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{{disambig-more|Fellowship of the Ring|[[The Fellowship of the Ring (disambiguation)]]}}
{{disambig-more|Fellowship of the Ring|[[The Fellowship of the Ring (disambiguation)]]}}
{{quote|The Company of the Ring shall be Nine; and the Nine Walkers shall be set against the Nine Riders that are evil...|[[Elrond]]}}
{{organization infobox
[[File:Michael Komarck - The Lord of the Rings- The Confrontation.jpg|thumb|400px|The Fellowship of the Ring by [[Michael Komarck]].]]
| name=Fellowship of the Ring
| image=[[File:Peter Xavier Price - The Fellowship of the Ring.jpg|300px]]
| caption="The Fellowship of the Ring" by [[Peter Xavier Price]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Company of the Ring
| founded=[[18 December]] {{TA|3018}}<br />[[Council of Elrond]]
| founder=
| purpose=Escort the [[One Ring]] to [[Mount Doom]]
| members=
| location=
| disbanded=[[22 August]] {{TA|3019}}<br />[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]
| notablefor=
| gallery=the Fellowship of the Ring
}}
{{quote|The Company of the Ring shall be Nine; and the Nine Walkers shall be set against the Nine Riders that are evil...|[[Elrond]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Council of Elrond]]"}}
The '''Fellowship of the Ring''', also known as the '''Company of the Ring''', was formed from nine members of the [[Free peoples]] during the [[War of the Ring]]. Its purpose was to take [[the One Ring]] to [[Mordor]], the only place where it could be destroyed.
The '''Fellowship of the Ring''', also known as the '''Company of the Ring''', was formed from nine members of the [[Free peoples]] during the [[War of the Ring]]. Its purpose was to take [[the One Ring]] to [[Mordor]], the only place where it could be destroyed.


==Members==
==Members==
[[File:Adam McDaniel - The Fellowship.jpg|''The Fellowship'' by Adam McDaniel|thumb|250px]]
[[File:Pauline Baynes - The Fellowship.png|thumb|250px|''The Fellowship'' by [[Pauline Baynes]]]]
* [[Gandalf]] — One of the [[Wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]] by the [[Valar]]. He was the leader of the Fellowship.
* [[Gandalf]] — One of the [[Wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]] by the [[Valar]]. He was the leader of the Fellowship.
* [[Aragorn]], son of [[Arathorn II|Arathorn]] — The [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and the last heir to the throne of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]. He led the Fellowship after the loss of Gandalf.
* [[Aragorn]], son of [[Arathorn II|Arathorn]] — The [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and the last heir to the throne of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]. He led the Fellowship after the loss of Gandalf.
* [[Boromir]], son of [[Denethor]] — Captain-general of [[Gondor]] and next-in-line to be the [[Ruling Steward]] of Gondor.
* [[Boromir]], son of [[Denethor]] — Captain-general of [[Gondor]] and next-in-line to be the [[Ruling Steward]] of Gondor.
* [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]] of [[Mirkwood]] — Emissary of the [[Elves of Mirkwood]].
* [[Legolas]], son of [[Thranduil]] of [[Mirkwood]] — Emissary of the [[Elves of Mirkwood]].
* [[Gimli]], son of [[Glóin son of Gróin|Gloin]] — A [[Dwarves|Dwarf]] of the [[Lonely Mountain]].
* [[Gimli]], son of [[Glóin]] — A [[Dwarves|Dwarf]] of the [[Lonely Mountain]].
* [[Frodo Baggins]] — A [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[the Shire]], he was chosen to carry [[the One Ring]].
* [[Frodo Baggins]] — A [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[the Shire]], chosen to carry [[the One Ring]].
* [[Samwise Gamgee]] — A Hobbit, he was Frodo's gardener, servant and close friend.
* [[Samwise Gamgee]] — A Hobbit, Frodo's gardener, servant and close friend.
* [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck]] — A Hobbit and cousin of Frodo, he and Pippin were best friends.
* [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck]] — A Hobbit and cousin of Frodo, best friends with Peregrin "Pippin" Took.
* [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin "Pippin" Took]] — A Hobbit and also a cousin of Frodo, he was the youngest of the Fellowship.
* [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin "Pippin" Took]] — A Hobbit and also a cousin of Frodo, youngest of the Fellowship.


