken as precise by Gimli. When Gimli returned to the elf for the second time to declare that he slew twenty-one, Legolas counted his kills as twenty-four. By the time the [[Fire of Orthanc]] blew out a piece of the wall, his quiver was nearly empty. With the last arrow the elf saved Aragorn’s life when he stumbled while pursued. At the end of the battle, Legolas had shot a total of forty-one, though Gimli surpassed his count by one.

Legolas showed great interest in the [[Huorns]] on the way to [[Isengard]], discussing them with Gandalf and a less willing Gimli. Legolas promised Gimli that he would go to [[Aglarond]] after the war upon hearing the dwarf’s eloquence, if only Gimli would accompany him on a visit to Fangorn. At Isengard he enjoyed a meal in the company of the Gimli, Aragorn, and the [[Hobbits]].

===The Return of the King===
[[Image:Luca Michelucci - 1999 - March.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Drawn by [[Luca Michelucci]].]]When Aragorn made clear his purpose as to the taking of the [[Paths of the Dead]], Legolas and Gimli willingly volunteered to go with him. Legolas predicted, when Gimli suggested that Galadriel might have sent them soldiers from their own lands, that they need not ride away to find war.

Amidst the Paths of the Dead, riding with the [[Grey Company]], Legolas alone (save for [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], [[Elrond|Elrond's]] sons) felt no fear of the [[Dead Men]], and it may be remembered that the High Elves had power both in the worlds of the seen and unseen. Yet his turn came to be struck to the heart in the opposite sense – when he heard the gulls at [[Pelargir]], fulfilling Galadriel’s prediction and warning. While telling this story later, he dropped off there, while Gimli promptly said "''For my part I heeded them not''". Legolas saw as Aragorn led the Dead Men what a mighty lord he might have been if he had taken [[the One Ring]].

Legolas came with Aragorn from the ships during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|Battle of Pelennor Fields]], and fought there beside his comrades. He survived the battle, and several times that day afterward commented on the longevity and eventual domination of [[Men]] to the dubious Gimli.

===Battle of the Morannon and Aftermath===
Legolas rode for the last time into battle beside his friends to the [[Battle of the Morannon]]. He witnessed the Fall of the Dark Tower, and after the battle attended the ceremonies of the [[Field of Cormallen]] in the honor of Frodo and Samwise and their victory. That night Legolas would not go to bed, but instead went away to walk in the woods, singing of the Sea.

After attending the [[Coronation of Elessar]], Legolas remained (at the urging of Aragorn) in [[Minas Tirith]] for a time. During the parting of the [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]], Legolas went with Gimli to Aglarond. After that, he rode off with Gimli to visit [[Fangorn Forest]].

===After the War of the Ring===
As noted in [[Appendix A]]: ''Of Durin's Folk'', Legolas returned to Minas Tirith with a company of Wood-elves, and they made [[Ithilien]] a green and fair land once more. After King Aragorn died, Legolas sailed West, taking Gimli with him.

==Character==
Legolas showed almost irrepressible cheerfulness throughout the journey, passing through [[Caradhras]] and even the [[Paths of the Dead]] without hesitation or complaint. His youthful nature can be seen from the mocking way he treated the "strong men" on Caradhras, whom Boromir (excluding Legolas) had said could forge a way out through the snow. He is perhaps most remembered for his friendship with Gimli the Dwarf, and it was during this friendship that we see his faithfulness, and also his love of beauty. Gimli’s words moved him when the dwarf spoke of the [[Glittering Caves]]. It can be assumed despite his suggested age of 500-700 that he had never before come near to the Sea, for his heart became suddenly torn when he heard the Gulls at [[Pelargir]], and could never remove their mewing from his mind. His naiveté is demonstrated again when Legolas comments that Aragorn has journeyed further than he has.

==Genealogy==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree |ORO| | |ORO=[[Oropher]]}}
{{familytree | |!| |}}
{{familytree |THR| | |THR=[[Thranduil]]}}
{{familytree | |!| |}}
{{familytree |LEG| | |LEG='''LEGOLAS'''}}
{{familytree/end}}

== Etymology ==
The name '''Legolas''' is a [[Silvan Elvish|Silvan]] dialect form of pure [[Sindarin]] ''Laegolas'', which means "Greenleaf". This shows that '''''Greenleaf''''' is not his surname, as is sometimes erroneously believed; nor is it an epithet (like ''[[Oakenshield]]''), but a translation of his name. It consists of the [[Sindarin]] words ''laeg'', green; and ''golas'', a collection of leaves, foliage (being a prefixed collective form of ''[[lass|las(s)]]'', "leaf").<ref>{{L|211}}</ref><ref>{{PE|17}}, pp. 84, 153</ref> The [[Qenya]] form (mentioned in the ''Book of Lost Tales'' in the context of another character of that name) is ''Laiqualassë''.<ref>{{LT2|IIIn}}, §2 Entries in the Name-list to The Fall of Gondolin</ref> In later material by Tolkien, the [[Quenya]] cognate of Laegolas is said to be ''Laicolasse''.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 56</ref><ref>[[Helge Fauskanger]], [http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm ''Quettaparma Quenyallo'']. Entry for '''laica'''. Retrieved 30 August 2010.</ref>

