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<div>{{sources}}<br />
{{hobbit<br />
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Gollum.jpg|200px]]<br />
| name=Gollum<br />
| othernames=Sméagol <br> Stinker / Slinker<br />
| birth=Approximately [[Third Age 2430|T.A. 2430]]<br />
| death=[[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<br />
| parentage=<br />
| location=[[Misty Mountains]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| hair=<br />
|}}<br />
Originally known as '''Sméagol''', he was later named '''Gollum''' after the disgusting gurgling noise he made in his throat. His birth can be estimated to be around the year 2430 of the [[Third Age]]. His death date is given as March 25, 3019 of the Third Age. His life was extended far beyond its natural limits by the effects of possessing the [[One Ring]]. At the time of his death, Gollum was about 589 years old, a remarkable age for a creature who was once [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] like, but he had been deformed and twisted in both body and mind by the corruption of the Ring. His chief desire was to possess the Ring which had enslaved him, and he pursued it for many years after he lost it.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Early Life===<br />
Once a [[Stoors|Stoorish]] Hobbit, Sméagol spent the early years of his life living with his extended family under a Matriarch, his grandmother. Around the year T.A. 2463 Sméagol became the fourth Bearer of the One Ring, after [[Sauron]], [[Isildur]], and [[Déagol]]. Déagol was a close relative, and on Sméagol's birthday they went fishing in the [[Gladden Fields]]. It was there that Déagol found a gold ring, after being pulled into the water by a large fish. Sméagol demanded the ring as a birthday present and strangled Deágol when he refused. Sméagol was quickly corrupted further by the ring and, banished by his people, was forced to find a home in a [[Gollum's Lake|cave]] in the [[Misty Mountains]]. The Ring's malignant influence twisted his Hobbit body and mind and prolonged his life far beyond its natural limits. He called it his "[[Precious]]" or his "Birthday Present," the latter as a justification for killing Déagol.<br />
<br />
He lived in the Misty Mountains for over four hundred years, living on raw [[fish]], which he caught from his small raft, and [[Goblins]], and in later years he found Hobbit and [[Elves|Elven]] food repulsive.<br />
<br />
During his centuries under the Ring's influence, he developed a sort of multiple personality disorder: Sméagol, his "good" personality, still vaguely remembered things like friendship and love, while Gollum, his "bad" personality, was a slave to the Ring and would kill anyone who tried to take it. Years later, [[Samwise Gamgee]] would name the good personality "Slinker" (for his fawning, eager-to-please demeanour), and the bad personality "Stinker". The two personalities often quarrelled when he talked to himself (as Tolkien put it, "through not having anyone else to speak to") and had a love/hate relationship, mirroring Gollum's love and hatred for the Ring and for himself.<br />
<br />
===Departure of the Ring===<br />
[[Image:Michael Hague - Riddles in the Dark.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Riddles in the Dark'' by [[Michael Hague]].]]<br />
In July [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]], during the [[Quest of Erebor]], the Hobbit [[Bilbo Baggins]] stumbled upon the subterranean lake on which Gollum lived and found the Ring. Gollum had lost the Ring in the network of caves leading to the lake, though in fact it is more proper to say that the Ring abandoned Gollum, for it was known to have a will of its own. As [[Gandalf]] said later, it looked after itself, trying to get back to Sauron. After the famous [[Riddle-game|Riddle Game]], during which Gollum was unaware of his loss, Gollum refused to show Bilbo the promised way out and plotted to murder him. When he went to get his "birthday present," however, he found that it was gone. He suddenly realised the answer to Bilbo's last riddle - ''"What have I got in my pocket?"'' - and flew into a rage. Bilbo inadvertantly stumbled across the Ring's power of invisibility as he ran, allowing him to follow Gollum to the entrance of the cave. There, Bilbo at first thought to kill Gollum, but was overcome with pity, so he jumped over him to escape. As Bilbo ran, Gollum cried out, "Thief! Thief, Baggins! We hates it forever!"<br />
<br />
Gollum left the Mountains and pursued Bilbo a few years later, but the trail was cold. He made his way into [[Mordor]], where he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew about the Ring. Gollum was then set free, but caught by [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], who placed him in the care of the [[Silvan Elves]] living in [[Thranduil]]'s kingdom in [[Mirkwood]]. After a coordinated attack, he escaped into [[Moria]].<br />
<br />
===The War of the Ring===<br />
Gollum picked up the trail of the new [[Ring-bearer]], [[Frodo Baggins]], as he and the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] traveled through Moria. On [[January 15]], T.A. 3019 the Fellowship was divided when Gandalf disappeared while fighting a [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]]. Gollum continued trailing the remaining members. It is unknown how he crossed the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], but he came with them to [[Lothlórien]] without their knowing. Gollum, floating on a log, followed their boats down [[Anduin]] to [[Rauros]]. He pursued [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] across the [[Emyn Muil]] when they struck out on their own towards Mordor. Gollum followed them, but after a confrontation in which he bit and nearly strangled Sam, Frodo subdued him. Frodo tied an [[Elves|Elvish]] rope around Gollum's ankle for a leash, but the mere touch of the rope pained him. Taking pity on the wretched creature, Frodo made Gollum swear to help them. Agreeing to the oath, Gollum swore by the "Precious" itself, and Frodo released him. The unlikely company, guided by Gollum, made their way to the [[Black Gate]], the entrance to Mordor.<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Gollum's Debate.jpg|thumb|left|175px|"Gollum's Debate" by [[Ted Nasmith]].]]<br />
Frodo's kindness brought out the "Sméagol" personality, and he made at least some effort to keep his promise. The two had a strange sort of bond from both having been Ringbearers; in Gollum, Frodo saw his possible future, and so wanted to save him so he could save himself.<br />
<br />
When the Black Gate was reached and found to be well guarded, Gollum convinced them not to go that way, saying that they would be caught and Sauron would regain the Ring. Gollum said he would lead them south, where he knew of another entrance into Mordor.<br />
<br />
Frodo and Sam were caught by [[Faramir|Faramir]], and Gollum followed them. When Frodo allowed Faramir to briefly take Sméagol prisoner, however, he felt betrayed, allowing the "Gollum" personality to take control. Faramir found out that the place Gollum was taking them was called [[Cirith Ungol]]. He then warned Frodo and Sam of the evil of that place.<br />
<br />
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum left Faramir and began crossing the pass of Cirith Ungol in the border-mountains of the [[Ephel Dúath]]. Gollum visited the great spider [[Shelob]], because he was planning to betray the Hobbits to her and then get the Ring for himself. When he returned the Hobbits were asleep. The sight of Frodo sleeping nearly moved Gollum to repent. However, Sam woke up and spoke harshly to Gollum, and all hope of redemption was lost. Gollum followed through with his plan and led Frodo and Sam into [[Torech Ungol|Shelob's lair]].<br />
[[Image:Peter Xavier Price - The Stairs of Cirith Ungol.jpg|right|thumb|185px|"The Stairs of Cirith Ungol" by [[Peter Xavier Price]].]]<br />
Just as Frodo warned him, Gollum's betrayal of his oath ultimately led to his undoing, for Frodo and Sam escaped from Shelob's lair and came against all odds to the volcano [[Orodruin]], or Mount Doom. Gollum followed them all the way, seeking a chance to surprise them and take the Ring. When Frodo and Sam had almost reached their destination, he attacked, but failed to get the Ring. Sam, who had hated Gollum on sight, tried to bring himself to kill him, but relented out of sheer pity and disgust, turning his back on the beaten creature.<br />
<br />
Moments later, Frodo was standing on the edge of the [[Crack of Doom]], but, unwilling to destroy the Ring, claimed it for himself and put it on. Then Gollum attacked again. The two fought whilst Frodo was invisible and finally Gollum bit off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
Here Frodo's kindness in sparing Gollum's life was rewarded, for Gollum then teetered on the edge of the great pit, lost his balance and fell in, taking the Ring and finger with him with a last cry of "Preciouss!". Had Gollum not lived to play this final part, there would have been a good chance that Sauron would have regained the Ring, as he knew where Frodo was as soon as he put the Ring on.<br />
<br />
==Other versions of the Legendarium==<br />
In the first edition of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Gollum did not appear quite as wretched or as bound to the Ring. Tolkien revised this characterisation to fit the concept of the Ruling Ring developed during the writing of ''The Lord of the Rings''. Tolkien then explained the version given in the first edition as a lie that Bilbo made up to tell the [[Thorin and Company|Dwarves]] and [[Gandalf]].<ref name="Christensen">[[Bonniejean Christensen]], [[Jared Lobdell]] (ed.), "Gollum's Character Transformation in ''The Hobbit''", published in ''[[A Tolkien Compass]]'', pages 7-26</ref><br />
<br />
==Description==<br />
He is described as being small, with large eyes that seemed to glow, as well as a scrawny neck and soft clammy fingers. He moved like a spider, and several references suggest that he was black in color, though it could be said that it only looked like he was black, as most if not all of the descriptions were in the dark. In ''[[The Hobbit]]'' it is mentioned that he has six teeth, but this statement probably changed in the ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as he had the ability to give deep bites, and was able to bite off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
===Personality===<br />
There is some debate about the nature of his impulse to kill Déagol. Some maintain that Sméagol, as a Hobbit, was good at heart, and it was entirely the Ring's doing. But the more popular and perhaps more likely opinion is that Sméagol was harboring dark thoughts to begin with. Their argument bases on several points, including...<br />
# The sight of the Ring at the council or at many points in the journey of the Fellowship did not cause anyone to suddenly murder someone else.<br />
# It is possible for Hobbits to be evil; for instance, [[Ted Sandyman]] and [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]].<br />
# In the chapter ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]'', Gandalf mentions that Bilbo was corrupted far more slowly by the Ring because his adventures with it began with an act of mercy, while Gollum began his with murder.<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
<center><gallery><br />
Image:Gollum1977.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (1977 film)]]''</center></small><br />
Image:The Hobbit (2003) Gollum.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]''</small></center><br />
Image:Lotr-rotk gollum poster.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]''</center></small><br />
Image:Gollum1 viv lotr.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]''</center></small><br />
</gallery></center><br />
'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The voice of Gollum is provided by [[Gerik Schjelderup]].<ref name="RT1723">Radio Times, Volume 133, No. 1723, [[November 16]], [[1956]]</ref><br />
<br />
'''1968: ''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:The narrator refers to Gollum (voiced by [[Wolfe Morris]]) as "Galloom", even though Gollum himself manages to pronounce his name correctly. Gollum's role is based on that of the second edition of ''The Hobbit''.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)]]'', "[[Riddles in the Dark (episode)|Riddles in the Dark]]" <br />
</ref><br />
<br />
'''1977: ''[[Rankin/Bass' The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a frog-like green creature, voiced by [[Brother Theodore]]. Here, his "Gollum" noise sounds like muttering instead of swallowing.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is depicted as a skinny, dark grey creature, voiced by [[Peter Woodthorpe]]. <br />
<br />
'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|Mind's Eye's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:[[Gail Chugg]] provided the voice of Gollum.<br />
<br />
'''1980:''[[Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King]]'':'''<br />
:Brother Theodore reprised his role from the earlier [[Rankin/Bass]] production. Some footage from ''The Hobbit'' was reused to introduce the viewer to the story. <br />
<br />
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, again performed by [[Peter Woodthorpe]], has the first lines of the play (save [[Gerard Murphy|the narrator]]). He is described as "slimy and as dark than darkness".<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]], "[[The Long Awaited Party]]"</ref><br />
<br />
'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a CGI-motion capture creature voiced by actor [[Andy Serkis]]. He is barely glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where he is voiced by [[Dominic Monaghan]] in absence of Serkis. Gollum becomes a central character in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|The Two Towers]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]''. The groundbreaking CGI character was built around Serkis's voice, movements and expressions, sometimes by using a motion capture suit which recorded his movements and applied them to the digital character, and sometimes by the more laborious process of digitally "painting out" Serkis's image and replacing it with Gollum's. In one such shot in ''The Two Towers'', Serkis' real spittle can be seen emerging from Gollum's mouth.<br />
<br />
:In ''The Return of the King'' Serkis himself appears in a flashback scene as Sméagol before his degeneration into Gollum. This scene was originally earmarked for ''The Two Towers'' but held back because it was felt that audiences would relate better to the original Sméagol once they were more familiar with who he became. The decision to include this scene meant that Gollum's face had to be redesigned for the second and third movies so that it would more closely resemble Serkis'.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, voiced by [[Quinton Flynn]], is seen thrice: first, in the introduction scene, he is stooping over his precious, dashing away from the camera. He is a creature in colour and clothing much like Jackson's version. He is briefly glimpsed again in [[Moria]], but not more than a dark shape with a green outline can be seen.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]], "3 Passages"</ref> His most important role is in the final stages of the game: he can be seen atop several ridges, and can even be visited on a rock on the shores of [[Nen Hithoel]]. He throws a [[fish]], the "Xiphiidae", at "[[Aragorn II|Ranger]]". This will become the most deadly weapon in the game, and replaces [[Andúril]] in the weapon slots.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]'', "Amon Hen"</ref> <br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|Sierra's The Hobbit'']]:'''<br />
:Gollum appears in a cut scene after the level "Riddles in the Dark". Only Bilbo's last riddle - "What have I got in my pocket?" - is shown, after which Gollum spouts out all possible answers in one sentence rather than in three turns. Gollum is a dark grey, hobbit-like creature with seven spiky teeth, who walks on all fours like an ape would, and like his Rankin/Bass counterpart, his "Gollum" noise is a muttering instead of a swallowing. He is voiced by [[Daran Norris]].<ref>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]'', "Riddles in the Dark"</ref><br />
<br />
== Etymology==<br />
Sméagol's name is [[Old English]] one, from ''sméah'', and adjective meaning "''creeping in, penetrating''". This title was also applied by the Anglo-Saxons to the Biblical Cain, from the story of Cain's murder of his brother Abel in Genesis. This draws a clear connection between the two.<br />
<br />
Sméagol's "real" name was ''[[Trahald]]'', of the meaning "burrowing, worming in" or "apt to creep into a hole". In both [[Westron]] and Old English, Sméagol's name is related to [[Smaug]]'s: Smaug's name in "true Dalish" was ''Trâgu'', and the ''Trah-'' stem in Trahald and Trâgu is thus a cognate of the Germanic stem present in both Sméagol and Smaug.<br />
<br />
===Pronunciation===<br />
In both the 1981 BBC radio adaptation and in Peter Jackson's films ''Sméagol'' is pronounced as "SMEE-gol", although the placement of the acute accent suggests that the correct pronunciation is "SMAY-uh-gol". On the other hand, in [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]'s recordings of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' he also pronounced it "SMEE-gol" or "SMEE-AH-GOL", suggesting that ''éa'' should either be pronounced as a long "i"-sound or as a diphthong ''ea'', and not as two distinct vowels "e" and "a". Tolkien had a habit in his writing to put diacritics in varying places, as can also be seen in the name ''[[Eärendil]]'', which also occurs spelt ''Ëarendil''. <br />