==History==
==History==
The Fellowship of the Ring was formed in [[Rivendell]] with the purpose to destroy [[the One Ring]], and the only way do so was to throw it into the [[Cracks of Doom]].<ref>{{FR|II2}}</ref> It was decided that nine walkers should contrast the [[Nazgûl|nine riders]] of [[Sauron]] with Frodo as the [[Ring-bearer]] and Gandalf as the leader.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Anger of the Mountain.jpg|thumb|240px|''The Anger of the Mountain'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
The Fellowship of the Ring was formed in [[Rivendell]] with the purpose to destroy the One Ring, and the only way to do so was to throw it into the [[Cracks of Doom]].<ref>{{FR|II2}}</ref> It was decided that nine walkers should contrast the [[Nazgûl]] of [[Sauron]] with Frodo as the [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]] and Gandalf as the leader.


Although the purpose was fixed by the [[Council of Elrond]], it was not decreed how, in what manner and through which route this could be done; such details were left to the Fellowship's discretion. As a consequence, the Fellowship started with no detailed plan. One option was to go directly to [[Mount Doom]], the other was to ask help from Boromir's father, [[Denethor|Denethor II]].
Although the purpose was fixed by the [[Council of Elrond]], it was not decreed how, in what manner and through which route this could be done; such details were left to the Fellowship's discretion. As a consequence, the Fellowship started with no detailed plan. One option was to go directly to [[Mount Doom]], the other was to ask help from Boromir's father, [[Denethor|Denethor II]].
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Anger of the Mountain.jpg|thumb|Attempting to pass Caradhras]]
The way of how to reach the East was a problem. After moving south from Rivendell, they encountered ''[[crebain]]'' on their arrival in [[Eregion|Hollin]]. Fearing that they were used as spies by [[Saruman]], the Fellowship spent the entire day in hiding, without a campfire.
The way of how to reach the East was a problem. After moving south from Rivendell, they encountered [[crebain]] on their arrival in [[Hollin]]. Fearing that they were used as spies by Saruman, the Fellowship spent the entire day in hiding, without a campfire.
 
When they had to pass the [[Misty Mountains]], Boromir proposed the [[Gap of Rohan]] (the way through which he journeyed to Rivendell); Gandalf insisted on passing through [[Moria]] but Aragorn thought the [[Redhorn Pass]] would be safer. However after attempting in vain to pass the blizzard, they followed Gandalf's option.<ref>{{FR|II3}}</ref>


When they had to pass the [[Misty Mountains]]; Boromir proposed the [[Gap of Rohan]] (the way through which he journeyed to Rivendell), Gandalf insisted to pass through [[Khazad-dûm|Moria]] but [[Aragorn]] though the [[Redhorn Pass]] would be safer. However after attempting in vain to pass the blizzard, they followed Gandalf's option.<ref>{{FR|II3}}</ref>
[[File:Igor Kordej - Fellowship.jpg|thumb|left|The Fellowship fights the wolves in [[Hollin]].]]
After fighting with [[wolves]] and the [[Watcher in the Water]], they managed to open the [[Doors of Durin]] and enter Moria.  
After fighting with [[wolves]] and the [[Watcher in the Water]], they managed to open the [[Doors of Durin]] and enter Moria.  