There might, however, be a certain meaning to his name: ''laeg'' is a very rare, archaic word for green, which is normally replaced by ''calen'' (cf. ''Calenhad'', mutated ''Parth Galen'' and plural ''Pinnath Gelin'') and is otherwise almost only preserved in ''Laegrim, Laegel(d)rim'' (Sindarin form of Quenya [[Laiquendi]]), the ''Green Elves'' of the First Age.

== Portrayal in Adaptations ==
<center><gallery>
Image:Ralph Bakshi's Legolas.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]''</center>
Image:Legolas at Amon Hen.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]''</center>
Image:Legolas viv lotr.JPG|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]''</center>
</gallery></center>

'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[Frank Duncan]] was the voice of Legolas.

'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'':'''
:Legolas was voiced by [[Anthony Daniels]]. In the film, he takes [[Glorfindel of Rivendell|Glorfindel's]] place in the Flight to the Ford sequence; he meets Strider and the hobbits on their way to [[Rivendell]], and sets Frodo on his horse before he is chased by the Nazgûl to the ford of [[Bruinen]]. Here, he is apparently from Rivendell, because he answers to Elrond; he is not identified as a Wood-elf.

'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[John Vickery]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''1980: ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)]]'':'''
:Neither Legolas nor Gimli appeared in this film, as they were essentially followers irrelevant to the plot.

'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[David Collings]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Michael Reisz]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''
:Legolas was portrayed by [[Orlando Bloom]].

:In the "official movie guide" for ''The Lord of the Rings'', a birthdate for Legolas is set to 87 of the [[Third Age]]. This would make him 2931 years old at the time of the [[War of the Ring]]. This date for Legolas' birth was made up by the movie writers. Curiously, the year 2931 was the year Aragorn was born; the writers may have picked the number at random from the ''Tale of Years'' in the [[Appendix B|Appendices]].

:He is presented as an unstoppable fighter, arguably to the point of stealing the show; he performs show-stopping yet implausible stunts in battle scenes. For example, in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], he slides down a staircase using a shield, shooting arrows all the while, and in the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], he takes down an [[Oliphaunts|Oliphaunt]] all by himself. However, in the books, Legolas's exploits in battle are not presented in great detail. Aside from shooting the fell beast, he undertakes no major actions other than to make peace with Gimli, overcoming their longstanding mutual racial animosity — he and Gimli are followers, rather than leaders. The film-makers later stated that the entire scene of Legolas killing the Oliphaunt and its entire crew was filmed during pick-ups (months after original filming) to insert a major action scene showcasing him, because at that point they realized that he simply doesn't get to do much in the third part of the trilogy.

:Legolas bears two long knives, while in the book he bears only one. Another, more trivial change, was the number of Orcs he and Gimli kill at [[Helm's Deep]]: 42 and 43, respectively. It is not clear whether this was an intentional change on the part of the filmmakers, though it seems likely that it was, since the original numbers were so clear in Tolkien's own text.

:Playing Legolas in the trilogy was Orlando Bloom's breakout route to superstardom. His handsome features and Legolas' "coolness", so to speak, as depicted in the film, have led to the character becoming a unprecedented fan favorite with both fangirls and fanboys, not to mention other Tolkien fans. Although the disproportionate popular reaction to Legolas met with mixed reactions from fans, many debaters on the Internet during earlier stages of production were worried that a film portrayal of Legolas might render him as far too effeminate for popular consumption. Later, many felt that Bloom was able to avoid this entirely. [[Christopher Tolkien]] recounts that his father wrote the following "wrathful" comment protesting against a "pretty" or "ladylike" depiction of Legolas:
{{quote|He was tall as a young tree, lithe, immensely strong, able swiftly to draw a great war-bow and shoot down a Nazgûl, endowed with the tremendous vitality of Elvish bodies, so hard and resistant to hurt that he went only in light shoes over rock or through snow, the most tireless of all the Fellowship.|[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]}}

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Grant George]] provides the voice of Legolas.<ref>http://www.dynamicduovo.com/aboutgrant.html</ref>

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:[[Crispin Freeman]] plays Legolas.<ref>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crispin_freeman_fansite/message/9438</ref>

'''2012-13: ''[[The Hobbit films]]'':'''
: Orlando Bloom will return as Legolas in Peter Jackson's adaptation of the Hobbit.