<br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Déagol]]|next=[[Bilbo Baggins]]|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />c. [[Third Age 2463|T.A. 2463]] - [[Third Age 2941|2941]]}}<br /><br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Frodo Baggins]]|next=''none'' (destroyed)|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />briefly, [[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|3019]]}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/329/7480/1435?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=gollum&searchid=1103349387213_18575&stored_search=&FIRSTINDEX=0&volume=329&issue=7480 Medical Students Profile of Gollum]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
[[Category:Hobbits]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Evil]]<br />
[[de:Gollum]]<br />
[[fi:Klonkku]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Gollum%27s_lake&diff=115524Gollum's lake2010-07-18T12:28:41Z<p>Mthomas: Created page with 'Gollum's Lake was a small cave inside the Misty Mountains and it served as shelter for the Gollum for over four hundred years during the Third Age. It is assumed that…'</p>
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<div>Gollum's Lake was a small cave inside the [[Misty Mountains]] and it served as shelter for the [[Gollum]] for over four hundred years during the [[Third Age]]. It is assumed that it was situated near a small lake where Gollum with his raft could catch and eat raw fish. It also provided protection to Gollum from the nearby [[Goblin]] camp.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Locations]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Gollum&diff=115523Gollum2010-07-18T12:25:00Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
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<div>{{sources}}<br />
{{hobbit<br />
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Gollum.jpg|200px]]<br />
| name=Gollum<br />
| othernames=Sméagol <br> Stinker / Slinker<br />
| birth=Approximately [[Third Age 2430|T.A. 2430]]<br />
| death=[[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<br />
| parentage=<br />
| location=[[Misty Mountains]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| hair=<br />
|}}<br />
Originally known as '''Sméagol''', he was later named '''Gollum''' after the disgusting gurgling noise he made in his throat. His birth can be estimated to be around the year 2430 of the [[Third Age]]. His death date is given as March 25, 3019 of the Third Age. His life was extended far beyond its natural limits by the effects of possessing the [[One Ring]]. At the time of his death, Gollum was about 589 years old, a remarkable age for a creature who was once [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] like, but he had been deformed and twisted in both body and mind by the corruption of the Ring. His chief desire was to possess the Ring which had enslaved him, and he pursued it for many years after he lost it.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Early Life===<br />
Once a [[Stoors|Stoorish]] Hobbit, Sméagol spent the early years of his life living with his extended family under a Matriarch, his grandmother. Around the year T.A. 2463 Sméagol became the fourth Bearer of the One Ring, after [[Sauron]], [[Isildur]], and [[Déagol]]. Déagol was a close relative, and on Sméagol's birthday they went fishing in the [[Gladden Fields]]. It was there that Déagol found a gold ring, after being pulled into the water by a large fish. Sméagol demanded the ring as a birthday present and strangled Deágol when he refused. Sméagol was quickly corrupted further by the ring and, banished by his people, was forced to find a home in a cave in the [[Misty Mountains]]. The Ring's malignant influence twisted his Hobbit body and mind and prolonged his life far beyond its natural limits. He called it his "[[Precious]]" or his "Birthday Present," the latter as a justification for killing Déagol.<br />
<br />
He lived in the Misty Mountains for over four hundred years, living on raw [[fish]], which he caught from his small raft, and [[Goblins]], and in later years he found Hobbit and [[Elves|Elven]] food repulsive.<br />
<br />
During his centuries under the Ring's influence, he developed a sort of multiple personality disorder: Sméagol, his "good" personality, still vaguely remembered things like friendship and love, while Gollum, his "bad" personality, was a slave to the Ring and would kill anyone who tried to take it. Years later, [[Samwise Gamgee]] would name the good personality "Slinker" (for his fawning, eager-to-please demeanour), and the bad personality "Stinker". The two personalities often quarrelled when he talked to himself (as Tolkien put it, "through not having anyone else to speak to") and had a love/hate relationship, mirroring Gollum's love and hatred for the Ring and for himself.<br />
<br />
===Departure of the Ring===<br />
[[Image:Michael Hague - Riddles in the Dark.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Riddles in the Dark'' by [[Michael Hague]].]]<br />
In July [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]], during the [[Quest of Erebor]], the Hobbit [[Bilbo Baggins]] stumbled upon the subterranean lake on which Gollum lived and found the Ring. Gollum had lost the Ring in the network of caves leading to the lake, though in fact it is more proper to say that the Ring abandoned Gollum, for it was known to have a will of its own. As [[Gandalf]] said later, it looked after itself, trying to get back to Sauron. After the famous [[Riddle-game|Riddle Game]], during which Gollum was unaware of his loss, Gollum refused to show Bilbo the promised way out and plotted to murder him. When he went to get his "birthday present," however, he found that it was gone. He suddenly realised the answer to Bilbo's last riddle - ''"What have I got in my pocket?"'' - and flew into a rage. Bilbo inadvertantly stumbled across the Ring's power of invisibility as he ran, allowing him to follow Gollum to the entrance of the cave. There, Bilbo at first thought to kill Gollum, but was overcome with pity, so he jumped over him to escape. As Bilbo ran, Gollum cried out, "Thief! Thief, Baggins! We hates it forever!"<br />
<br />
Gollum left the Mountains and pursued Bilbo a few years later, but the trail was cold. He made his way into [[Mordor]], where he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew about the Ring. Gollum was then set free, but caught by [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], who placed him in the care of the [[Silvan Elves]] living in [[Thranduil]]'s kingdom in [[Mirkwood]]. After a coordinated attack, he escaped into [[Moria]].<br />
<br />
===The War of the Ring===<br />
Gollum picked up the trail of the new [[Ring-bearer]], [[Frodo Baggins]], as he and the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] traveled through Moria. On [[January 15]], T.A. 3019 the Fellowship was divided when Gandalf disappeared while fighting a [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]]. Gollum continued trailing the remaining members. It is unknown how he crossed the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], but he came with them to [[Lothlórien]] without their knowing. Gollum, floating on a log, followed their boats down [[Anduin]] to [[Rauros]]. He pursued [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] across the [[Emyn Muil]] when they struck out on their own towards Mordor. Gollum followed them, but after a confrontation in which he bit and nearly strangled Sam, Frodo subdued him. Frodo tied an [[Elves|Elvish]] rope around Gollum's ankle for a leash, but the mere touch of the rope pained him. Taking pity on the wretched creature, Frodo made Gollum swear to help them. Agreeing to the oath, Gollum swore by the "Precious" itself, and Frodo released him. The unlikely company, guided by Gollum, made their way to the [[Black Gate]], the entrance to Mordor.<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Gollum's Debate.jpg|thumb|left|175px|"Gollum's Debate" by [[Ted Nasmith]].]]<br />
Frodo's kindness brought out the "Sméagol" personality, and he made at least some effort to keep his promise. The two had a strange sort of bond from both having been Ringbearers; in Gollum, Frodo saw his possible future, and so wanted to save him so he could save himself.<br />
<br />
When the Black Gate was reached and found to be well guarded, Gollum convinced them not to go that way, saying that they would be caught and Sauron would regain the Ring. Gollum said he would lead them south, where he knew of another entrance into Mordor.<br />
<br />
Frodo and Sam were caught by [[Faramir|Faramir]], and Gollum followed them. When Frodo allowed Faramir to briefly take Sméagol prisoner, however, he felt betrayed, allowing the "Gollum" personality to take control. Faramir found out that the place Gollum was taking them was called [[Cirith Ungol]]. He then warned Frodo and Sam of the evil of that place.<br />
<br />
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum left Faramir and began crossing the pass of Cirith Ungol in the border-mountains of the [[Ephel Dúath]]. Gollum visited the great spider [[Shelob]], because he was planning to betray the Hobbits to her and then get the Ring for himself. When he returned the Hobbits were asleep. The sight of Frodo sleeping nearly moved Gollum to repent. However, Sam woke up and spoke harshly to Gollum, and all hope of redemption was lost. Gollum followed through with his plan and led Frodo and Sam into [[Torech Ungol|Shelob's lair]].<br />
[[Image:Peter Xavier Price - The Stairs of Cirith Ungol.jpg|right|thumb|185px|"The Stairs of Cirith Ungol" by [[Peter Xavier Price]].]]<br />
Just as Frodo warned him, Gollum's betrayal of his oath ultimately led to his undoing, for Frodo and Sam escaped from Shelob's lair and came against all odds to the volcano [[Orodruin]], or Mount Doom. Gollum followed them all the way, seeking a chance to surprise them and take the Ring. When Frodo and Sam had almost reached their destination, he attacked, but failed to get the Ring. Sam, who had hated Gollum on sight, tried to bring himself to kill him, but relented out of sheer pity and disgust, turning his back on the beaten creature.<br />
<br />
Moments later, Frodo was standing on the edge of the [[Crack of Doom]], but, unwilling to destroy the Ring, claimed it for himself and put it on. Then Gollum attacked again. The two fought whilst Frodo was invisible and finally Gollum bit off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
Here Frodo's kindness in sparing Gollum's life was rewarded, for Gollum then teetered on the edge of the great pit, lost his balance and fell in, taking the Ring and finger with him with a last cry of "Preciouss!". Had Gollum not lived to play this final part, there would have been a good chance that Sauron would have regained the Ring, as he knew where Frodo was as soon as he put the Ring on.<br />
<br />
==Other versions of the Legendarium==<br />
In the first edition of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Gollum did not appear quite as wretched or as bound to the Ring. Tolkien revised this characterisation to fit the concept of the Ruling Ring developed during the writing of ''The Lord of the Rings''. Tolkien then explained the version given in the first edition as a lie that Bilbo made up to tell the [[Thorin and Company|Dwarves]] and [[Gandalf]].<ref name="Christensen">[[Bonniejean Christensen]], [[Jared Lobdell]] (ed.), "Gollum's Character Transformation in ''The Hobbit''", published in ''[[A Tolkien Compass]]'', pages 7-26</ref><br />
<br />
==Description==<br />
He is described as being small, with large eyes that seemed to glow, as well as a scrawny neck and soft clammy fingers. He moved like a spider, and several references suggest that he was black in color, though it could be said that it only looked like he was black, as most if not all of the descriptions were in the dark. In ''[[The Hobbit]]'' it is mentioned that he has six teeth, but this statement probably changed in the ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as he had the ability to give deep bites, and was able to bite off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
===Personality===<br />
There is some debate about the nature of his impulse to kill Déagol. Some maintain that Sméagol, as a Hobbit, was good at heart, and it was entirely the Ring's doing. But the more popular and perhaps more likely opinion is that Sméagol was harboring dark thoughts to begin with. Their argument bases on several points, including...<br />
# The sight of the Ring at the council or at many points in the journey of the Fellowship did not cause anyone to suddenly murder someone else.<br />
# It is possible for Hobbits to be evil; for instance, [[Ted Sandyman]] and [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]].<br />
# In the chapter ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]'', Gandalf mentions that Bilbo was corrupted far more slowly by the Ring because his adventures with it began with an act of mercy, while Gollum began his with murder.<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
<center><gallery><br />
Image:Gollum1977.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (1977 film)]]''</center></small><br />
Image:The Hobbit (2003) Gollum.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]''</small></center><br />
Image:Lotr-rotk gollum poster.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]''</center></small><br />
Image:Gollum1 viv lotr.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]''</center></small><br />
</gallery></center><br />
'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The voice of Gollum is provided by [[Gerik Schjelderup]].<ref name="RT1723">Radio Times, Volume 133, No. 1723, [[November 16]], [[1956]]</ref><br />
<br />
'''1968: ''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:The narrator refers to Gollum (voiced by [[Wolfe Morris]]) as "Galloom", even though Gollum himself manages to pronounce his name correctly. Gollum's role is based on that of the second edition of ''The Hobbit''.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)]]'', "[[Riddles in the Dark (episode)|Riddles in the Dark]]" <br />
</ref><br />
<br />
'''1977: ''[[Rankin/Bass' The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a frog-like green creature, voiced by [[Brother Theodore]]. Here, his "Gollum" noise sounds like muttering instead of swallowing.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is depicted as a skinny, dark grey creature, voiced by [[Peter Woodthorpe]]. <br />
<br />
'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|Mind's Eye's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:[[Gail Chugg]] provided the voice of Gollum.<br />
<br />
'''1980:''[[Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King]]'':'''<br />
:Brother Theodore reprised his role from the earlier [[Rankin/Bass]] production. Some footage from ''The Hobbit'' was reused to introduce the viewer to the story. <br />
<br />
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, again performed by [[Peter Woodthorpe]], has the first lines of the play (save [[Gerard Murphy|the narrator]]). He is described as "slimy and as dark than darkness".<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]], "[[The Long Awaited Party]]"</ref><br />
<br />
'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a CGI-motion capture creature voiced by actor [[Andy Serkis]]. He is barely glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where he is voiced by [[Dominic Monaghan]] in absence of Serkis. Gollum becomes a central character in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|The Two Towers]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]''. The groundbreaking CGI character was built around Serkis's voice, movements and expressions, sometimes by using a motion capture suit which recorded his movements and applied them to the digital character, and sometimes by the more laborious process of digitally "painting out" Serkis's image and replacing it with Gollum's. In one such shot in ''The Two Towers'', Serkis' real spittle can be seen emerging from Gollum's mouth.<br />
<br />
:In ''The Return of the King'' Serkis himself appears in a flashback scene as Sméagol before his degeneration into Gollum. This scene was originally earmarked for ''The Two Towers'' but held back because it was felt that audiences would relate better to the original Sméagol once they were more familiar with who he became. The decision to include this scene meant that Gollum's face had to be redesigned for the second and third movies so that it would more closely resemble Serkis'.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, voiced by [[Quinton Flynn]], is seen thrice: first, in the introduction scene, he is stooping over his precious, dashing away from the camera. He is a creature in colour and clothing much like Jackson's version. He is briefly glimpsed again in [[Moria]], but not more than a dark shape with a green outline can be seen.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]], "3 Passages"</ref> His most important role is in the final stages of the game: he can be seen atop several ridges, and can even be visited on a rock on the shores of [[Nen Hithoel]]. He throws a [[fish]], the "Xiphiidae", at "[[Aragorn II|Ranger]]". This will become the most deadly weapon in the game, and replaces [[Andúril]] in the weapon slots.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]'', "Amon Hen"</ref> <br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|Sierra's The Hobbit'']]:'''<br />