There they found the Orcs who overran [[Balin's Colony]] years ago. They also saw [[Durin's Bane]], who devastated Moria in the first place. Gandalf to buy them time, destroyed the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]] and both [[Maiar]] fell together into the abyss, while the Company escaped back to the light.<ref>{{FR|II4}}</ref>
There they found the [[Orcs]] who overran [[Balin's Colony]] years ago. They also saw [[Durin's Bane]], one of the [[Balrogs]] of [[Morgoth]], who devastated [[Moria]] in the beginning of the Third Age. To buy them time, Gandalf destroyed the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]] and both [[Maiar]] fell together into the abyss, while the Company escaped back to the light.<ref>{{FR|II4}}</ref>
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Caras Galadhon.jpg|thumb|The Fellowship reaches [[Caras Galadhon]].]]
Aragorn was appointed the head of the Company, and their next stop was to meet with [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]], the elf-lords of [[Lothlórien]].<ref>{{FR|II6}}</ref> They stayed there for four weeks, resting and counseling for their plan and route. On their leave, the elves gave them several useful [[gifts of Galadriel|gifts]], which included [[Lembas]] bread and gave them boats to sail the [[Anduin]].<ref>{{FR|II8}}</ref>
[[File:Angus McBride - Moria.jpg|thumb|left|Skirmish in the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]].]]
Aragorn was appointed the head of the Company, and their next stop was to meet with [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]], the elf-lords of [[Lothlórien]].<ref>{{FR|II6}}</ref> They stayed there for several days, resting and counseling for their plan and route. On their leave, the elves gave them several useful [[gifts of Galadriel|gifts]] and gave them boats to sail the [[Anduin]].<ref>{{FR|II8}}</ref>


Meanwhile, [[Saruman]] who served Sauron, sent a band of [[Uruk-hai]] to capture the [[Halflings|halfling]] who bore the Ring and bring him to [[Isengard]].<ref>{{TT|III3}}</ref>
Meanwhile, Saruman, who served Sauron, sent a band of [[Uruk-hai]] to capture the [[Halflings|halfling]] who bore the Ring and bring him to [[Isengard]].<ref>{{TT|III3}}</ref>
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Argonath.jpg|thumb|The Fellowship approach the Argonath]]
Frodo began to realize not only that [[Gollum|someone]] was following them, but also that the Ring was having a malevolent effect on some members of the party, especially Boromir.<ref>{{FR|II9}}</ref> It was he who tried to take the ring from him, after the passage through the [[Argonath]]. In the process, Frodo put on the ring to escape him, but he was followed by Sam. The rest of the Company was attacked by orcs while trying to find the Ring-bearer. Seeing no other halfling, the Orcs succeeded in capturing Merry and Pippin, killing Boromir, who tried to protect them.<ref>{{FR|II10}}</ref>
Frodo began to realize not only that [[Gollum|someone]] was following them, but also that the Ring was having a malevolent effect on some members of the party, especially Boromir.<ref>{{FR|II9}}</ref> It was he who tried to take the ring from him, after the passage through the [[Argonath]]. In the process, Frodo put on the ring to escape him, but he was followed by Sam. The rest of the Company was attacked by orcs while trying to find the [[Ring-bearer]]. Seeing no other halfling, the Orcs succeeded in capturing Merry and Pippin, killing Boromir who tried to protect them.<ref>{{FR|II10}}</ref>
And so, the Fellowship was broken, but not yet disbanded. Frodo decided to go to Mordor himself, but Sam followed him down the [[Emyn Muil]].<ref>{{TT|IV1}}</ref> Aragorn, with Gimli and Legolas, (the "[[Three Hunters]]") decided to follow the Orcs into [[Rohan]] and rescue Pippin and Merry.<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref> Unknown to them all, Gandalf had been resurrected and visited Lothlórien after them.<ref>{{TT|III5}}</ref>
[[File:Matt Stewart - The Horn of Boromir.jpg|thumb|left|Boromir's last stand protecting Merry and Pippin]]
And so, the Fellowship was broken, but not yet disbanded. Sam followed Frodo down the [[Emyn Muil]] having decided to go to Mordor himself.<ref>{{TT|IV1}}</ref> Aragorn with Gimli and Legolas (the "[[Three Hunters]]") decided to follow the Orcs into [[Rohan]] and rescue Pippin and Merry.<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref> Unknown to them all, Gandalf had resurrected and visited Lothlórien after them.<ref>{{TT|III5}}</ref>