==See Also ==
* [[:Category:Images of Legolas|Images of Legolas]]
* [[Legolas/disputes]]

== External Links ==
* [http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/l/legolas.html Legolas Greenleaf] at the Encyclopedia of Arda

{{fellowship}}
{{references}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Silvan Elves]]
[[Category:Silvan Elvish names]]
[[Category:Sindar]]
[[de:Legolas (Thranduils Sohn)]]
[[fa:لگولاس]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/teleri/sindar/legolas]]
[[fi:Legolas]]

Legolas

2011-11-13T13:47:39Z

LegolasFan: /* Early History */

{{sources}}
{{cleanup}} 
{{disambig-two|the elf of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]|the elf in ''[[The Fall of Gondolin]]''|[[Legolas (Elf of Gondolin)]]}}
{{sindar infobox
| image=[[Image:Jenny Dolfen - Legolas2.jpg|250px]]
| name=Legolas
| othernames=Greenleaf
| titles=Prince of [[Mirkwood]]
| position=
| realm=[[Woodland Realm]]; [[Ithilien]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Sindarin]] and [[Westron]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death={{FoA|120}}
| deathlocation=Sailed [[Aman|West]] (not dead)
| age=
| house=
| parentage=[[Thranduil]]
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Green and brown garb
| weapons=Bow and long white knife
| steed=
}} '''Legolas''' was a [[Sindar|Sindarin]] Elf of the [[Silvan Elves|Silvan]] realm of [[Mirkwood]], the only recorded son of King [[Thranduil]]. He became famous because of his membership in the [[Fellowship of the Ring]], in which he served as one of their most valuable assets because of his superior sight, hearing, lightness of foot, and unrivaled archery. Despite this, however, he played only a minor role in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', and the least is known about him, perhaps, of all the members in the company.

==History==
===Early History===
Legolas was alive during the [[Battle of Five Armies]] and it is most likely that he participated in it even though no proof of it can be given.

===Fellowship of the Ring===
His first real mention was at the [[Council of Elrond]], as a messenger from his father [[Thranduil]]. He was dressed in green and brown, and his eyes were keen. His message was specifically to [[Gandalf]] – namely, that [[Gollum]] had escaped. [[Aragorn]] then immediately wondered out loud how Thranduil’s people could permit this. Legolas was quick to state that it was not through lack of watchfulness; if anything, from over-kindness, and related the details to the council. He spoke little for the rest of the council, if at all, but later volunteered (or was chosen by [[Elrond]]) to participate in the [[Quest of the Ring]] as the only elven member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. His capabilities would be welcomed, and would be his primary claim to fame for the rest of his life.

For the early part of the quest they went in single file, with Legolas at the back. Later, however, we appear to find him at the head of the company as they entered [[Hollin]], for The Lord of the Rings states “[[Gimli]]… had come up with Legolas, and was gazing out before him…”. Though all in the Company could feel the wholesomeness of the country, only Legolas could hear the stones lament the lost presence of the [[Elves]], and his words were poignant.

As they ascended [[Caradhras]], Legolas could walk on top of the snow, whereas the others were forced to trudge. He also attempted (unsuccessfully) to light a fire. The storm troubled him least of all the company, and it is written “he alone of the Company remained still light of heart”. After they were determined to retreat, [[Boromir]] and Aragorn tried to push a path through the snow to get out, while Legolas danced lightly on top, passing them easily. He soon spotted the way out for the rest of the company, and a bit of sarcasm edged his speech at Boromir’s words that they (the “strongest”) must seek a way out, when he said “There is the greatest wind-drift of all just beyond the turn, and there our Strong Men were almost buried”. The paragraphs in this section suggest the attributes of youth and unquenchable gaiety.

Perhaps a bit grumpy with the irrepressibility of the elf, Boromir during the vote as to whether or not they should pass through [[Moria]], asked “What do Legolas and the little folk say?” Legolas voted against the passage with Boromir, but was overruled, especially when [[Warg]] voices were heard. During their defense against these beasts, Legolas did more than perhaps all the rest of the company except Gandalf, shooting numerous wargs. Legolas collected his arrows unharmed (except for one) after the fight.

Legolas played only the most minor of parts in Moria. Though it is said that he had eyes that could see well in the dark, strangely, he seems not to possess this quality in the caves. For it is written that [[Frodo Baggins]] (due to his [[Morgul-knife]] wound) could see better than any of the company in the dark, except perhaps Gandalf. Legolas had to drag Gimli from the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]] when the [[Dwarves|dwarf]] almost refused to go. Legolas was the first of the Company to recognize [[Durin's Bane]] as a [[Balrogs|Balrog]], or at least the first to express his dismay at the fact.