:Gollum appears in a cut scene after the level "Riddles in the Dark". Only Bilbo's last riddle - "What have I got in my pocket?" - is shown, after which Gollum spouts out all possible answers in one sentence rather than in three turns. Gollum is a dark grey, hobbit-like creature with seven spiky teeth, who walks on all fours like an ape would, and like his Rankin/Bass counterpart, his "Gollum" noise is a muttering instead of a swallowing. He is voiced by [[Daran Norris]].<ref>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]'', "Riddles in the Dark"</ref><br />
<br />
== Etymology==<br />
Sméagol's name is [[Old English]] one, from ''sméah'', and adjective meaning "''creeping in, penetrating''". This title was also applied by the Anglo-Saxons to the Biblical Cain, from the story of Cain's murder of his brother Abel in Genesis. This draws a clear connection between the two.<br />
<br />
Sméagol's "real" name was ''[[Trahald]]'', of the meaning "burrowing, worming in" or "apt to creep into a hole". In both [[Westron]] and Old English, Sméagol's name is related to [[Smaug]]'s: Smaug's name in "true Dalish" was ''Trâgu'', and the ''Trah-'' stem in Trahald and Trâgu is thus a cognate of the Germanic stem present in both Sméagol and Smaug.<br />
<br />
===Pronunciation===<br />
In both the 1981 BBC radio adaptation and in Peter Jackson's films ''Sméagol'' is pronounced as "SMEE-gol", although the placement of the acute accent suggests that the correct pronunciation is "SMAY-uh-gol". On the other hand, in [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]'s recordings of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' he also pronounced it "SMEE-gol" or "SMEE-AH-GOL", suggesting that ''éa'' should either be pronounced as a long "i"-sound or as a diphthong ''ea'', and not as two distinct vowels "e" and "a". Tolkien had a habit in his writing to put diacritics in varying places, as can also be seen in the name ''[[Eärendil]]'', which also occurs spelt ''Ëarendil''. <br />
<br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Déagol]]|next=[[Bilbo Baggins]]|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />c. [[Third Age 2463|T.A. 2463]] - [[Third Age 2941|2941]]}}<br /><br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Frodo Baggins]]|next=''none'' (destroyed)|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />briefly, [[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|3019]]}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/329/7480/1435?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=gollum&searchid=1103349387213_18575&stored_search=&FIRSTINDEX=0&volume=329&issue=7480 Medical Students Profile of Gollum]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
[[Category:Hobbits]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Evil]]<br />
[[de:Gollum]]<br />
[[fi:Klonkku]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Gollum&diff=115522Gollum2010-07-18T12:21:05Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{sources}}<br />
{{hobbit<br />
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Gollum.jpg|200px]]<br />
| name=Gollum<br />
| othernames=Sméagol, Stinker<br />
| birth=Approximately [[Third Age 2430|T.A. 2430]]<br />
| death=[[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<br />
| parentage=<br />
| location=[[Misty Mountains]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| hair=<br />
|}}<br />
Originally known as '''Sméagol''', he was later named '''Gollum''' after the disgusting gurgling noise he made in his throat. His birth can be estimated to be around the year 2430 of the [[Third Age]]. His death date is given as March 25, 3019 of the Third Age. His life was extended far beyond its natural limits by the effects of possessing the [[One Ring]]. At the time of his death, Gollum was about 589 years old, a remarkable age for a creature who was once [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] like, but he had been deformed and twisted in both body and mind by the corruption of the Ring. His chief desire was to possess the Ring which had enslaved him, and he pursued it for many years after he lost it.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Early Life===<br />
Once a [[Stoors|Stoorish]] Hobbit, Sméagol spent the early years of his life living with his extended family under a Matriarch, his grandmother. Around the year T.A. 2463 Sméagol became the fourth Bearer of the One Ring, after [[Sauron]], [[Isildur]], and [[Déagol]]. Déagol was a close relative, and on Sméagol's birthday they went fishing in the [[Gladden Fields]]. It was there that Déagol found a gold ring, after being pulled into the water by a large fish. Sméagol demanded the ring as a birthday present and strangled Deágol when he refused. Sméagol was quickly corrupted further by the ring and, banished by his people, was forced to find a home in a cave in the [[Misty Mountains]]. The Ring's malignant influence twisted his Hobbit body and mind and prolonged his life far beyond its natural limits. He called it his "[[Precious]]" or his "Birthday Present," the latter as a justification for killing Déagol.<br />
<br />
He lived in the Misty Mountains for over four hundred years, living on raw [[fish]], which he caught from his small raft, and [[Goblins]], and in later years he found Hobbit and [[Elves|Elven]] food repulsive.<br />
<br />
During his centuries under the Ring's influence, he developed a sort of multiple personality disorder: Sméagol, his "good" personality, still vaguely remembered things like friendship and love, while Gollum, his "bad" personality, was a slave to the Ring and would kill anyone who tried to take it. Years later, [[Samwise Gamgee]] would name the good personality "Slinker" (for his fawning, eager-to-please demeanour), and the bad personality "Stinker". The two personalities often quarrelled when he talked to himself (as Tolkien put it, "through not having anyone else to speak to") and had a love/hate relationship, mirroring Gollum's love and hatred for the Ring and for himself.<br />
<br />
===Departure of the Ring===<br />
[[Image:Michael Hague - Riddles in the Dark.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Riddles in the Dark'' by [[Michael Hague]].]]<br />
In July [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]], during the [[Quest of Erebor]], the Hobbit [[Bilbo Baggins]] stumbled upon the subterranean lake on which Gollum lived and found the Ring. Gollum had lost the Ring in the network of caves leading to the lake, though in fact it is more proper to say that the Ring abandoned Gollum, for it was known to have a will of its own. As [[Gandalf]] said later, it looked after itself, trying to get back to Sauron. After the famous [[Riddle-game|Riddle Game]], during which Gollum was unaware of his loss, Gollum refused to show Bilbo the promised way out and plotted to murder him. When he went to get his "birthday present," however, he found that it was gone. He suddenly realised the answer to Bilbo's last riddle - ''"What have I got in my pocket?"'' - and flew into a rage. Bilbo inadvertantly stumbled across the Ring's power of invisibility as he ran, allowing him to follow Gollum to the entrance of the cave. There, Bilbo at first thought to kill Gollum, but was overcome with pity, so he jumped over him to escape. As Bilbo ran, Gollum cried out, "Thief! Thief, Baggins! We hates it forever!"<br />
<br />
Gollum left the Mountains and pursued Bilbo a few years later, but the trail was cold. He made his way into [[Mordor]], where he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew about the Ring. Gollum was then set free, but caught by [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], who placed him in the care of the [[Silvan Elves]] living in [[Thranduil]]'s kingdom in [[Mirkwood]]. After a coordinated attack, he escaped into [[Moria]].<br />
<br />
===The War of the Ring===<br />
Gollum picked up the trail of the new [[Ring-bearer]], [[Frodo Baggins]], as he and the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] traveled through Moria. On [[January 15]], T.A. 3019 the Fellowship was divided when Gandalf disappeared while fighting a [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]]. Gollum continued trailing the remaining members. It is unknown how he crossed the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], but he came with them to [[Lothlórien]] without their knowing. Gollum, floating on a log, followed their boats down [[Anduin]] to [[Rauros]]. He pursued [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] across the [[Emyn Muil]] when they struck out on their own towards Mordor. Gollum followed them, but after a confrontation in which he bit and nearly strangled Sam, Frodo subdued him. Frodo tied an [[Elves|Elvish]] rope around Gollum's ankle for a leash, but the mere touch of the rope pained him. Taking pity on the wretched creature, Frodo made Gollum swear to help them. Agreeing to the oath, Gollum swore by the "Precious" itself, and Frodo released him. The unlikely company, guided by Gollum, made their way to the [[Black Gate]], the entrance to Mordor.<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Gollum's Debate.jpg|thumb|left|175px|"Gollum's Debate" by [[Ted Nasmith]].]]<br />
Frodo's kindness brought out the "Sméagol" personality, and he made at least some effort to keep his promise. The two had a strange sort of bond from both having been Ringbearers; in Gollum, Frodo saw his possible future, and so wanted to save him so he could save himself.<br />
<br />
When the Black Gate was reached and found to be well guarded, Gollum convinced them not to go that way, saying that they would be caught and Sauron would regain the Ring. Gollum said he would lead them south, where he knew of another entrance into Mordor.<br />
<br />
Frodo and Sam were caught by [[Faramir|Faramir]], and Gollum followed them. When Frodo allowed Faramir to briefly take Sméagol prisoner, however, he felt betrayed, allowing the "Gollum" personality to take control. Faramir found out that the place Gollum was taking them was called [[Cirith Ungol]]. He then warned Frodo and Sam of the evil of that place.<br />
<br />
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum left Faramir and began crossing the pass of Cirith Ungol in the border-mountains of the [[Ephel Dúath]]. Gollum visited the great spider [[Shelob]], because he was planning to betray the Hobbits to her and then get the Ring for himself. When he returned the Hobbits were asleep. The sight of Frodo sleeping nearly moved Gollum to repent. However, Sam woke up and spoke harshly to Gollum, and all hope of redemption was lost. Gollum followed through with his plan and led Frodo and Sam into [[Torech Ungol|Shelob's lair]].<br />
[[Image:Peter Xavier Price - The Stairs of Cirith Ungol.jpg|right|thumb|185px|"The Stairs of Cirith Ungol" by [[Peter Xavier Price]].]]<br />
Just as Frodo warned him, Gollum's betrayal of his oath ultimately led to his undoing, for Frodo and Sam escaped from Shelob's lair and came against all odds to the volcano [[Orodruin]], or Mount Doom. Gollum followed them all the way, seeking a chance to surprise them and take the Ring. When Frodo and Sam had almost reached their destination, he attacked, but failed to get the Ring. Sam, who had hated Gollum on sight, tried to bring himself to kill him, but relented out of sheer pity and disgust, turning his back on the beaten creature.<br />
<br />
Moments later, Frodo was standing on the edge of the [[Crack of Doom]], but, unwilling to destroy the Ring, claimed it for himself and put it on. Then Gollum attacked again. The two fought whilst Frodo was invisible and finally Gollum bit off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
Here Frodo's kindness in sparing Gollum's life was rewarded, for Gollum then teetered on the edge of the great pit, lost his balance and fell in, taking the Ring and finger with him with a last cry of "Preciouss!". Had Gollum not lived to play this final part, there would have been a good chance that Sauron would have regained the Ring, as he knew where Frodo was as soon as he put the Ring on.<br />
<br />
==Other versions of the Legendarium==<br />
In the first edition of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Gollum did not appear quite as wretched or as bound to the Ring. Tolkien revised this characterisation to fit the concept of the Ruling Ring developed during the writing of ''The Lord of the Rings''. Tolkien then explained the version given in the first edition as a lie that Bilbo made up to tell the [[Thorin and Company|Dwarves]] and [[Gandalf]].<ref name="Christensen">[[Bonniejean Christensen]], [[Jared Lobdell]] (ed.), "Gollum's Character Transformation in ''The Hobbit''", published in ''[[A Tolkien Compass]]'', pages 7-26</ref><br />
<br />
==Description==<br />
He is described as being small, with large eyes that seemed to glow, as well as a scrawny neck and soft clammy fingers. He moved like a spider, and several references suggest that he was black in color, though it could be said that it only looked like he was black, as most if not all of the descriptions were in the dark. In ''[[The Hobbit]]'' it is mentioned that he has six teeth, but this statement probably changed in the ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as he had the ability to give deep bites, and was able to bite off Frodo's finger.<br />
<br />
===Personality===<br />
There is some debate about the nature of his impulse to kill Déagol. Some maintain that Sméagol, as a Hobbit, was good at heart, and it was entirely the Ring's doing. But the more popular and perhaps more likely opinion is that Sméagol was harboring dark thoughts to begin with. Their argument bases on several points, including...<br />
# The sight of the Ring at the council or at many points in the journey of the Fellowship did not cause anyone to suddenly murder someone else.<br />
# It is possible for Hobbits to be evil; for instance, [[Ted Sandyman]] and [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]].<br />
# In the chapter ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]'', Gandalf mentions that Bilbo was corrupted far more slowly by the Ring because his adventures with it began with an act of mercy, while Gollum began his with murder.<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
<center><gallery><br />
Image:Gollum1977.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (1977 film)]]''</center></small><br />
Image:The Hobbit (2003) Gollum.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]''</small></center><br />
Image:Lotr-rotk gollum poster.jpg|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]''</center></small><br />
Image:Gollum1 viv lotr.JPG|<small><center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]''</center></small><br />
</gallery></center><br />
'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The voice of Gollum is provided by [[Gerik Schjelderup]].<ref name="RT1723">Radio Times, Volume 133, No. 1723, [[November 16]], [[1956]]</ref><br />
<br />
'''1968: ''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:The narrator refers to Gollum (voiced by [[Wolfe Morris]]) as "Galloom", even though Gollum himself manages to pronounce his name correctly. Gollum's role is based on that of the second edition of ''The Hobbit''.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)]]'', "[[Riddles in the Dark (episode)|Riddles in the Dark]]" <br />
</ref><br />
<br />
'''1977: ''[[Rankin/Bass' The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a frog-like green creature, voiced by [[Brother Theodore]]. Here, his "Gollum" noise sounds like muttering instead of swallowing.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is depicted as a skinny, dark grey creature, voiced by [[Peter Woodthorpe]]. <br />
<br />
'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|Mind's Eye's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:[[Gail Chugg]] provided the voice of Gollum.<br />
<br />
'''1980:''[[Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King]]'':'''<br />
:Brother Theodore reprised his role from the earlier [[Rankin/Bass]] production. Some footage from ''The Hobbit'' was reused to introduce the viewer to the story. <br />
<br />
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, again performed by [[Peter Woodthorpe]], has the first lines of the play (save [[Gerard Murphy|the narrator]]). He is described as "slimy and as dark than darkness".<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]], "[[The Long Awaited Party]]"</ref><br />
<br />
'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum is a CGI-motion capture creature voiced by actor [[Andy Serkis]]. He is barely glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where he is voiced by [[Dominic Monaghan]] in absence of Serkis. Gollum becomes a central character in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|The Two Towers]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]''. The groundbreaking CGI character was built around Serkis's voice, movements and expressions, sometimes by using a motion capture suit which recorded his movements and applied them to the digital character, and sometimes by the more laborious process of digitally "painting out" Serkis's image and replacing it with Gollum's. In one such shot in ''The Two Towers'', Serkis' real spittle can be seen emerging from Gollum's mouth.<br />
<br />