After many adventures the eight remaining members of the Fellowship reunited after the downfall of Sauron.<ref>{{RK|VI4}}</ref>  When King [[Théoden]]'s funeral escort set out from [[Minas Tirith]] all eight journey together until they met [[Treebeard]] at [[Orthanc]].  There Gimli and Legolas departed to visit the deep places of [[Fangorn Forest]] on their way to their own homes, and Aragorn declared that the Fellowship of the Ring was at last ended.<ref name="Partings">{{RK|VI6}}</ref>
After many adventures the eight remaining members of the Fellowship reunited after the downfall of Sauron.<ref>{{RK|VI4}}</ref>  When King [[Théoden]]'s funeral escort set out from [[Minas Tirith]], all eight journeyed together until they met [[Treebeard]] at [[Orthanc]].  There Gimli and Legolas departed to visit the deep places of [[Fangorn Forest]] on their way to their own homes, and Aragorn declared that the Fellowship of the Ring was at last ended.<ref name="Partings">{{RK|VI6}}</ref>


==Timeline==
==Timeline==
Line 47: Line 57:


===January 3019===
===January 3019===
* [[7 January|7]] - They pass the ridge of [[Hollin]]. [[Crebain]] appear. A shadow passes above them at night.
* [[7 January|7]] - They pass the ridge of [[Hollin]]. [[Crebain]] appear. [[Shadow over Hollin|A shadow passes above them]] at night.
* [[8 January|8]]  - The Company reach Hollin.
* [[8 January|8]]  - The Company reach Hollin.
* [[11 January|11]] -  They climb until midnight. Snow on [[Caradhras]].
* [[11 January|11]] -  They climb until midnight. Snow on [[Caradhras]].
* [[12 January|12]] - More snow
* [[12 January|12]] - More snow
* [[13 January|13]] - The Company is attacked by [[Wolves]] in the early hours. They reach the [[West-gate]] of [[Moria]] at nightfall. The [[Watcher in the Water|Watcher]] attacks and jams the West-gate. [[Bill the Pony]] leaves. [[Gollum]] begins to trail the [[Ring-bearer]].
* [[13 January|13]] - The Company is attacked by [[Wolves]] in the early hours. They reach the [[West-gate]] of [[Moria]] at nightfall. The [[Watcher in the Water|Watcher]] attacks and jams the West-gate. [[Bill the Pony]] leaves. [[Gollum]] begins to trail the [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]].
* [[14 January|14]] -  The road through Moria. The Company spends the night in Hall [[Twenty-first Hall|Twenty-one]].
* [[14 January|14]] -  The road through Moria. The Company spends the night in Hall [[Twenty-first Hall|Twenty-one]].
* [[15 January|15]] - They find the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]] and [[Balin's Tomb]]. Gimli takes the [[Book of Mazarbul]]. Attack of the Orcs and the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]]. The Company reaches the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], which is ruined. Fall of Gandalf. Aragorn leads the Company and they escape outside. The Company reaches [[Nimrodel (river)|Nimrodel]] late at night and they meet [[Haldir (elf of Lórien)|Haldir]], [[Rúmil (elf of Lórien)|Rúmil]] and [[Orophin]]. They sleep on [[flets]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Moria.jpg|thumb|200px|right|''Moria'' by [[Angus McBride]]]]
* [[15 January|15]] - They find the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]] and [[Balin's Tomb]]. Gimli takes the [[Book of Mazarbul]]. Attack of the Orcs and the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]]. The Company reaches the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], which is ruined. Fall of Gandalf. Aragorn leads the Company and they escape outside. The Company reaches [[Nimrodel (river)|Nimrodel]] late at night and they meet [[Haldir]], [[Rúmil (elf of Lórien)|Rúmil]] and [[Orophin]]. They sleep on [[flets]].
* [[17 January|17]] - The Company passes the [[Silverlode]] and reach the [[Naith]] and [[Cerin Amroth]]. They come to [[Caras Galadhon]] at evening.<ref name="Great"/>
* [[17 January|17]] - The Company passes the [[Silverlode]] and reach the [[Naith]] and [[Cerin Amroth]]. They come to [[Caras Galadhon]] at evening.<ref name="Great"/>