Legolas was most enthusiastic about coming to [[Lothlórien]], describing it to the rest of the Company, and mourning the fact that it was winter and they could not witness it in the pinnacle of its glory. As they rested by the [[Nimrodel (river)|Nimrodel]], Legolas told them tales of Lothlórien, and sang the [[Song of Nimrodel]] to them. Upon hearing the other Elves of Lórien, Legolas listened and responded in their own tongue. When [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise]] queried as to what they were saying, Legolas slyly responded that they said he breathed so loud they could shoot him in the dark, horrifying Samwise until Legolas added that they need not fear them.

Legolas was called up to meet with the [[Galadhrim]], with Frodo only (Sam following, as always). The Galadhrim had heard him singing and knew he came from [[Mirkwood]]. They would readily accept all of the fellowship, save Gimli, because of his race and the grievances between his and theirs. Legolas was forced to answer for the company, with the reminder to keep an eye on "that dwarf". Legolas was forced by the others to go blindfolded into Lórien, especially at the urging of Gimli, who hated the thought of going such. Indeed, he declared he would submit himself to this restraint only if "Legolas here shares my blindness". In the end, Legolas had no choice but to submit.

Legolas would not translate the Elven lamentations for Gandalf, saying that he had neither the skill nor the heart. During their time in Lórien, however (with the influence of the Lady [[Galadriel]] working its magic on the dwarf), he became fast friends with Gimli, a friendship never to be broken. He was one of those of the Company that could handle boats, and so was assigned to one with the dwarf. He received a bow and quiver such as the Galadhrim used.

[[Image:Michael Kaluta - Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel.jpg|thumb|250px|''Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel'' by [[Michael Kaluta]].]]After ambushed by orc-archers on the [[Anduin]], Legolas quickly leaped out onto dry ground and searched for a mark to shoot at. As a dread fell on the Company, Legolas invoked the name of [[Elbereth Gilthoniel]], and shot the descending [[Fell beast]] from the sky, a masterful shot in the dark.

===The Three Hunters===
When ambushed on [[Amon Hen]], Legolas shot many [[orcs]] until his arrows ran out, then used his knife. Upon the [[breaking of the Fellowship]], he sang a lament for Boromir, who had fallen, with Aragorn, taking the part of the South Wind which came from the Sea. Legolas was of great aid to Aragorn in the days following, as he helped to track the [[Uruk-hai]] across [[Rohan]]. His eyes could see many leagues, and for a while he could see their quarry far ahead of them.

Legolas stood by his friend Gimli when confronted by the haughty [[Éomer]], threatening him with death if he attempted to harm the dwarf. He let Gimli ride behind him on the way to [[Fangorn Forest]]. Under its eaves, Legolas noticed how the tree beneath which they sat seemed glad of the fire. He was reluctant to enter Fangorn, having no knowledge about it save for the stories of the [[Onodrim]], and that it was very old. Though the night was very dark, he was also the first to notice the absence of the horses. Later he asserted to Aragorn that the beasts sounded joyful, confirming Aragorn’s own opinion.

Upon entering Fangorn itself, Legolas declared that he almost felt young again beside those trees. He commented that in earlier days he could have been happy there. Gimli snorted, saying “''I dare say you could. You are a Wood-elf, anyway, though Elves of any kind are strange folk.''” Legolas would later reverse this declaration at the [[Hornburg]]. When the [[Three Hunters]] met with the apparition of an old man, whom they believed to be [[Saruman]], despite Gimli’s round encouragement Legolas did not shoot him, feeling moral objections to this. The old man declared "''Put away that bow, Master Elf.''" Legolas dropped his bow, but later picked it up again, and was about to shoot when it was seen that beneath the old man’s robes there was white. Yet he recognized that it was [[Gandalf]] just in time, and shot his arrow high in the air to be consumed by fire. Gandalf coolly added "''Well met, I say to you again, Legolas!''"

===With the Rohirrim===
Legolas was a leader in the conversation with Gandalf, being the first to ask about Merry & Pippin, and Gandalf’s apparently miraculous escape. After the story, Gandalf delivered [[Galadriel]]’s messages to each of them, Legolas' being:

<poem style="font-style:italic; margin-left:20px;">
''Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
''In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
''If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
''Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more.
</poem>

Legolas again used his eyes for the help of the company, as he spied both the of [[Isengard]] and [[Edoras]] from afar. At the gates of [[Meduseld]], Legolas was the only one to lay down his weapons without hesitation. He played only a passive role in the healing of [[Théoden|Théoden King]], and later was arrayed in shining mail beside Aragorn. Gimli would not ride on Éomer's horse unless Legolas rode beside them, which he did gladly. Éomer declared "''Legolas upon my left, and Aragorn upon my right, and none will dare to stand before us!''"