:In ''The Return of the King'' Serkis himself appears in a flashback scene as Sméagol before his degeneration into Gollum. This scene was originally earmarked for ''The Two Towers'' but held back because it was felt that audiences would relate better to the original Sméagol once they were more familiar with who he became. The decision to include this scene meant that Gollum's face had to be redesigned for the second and third movies so that it would more closely resemble Serkis'.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Gollum, voiced by [[Quinton Flynn]], is seen thrice: first, in the introduction scene, he is stooping over his precious, dashing away from the camera. He is a creature in colour and clothing much like Jackson's version. He is briefly glimpsed again in [[Moria]], but not more than a dark shape with a green outline can be seen.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]], "3 Passages"</ref> His most important role is in the final stages of the game: he can be seen atop several ridges, and can even be visited on a rock on the shores of [[Nen Hithoel]]. He throws a [[fish]], the "Xiphiidae", at "[[Aragorn II|Ranger]]". This will become the most deadly weapon in the game, and replaces [[Andúril]] in the weapon slots.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]'', "Amon Hen"</ref> <br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|Sierra's The Hobbit'']]:'''<br />
:Gollum appears in a cut scene after the level "Riddles in the Dark". Only Bilbo's last riddle - "What have I got in my pocket?" - is shown, after which Gollum spouts out all possible answers in one sentence rather than in three turns. Gollum is a dark grey, hobbit-like creature with seven spiky teeth, who walks on all fours like an ape would, and like his Rankin/Bass counterpart, his "Gollum" noise is a muttering instead of a swallowing. He is voiced by [[Daran Norris]].<ref>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]'', "Riddles in the Dark"</ref><br />
<br />
== Etymology==<br />
Sméagol's name is [[Old English]] one, from ''sméah'', and adjective meaning "''creeping in, penetrating''". This title was also applied by the Anglo-Saxons to the Biblical Cain, from the story of Cain's murder of his brother Abel in Genesis. This draws a clear connection between the two.<br />
<br />
Sméagol's "real" name was ''[[Trahald]]'', of the meaning "burrowing, worming in" or "apt to creep into a hole". In both [[Westron]] and Old English, Sméagol's name is related to [[Smaug]]'s: Smaug's name in "true Dalish" was ''Trâgu'', and the ''Trah-'' stem in Trahald and Trâgu is thus a cognate of the Germanic stem present in both Sméagol and Smaug.<br />
<br />
===Pronunciation===<br />
In both the 1981 BBC radio adaptation and in Peter Jackson's films ''Sméagol'' is pronounced as "SMEE-gol", although the placement of the acute accent suggests that the correct pronunciation is "SMAY-uh-gol". On the other hand, in [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]'s recordings of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' he also pronounced it "SMEE-gol" or "SMEE-AH-GOL", suggesting that ''éa'' should either be pronounced as a long "i"-sound or as a diphthong ''ea'', and not as two distinct vowels "e" and "a". Tolkien had a habit in his writing to put diacritics in varying places, as can also be seen in the name ''[[Eärendil]]'', which also occurs spelt ''Ëarendil''. <br />
<br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Déagol]]|next=[[Bilbo Baggins]]|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />c. [[Third Age 2463|T.A. 2463]] - [[Third Age 2941|2941]]}}<br /><br />
{{sequence|prev=[[Frodo Baggins]]|next=''none'' (destroyed)|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br />briefly, [[March 25]], [[Third Age 3019|3019]]}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*[http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/329/7480/1435?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=gollum&searchid=1103349387213_18575&stored_search=&FIRSTINDEX=0&volume=329&issue=7480 Medical Students Profile of Gollum]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
[[Category:Hobbits]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Evil]]<br />
[[de:Gollum]]<br />
[[fi:Klonkku]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Cape_of_Forochel&diff=115521Cape of Forochel2010-07-18T12:12:35Z<p>Mthomas: Redirected page to Forochel</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Forochel]]<br />
[[Category:Regions]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Utumno&diff=106210Utumno2010-05-30T08:06:17Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{expansion}}<br />
{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Utumno<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Far north of [[Arda]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Melkor]] and his dark servants.<br />
| realms=[[Melkor]]'s dominions<br />
| description= vast and very cold, with pits extending deep into the earth<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= [[Quenya|Q.]] "Underworld" or "Hell"<br />
| events=<br />
| references= [[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
'''Utumno''' ([[Quenya|Q]]: "Underworld; Hell", pron. {{IPA|[uˈtumno]}}, stem ''Utumnu-''; '''[[Udûn (stronghold)|Udûn]]''' in [[Sindarin]]) was a fortress of [[Melkor]] in the far north of Middle-earth. It was the first and greatest of Melkor's citadels, delved in the earliest days.<br />
<br />
Utumno was built by Melkor after his first expulsion from [[Arda]]. The [[Valar]] had by this time created the [[Two Lamps]], and Utumno was built around Valian Year 3400 under the [[Iron Mountains]], where the light of [[Illuin]] was very dim. Here were gathered all the evil powers of the World under the Lord of Darkness. Their numbers were in legions and Melkor created many new and dreadful forms.<br />
<br />
Melkor used Utumno as his base of operations for 1,149 [[Valian Years]] (11,000 solar years), and from here he destroyed the Two Lamps and began his corruption of Arda. Utumno was also where the first captured [[Elves]] were taken and the breeding of [[Orcs]] began. It was the largest architectural structure ever to have existed, surpassing [[Angband]] and [[Thangorodrim]] in the [[First Age]] and [[Barad-dûr]] in the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age]].<br />
<br />
Utumno was laid waste in the [[Years of the Trees]], Valian Year 1099, in the war that the Valar began against Melkor because of their discovery of the Elves. Melkor was chained and dragged as a captive to [[Valinor]].<br />
<br />
Melkor established a second and lesser fortress at the western end of the [[Ered Engrin]] to act as the first line of defense for Utumno. This became [[Angband]], which was at first held by [[Sauron]]. After the destruction of Utumno, Melkor chose to rebuild and fortify Angband as his lair.<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
[[Category:Structures]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Quenya locations]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Towers_of_the_Teeth&diff=106058Towers of the Teeth2010-05-29T07:27:21Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>At the northwest corner of [[Mordor]], the [[Ephel Dúath]] and the [[Ered Lithui]] came together at the haunted Pass of [[Cirith Gorgor]], and formed a gateway into that dark land. In the early days of [[Gondor]], after [[Sauron]]'s first defeat, the [[Gondorians]] built two watchtowers at the entrance to the pass, to guard Mordor and prevent the return of Sauron's servants. They failed, and the watchtowers fell under the control of the [[Red Eye]]. They became known as [[Carchost]] and [[Narchost]], the Towers of the Teeth.<br />
<br />
Other names include the ''Teeth of Mordor'', the ''Towers of the Black Gate'', and the ''Watch-towers of Morannon''.<br />
<br />
[[category:Towers]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105971Durthang2010-05-28T16:51:35Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= [[Sindarin|S.]] "Dark oppression"<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old fortress in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
==Overview==<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], constructed during the early [[Third Age]] for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
After the downfall of [[Barad-dûr]], Durathang was most likely destroyed like the nearby [[Towers of the Teeth]].<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
*[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King]]: "[[The Land of Shadow]]," p. 205, 209 <br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105970Durthang2010-05-28T16:51:11Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= [[Sindarin|S.]] "Dark oppression"<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
==Overview==<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], constructed during the early [[Third Age]] for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
After the downfall of [[Barad-dûr]], Durathang was most likely destroyed like the nearby [[Towers of the Teeth]].<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
*[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King]]: "[[The Land of Shadow]]," p. 205, 209 <br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105969Durthang2010-05-28T16:48:36Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= [[Sindarin|S.]] "Dark oppression"<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
==Overview==<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], constructed during the early [[Third Age]] for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
*[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King]]: "[[The Land of Shadow]]," p. 205, 209 <br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105968Durthang2010-05-28T16:47:20Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= [[Sindarin|S.]] "Dark oppression"<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
==Overview==<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
*[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King]]: "[[The Land of Shadow]]," p. 205, 209 <br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105967Durthang2010-05-28T16:45:50Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
==Overview==<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
*[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King]]: "[[The Land of Shadow]]," p. 205, 209 <br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105966Durthang2010-05-28T16:43:56Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]] at the end of the [[Second Age]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105965Durthang2010-05-28T16:43:15Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Durthang.png|300px]]<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105963Durthang2010-05-28T16:41:37Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. However, as Gondor’s power declined, Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, it became an [[Orcs|Orcish]] stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105962Durthang2010-05-28T16:40:12Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. But as Gondor’s power declined, their watch on Mordor became lax and Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, Durthang became an Orc stronghold.<br />
<br />
During the [[War of the Ring]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Sam Gamgee]] were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105961Durthang2010-05-28T16:39:29Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of [[Gondor]], built for overlooking [[Mordor]] after the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. But as Gondor’s power declined, their watch on Mordor became lax and Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, Durthang became an Orc stronghold.<br />
<br />
On March 18, 3019, Frodo Baggins and Sam Gamgee were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105960Durthang2010-05-28T16:38:15Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of Gondor, built to keep watch on Mordor after Sauron's defeat in the War of the Last Alliance at the end of the Second Age. But as Gondor’s power declined, their watch on Mordor became lax and Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, Durthang became an Orc stronghold.<br />
<br />
On March 18, 3019, Frodo Baggins and Sam Gamgee were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Fortresses of Evil]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105959Durthang2010-05-28T16:37:49Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
Durthang was originally a stronghold of Gondor, built to keep watch on Mordor after Sauron's defeat in the War of the Last Alliance at the end of the Second Age. But as Gondor’s power declined, their watch on Mordor became lax and Durthang was eventually abandoned. As Mordor became repopulated with Sauron’s servants, Durthang became an Orc stronghold.<br />
<br />
On March 18, 3019, Frodo Baggins and Sam Gamgee were on the road leading eastward from Durthang when a troop of Orcs from Durthang caught up with them. The Hobbits were disguised as Orcs and they were forced to march along with the troop for some distance before they were able to slip away.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durthang&diff=105958Durthang2010-05-28T16:36:20Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=<br />
| name= Durthang<br />
| type= Fortress<br />
| location= Northen [[ Ephel Dúath]], west of the valley of [[Udun]]<br />
| inhabitants= [[Gondorians]] (early) <br> [[Orcs]] and other evil creatures (later)<br />
| realms= [[Gondor]] (early); [[Mordor]]<br />
| description= <br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology= composed of ''dûr'' meaning "dark" and ''thang'' meaning "oppression."<br />
| events= <br />
| references=[[The Return of the King]]<br>[[The Silmarillion]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Durthang''' was an old castle in northern [[Mordor]]. It stood in the northern [[Ephel D&uacute;ath]], on the slopes above the [[Isenmouthe]].<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mordor]]<br />
[[Category:Towers]]<br />
[[de:Durthang]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:villes_tours_et_forteresses:mordor:durthang]]<br />
[[fi:Durthang]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Tuor&diff=100188Tuor2010-03-13T08:01:00Z<p>Mthomas: /* See Also */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{expansion}}<br />
{{First Age Edain infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Luca Michelucci - 1999 - December.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Tuor<br />
| house=[[House of Hador]]<br />
| othernames=Tûr<br />
| titles=Lord of the [[House of the Wing]]<br />
| birth=[[First Age 471|F.A. 471]]<br />
| realm=[[Dor-lómin]], [[Gondolin]], [[Mouths of Sirion]], [[Valinor]]<br />
| death=Traditionally made immortal<br />
| age=<br />
| parentage=[[Huor]] + [[Rían]]<br />
| spouse=[[Idril]]<br />
| children=[[Eärendil the Mariner|Eärendil]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| hair=Dark<br />
| ref=''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]''<br />
|}}<br />
'''Tuor''' ([[First Age]] 471 – c. 560, aged 89 years when he sailed into [[Aman|the West]]) was a great hero of the [[House of Hador|Third House of Men]], the only son of [[Huor]] and [[Rían]]. He was the cousin of [[Túrin Turambar]]. In some writings he is named '''Tûr'''. Tuor's father Huor died shortly before his birth in the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], and his mother Rían died two years later. Tuor was first fostered by [[Elves]], specifically [[Annael]], then captured by [[Easterlings]], who had been sent there by [[Morgoth]] and who cruelly oppressed the remnant of the House of Hador.<br />
<br />
Tuor later escaped, and lived the life of an outlaw. He was ordered in a dream by the [[Valar|Vala]] [[Ulmo]] to go to [[Gondolin]], to warn the [[Turgon|King Turgon]] of Gondolin. Tuor passed through the old Gate of the Noldor (''Annon-in-Gelydh'' in [[Sindarin]]) into [[Nevrast]], where he is said to have been the first man to come across the great sea, [[Belegaer]] the shoreless. Tuor found arms and armour in the ancient halls of [[Vinyamar]] which had been left there centuries ago by Turgon at the command of Ulmo, and met Ulmo himself at the coast of [[Belegaer]]. Ulmo appointed him to be his messenger and told him to seek King Turgon in Gondolin, and sent him an Elf, [[Voronwë of Gondolin]], to guide him.<br />
<br />
Voronwe led Tuor through [[Núath]], where he caught a brief glimpse of his cousin Túrin near the [[Pools of Ivrin]], the only time the paths of the two ever crossed. Journeying through the Fell Winter, they eventually reached the hidden city of Gondolin.<br />
<br />
Tuor remained in Gondolin, and eventually married Turgon's daughter, [[Idril Celebrindal]]. This was the second union between the [[Eldar]] and [[Edain]], after [[Beren Erchamion|Beren]] and [[Lúthien]]. Their only child was [[Eärendil the Mariner]]. Tuor was the leader of the [[House of the Wing]], one of the twelve houses of Gondolin at the time of the [[Fall of Gondolin|sack of the city]]. During the sack of the city Tuor and his family, along with a remnant of the people of Gondolin escaped to the [[Mouths of Sirion]], along [[Idril's Secret Way]]. Tuor eventually built the ship '''[[Eärrámë]]''' ("Sea-wing") and sailed to the [[Aman|West]] with Idril. It was a tradition under the [[Eldar]] and [[Edain]] that they arrived in [[Valinor]], successfully bypassing the [[Ban of the Valar]], and that Tuor alone of Men was counted among Elven kindred, immortal as other Elves.<br />
<br />
== Genealogy ==<br />