===February===
===February 3019===
* [[14 February|14]] - Frodo and Sam look into the [[Mirror of Galadriel]]. Frodo offers the Ring to her, and [[Galadriel|she]] passes the test.
* [[14 February|14]] - Frodo and Sam look into the [[Mirror of Galadriel]]. Frodo offers the Ring to her, and [[Galadriel|she]] passes the test.
* [[16 February|16]] - The Elves give the [[cloaks]], and the [[gifts of Galadriel]]. Farewell to Lórien. Gollum in hiding on the west bank observes the departure by boat.
* [[16 February|16]] - The Elves give the [[Elven cloaks|cloaks]], and the [[gifts of Galadriel]]. Farewell to Lórien. Gollum in hiding on the west bank observes the departure by boat.
* [[22 February|22]] - Sam sees Gollum and talks about him to Frodo.  
* [[22 February|22]] - Sam sees Gollum and talks about him to Frodo.  
* [[23 February|23]] - The boats are attacked at night near [[Sarn Gebir]] and retreat. A flying shadow approaches but leaves.
* [[23 February|23]] - The boats are attacked at night near [[Sarn Gebir]] and retreat. A flying shadow approaches but leaves.
* [[24 February|24]] - They carry the boats through a passage above Sarn Gebir and continue sailing after. The shadow is seen again.  
* [[24 February|24]] - They carry the boats through a passage above Sarn Gebir and continue sailing after. The shadow is seen again.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Argonath.jpg|thumb|200px|''The Argonath'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
* [[25 February|25]] - The Company passes the [[Argonath]] and reaches [[Nen Hithoel]]. They camp at [[Parth Galen]].  
* [[25 February|25]] - The Company passes the [[Argonath]] and reaches [[Nen Hithoel]]. They camp at [[Parth Galen]].  
* [[26 February|26]] - '''[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]'''. Orcs from the North, Mordor and Isengard attack, and kill [[Boromir]]. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc]] and [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin]] are captured and carried off towards Isengard. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise]] enter the eastern [[Emyn Muil]]. [[Aragorn]], [[Legolas]] and [[Gimli]] set out in pursuit of the orcs at evening.<ref name="Great"/>
* [[26 February|26]] - '''[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]'''. Frodo and Sam leave the Fellowship for the eastern [[Emyn Muil]]. Orcs from the North, Mordor and Isengard attack, and kill [[Boromir]]. [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc]] and [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin]] are captured and carried off towards Isengard. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli [[Three Hunters|set out]] in pursuit of the orcs at evening.<ref name="Great"/>
[[File:Matt Stewart - The Horn of Boromir.jpg|thumb|200px|right|''The Horn of Boromir'' by [[:Category:Images by Matt Stewart|Matt Stewart]]]]


===April===
===March 3019===
* [[8 April]] - Frodo awakens and the remaining members of the Fellowship are fully reunited.<ref name="Chief">{{App|Chief}}</ref>
* [[25 March]] - Destruction of the [[One Ring]] in the fires of [[Mount Doom]]


===July===
===April 3019===
* [[19 July]] - The Fellowship accompanies the funeral escort of King Théoden to [[Edoras]].<ref name="Chief"/>
* [[8 April]] - Frodo awakens in [[Ithilien]] and the surviving members of the Fellowship are fully reunited.<ref name="Chief">{{App|Chief}}</ref>


===August===
===July 3019===
* [[19 July]] - The Fellowship accompanies the funeral escort of King [[Théoden]] to [[Edoras]].<ref name="Chief"/>
 