[[Image:John Howe - Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep'' by [[John Howe]].]]As Legolas stood at the [[Hornburg]] at the eve of battle, he said that though he did not like the place, Gimli comforted him, and he was glad that the dwarf stood by his side. He also wished that a hundred archers of [[Mirkwood]] were there, noting the small number of bowmen among the [[Rohirrim]]. At the opening of the battle Legolas shot twenty at least, this figure being taken as precise by Gimli. When Gimli returned to the elf for the second time to declare that he slew twenty-one, Legolas counted his kills as twenty-four. By the time the [[Fire of Orthanc]] blew out a piece of the wall, his quiver was nearly empty. With the last arrow the elf saved Aragorn’s life when he stumbled while pursued. At the end of the battle, Legolas had shot a total of forty-one, though Gimli surpassed his count by one.

Legolas showed great interest in the [[Huorns]] on the way to [[Isengard]], discussing them with Gandalf and a less willing Gimli. Legolas promised Gimli that he would go to [[Aglarond]] after the war upon hearing the dwarf’s eloquence, if only Gimli would accompany him on a visit to Fangorn. At Isengard he enjoyed a meal in the company of the Gimli, Aragorn, and the [[Hobbits]].

===The Return of the King===
[[Image:Luca Michelucci - 1999 - March.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Drawn by [[Luca Michelucci]].]]When Aragorn made clear his purpose as to the taking of the [[Paths of the Dead]], Legolas and Gimli willingly volunteered to go with him. Legolas predicted, when Gimli suggested that Galadriel might have sent them soldiers from their own lands, that they need not ride away to find war.

Amidst the Paths of the Dead, riding with the [[Grey Company]], Legolas alone (save for [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], [[Elrond|Elrond's]] sons) felt no fear of the [[Dead Men]], and it may be remembered that the High Elves had power both in the worlds of the seen and unseen. Yet his turn came to be struck to the heart in the opposite sense – when he heard the gulls at [[Pelargir]], fulfilling Galadriel’s prediction and warning. While telling this story later, he dropped off there, while Gimli promptly said "''For my part I heeded them not''". Legolas saw as Aragorn led the Dead Men what a mighty lord he might have been if he had taken [[the One Ring]].

Legolas came with Aragorn from the ships during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|Battle of Pelennor Fields]], and fought there beside his comrades. He survived the battle, and several times that day afterward commented on the longevity and eventual domination of [[Men]] to the dubious Gimli.

===Battle of the Morannon and Aftermath===
Legolas rode for the last time into battle beside his friends to the [[Battle of the Morannon]]. He witnessed the Fall of the Dark Tower, and after the battle attended the ceremonies of the [[Field of Cormallen]] in the honor of Frodo and Samwise and their victory. That night Legolas would not go to bed, but instead went away to walk in the woods, singing of the Sea.

After attending the [[Coronation of Elessar]], Legolas remained (at the urging of Aragorn) in [[Minas Tirith]] for a time. During the parting of the [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]], Legolas went with Gimli to Aglarond. After that, he rode off with Gimli to visit [[Fangorn Forest]].

===After the War of the Ring===
As noted in [[Appendix A]]: ''Of Durin's Folk'', Legolas returned to Minas Tirith with a company of Wood-elves, and they made [[Ithilien]] a green and fair land once more. After King Aragorn died, Legolas sailed West, taking Gimli with him.

==Character==
Legolas showed almost irrepressible cheerfulness throughout the journey, passing through [[Caradhras]] and even the [[Paths of the Dead]] without hesitation or complaint. His youthful nature can be seen from the mocking way he treated the "strong men" on Caradhras, whom Boromir (excluding Legolas) had said could forge a way out through the snow. He is perhaps most remembered for his friendship with Gimli the Dwarf, and it was during this friendship that we see his faithfulness, and also his love of beauty. Gimli’s words moved him when the dwarf spoke of the [[Glittering Caves]]. It can be assumed despite his suggested age of 500-700 that he had never before come near to the Sea, for his heart became suddenly torn when he heard the Gulls at [[Pelargir]], and could never remove their mewing from his mind. His naiveté is demonstrated again when Legolas comments that Aragorn has journeyed further than he has.

==Genealogy==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree |ORO| | |ORO=[[Oropher]]}}
{{familytree | |!| |}}
{{familytree |THR| | |THR=[[Thranduil]]}}
{{familytree | |!| |}}
{{familytree |LEG| | |LEG='''LEGOLAS'''}}
{{familytree/end}}

== Etymology ==
The name '''Legolas''' is a [[Silvan Elvish|Silvan]] dialect form of pure [[Sindarin]] ''Laegolas'', which means "Greenleaf". This shows that '''''Greenleaf''''' is not his surname, as is sometimes erroneously believed; nor is it an epithet (like ''[[Oakenshield]]''), but a translation of his name. It consists of the [[Sindarin]] words ''laeg'', green; and ''golas'', a collection of leaves, foliage (being a prefixed collective form of ''[[lass|las(s)]]'', "leaf").<ref>{{L|211}}</ref><ref>{{PE|17}}, pp. 84, 153</ref> The [[Qenya]] form (mentioned in the ''Book of Lost Tales'' in the context of another character of that name) is ''Laiqualassë''.<ref>{{LT2|IIIn}}, §2 Entries in the Name-list to The Fall of Gondolin</ref> In later material by Tolkien, the [[Quenya]] cognate of Laegolas is said to be ''Laicolasse''.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 56</ref><ref>[[Helge Fauskanger]], [http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm ''Quettaparma Quenyallo'']. Entry for '''laica'''. Retrieved 30 August 2010.</ref>