{{familytree/start}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |TUR|~|y|~|ELE| | | |TUR=[[Turgon the Wise|Turgon]]|ELE=[[Elenwë]] }}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | |GAL|y|HAR| | | | | | | |!| | | |GAL=[[Galdor of Dor-lómin|Galdor]]|HAR=[[Hareth]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | |!| | | }}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|-|^|-|-|.| | | | | | | |!| |}}<br />
{{familytree | | |MOR|y|HUR| | | |HUO|y|RIA| | |!| HUR=[[Húrin Thalion|Húrin]]|HUO=[[Huor]]|MOR=[[Morwen Eledhwen|Morwen]]|RIA=[[Rían]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | |!|}}<br />
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | |!| | | | | |!|}}<br />
{{familytree |TUR| |LAL| |NIE| | | |TUO|~|y|~|IDR| | TUR=[[Túrin Turambar|Túrin]]|LAL=[[Urwen Lalaith|Lalaith]]|NIE=[[Nienor Níniel|Nienor]]|TUO='''TUOR'''|IDR=[[Idril]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!|}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!|}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |ELW|y|EAR|ELW=[[Elwing]]|EAR=[[Eärendil the Mariner|Eärendil]]}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.|}}<br />
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |ROS| |RON| |ROS=[[Elros]]|RON=[[Elrond]]}}<br />
{{familytree/end}}<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
*''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', [[Of Tuor and his Coming to Gondolin]]<br />
*''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin ]]<br />
*''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part 2]]'', [[The Fall of Gondolin]]<br />
<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* ''[[:Category:Images of Tuor|Images of Tuor]]''.<br />
* ''[[The Horns of Ylmir]]'', a poem written by Tuor for his son [[Eärendil the Mariner|Eärendil]].<br />
<br />
[[Category:House of Hador]]<br />
[[Category:House of Haleth]]<br />
[[Category:House of Bëor]]<br />
[[Category:Gondolin and Turgon]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin names]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Amon_Hen&diff=93463Amon Hen2010-01-30T18:52:58Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-more|Amon Hen|[[Amon Hen (disambiguation)]]}}<br />
{{cleanup}}{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Scott Peery - Frodo on top of Amon Hen.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Amon Hen<br />
| type=Hill<br />
| location=Southern end of [[Nen Hithoel]], west bank<br />
| inhabitants=[[Gondor]]ians<br />
| realms=[[Gondor]]<br/>[[Reunited Kingdom]]<br />
| description=Fortified (later ruined) hill<br />
| othernames=Hill of Sight, Hill of the Eye<br />
| etymology=[[S.]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye"<br />
| events=[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]<br />
| references=''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<br />
|}}<br />
{{Pronounce|Amon Hen.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Amon Hen''' ([[Sindarin]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye"), was constructed in the early days of [[Gondor]], perhaps even as early as the [[Second Age]], its other names in [[Westron]] were The '''[[Hill of Sight]]''' and the Hill of the Eye. According to [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], it and its counterpart hill were made '...in the days of the great kings' ([[The Fellowship of the Ring]] II 9) but this is open to interpretation.<br />
<br />
The hill towers above the western banks of the [[Anduin]], and it is one of the three peaks at the southern end of the long lake [[Nen Hithoel]] above the [[Falls of Rauros]], on the river [[Anduin]]. Other than Amon Hen, there were [[Amon Lhaw]] and [[Tol Brandir]]. The Seat of Seeing, Amon Lhaw, was built by the [[Dunedain of the South]] on the eastern bank, serving as a watchtower for the borders of [[Gondor]]. <br />
<br />
The [[Company of the Ring]] passed by Amon Hen after having travelled down the [[Anduin]], and it was here that the fellowship broke up as a result of [[Boromir (son of Denethor II)|Boromir]]'s death, with [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] crossing the river on their way east to [[Mordor]]. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] sat on the Seat of Seeing and immediately he was able to see telescopically for hundreds of miles in all directions because of its magical properties.{{fact}}<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Amon Hen|Images of Amon Hen]]<br />
*[[The Breaking of the Fellowship]] (chapter)<br />
*[[Breaking of the Fellowship]] (event)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hills]]<br />
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]<br />
[[de:Amon Hen]]<br />
[[fi:Amon Hen]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Amon_Hen&diff=93462Amon Hen2010-01-30T18:51:11Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-more|Amon Hen|[[Amon Hen (disambiguation)]]}}<br />
{{cleanup}}{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Scott Peery - Frodo on top of Amon Hen.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Amon Hen<br />
| type=Hill<br />
| location=Southern end of [[Nen Hithoel]], west bank<br />
| inhabitants=[[Gondor]]ians<br />
| realms=[[Gondor]]<br/>[[Reunited Kingdom]]<br />
| description=Fortified (later ruined) hill<br />
| othernames=Hill of Sight, Hill of the Eye<br />
| etymology=[[S.]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye"<br />
| events=[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]<br />
| references=''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<br />
|}}<br />
{{Pronounce|Amon Hen.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Amon Hen''' ([[Sindarin]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye"), or [[Hill of Sight]] was constructed in the early days of [[Gondor]], perhaps even as early as the [[Second Age]], its other names in [[Westron]] were The '''Hill of Sight''' and the Hill of the Eye. According to [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], it and its counterpart hill were made '...in the days of the great kings' ([[The Fellowship of the Ring]] II 9) but this is open to interpretation.<br />
<br />
The hill towers above the western banks of the [[Anduin]], and it is one of the three peaks at the southern end of the long lake [[Nen Hithoel]] above the [[Falls of Rauros]], on the river [[Anduin]]. Other than Amon Hen, there were [[Amon Lhaw]] and [[Tol Brandir]]. The Seat of Seeing, Amon Lhaw, was built on the eastern bank, serving as a watchtower for the borders of [[Gondor]]. <br />
<br />
The [[Company of the Ring]] passed by Amon Hen after having travelled down the [[Anduin]], and it was here that the fellowship broke up as a result of [[Boromir (son of Denethor II)|Boromir]]'s death, with [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] crossing the river on their way east to [[Mordor]]. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] sat on the Seat of Seeing and immediately he was able to see telescopically for hundreds of miles in all directions because of its magical properties.{{fact}}<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Amon Hen|Images of Amon Hen]]<br />
*[[The Breaking of the Fellowship]] (chapter)<br />
*[[Breaking of the Fellowship]] (event)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hills]]<br />
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]<br />
[[de:Amon Hen]]<br />
[[fi:Amon Hen]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Hill_of_sight&diff=93461Hill of sight2010-01-30T18:50:35Z<p>Mthomas: Redirecting to Amon Hen</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Amon Hen]]<br />
[[Category:Hills]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Amon_Hen&diff=93460Amon Hen2010-01-30T18:48:57Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-more|Amon Hen|[[Amon Hen (disambiguation)]]}}<br />
{{cleanup}}{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Scott Peery - Frodo on top of Amon Hen.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Amon Hen<br />
| type=Hill<br />
| location=Southern end of [[Nen Hithoel]], west bank<br />
| inhabitants=[[Gondor]]ians<br />
| realms=[[Gondor]]<br/>[[Reunited Kingdom]]<br />
| description=Fortified (later ruined) hill<br />
| othernames=Hill of Sight, Hill of the Eye<br />
| etymology=[[S.]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye"<br />
| events=[[Breaking of the Fellowship]]<br />
| references=''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<br />
|}}<br />
{{Pronounce|Amon Hen.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Amon Hen''' ([[Sindarin]] ''[[amon]]'' "hill" + ''[[hen]]'' "eye") was constructed in the early days of [[Gondor]], perhaps even as early as the [[Second Age]], its other names in [[Westron]] were The '''Hill of Sight''' and the Hill of the Eye. According to [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], it and its counterpart hill were made '...in the days of the great kings' ([[The Fellowship of the Ring]] II 9) but this is open to interpretation.<br />
<br />
The hill towers above the western banks of the [[Anduin]], and it is one of the three peaks at the southern end of the long lake [[Nen Hithoel]] above the [[Falls of Rauros]], on the river [[Anduin]]. Other than Amon Hen, there were [[Amon Lhaw]] and [[Tol Brandir]]. The Seat of Seeing, Amon Lhaw, was built on the eastern bank, serving as a watchtower for the borders of [[Gondor]]. <br />
<br />
The [[Company of the Ring]] passed by Amon Hen after having travelled down the [[Anduin]], and it was here that the fellowship broke up as a result of [[Boromir (son of Denethor II)|Boromir]]'s death, with [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]] crossing the river on their way east to [[Mordor]]. [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] sat on the Seat of Seeing and immediately he was able to see telescopically for hundreds of miles in all directions because of its magical properties.{{fact}}<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Amon Hen|Images of Amon Hen]]<br />
*[[The Breaking of the Fellowship]] (chapter)<br />
*[[Breaking of the Fellowship]] (event)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hills]]<br />
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]<br />
[[de:Amon Hen]]<br />
[[fi:Amon Hen]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Glamdring&diff=93459Glamdring2010-01-30T18:43:39Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{objects<br />
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Gandalf the White 01.JPG|250px]]<br />
| name=Glamdring<br />
| othernames=<br />
| derivation=<br />
| location=[[Gondolin]], various<br />
| ownedby=[[Turgon the Wise|Turgon]], [[Gandalf]]<br />
| maker=<br />
| appearance=Sword with gemstones and runes<br />
| references=''[[The Hobbit]]''<br />
|}}<br />
{{Pronounce|Glamdring.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
<center>{{quote|This, [[Gandalf]], was '''Glamdring''', Foe-hammer that the [[Turgon the Wise|king of Gondolin]] once wore.|[[Elrond]]<ref name="shortrest"/>}}</center><br />
<br />
'''Glamdring''' was a sword, said to have belonged to [[Turgon the Wise|Turgon]], but best known as the weapon of [[Gandalf]] during the [[War of the Ring]]. It was known in Westron as the '''Foe-hammer''', and Orcs knew it as '''Beater'''.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
===Beater===<br />
Glamdring was originally borne by Turgon, the King of [[Gondolin]].<ref name="shortrest">{{H|3}}</ref> He must have wielded it with strength during the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]] or the [[Fall of Gondolin]], for the [[Orcs]] named it "Beater", and fled before it. Up until the late [[Third Age]], orcs of the [[Misty Mountains]] knew of this legendary sword,<ref name="overhill">{{H|4}}, "[[Over Hill and Under Hill]]"</ref> so it must have done some damage. <br />
<br />
The name most likely originated in the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]], where it is said that Turgon "hewed his way to the side of [[Fingon|his brother]]".<ref>{{S|20}}</ref> No other tales mention the actions of the sword, and it is unknown what happened to it during the Fall of Gondolin. Turgon perished as the [[Tower of the King]] fell on top of him, but of the fate of Glamdring nothing is told.<ref>{{S|23}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Survival===<br />
The sword survived roughly 6500 years from the Fall of Gondolin in [[First Age 510|F.A. 510]] to its eventual rediscovery in [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]]. In that period, it traveled from [[Gondolin]] to a [[Trolls|Troll]]'s cave in the [[Trollshaws]]. Much mystery surrounds this feat, but Elrond reasoned that Glamdring (along with [[Orcrist]] and [[Sting]]) was plunderded from other plunderers, or carried off to the Misty Mountains soon after the Fall of Gondolin.<ref name="shortrest"/><br />
<br />
===At Gandalf's side===<br />
In May [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]], [[Gandalf]], [[Bilbo Baggins]] and [[Thorin and Company|a group of dwarves]] encountered three trolls in the Trollshaws - [[William Huggins|William]], [[Bert]] and [[Tom]]. The Trolls captured Bilbo and the Dwarves, but Gandalf destroyed them by exposing them to sunlight. Glamdring, along with [[Orcrist]] and [[Sting]], were found in a cave nearby.<ref name="mutton">{{H|2}}</ref> Gandalf claimed the weapon as his own, amazed by its appearance and inscription. The inscription was set in a script of [[runes]] Gandalf did not know; he needed the knowledge of Elrond for that. Elrond translated the runes, and called it by its Mannish name: "[[Foe-hammer]]".<ref name="shortrest"/><br />
[[Image:Donato Giancola - You Cannot Pass.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Gandalf wielding Glamdring, by [[Donato Giancola]].]]<br />
Gandalf would use the sword well; its first victim was the [[Great Goblin]]. Other Orcs fled as they recognized the sword as "Beater". This means that either some Orcs were at the [[Fall of Gondolin]], or that they had legends about two glowing swords - Beater and [[Biter]].<ref name="overhill"/> Whether Gandalf used the sword again during the [[The Hobbit|Quest for Erebor]] is uncertain, though it is likely that he wielded it in the [[Battle of Five Armies]]. <br />
<br />
Gandalf bore Glamdring at his side when the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] left [[Rivendell]] in [[Third Age 3018|T.A. 3018]].<ref>{{FR|II3}}</ref> He used the blade during the [[Battle of the Chamber of Mazarbul]], and a short time thereafter in the standoff with [[Durin's Bane|the Balrog]].<ref>{{FR|II5}}</ref> After the collapse of the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm|bridge]], Gandalf and the Balrog fought on to the [[Endless Stair]] and [[Durin's Tower]], but in his recollection of the event he does not tell whether he used Glamdring or his staff in the [[Battle of the Peak]].<ref>{{TT|III5}}</ref><br />
<br />
Gandalf's spirit perished there, but was sent back because his task was not yet complete. He had Glamdring with him when he met the [[Three Hunters]]; he gave it to [[Háma]] at [[Edoras]], when asked to surrender it.<ref>{{TT|III6}}</ref> Gandalf would continue to bear it throughout the [[War of the Ring]], and carried it at his side when he, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] arrived at the [[Prancing Pony]] in [[Bree]]. Gandalf and the Hobbits had seen so much war at the time that wearing a weapon did not seem odd.<ref>{{RK|VI7}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Fate===<br />
On [[September 29]], [[Third Age 3021|T.A. 3021]],<ref>{{App|Chief}}</ref> Gandalf left [[Middle-earth]] and sailed into the West.<ref>{{RK|VI9}}</ref> Whether he took Glamdring with him is never mentioned, and is open to debate. It can be argued that he brought it over the Sea, like he did with [[Shadowfax]],<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Humphrey Carpenter]], [[Christopher Tolkien]] (eds.), ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'', [[Letter 268]] (dated [[January 19]], [[1965]])</ref> and because he had been carrying the sword for over 80 years. There would, however, be little need for a weapon in [[Valinor]], as there was little love left for any weapon in the Blessed Realm after the [[First Kinslaying]].{{fact}}<br />
<br />
==Appearance==<br />
Glamdring and Orcrist are described in ''The Hobbit'' as having "beautiful scabbards and jeweled hilts".<ref name="mutton"/> They would glow blue in the presence of Orcs. The "sword of Turgon" (not directly identified as Glamdring) had "a white and gold sword in a ruel-bone (ivory) sheath".<ref>{{UT|1}}, note 31</ref><br />
<br />
===Rune inscription===<br />
When he took the sword, Gandalf said he could not read the runes. Elrond did, however. This could be considered strange, because in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', Gandalf is portrayed as a person of at least equal wisdom and knowledge to Elrond. <br />
<br />
A fitting explanation would be the "[[Gondolinic Runes]]", devised by Tolkien in either 1924 or 1930. This set of Runes was first published in 1992.<ref>First published in ''[[Mythlore]]'' 69, pages 20-25 (edited by [[Paul Nolan Hyde]]), analysed in issue 70, pages 23-24 (by [[Carl F. Hostetter]]). See also [[J.R.R. Tolkien]], "Gondolinic Runes", in ''[[Parma Eldalamberon]]'' 15 (edited by [[Christopher Gilson]]), page 111-113 </ref> In this script, an inscription "GLAMDRING" would read "MZ(unknown)ŪNRI(unknown)M" in [[Angerthas Moria]].<ref>[[Lisa Star]], "[http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/9902/runegond.html Runes of Gondolin]"</ref> The actual inscription remains unclear, however.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