===August 3019===
* [[22 August]] - The Fellowship disbands as its members head in various directions to go home.<ref name="Chief"/>
* [[22 August]] - The Fellowship disbands as its members head in various directions to go home.<ref name="Chief"/>
==Inspiration==
The notion of the number nine balancing nine evils (here, the Ringwraiths), is a motif seen in literature, as in the famous [[Old English]] ''[[Wikipedia:Nine Herbs Charm|Nine Herbs Charm]]'', where nine herbs are used to remedy nine contagions or venoms that go through the land.<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.tolkiensociety.org/ed/study_a_s_2.html|articlename=Tolkien Society Anglo-Saxon Study Pack 2|dated=2006|website=[http://www.tolkiensociety.org The Tolkien Society]}}</ref> Additionally, Tolkien chose the 25th of March as the date of the destruction of the One Ring, due to his Catholic Faith, as this is widely believed to have been the day of the death of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of mankind.<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=https://www.teawithtolkien.com/blog/2017/2/11/the-significance-of-march-25th</ref> Furthermore, Tolkien noted in ''Nomenclature'' that the date the Ring was destroyed was purposefully chosen. It coincides with the feast of Annunciation or Lady Day.


==Terminology==
==Terminology==
Though usually called '''Fellowship of the Ring''' in adaptations and by fans, the actual term is not used in full until the chapter ''[[Many Partings]]'', when [[Aragorn|Elessar]] disbanded it.<ref name="Partings"/> In the story itself, they are usually referred to as the '''Fellowship''', the '''Company of the Ring''' (more so than ''Fellowship''), and the '''Nine Walkers''' (in opposition of the [[Nazgûl|Nine Riders]] who pursued them).  
Though usually called '''Fellowship of the Ring''' in adaptations and by fans, the actual term is not used in full until the chapter "[[Many Partings]]", when [[Aragorn]] disbanded it.<ref name="Partings"/> In the story itself, they are usually referred to as the '''Fellowship''', the '''Company of the Ring''' (more so than ''Fellowship''), and the '''Nine Walkers''' (in opposition of the [[Nazgûl|Nine Riders]] who pursued them).  
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Revision as of 05:28, 25 September 2022

The name Fellowship of the Ring refers to more than one character, item or concept. For a list of other meanings, see The Fellowship of the Ring (disambiguation).
Fellowship of the Ring
Organisation
Peter Xavier Price - The Fellowship of the Ring.jpg
"The Fellowship of the Ring" by Peter Xavier Price
Other namesCompany of the Ring
Date founded18 December T.A. 3018
Council of Elrond
PurposeEscort the One Ring to Mount Doom
Disbanded22 August T.A. 3019
Breaking of the Fellowship
GalleryImages of the Fellowship of the Ring
"The Company of the Ring shall be Nine; and the Nine Walkers shall be set against the Nine Riders that are evil..."
Elrond in The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Council of Elrond"

The Fellowship of the Ring, also known as the Company of the Ring, was formed from nine members of the Free peoples during the War of the Ring. Its purpose was to take the One Ring to Mordor, the only place where it could be destroyed.

Members

The Fellowship by Pauline Baynes

History

The Anger of the Mountain by Ted Nasmith

The Fellowship of the Ring was formed in Rivendell with the purpose to destroy the One Ring, and the only way to do so was to throw it into the Cracks of Doom.[1] It was decided that nine walkers should contrast the Nazgûl of Sauron with Frodo as the Ring-bearer and Gandalf as the leader.

Although the purpose was fixed by the Council of Elrond, it was not decreed how, in what manner and through which route this could be done; such details were left to the Fellowship's discretion. As a consequence, the Fellowship started with no detailed plan. One option was to go directly to Mount Doom, the other was to ask help from Boromir's father, Denethor II. The way of how to reach the East was a problem. After moving south from Rivendell, they encountered crebain on their arrival in Hollin. Fearing that they were used as spies by Saruman, the Fellowship spent the entire day in hiding, without a campfire.