There might, however, be a certain meaning to his name: ''laeg'' is a very rare, archaic word for green, which is normally replaced by ''calen'' (cf. ''Calenhad'', mutated ''Parth Galen'' and plural ''Pinnath Gelin'') and is otherwise almost only preserved in ''Laegrim, Laegel(d)rim'' (Sindarin form of Quenya [[Laiquendi]]), the ''Green Elves'' of the First Age.

== Portrayal in Adaptations ==
<center><gallery>
Image:Ralph Bakshi's Legolas.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]''</center>
Image:Legolas at Amon Hen.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]''</center>
Image:Legolas viv lotr.JPG|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]''</center>
</gallery></center>

'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[Frank Duncan]] was the voice of Legolas.

'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'':'''
:Legolas was voiced by [[Anthony Daniels]]. In the film, he takes [[Glorfindel of Rivendell|Glorfindel's]] place in the Flight to the Ford sequence; he meets Strider and the hobbits on their way to [[Rivendell]], and sets Frodo on his horse before he is chased by the Nazgûl to the ford of [[Bruinen]]. Here, he is apparently from Rivendell, because he answers to Elrond; he is not identified as a Wood-elf.

'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[John Vickery]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''1980: ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)]]'':'''
:Neither Legolas nor Gimli appeared in this film, as they were essentially followers irrelevant to the plot.

'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]]'':'''
:[[David Collings]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Michael Reisz]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''
:Legolas was portrayed by [[Orlando Bloom]].

:In the "official movie guide" for ''The Lord of the Rings'', a birthdate for Legolas is set to 87 of the [[Third Age]]. This would make him 2931 years old at the time of the [[War of the Ring]]. This date for Legolas' birth was made up by the movie writers. Curiously, the year 2931 was the year Aragorn was born; the writers may have picked the number at random from the ''Tale of Years'' in the [[Appendix B|Appendices]].

:He is presented as an unstoppable fighter, arguably to the point of stealing the show; he performs show-stopping yet implausible stunts in battle scenes. For example, in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], he slides down a staircase using a shield, shooting arrows all the while, and in the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], he takes down an [[Oliphaunts|Oliphaunt]] all by himself. However, in the books, Legolas's exploits in battle are not presented in great detail. Aside from shooting the fell beast, he undertakes no major actions other than to make peace with Gimli, overcoming their longstanding mutual racial animosity — he and Gimli are followers, rather than leaders. The film-makers later stated that the entire scene of Legolas killing the Oliphaunt and its entire crew was filmed during pick-ups (months after original filming) to insert a major action scene showcasing him, because at that point they realized that he simply doesn't get to do much in the third part of the trilogy.

:Legolas bears two long knives, while in the book he bears only one. Another, more trivial change, was the number of Orcs he and Gimli kill at [[Helm's Deep]]: 42 and 43, respectively. It is not clear whether this was an intentional change on the part of the filmmakers, though it seems likely that it was, since the original numbers were so clear in Tolkien's own text.

:Playing Legolas in the trilogy was Orlando Bloom's breakout route to superstardom. His handsome features and Legolas' "coolness", so to speak, as depicted in the film, have led to the character becoming a unprecedented fan favorite with both fangirls and fanboys, not to mention other Tolkien fans. Although the disproportionate popular reaction to Legolas met with mixed reactions from fans, many debaters on the Internet during earlier stages of production were worried that a film portrayal of Legolas might render him as far too effeminate for popular consumption. Later, many felt that Bloom was able to avoid this entirely. [[Christopher Tolkien]] recounts that his father wrote the following "wrathful" comment protesting against a "pretty" or "ladylike" depiction of Legolas:
{{quote|He was tall as a young tree, lithe, immensely strong, able swiftly to draw a great war-bow and shoot down a Nazgûl, endowed with the tremendous vitality of Elvish bodies, so hard and resistant to hurt that he went only in light shoes over rock or through snow, the most tireless of all the Fellowship.|[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]}}

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Grant George]] provides the voice of Legolas.<ref>http://www.dynamicduovo.com/aboutgrant.html</ref>

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:[[Crispin Freeman]] plays Legolas.<ref>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crispin_freeman_fansite/message/9438</ref>

'''2012-13: ''[[The Hobbit films]]'':'''
: Orlando Bloom will return as Legolas in Peter Jackson's adaptation of the Hobbit.