The word ''Glamdring'' is a [[Sindarin]] name meaning '''Foe-hammer''' in [[Westron]];<ref name="shortrest"/> it is comprised of two elements. The first element is ''[[Glamhoth|glam]]''. This word has a long history in Tolkien's mind, but always had evil connotations. In its earliest appearances, it meant "fierce hate",<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Gilson]], [[Patrick H. Wynne]] (eds.), "Namelist to ''The Fall of Gondolin''", in: [[Parma Eldalamberon]] 15 (edited by Christopher Gilson et. al.), page 25</ref> but later, its meaning became "shouting, confused noise", and became (poetically) associated with [[Orcs]] (cf. [[glamhoth]]).<ref name="etym"/> The second element is ''dring'', said to mean "hammer".<ref name="etym">{{HM|LR}}, "[[The Etymologies]]"</ref> The sword was also given the crude name '''Beater''' by the Orcs.<ref name="overhill"/><br />
<br />
==Portrayal in adaptations==<br />
[[Image:Bakshi-lotr.jpg|thumb|Glamdring in [[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]].]]<br />
'''1968: ''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:Glamdring is found in the cave of the trolls, and later named by Elrond. Gandalf himself recounts how it was once borne by the King of Gondolin.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)]]'', "[[Out of the Frying-Pan into the Fire (episode)|Out of the Frying-Pan into the Fire]]"</ref><br />
<br />
'''1977: ''[[Rankin/Bass' The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:Gandalf acquires Glamdring in the trolls' cave. Elrond recognizes the sword at first glance; perhaps he simply deduces the fact that it was Glamdring because he had identified its mate Orcrist just before. After leaving [[Rivendell]], Gandalf notably uses the sword only when rescuing Bilbo and the Dwarves from Goblin-town. <br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:On promotional art, Glamdring is portrayed as an ordinary longsword, with no inscription visible. In the movie itself, it goes unnamed, and is considerably shorter, only a one-handed sword.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'', "[[Gandalf Triumphant]]'</ref><br />
<br />
'''1980: ''[[Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King]]'':'''<br />
:Gandalf does not use a sword, only his staff. <br />
<br />
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Glamdring is not named, and the presence of a sword is mentioned only once: when Gandalf has to surrender it to [[Háma]].<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)]]'', "[[The King of the Golden Hall (episode)|The King of the Golden Hall]]"</ref><br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Glamdring is an Elven longsword. It glows with pale light when enemies are near.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)]]'', Manual, page 9</ref><br />
<br />
'''2001-3: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:Glamdring is a name given to the sword of Gandalf in the film's promotional materials, but it is not named in the films. The sword is, according to most replicas, 47 inches (approximately 120 centimeters) long<ref>''[[The Noble Collection]]'' Glamdring, [http://www.weaponmasters.com/shopping/Glamdring-The-Sword-of-Gandalf-p-16913.html Weaponmasters.com]</ref>, and does not glow blue. When asked, [[Peter Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens]] reacted jokingly that is was due to "budgetary cuts", and they had "not enough blue left".<ref>[[Peter Jackson]], [[Philippa Boyens]], [[Fran Walsh]] (eds.), ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring Extended Edition|The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: Special Extended DVD Edition]]'', "[[A Journey in the Dark (scene)|A Journey in the Dark]]", Director Commentary</ref><br />
<br />
:The rune inscription is engraved in the cross-guard, and adds power to the sword. With this extra power Gandalf was able to defeat [[Durin's Bane]].<ref name="lotrwaw">[[Chris Smith]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Weapons and Warfare]]'', page 68-69</ref> The actual inscription reads as thus: <br />
::"''Turgon [[aran]] Gondolin tortha gar a matha i vegil Glamdring gûd daedheloth, dam an [[Glamhoth]]''".<br />
:This is [[Sindarin]], and translates to "Turgon, king of Gondolin, wields, has, and holds the sword Glamdring, Foe of Morgoth's realm, Hammer of the Orcs".<ref name="lotrwaw"/><br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|Sierra's The Hobbit]]'':'''<br />
:As this game focuses on Bilbo rather than the entire group, Glamdring is never named, and only appears once, when Gandalf and the player (as Bilbo) have to wield off several goblins in the Misty Mountains.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]'', "Over Hill and Under Hill"</ref> An alternative survival theory is also given: the caves in the Trollshaws were - according to [[Glóin (Son of Gróin)|Glóin]] - dug by the [[Witch-king of Angmar]] during his reign in the region.<ref>''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)]]'', "Troll-hole"</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Glamdring|Images of Glamdring]]<br />
<br />
{{References}}<br />
{{weapons}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Swords]]<br />
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]<br />
[[Category:Gondolin and Turgon]]<br />
[[Category:Featured Articles]]<br />
[[de:Glamdring]]<br />
[[fi:Glamdring]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Mandos&diff=93335Mandos2010-01-30T08:25:22Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{redirect|Mandos|the dwelling, the [[Halls of Mandos]]}}<br />
{{expansion}}<br />
{{valar infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Lúthien's Lament Before Mandos.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Námo<br />
| othernames=Mandos, Bannoth, Badhon, The Judge, The Just<br />
| coming=[[Years of the Lamps]] 1<br />
| appointment=[[Doomsman of the Valar]]<br />
| creations=Ruler of the Dead<br />
| maiar=<br />
| dwelling=[[Halls of Mandos]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| spouse=[[Vairë]]<br />
| siblings=[[Irmo]] and [[Nienna]]<br />
| appearance=<br />
| robes=<br />
| hair=<br />
| eyes=<br />
|}}<br />
'''Námo''' ([[Quenya|Q]]: "Judge" or "Ordainer"; pron. {{IPA|[ˈnaːmo]}}) was called the [[Doomsman of the Valar]] and keeper of the slain in his [[Halls of Mandos|Halls]] in the west of [[Valinor]]. [[Vairë]] the Weaver is his wife. The [[Sindarin]] equivalent of ''Námo'' is '''Badhron''' ({{IPA|[ˈbaðron]}}).<br />
Námo was more commonly known as '''Mandos''' ([[Quenya|Q]]: "Prison-fortress"; {{IPA|[ˈmandos]}}), which is more correctly the name of his dwelling. The [[Sindarin]] name for ''Mandos'' is '''Bannoth''' ({{IPA|[ˈbanːoθ]}}).<br />
<br />
Námo was the brother of the [[Valar|Vala]] [[Irmo]] (also called ''Lórien''). Together, Námo and Irmo are called the [[Fëanturi]] ([[Quenya|Q]]: "Masters of Spirits"). Their sister is [[Nienna]].<br />
<br />
Námo is said to be the grimmest of the Valar. However, this in no way implies that Námo is dark or evil. His grimness is wholly part of his nature, coming (one must assume) from that part of the mind of [[Ilúvatar]] from which he was created. Neither is Námo willful or malevolent in declaring the fates of [[Arda]]. Only at the bidding of [[Manwë]] will Námo ever pronounce his dooms. Námo and Manwë have always been allied since their entering into [[Eä]], and together they understand most clearly the [[Vision of Ilúvatar]] more than any of the other Valar. Together they know nearly all of what is to come within the realm of Arda, though not all. Only Ilúvatar knows with full certainty what the full doom of Arda will be, and he will not reveal it all, even to Námo or Manwë.<br />
<br />
==Quenya noun inflection==<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
|{{qya-decl-o|num=sg|Nám}}<br />
|{{qya-decl-st|num=sg|Mando}}<br />
|}<br />
<br />
{{valar}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Namo}}<br />
[[Category:Valar]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Sauron&diff=93331Sauron2010-01-30T08:10:36Z<p>Mthomas: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{expansion}}{{sources}}<br />
{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:J.R.R. Tolkien - Sauron.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Sauron<br />
| othernames= Mairon, [[Annatar]], [[Necromancer]]<br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]]<br />
| years=c. [[Second Age 500|S.A. 500]]-[[Second Age 3441|S.A. 3441]], c. [[Third Age 1000|T.A. 1000]]-[[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<br />
| realm=[[Tol Sirion]], [[Dol Guldur]], [[Mordor]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| race=[[Maiar]]<br />
| appearance=Took bat form, wolf form, fair form. Confined to monstrous appearance after [[Downfall of Númenor]]<br />
| accomplishments=Deceived the [[Elves]] into forging [[Rings of Power]], made the [[One Ring]], corrupted [[Númenor]], seduced [[Saruman]], nearly took over [[Middle-earth]]<br />
|}}<br />
{{pronounce|Quenya - Mairon.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
{{pronounce|Quenya - Sauron.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Gorthaur.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
'''Sauron''' was the Chief Lieutenant of [[Morgoth]], who after his fall became another Dark Lord, and ultimately walked down the same ruinous path to oblivion. Sauron was the chief enemy in the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age]].<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
=== First Age ===<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Huan Subdues Sauron.jpg|thumb|right|''Huan Subdues Sauron'', by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
In origin, Sauron was a [[Maiar|Maia]] named ''[[Mairon]]''. In the earliest of days he was among people of [[Aulë]], the Smith the ruling powers of the world. However, Mairon was soon ensnared by Melkor (the [[Morgoth]]), who wished to rule and order all Arda. Mairon was renamed Sauron served Morgoth faithfully, and even in later days, after Morgoth was defeated and locked outside the confines of the world, Sauron encouraged and coerced [[Men]] to worship Morgoth as a God. However, while Morgoth wanted to either control or destroy the very matter of [[Arda]] itself, Sauron's desire was to dominate the minds and wills of its creatures. It was in this that Sauron was perhaps more practical than his master Morgoth.<br />
<br />
During the [[First Age]], the [[Noldor]]in [[Elves]] left the [[Blessed Realm]] of [[Valinor]] in the [[Aman|Utter West]] (against the counsel of the Valar) in order to wage war on Morgoth, who had stolen the precious [[Silmarils]]. In that war, Sauron served as Morgoth's chief lieutenant, surpassing all others in rank. Known as '''''Gorthaur the Cruel''''', Sauron at that time was a master of illusions and changes of form, and [[Werewolves]] were his servants, chief among them [[Draugluin]], Sire of Werewolves, and [[Thuringwethil]], his vampire herald. When Morgoth left [[Angband]] to corrupt the newly awakened [[Men]], Sauron directed the War against the [[Elves]]. He conquered the Elvish isle of [[Tol Sirion]], so that it became known as ''Tol-in-Gaurhoth'', the Isle of Werewolves.<br />
<br />
Ten years later, [[Finrod Felagund]], the king of [[Nargothrond]] and former lord of [[Tol Sirion]], died protecting [[Beren Erchamion|Beren]] in captivity there; soon afterwards, [[Lúthien]] and [[Huan]] the Wolfhound defeated Sauron in that place and rescued Beren from the dungeons. After his resounding defeat by Lúthien, Sauron played little part in the events of the First Age (possibly hiding from Morgoth), and after his master was defeated and cast out by the Valar, Sauron repented and pled for mercy. But he was unwilling to return to the Utter West for judgment, and so he fled and hid.<br />
<br />
=== Second Age ===<br />
[[Image:Annatar.jpg|thumb|left|''Annatar'' as envisioned by [[Weta Workshop|Weta]] from [[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]]]<br />
After lying hidden and dormant for about one thousand years, Sauron put on a fair visage in the [[Second Age]]. Calling himself '''''Annatar''''', the Lord of Gifts, he befriended the Elvish smiths of [[Eregion]], and counseled them in arts and magic. Not all the Elves trusted him, particularly Lady [[Galadriel]] and [[Gil-galad]], High King of the Ñoldor, but few listened to them. The Elves forged [[Rings of Power]], but in secret Sauron forged the [[One Ring]] in [[Mount Doom]] to rule the other rings, investing most of his own power into the Ring as he forged it.<br />
<br />
In this time Sauron became known as the [[Dark Lord]] of [[Mordor]]. He raised [[Barad-dûr]], the Dark Tower, near Mount Doom; constructed the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor to prevent invasion; corrupted nine mortal Men with Rings of Power and turned them into the [[Nazgûl]] (Ringwraiths), his chief servants; and raised massive armies of [[Orcs]], [[Trolls]], and Men, chiefly [[Easterlings]] and [[Southrons]]. <br />
<br />
Sauron's power reached its zenith 700 years after Mordor's creation, in the 17th century of the Second Age. Immediately after Sauron created the One Ring, Celebrimbor and the other Ring-bearers realized his treachery went to war with him. The [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] was a bloody conflict which destroyed Eregion and devastated much of Eriador. Celebrimbor was slain and his body impaled on a spike paraded at the head of Sauron's legions. The Elves were pushed back almost to the Blue Mountains, while their Dwarf allies (who had also rejected Sauron) retreated behind the walls of [[Moria]] where Sauron could not assail them. Sauron was master of almost all of Middle-earth beyond the coasts, but the Numenoreans responded to the Elves' call for aid and sent a relief force. The combined armies rallied and were able to defeat Sauron's armies in Eriador after heavy fighting, and the Dark Lord fled back to Mordor with little more than his own bodyguard. <br />
<br />
Nonetheless, while Sauron's subsequent power never quiet matched the height it had during the War with the elves, many of his most powerful enemies' homelands had been devastated. ''Relative'' to his enemies, Sauron's empire was actually in a stronger position than it used to be. His empire continued to expand to dominate barbarian Men to the far south and east. Throughout this, Sauron remained faithful in his old allegiance, building temples to the worship of Morgoth, where human sacrifice was practiced. Because of this, towards the end of the Second Age, Sauron assumed the titles of '''Lord of the Earth''' and '''King of Men'''.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - The Forging of the One.jpg|thumb|''The Forging of the One'', by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
This offended the Númenóreans, the powerful Men descended from the line of Beren and Lúthien, who lived on the island of Númenor in the sea between Middle-earth and Valinor. The proud Númenóreans came to Middle-earth with great force of arms, and Sauron's forces fled. Realizing he could not defeat the Numenoreans with military strength, Sauron allowed himself to be taken as a hostage to Númenor by King [[Ar-Pharazôn]]. There, he quickly grew from captive to advisor and was known as '''Tar-Mairon'''; he converted many Númenóreans to the worship of Morgoth, and raised a great temple in which he performed human sacrifices. Finally, he convinced the king to rebel against the Valar and attack Valinor itself. [[Eru]], the supreme god, then directly intervened: Númenor was drowned under the sea, and the great navy of Númenor was destroyed. Sauron was diminished in the flood of Númenor, and fled back to Mordor, where he slowly rebuilt his strength during the time known as the [[Dark Years]].<br />
<br />
From this point on he was unable to assume a fair shape, and ruled now through terror and force. A few faithful Númenóreans were saved from the flood, and they founded [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]] in Middle-earth. These faithful Men, led by [[Elendil]] and his sons, allied with the Elven-king, Gil-galad, and together fought Sauron and, after a long war, defeated him, although both Elendil and Gil-galad were killed. [[Isildur]], son of Elendil, cut the One Ring from Sauron's finger and claimed it. Later, the Ring betrayed him and was lost for more than two thousand years.<br />
<br />
=== Third Age ===<br />
In the [[Third Age]], Sauron rose yet again, at first in a stronghold called [[Dol Guldur]], the Hill of Sorcery, in southern [[Mirkwood]]. There he was known as the '''''[[Necromancer]]''''', and the Elves did not recognize him at first. [[Gandalf]] the [[Wizards|Wizard]] stole into Dol Guldur and discovered the truth; eventually the [[White Council]] of Wizards and Elves put forth their might and drove Sauron out. But the White Council was led by [[Saruman]], who wanted the Ring for himself, and for this reason, he did not want to attack Dol Guldur. When Gandalf insisted on an attack again, the White Council did attack. Unfortunately, this time Sauron was already prepared for an attack and escaped to Mordor, rebuilding and fortifying his fortress Barad-Dûr. He now fortified Mordor and prepared for war against Gondor and the Elves, using his new ally Saruman to defeat Rohan.<br />
<br />
Sauron bred immense armies of Orcs and allies with which enslaved Men from the east and south. He adopted the symbol of a lidless eye, and he was able at that time to send out his will over Middle-earth, so that the [[Eye of Sauron]] was a symbol of power and fear. <br />
<br />