When they had to pass the Misty Mountains, Boromir proposed the Gap of Rohan (the way through which he journeyed to Rivendell); Gandalf insisted on passing through Moria but Aragorn thought the Redhorn Pass would be safer. However after attempting in vain to pass the blizzard, they followed Gandalf's option.[2]

After fighting with wolves and the Watcher in the Water, they managed to open the Doors of Durin and enter Moria.

There they found the Orcs who overran Balin's Colony years ago. They also saw Durin's Bane, one of the Balrogs of Morgoth, who devastated Moria in the beginning of the Third Age. To buy them time, Gandalf destroyed the Bridge of Khazad-dûm and both Maiar fell together into the abyss, while the Company escaped back to the light.[3] Aragorn was appointed the head of the Company, and their next stop was to meet with Galadriel and Celeborn, the elf-lords of Lothlórien.[4] They stayed there for four weeks, resting and counseling for their plan and route. On their leave, the elves gave them several useful gifts, which included Lembas bread and gave them boats to sail the Anduin.[5]

Meanwhile, Saruman, who served Sauron, sent a band of Uruk-hai to capture the halfling who bore the Ring and bring him to Isengard.[6] Frodo began to realize not only that someone was following them, but also that the Ring was having a malevolent effect on some members of the party, especially Boromir.[7] It was he who tried to take the ring from him, after the passage through the Argonath. In the process, Frodo put on the ring to escape him, but he was followed by Sam. The rest of the Company was attacked by orcs while trying to find the Ring-bearer. Seeing no other halfling, the Orcs succeeded in capturing Merry and Pippin, killing Boromir, who tried to protect them.[8] And so, the Fellowship was broken, but not yet disbanded. Frodo decided to go to Mordor himself, but Sam followed him down the Emyn Muil.[9] Aragorn, with Gimli and Legolas, (the "Three Hunters") decided to follow the Orcs into Rohan and rescue Pippin and Merry.[10] Unknown to them all, Gandalf had been resurrected and visited Lothlórien after them.[11]

After many adventures the eight remaining members of the Fellowship reunited after the downfall of Sauron.[12] When King Théoden's funeral escort set out from Minas Tirith, all eight journeyed together until they met Treebeard at Orthanc. There Gimli and Legolas departed to visit the deep places of Fangorn Forest on their way to their own homes, and Aragorn declared that the Fellowship of the Ring was at last ended.[13]

Timeline

The route of the Fellowship

December 3018

  • 18 - The Company of the Ring is formed
  • 25 - The Company of the Ring leaves Rivendell at dusk[14]

January 3019

Moria by Angus McBride

February 3019

  • 14 - Frodo and Sam look into the Mirror of Galadriel. Frodo offers the Ring to her, and she passes the test.
  • 16 - The Elves give the cloaks, and the gifts of Galadriel. Farewell to Lórien. Gollum in hiding on the west bank observes the departure by boat.
  • 22 - Sam sees Gollum and talks about him to Frodo.
  • 23 - The boats are attacked at night near Sarn Gebir and retreat. A flying shadow approaches but leaves.
  • 24 - They carry the boats through a passage above Sarn Gebir and continue sailing after. The shadow is seen again.
The Argonath by Ted Nasmith
The Horn of Boromir by Matt Stewart

March 3019

April 3019

  • 8 April - Frodo awakens in Ithilien and the surviving members of the Fellowship are fully reunited.[15]

July 3019

August 3019

  • 22 August - The Fellowship disbands as its members head in various directions to go home.[15]

Inspiration

The notion of the number nine balancing nine evils (here, the Ringwraiths), is a motif seen in literature, as in the famous Old English Nine Herbs Charm, where nine herbs are used to remedy nine contagions or venoms that go through the land.[16] Additionally, Tolkien chose the 25th of March as the date of the destruction of the One Ring, due to his Catholic Faith, as this is widely believed to have been the day of the death of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of mankind.[17] Furthermore, Tolkien noted in Nomenclature that the date the Ring was destroyed was purposefully chosen. It coincides with the feast of Annunciation or Lady Day.