==See Also ==
* [[:Category:Images of Legolas|Images of Legolas]]
* [[Legolas/disputes]]

== External Links ==
* [http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/l/legolas.html Legolas Greenleaf] at the Encyclopedia of Arda

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[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Silvan Elves]]
[[Category:Silvan Elvish names]]
[[Category:Sindar]]
[[de:Legolas (Thranduils Sohn)]]
[[fa:لگولاس]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/teleri/sindar/legolas]]
[[fi:Legolas]]

Meriadoc Brandybuck

2011-11-13T13:45:13Z

LegolasFan: /* History */

{{sources}}
{{hobbit
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Merry.jpg|250px]]
| name=Meriadoc Brandybuck
| othernames=Merry, the Magnificent, [[Kalimac Brandagamba]] (his true [[Westron]] name)
| birth= Early in the year {{SR|1382}}
| death=Between {{SR|1486}} and {{SR|1495|n}}
| parentage=[[Saradoc Brandybuck]]<br/>[[Esmeralda Took]]
| location=[[Brandy Hall]], [[Buckland]]
| gender= Male
| height= Taller than average Hobbit
| hair= Brown
| eyes=
}}
{{quote|You can trust us to stick to you through thick and thin - to the bitter end. And you can trust us to keep any secret of yours - closer than you keep it yourself. But you cannot trust us to let you face trouble alone, and go off without a word. We are your friends, Frodo.|Merry, ''[[A Conspiracy Unmasked]]''}}

'''Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck''', called '''The Magnificent''', was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]], the son of [[Saradoc Brandybuck]]. Merry (as he was often called), was the heir of the [[Brandybuck Family|Brandybucks]] to [[Brandy Hall]], and eventually became the Master there.

==History==
Meriadoc was a part of and apparently led the [[Conspirators]], a group of Frodo's friends (namely [[Samwise Gamgee]], [[Peregrin Took]], [[Fredegar Bolger]], and himself) who sought to protect him (and [[The One Ring|the Ring]]). Eventually, they revealed themselves to Frodo and demanded to be taken along when he left [[Crickhollow]]. Merry had already arranged for provisions and ponies, so they were able to start right away.

During the following trip to [[Bree]], Merry seemed to have a greater knowledge of the [[Old Forest]] than any of the other Hobbits, and with them encountered [[Old Man Willow]], a [[Barrow-wights|Barrow-wight]], and [[Tom Bombadil]].

Upon reaching [[Bree]], Merry had an encounter with the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]], and bravely followed them until he passed out from exposure to the [[Black Breath]]. During the trip through the wild with [[Aragorn]], then known as Strider, he often saw the most deeply into the others. After Frodo was wounded on [[Weathertop]], he became the one who consulted most with Strider, and in a way became the spokesman for the Hobbits.

After reaching [[Rivendell]], he, with Pippin, insisted on not being left behind on the [[Quest of the Ring]]. Therefore they were chosen as the eighth and ninth members of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].

At the gate of [[Khazad-dûm|Moria]], he was commended by [[Gandalf]] for being "''of all people''" on the right track with the riddle (though this was hardly his fault). His impetuosity in Moria was such that he nearly fell into an ancient well running ahead with Pippin. When they reached [[Lothlórien]], he was allowed to sleep in a [[talan]] with Frodo, Sam, Pippin and a few elven guards. He, as with the rest of the Comapny, walked blindfolded into the Woods of Lorien in a show of support for Gimli, who had to be blindfolded due to being a dwarf.

After the Breaking of the Fellowship, Merry and Pippin tried to distract the orcs from Frodo. This worked but the orcs followed them and Boromir came to their rescue. However, the number of the Uruk-hai were too many and eventually he was felled by their leader, Ugluk. Captured with Pippin by [[Uruk-hai]], the two were separated from the rest of the Fellowship. Merry aided Pippin in an attempt to deceive [[Grishnákh]] into thinking they had the One Ring, and he could have it. During the attack by [[Éomer]] and his [[Rohirrim|Outriders]] they escaped into [[Fangorn Forest]], meeting [[Treebeard]]. They thus became the first mortals for many centuries to encounter the [[Ents]] of Fangorn. They were present at the [[Entmoot]], and the resulting destruction of [[Isengard]].

While Pippin and Gandalf headed away to [[Minas Tirith]], Merry stayed with Aragorn and the Rohirrim, developing a close friendship with King [[Théoden]]. Out of love for him, Merry offered the King his service, which Théoden warmly accepted. "''As a father you shall be to me''", Merry said at that time, and Théoden responded "''For a little while''".

Merry was forbidden - firmly but gently - by the King to ride with them to the aid of Minas Tirith because he could not ride the mighty horses of the Rohirrim so fast and so far. Merry was disappointed until a young rider named [[Dernhelm]] offered to bear him on his horse. In this manner he rode to the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], having a secret understanding with [[Elfhelm]] and several others of the Rohirrim.