After torturing Gollum, he learned that the One Ring had been found by [[Bilbo Baggins]]. He sent his deadliest servants, the [[Nazgûl]], to the [[Shire]], only to find that both Bilbo and his nephew, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], had departed. Unbeknownst to Sauron, Frodo had, at the behest of Gandalf, joined the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] on a quest to destroy the Ring. He rallied his vast armies to conquer the resistance's strongholds, and sent the Ringwraiths to find and kill Frodo. At about this time, he also learned that [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], Isildur's heir, had also joined the Fellowship, and was rallying armies to defeat his.<br />
<br />
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - The Shadow of Sauron.jpg|thumb|220px|left|''The Shadow of Sauron'', by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]<br />
When Saruman's army was defeated at [[Isengard]], Aragorn used the Palantir of [[Orthanc]] to reveal himself to Sauron. Sauron made the premature conclusion that Aragorn had the Ring, and sent an army commanded by his strongest servant, the Witch-King of Angmar, to overthrow [[Minas Tirith (Gondor)|Minas Tirith]]. This battle would become known as the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].<br />
<br />
Although Sauron lost the Battle of Pelennor Fields, the free forces of the West were greatly weakened, and Sauron still had sufficent armies in reserve to ensure military victory. He was outwitted, however, by the strategy of Gandalf, who urged the captains of the [[Free peoples]] to march against Sauron, thus diverting the Dark Lord's eye from the real threat of Frodo, the Ring Bearer, who was nearing the end of his quest to destroy the One Ring. <br />
<br />
Frodo, however, failed at the last moment, unable to resist the power of the Ring at the place of its birth. But Gollum inadvertently saved him by recovering the Ring in a desperate attempt to possess it, and then falling with it into the fire. Thus Sauron's power was unmade, and his corporeal power in Middle-earth came to an end. His spirit towered above Mordor like a black cloud, but was blown away by a [[Manwë|powerful wind]] from the [[Aman|West]]. Sauron was now permanently crippled, never to rise again. Saruman would suffer a similar fate.<br />
<br />
==Etymology ==<br />
[[Image:Timo Vihola - Sauron.jpg|thumb|right|''Sauron'' by [[Timo Vihola]]]]<br />
In some of Tolkien's notes from the 1950's, it is said that Sauron's original name was '''Mairon''', "the admirable" ([[Quenya|Q]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈmaɪron]}}), "but this was altered after he was suborned by Melkor. But he continued to call himself Mairon the Admirable, or Tar-mairon 'King Excellent', until after Númenor's downfall." ([[Parma Eldalamberon]] 17, 183)<br />
<br />
'''''Sauron''''' (pron. {{IPA|[ˈsaʊron]}}; originally '''''Þauron''''', {{IPA|[ˈθaʊron]}}) is [[Quenya]], and can be translated as ''the Abhorred'' or ''the Abomination''. It is pronounced "sour-on" (''sour'' as in not sweet). In [[Sindarin]] he is called '''''Gorthaur''''' ({{IPA|[ˈɡorθaʊr]}}) and also he was known as the [[Necromancer]], ''the Abhorred Dread'' and the '''Nameless Enemy''', which is hardly accurate (but perhaps an effort to lessen his psychological impact), whereas Morgoth is the Dark Enemy. The Dúnedain call him '''Sauron the Deceiver''' due to his role in the downfall of Númenor and the Forging of the Rings of Power. His two most common titles, the Dark Lord of Mordor and the ''Lord of the Rings'', appear only a few times in the books. His other titles were similar to Morgoth's.<br />
<br />
== Other Versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
Prior to the publication of ''The Silmarillion'' Sauron's origins and true identity were unclear to those without full access to Tolkien's notes. In early editions of the ''[[The Complete Guide to Middle-earth|Guide to Middle Earth]]'', Sauron is described as "probably of the Eldar elves."<br />
<br />
Since the earliest versions of the ''Silmarillion'' legendarium as detailed in [[the History of Middle-earth]] series, Sauron has undergone many changes. The prototype of this character was '''[[Tevildo]]''', lord of the cats, who played the role later taken by Sauron in the earliest version of the story of [[Beren Erchamion|Beren]] and [[Lúthien]] in ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', the '''[[Tale of Tinúviel]]'''. Tevildo later (but still in the ''Book of Lost Tales'' period) was transformed into '''[[Thû]]''', the Necromancer. The name was then changed to '''Gorthû''', '''Sûr''', and finally to Sauron. ''Gorthû'', in the form ''Gorthaur'' remained in ''The Silmarillion''.<br />
<br />
==Portrayal in Adaptations==<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
|valign="top"|{{qya-decl-nd|num=sg|Sauro}}<br />
|valign="top"|{{qya-decl-nd|num=sg|Þauro}}<br />
|-<br />
|colspan="2" align="center"|{{sjn-noun-ng|num=sing2|tc=1|orthaur}}<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
*'''[[:Category:Images of Sauron|Images of Sauron]]'''<br />
*[[The Dark Lord Sauron polystone statue]]<br />
<br />
{{references}}<br />
*[[Akallabêth]]<br />
*[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]<br />
<br />
{{sequence<br />
|prev=''none''<br />
|next=[[Isildur]]<br />
|list=[[Ring-bearer]]<br>c. [[Second Age 1600|S.A. 1600]] – [[Second Age 3441|3441]]}}{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]<br />
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
[[Category:Quenya names]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Sauron]]<br />
[[fi:Sauron]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92555Balrogs2010-01-27T19:40:01Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=<div style="height:350px;overflow:hidden;border-bottom:2px solid #fff;">[[Image:John Howe - Balrog 07.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]],<br>[[Moria]] ([[Durin's Bane]])<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions during the [[First Age]]. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Arguments For Balrog Wings==<br />
''Main article:[[Balrogs/wings]]''<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Gothmog_(balrog)&diff=92554Gothmog (balrog)2010-01-27T19:38:26Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-two|the Balrog of the First Age|the Lieutenant of Morgul|[[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)]]}}<br />
{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Fingon and Gothmog.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Gothmog<br />
| othernames=Lord of [[Balrogs]] <br> [[High-captain of Angband]]<br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]]<br />
| years=<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[First Age 510|F.A. 510]], [[Fall of Gondolin]]<br />
| realm=[[Angband]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| race=[[Balrogs]] ([[Maiar]])<br />
| appearance=Possibly twice man-height, bearing black axe and whip<br />
| accomplishments=Slew two [[High King of the Noldor|High Kings of the Noldor]], victorious in the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]]<br />
|}}<br />
{{pronounce|Quenya - Osombauko.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Gothmog.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
'''Gothmog''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈɡoθmoɡ]}}) was the Lord of [[Balrogs]] and the [[High-captain of Angband]], one of the chief servants of the Dark Lord [[Morgoth]] with a rank equal to that of [[Sauron]]. While he was not as powerful as the Dark Lords, he surpassed them in brute strength and possibly strategy.<br />
<br />
Gothmog's [[Quenya]] name was '''Oþombauko''' ({{IPA|[ˌoθomˈbaʊko]}}) or later [[Noldorin]] '''Osombauko''' ({{IPA|[ˌosomˈbaʊko]}}).<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
Gothmog was apparently one of the [[Maiar]] that followed [[Melkor]] to exile, and because of either his brilliant mind or because of his ability to assume an immensely powerful physical form, he was made the Lord of Balrogs.<br />
<br />
At the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] he mortally wounded [[Fëanor]], but called a retreat upon the approach of the [[Sons of Fëanor]] with a sizable force. He next appears in the texts at the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], where he is also named high-captain of [[Angband]], again inferring his power and status as essentially Morgoth's right-hand Balrog ([[Sauron]], another spirit, playing a more domestic than front-line role for his master). There at the Nirnaeth he slew [[Fingon]], thus allowing him to boast of having slain two of the five [[High Kings of the Noldor]]. He also captured [[Húrin Thalion]] there.<br />
<br />
He was again displayed as Morgoth's front-line commander as he played an active role in the [[Fall of Gondolin]]. According to the (albeit uncanonical) text, he piled his iron siege equipment against the [[North Gate of Gondolin|gate]] until it broke from sheer pressure. According to the same text he also took a front-line position against [[Rog]], turning the tide in that part of the battle. More confirmed canonically, he beat down [[Tuor]] in single combat, but the elf-lord [[Ecthelion of the Fountain]], who was badly wounded, rose and stood over him. Ecthelion stood no chance against the Lord of Balrogs, and lost his sword in the brief struggle. But then Ecthelion leaped forward, and stabbed Gothmog in the breast with the spike atop his helm. They both fell into the [[Fountain of the King]], where Gothmog, if not already killed by the spike, drowned with his opponent.{{Pronounce|Gothmog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
<br />
==Other versions of the Legendarium==<br />
<br />
In the earliest version of his mythology (''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]''), Tolkien describes Gothmog as a son of Morgoth and the ogress Fluithuin, but the idea of the children of [[Valar]] was abandoned in later writings.<br />
<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "Lungorthin, Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
|valign="top"|{{qya-decl-o|num=sg|Osombauk}}<br />
|valign="top"|{{sjn-noun-g|num=sing|O|o|thmog}}<br />
|}<br />
==References==<br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part 2]]'', "The Fall of Gondolin"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Children of Húrin]]'', "[[The Battle of Unnumbered Tears]]" <br />
<br />
<br />
{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin names]]<br />
[[de:Gothmog (Balrog)]]<br />
[[fi:Gothmog (balrog)]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Gothmog_(balrog)&diff=92553Gothmog (balrog)2010-01-27T19:34:44Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{disambig-two|the Balrog of the First Age|the Lieutenant of Morgul|[[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)]]}}<br />
{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Fingon and Gothmog.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Gothmog<br />
| othernames=Lord of [[Balrogs]] <br> [[High-captain of Angband]]<br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]]<br />
| years=<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[First Age 510|F.A. 510]], [[Fall of Gondolin]]<br />
| realm=[[Angband]]<br />
| gender=Male<br />
| race=[[Balrogs]] ([[Maiar]])<br />
| appearance=Possibly twice man-height, bearing black axe and whip<br />
| accomplishments=Slew two [[High King of the Noldor|High Kings of the Noldor]], victorious in the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]]<br />
|}}<br />
{{pronounce|Quenya - Osombauko.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Gothmog.mp3|Gilgamesh}}<br />
'''Gothmog''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈɡoθmoɡ]}}) was the Lord of [[Balrogs]] and the [[High-captain of Angband]], one of the chief servants of the Dark Lord [[Morgoth]] with a rank equal to that of [[Sauron]]. While he was not as powerful as the Dark Lords, he surpassed them in brute strength and possibly strategy.<br />
<br />
Gothmog's [[Quenya]] name was '''Oþombauko''' ({{IPA|[ˌoθomˈbaʊko]}}) or later [[Noldorin]] '''Osombauko''' ({{IPA|[ˌosomˈbaʊko]}}).<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
Gothmog was apparently one of the [[Maiar]] that followed [[Melkor]] to exile, and because of either his brilliant mind or because of his ability to assume an immensely powerful physical form, he was made the Lord of Balrogs.<br />
<br />
At the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] he mortally wounded [[Fëanor]], but called a retreat upon the approach of the [[Sons of Fëanor]] with a sizable force. He next appears in the texts at the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], where he is also named high-captain of [[Angband]], again inferring his power and status as essentially Morgoth's right-hand Balrog ([[Sauron]], another spirit, playing a more domestic than front-line role for his master). There at the Nirnaeth he slew [[Fingon]], thus allowing him to boast of having slain two of the five [[High Kings of the Noldor]]. He also captured [[Húrin Thalion]] there.<br />
<br />
He was again displayed as Morgoth's front-line commander as he played an active role in the [[Fall of Gondolin]]. According to the (albeit uncanonical) text, he piled his iron siege equipment against the [[North Gate of Gondolin|gate]] until it broke from sheer pressure. According to the same text he also took a front-line position against [[Rog]], turning the tide in that part of the battle. More confirmed canonically, he beat down [[Tuor]] in single combat, but the elf-lord [[Ecthelion of the Fountain]], who was badly wounded, rose and stood over him. Ecthelion stood no chance against the Lord of Balrogs, and lost his sword in the brief struggle. But then Ecthelion leaped forward, and stabbed Gothmog in the breast with the spike atop his helm. They both fell into the [[Fountain of the King]], where Gothmog, if not already killed by the spike, drowned with his opponent.{{Pronounce|Gothmog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
<br />
==Other versions of the Legendarium==<br />
<br />
In the earliest version of his mythology (''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]''), Tolkien describes Gothmog as a son of Morgoth and the ogress Fluithuin, but the idea of the children of [[Valar]] was abandoned in later writings.<br />
<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "Lungorthin, Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
|valign="top"|{{qya-decl-o|num=sg|Osombauk}}<br />
|valign="top"|{{sjn-noun-g|num=sing|O|o|thmog}}<br />
|}<br />
==References==<br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"<br />
<br />
<br />
{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Sindarin names]]<br />
[[de:Gothmog (Balrog)]]<br />
[[fi:Gothmog (balrog)]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92552Balrogs2010-01-27T19:30:25Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=<div style="height:350px;overflow:hidden;border-bottom:2px solid #fff;">[[Image:John Howe - Balrog 07.jpg|300px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]],<br>[[Moria]] ([[Durin's Bane]])<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions during the [[First Age]]. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Arguments For Balrog Wings==<br />
''Main article:[[Balrogs/wings]]''<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92551Balrogs2010-01-27T19:28:10Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=<div style="height:350px;overflow:hidden;border-bottom:2px solid #fff;">[[Image:John Howe - Balrog 07.jpg|300px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]],<br>[[Moria]] ([[Durin's Bane]])<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions during the [[First Age]]. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92550Balrogs2010-01-27T19:25:41Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=<div style="height:350px;overflow:hidden;border-bottom:2px solid #fff;">[[Image:John Howe - Balrog 07.jpg|300px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]]<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions during the [[First Age]]. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92549Balrogs2010-01-27T19:21:26Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]]<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions during the [[First Age]]. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92548Balrogs2010-01-27T19:20:47Z<p>Mthomas: /* History */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]]<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service before the coming of the [[Elves]]. They were originally gathered by him in his ancient fastness of [[Utumno]] during the [[Years of the Lamps]]. When this fortress was destroyed by the [[Valar]], they fled and lurked in the pits of [[Angband]].<br />
<br />
When [[Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]] escaped from [[Valinor]] many years later with the [[Silmarils]], the Balrogs were still to be found in these pits. Ungoliant trapped Melkor in her webs, demanding the Silmarils for herself, but the Balrogs issued from their hiding-place and rescued their lord.<br />
<br />
When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92547Balrogs2010-01-27T19:13:04Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]]<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Man-like, surrounded by fire and smoke<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service in ancient times before the coming of the [[Elves]]. During the [[First Age]], they were among the most feared of Morgoth's servants. When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92546Balrogs2010-01-27T19:10:08Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=primarily [[Angband]]<br />