Terminology

Though usually called Fellowship of the Ring in adaptations and by fans, the actual term is not used in full until the chapter "Many Partings", when Aragorn disbanded it.[13] In the story itself, they are usually referred to as the Fellowship, the Company of the Ring (more so than Fellowship), and the Nine Walkers (in opposition of the Nine Riders who pursued them).

References

  1. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Council of Elrond"
  2. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Ring Goes South"
  3. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "A Journey in the Dark"
  4. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Lothlórien"
  5. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Farewell to Lórien"
  6. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The Uruk-hai"
  7. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Great River"
  8. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Breaking of the Fellowship"
  9. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The Taming of Sméagol"
  10. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The Departure of Boromir"
  11. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The White Rider"
  12. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "The Field of Cormallen"
  13. 13.0 13.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "Many Partings"
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Great Years"
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Chief Days from the Fall of Barad-dûr to the End of the Third Age"
  16. "Tolkien Society Anglo-Saxon Study Pack 2" dated 29 March 2006, The Tolkien Society (accessed 29 March 2024)
  17. {{webcite|articleurl=https://www.teawithtolkien.com/blog/2017/2/11/the-significance-of-march-25th
Members of the Fellowship of the Ring
Frodo · Sam · Merry · Pippin · Gandalf · Aragorn · Legolas · Gimli · Boromir
Route of the Fellowship of the Ring
Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Lothlórien · Caras Galadhon · Anduin · Parth Galen · Amon Hen · Eastemnet · Fangorn Forest · Rohan · Edoras · Hornburg · Isengard · Dunharrow · Paths of the Dead · Gondor · Hill of Erech · Lamedon · Linhir · Lebennin · Pelargir · Minas Tirith · Osgiliath · Cross-roads · Ithilien · Dagorlad · Black Gate · Field of Cormallen · Cair Andros · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Anórien · Rohan · Edoras · Isengard
Boromir
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Lothlórien · Caras Galadhon · Anduin · Parth Galen · Amon Hen
Frodo and Sam
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Lothlórien · Caras Galadhon · Anduin · Parth Galen · Amon Hen · Emyn Muil · Dead Marshes · Black Gate · Ithilien · Henneth Annûn · Cross-roads · Morgul Vale · Stairs of Cirith Ungol · Cirith Ungol · Shelob's Lair · Tower of Cirith Ungol · Mordor · Morgai · Plateau of Gorgoroth · Mount Doom · Field of Cormallen · Cair Andros · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Anórien · Rohan · Edoras · Isengard
Gandalf
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Celebdil† · Lothlórien · Fangorn Forest · Edoras · Hornburg · Isengard · Rohan · Anórien · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Osgiliath · Cross-roads · Ithilien · Dagorlad · Black Gate · Field of Cormallen · Cair Andros · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Anórien · Rohan · Edoras · Isengard
Merry
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Lothlórien · Caras Galadhon · Anduin · Parth Galen · Amon Hen · Emyn Muil · Eastemnet · Fangorn Forest · Wellinghall · Derndingle · Isengard · Hornburg · Dunharrow · Drúadan Forest · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Anórien · Rohan · Edoras · Isengard
Pippin
Rivendell · Eregion · Caradhras · Moria · Lothlórien · Caras Galadhon · Anduin · Amon Hen · Parth Galen · Emyn Muil · Eastemnet · Fangorn Forest · Wellinghall · Derndingle · Isengard · Rohan · Anórien · Gondor · Minas Tirith · Osgiliath · Cross-roads · Ithilien · Dagorlad · Black Gate · Field of Cormallen · Gondor · Cair Andros · Minas Tirith · Anórien · Rohan · Edoras · Isengard