During the charge and the commencement of the battle he was almost useless, hiding behind Dernhelm and shaking with fright and nausea. However, Dernhelm's steed, [[Windfola]], threw them both upon the coming of the [[Witch-king]]. Affected by the [[Black Breath]], Merry lay almost senseless on the ground, hearing the voice of Dernhelm standing over the body of Théoden -- who had been mortally wounded by the Witch-king -- defying the Nazgûl. He was startled as he opened his eyes to find that Dernhelm was really [[Éowyn]], the King's niece. After Éowyn was thrown down, perhaps mortally wounded, Merry rose to attack the Witch-king in order to protect her. He stabbed the Witch-king through the calf with the [[Daggers of Westernesse|Barrow-blade]] he still bore, thus breaking the spell of invulnerability surrounding the Wraith. He fainted as Éowyn finished off the Witch-king with a thrust into the head.

Almost killed by the Black Breath, he was revived with Éowyn by Aragorn in the [[Houses of Healing]]. Because of his condition he was unable to take part in the [[Battle of the Morannon]], but afterwards attended the burial of [[Théoden]], at which he wept greatly. Upon his departure for the Shire, he was given a special horn by Éomer and Éowyn as a parting gift.

Upon the return to the Shire, he was, with Pippin, the primary leader of the uprising against [[Sharkey]] and his [[Ruffians]]. He was afterwards known as '''Meriadoc the Magnificent''', and lived to be [[Master of Buckland]]. He lived to a ripe old age, coming down to Rohan (presumably after the death of his wife [[Estella Brandybuck|Estella Bolger]]) at the request of King Éomer, having lived 102 years. After the King died, he travelled to Gondor with his likewise aging friend Pippin, where they both died several years later, and were laid in [[Rath Dínen]]. It was said that they were laid beside [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] upon his death.

==Character==

He was a good friend of [[Frodo Baggins]], who eventually became the [[Ringbearer]], and [[Peregrin Took]], a young relative. He was one of the few (if any) who saw [[Bilbo Baggins]], Frodo's uncle, actually use [[the One Ring]]. He also managed to read, at least in part, Bilbo's book: ''[[There and Back Again]]'', where he learned about the Ring.

He can easily be recognized as a very sharp Hobbit, and his tone throughout ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' depicts him as practical, loyal, resourceful, and the best able to cope with the sudden happenings that drew him out of his peaceful home. He was also praised by [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]] as having a 'stout heart'. He was apparently much trusted by Frodo, who sent him along with [[Fredegar Bolger|Fatty Bolger]] to [[Crickhollow]] to prepare his newly-bought home.

{{:Brandybuck Family}}

==Inspiration==
''Meriadoc'' (also spelled ''Meriadek'') was the legendary leader of a group of Welsh mercenaries who settled Armorica (modern Brittany) in the fourth century and founded the house of [[Rohan]].<ref> [[Mark T. Hooker]], ''[[The Hobbitonian Anthology]]'', p. 57</ref> Tolkien himself comments on the ''Celtic cast'' of this and other [[Buckland]] and [[Bree]] names that end in –ac, -ic, -oc. <ref>{{HM|PM}}, "[[The Appendix on Languages]]"</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
:The voice of Merry is provided by [[Michael Collins]].<ref name="RT1672">Radio Times, Volume 129, No. 1672, [[25 November|November 25]], [[1955]]</ref>

'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'':'''
:The voice of Merry was provided by [[Simon Chandler]].

'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|Mind's Eye's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
:The voice of Merry was provided by [[Pat Franklyn]].

'''1980: ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)]]'':'''
:The voice of Merry was provided by [[Casey Kasem]].

'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
:The part of Merry is portrayed by [[Richard O'Callaghan]].

'''1992: ''[[Tales from the Perilous Realm (1992 radio series)|BBC Radio's Tales from the Perilous Realm]]'':'''
:[[Matthew Morgan]] provided the voice of Merry in the two episodes of this series that make up ''The Adventures of Tom Bombadil''.

'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''
:Merry was played by [[Dominic Monaghan]]. Some book-readers argue that, like Pippin, he was made far less competent in the movie than he was in the books: instead of a clever "conspirator" who helped orchestrate Frodo's escape from the Shire, he was portrayed as someone who did not know what he was getting himself into.

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:The voice of Merry was provided by [[Quinton Flynn]]. Merry and Pippin are shown as the Conspirators, although the "[[Three is Company|three]]" does not include Sam. Merry meets Frodo in the [[Green Dragon Inn]], and he and Pippin and Sam are not seen again until [[Bamfurlong]].
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{{references}}
[[Category:Brandybuck]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Hobbits]]

[[fa:مریادوک برندی‌باک]]