|languages=<br />
|height= twice the height of a man<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Surrounded by fire, shadow, and fear<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service in ancient times before the coming of the [[Elves]]. During the [[First Age]], they were among the most feared of Morgoth's servants. When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92545Balrogs2010-01-27T19:08:38Z<p>Mthomas: /* References */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=<br />
|languages=<br />
|height=<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Surrounded by fire, shadow, and fear<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service in ancient times before the coming of the [[Elves]]. During the [[First Age]], they were among the most feared of Morgoth's servants. When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', ''"[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92544Balrogs2010-01-27T19:06:34Z<p>Mthomas: /* References */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=<br />
|languages=<br />
|height=<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Surrounded by fire, shadow, and fear<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service in ancient times before the coming of the [[Elves]]. During the [[First Age]], they were among the most feared of Morgoth's servants. When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Valaquenta]]''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"''<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''"[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"''<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Balrogs&diff=92543Balrogs2010-01-27T19:02:36Z<p>Mthomas: /* References */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{cleanup}}<br />
{{redirect|Balrog|the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] or [[Balrog (band)|bands named Balrog]]}}<br />
{{race<br />
|image=[[Image:Rob_Alexander_-_The_Balrog_of_Moria.jpg|250px]]<br />
|name=Balrogs<br />
|dominions=<br />
|languages=<br />
|height=<br />
|length=<br />
|skincolor=<br />
|haircolor=<br />
|feathers=<br />
|distinctions=Surrounded by fire, shadow, and fear<br />
|lifespan=Immortal<br />
|members=[[Gothmog (Lord of Balrogs)|Gothmog]], [[Durin's Bane]]<br />
}}{{Pronounce|Balrog.mp3|Ardamir}}<br />
'''Balrogs''', or '''Balrogath''' ("Balrog-kind") were menacing creatures about twice the height of a man consisting of fire and shadow. Balrogs induced great terror in all and were among [[Morgoth]]'s most feared minions. The wizard Gandalf fell fighting a Balrog when the Fellowship escaped [[Moria]] in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. In the First Age notable Elf Lords [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion]] and [[Glorfindel]] each fell fighting separate Balrogs during the sack of [[Gondolin]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Balrogs were originally [[Maiar]] spirits, of the same order as [[Sauron]] and [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (Gandalf), but they were seduced by [[Morgoth]], who corrupted them to his service in ancient times before the coming of the [[Elves]]. During the [[First Age]], they were among the most feared of Morgoth's servants. When Morgoth's fortress of [[Angband]] was destroyed by the [[Valar]] in the First Age, most Balrogs were destroyed, but some fled and lurked in the pits of Angband or escaped across the [[Blue Mountains]] to eastern [[Middle-earth]]. In the Third Age the Dwarves of [[Khazad-dûm]] unwittingly released a Balrog while mining for ''[[mithril]]'' and were driven out of Moria by the creature. This is the same Balrog that Gandalf ultimately encountered in The Fellowship of the Ring.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were first encountered by Elves during the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars") in the First Age. After the victory of the [[Noldor|Noldorin Elves]] over Morgoth's [[Orcs]], the Elf Lord [[Fëanor]] pressed on towards Angband, but Balrogs came against him. He was surrounded by Balrogs and fought long before being mortally wounded by [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs|Gothmog]], Lord of Balrogs (the only Balrog known by name). Though Feanor's sons fought off the demons of fire, Fëanor died of his wounds soon after, and his spirit departed for the [[Halls of Mandos]].<br />
<br />
Just one Balrog appears after the First Age in Tolkien's writings. If Sauron had any in his service during the [[Second Age]] or the [[War of the Ring]], they were never revealed. The sole Balrog described by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] after the [[War of Wrath]] was [[Durin's Bane]]. It is possible that it was the last Balrog in [[Middle-earth]].<br />
<br />
After the last battle of the First Age some Balrogs escaped the [[Valar]]'s wrath and hid deep underground inaccessible at the roots of the earth.<br />
<br />
Of the 'few' that remained only one, '[[Durin's Bane]],' was revealed in the process. Thus there may be other Balrogs lurking in Middle-Earth.<br />
<br />
== Other versions of the Legendarium ==<br />
In one of Tolkien's early Middle-earth writings, ''[[Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', "[[Lungorthin]], Lord of Balrogs" is mentioned. It is not, however, certain if it was another name for Gothmog, or it simply meant "a Balrog lord". According to [[Christopher Tolkien]], the latter is more probable, as the name Gothmog was mentioned in the earliest Middle-earth writings, as well as the final version of Tolkien's mythology.<br />
<br />
The Balrogs were originally envisioned as being immense in number:<br />
{{quote|The early conception of Balrogs makes them less terrible, and certainly more destructible, than they afterwards became: they existed in 'hundreds' (p. 170), and were slain by [[Tuor]] and the [[Gondolin|Gondothlim]] in large numbers: "thus five fell before Tuor's great axe [[Dramborleg]], three before [[Ecthelion of the Fountain|Ecthelion's]] sword, and two score were slain by the warrior's of the king's house.|''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]]'', commentary by Christopher Tolkien on "The Fall of Gondolin"}}<br />
{{quote|There came wolves and serpents and there came Balrogs one thousand, and there came Glomund the Father of Dragons.|''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', ''Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter 16, §15}}<br />
<br />
As the [[legendarium]] became more formidable and internally consistent, and the Balrogs more terrible, this number was much reduced. In the end Tolkien stated that there were probably "at most" seven Balrogs:<br />
{{quote|In the margin my father wrote: 'There should not be supposed more than say 3 or at most 7 ever existed.'|''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', Section 2 (AAm*): note 50}}<br />
<br />
It should however be noted that these texts postdate the published ''The Lord of the Rings'', but predate the materials from which the published ''The Silmarillion'' was drawn. The exact number of Balrogs is therefore very uncertain, but Tolkien's note above seems to have been his final word. However, the number of 3 would require the rewriting of much of ''The Silmarillion'', and even the number of 7 causes conflicts. At least two Balrogs were killed at Gondolin. Others were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]], and the Balrog that ultimately became Durin's Bane fled from that battle unnoticed. While "thousands" clearly is not according to the author's intent a more probable number, taking into account the writings, is that there were at least a dozen.<br />
<br />
==Etymology==<br />
Balrog is [[Sindarin]] for "Demon of Might"; ''[[bal]]'' = power; ''[[raug]], [[rog]]'' = demon; the [[Quenya]] form is '''''[[Valarauko]]''''' or '''''Valarauco'''''<br />
<br />
== Portrayal in Adaptations ==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|A Balrog as envisioned in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
If adaptations were to be counted as canon, the matter of Balrog wings would be decided.<br />
<br />
'''1978: ''[[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has wings and appears capable of limited flight. The head resembles a lion but the rest of the body was rendered in matte black, a technique commonly used for shadowy surreal effect in rotoscope animation.<br />
<br />
'''2001: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog has, once again, wings. The fight sequence, in which the player is Gandalf, takes considerably longer: only after a short fight on the bridge odes Gandalf let it collapse. <br />
<br />
'''2002: ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''<br />
:The chase up the [[Endless Stair]] and the slime Balrog were omitted due to budget constraints.<br />
<br />
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's The War of the Ring]]'':'''<br />
:Balrogs are evil units. They have horns and wings.<br />
<br />
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''<br />
:The Balrog is a red demon with wings and horns.<br />
<br />
==Noun inflection==<br />
{{qya-decl-a|Valarauc|nomsg=Valarauco|accsg=Valaraucó}}<br />
{{sjn-noun-b|num=full2|tc=1|alrog|elryg}}<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
* [[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
*[[Balrogs/wings]]<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<small><references/></small><br />
<small><br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], [[The Silmarillion]], [[Valaquenta]]<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://tolkien.slimy.com/essays/TAB.html The Truth About Balrogs], an essay series by Conrad Dunkerson.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Balrog]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs]]<br />
[[fi:Balrogit]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Ost-in-Edhil&diff=91844Ost-in-Edhil2010-01-25T09:34:02Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg|300px]]<br />
| name=Ost-in-Edhil<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=[[Sindarin|S.]] ''"Fortress of the Elves"'' <br>(''[[ost]]'' "fortress" + ''[[edhel|edhil]]'' "elves")<br />
| type=City<br />
| location=At the confluence of [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]]<br />
| inhabitants=[[Elves of Eregion]]<br />
| realms=[[Eregion]]<br />
| description=<br />
| events=[[Sack of Eregion]]<br />
| references=[[The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
{{quote|Deep they delved us, high they builded us, fair they wrought us, but they are gone.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Ring Goes South]]}}<br />
'''Ost-in-Edhil''' ([[Second Age 750|S.A. 750]] – 1697, existed for c. 947 years), "Fortress of the Elves" in [[Sindarin]], was the capital city of [[Eregion]], a kingdom of [[Noldor]] and [[Sindar]] in [[Eriador]]. It lay where the rivers [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]] met.<br />
<br />
Ost-in-Edhil was founded by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]], before the time they ruled [[Lothlórien]]. The Elves began trading with the [[Dwarves]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] and built a large road to connect the city with the [[West-gate of Moria|West-gate]] of the Dwarven kingdom. The Elves of Eregion also traded with the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]]. After the Númenóreans founded the city of [[Tharbad]] to the south of Ost-in-Edhil, Galadriel is recorded meeting with [[Aldarion]] before he took up the [[Sceptre]].<br />
<br />
In time the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], a brotherhood of Elven craftsmen, was founded. They were led by [[Celebrimbor]], the greatest smith since [[Fëanor]]. Sometime after [[Second Age|S.A]] 1350 Galadriel left for Lórien and Celebrimbor become lord of Ost-in-Edhil.<br />
<br />
In 1200 a mysterious craftsman named [[Annatar]] came to the city, offering his considerable talents. For 400 years they learned from him and together forged the [[Nine Rings|Nine]] and [[Seven Rings|Seven]] of the [[Rings of Power]]. Annatar was, in truth, [[Sauron]], who returned to [[Mordor]] to forge the [[One Ring]]. The Dark Lord returned with an army of [[Orcs]] and began the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in which Celebrimbor was slain and Ost-in-Edhil was completely destroyed. <br />
<br />
Centuries later the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] encountered the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil shortly before reaching [[Moria]]. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Cities in Eriador]]<br />
[[Category:Eriador]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Ost-in-Edhil&diff=91843Ost-in-Edhil2010-01-25T09:32:55Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg|300px]]<br />
| name=Ost-in-Edhil<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=[[Sindarin|S.]] ''"Fortress of the Elves"'' <br>(''[[ost]]'' "fortress" + ''[[edhel|edhil]]'' "elves")<br />
| type=City<br />
| location=At the confluence of [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]]<br />
| inhabitants=[[Elves of Eregion]]<br />
| realms=[[Eregion]]<br />
| description=<br />
| events=[[Sack of Eregion]]<br />
| references=[[The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
{{quote|Deep they delved us, high they builded us, fair they wrought us, but they are gone.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Ring Goes South]]}}<br />
'''Ost-in-Edhil''' ([[Second Age 750|S.A. 750]] – [[Second age 1697|1697]], existed for c. 947 years), "Fortress of the Elves" in [[Sindarin]], was the capital city of [[Eregion]], a kingdom of [[Noldor]] and [[Sindar]] in [[Eriador]]. It lay where the rivers [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]] met.<br />
<br />
Ost-in-Edhil was founded by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]], before the time they ruled [[Lothlórien]]. The Elves began trading with the [[Dwarves]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] and built a large road to connect the city with the [[West-gate of Moria|West-gate]] of the Dwarven kingdom. The Elves of Eregion also traded with the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]]. After the Númenóreans founded the city of [[Tharbad]] to the south of Ost-in-Edhil, Galadriel is recorded meeting with [[Aldarion]] before he took up the [[Sceptre]].<br />
<br />
In time the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], a brotherhood of Elven craftsmen, was founded. They were led by [[Celebrimbor]], the greatest smith since [[Fëanor]]. Sometime after [[Second Age|S.A]] 1350 Galadriel left for Lórien and Celebrimbor become lord of Ost-in-Edhil.<br />
<br />
In 1200 a mysterious craftsman named [[Annatar]] came to the city, offering his considerable talents. For 400 years they learned from him and together forged the [[Nine Rings|Nine]] and [[Seven Rings|Seven]] of the [[Rings of Power]]. Annatar was, in truth, [[Sauron]], who returned to [[Mordor]] to forge the [[One Ring]]. The Dark Lord returned with an army of [[Orcs]] and began the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in which Celebrimbor was slain and Ost-in-Edhil was completely destroyed. <br />
<br />
Centuries later the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] encountered the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil shortly before reaching [[Moria]]. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Cities in Eriador]]<br />
[[Category:Eriador]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Ost-in-Edhil&diff=91842Ost-in-Edhil2010-01-25T09:30:51Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg|300px]]<br />
| name=Ost-in-Edhil<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=[[Sindarin|S.]] ''"Fortress of the Elves"'' <br>(''[[ost]]'' "fortress" + ''[[edhel|edhil]]'' "elves")<br />
| type=City<br />
| location=At the confluence of [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]]<br />
| inhabitants=[[Elves of Eregion]]<br />
| realms=[[Eregion]]<br />
| description=<br />
| events=[[Sack of Eregion]]<br />
| references=[[The Lord of the Rings]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
{{quote|Deep they delved us, high they builded us, fair they wrought us, but they are gone.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Ring Goes South]]}}<br />
'''Ost-in-Edhil''' ([[Second Age 750|S.A. 750]] – [[Second age 1697|1697]], existed for c. 947 years), "Fortress of the Elves" in [[Sindarin]], was the capital city of [[Eregion]], a kingdom of [[Noldor]] and [[Sindar]] in [[Eriador]]. It lay where the rivers [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]] met.<br />
<br />
Ost-in-Edhil was founded by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]], before the time they ruled [[Lothlórien]]. The Elves began trading with the [[Dwarves]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] and built a large road to connect the city with the [[West-gate of Moria|West-gate]] of the Dwarven kingdom. The Elves of Eregion also traded with the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]]. After the Númenóreans founded the city of [[Tharbad]] to the south of Ost-in-Edhil, Galadriel is recorded meeting with [[Aldarion]] before he took up the [[Sceptre]].<br />
<br />
In time the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], a brotherhood of Elven craftsmen, was founded. They were led by [[Celebrimbor]], the greatest smith since [[Fëanor]]. Sometime after [[Second Age 1350|1350]] Galadriel left for Lórien and Celebrimbor become lord of Ost-in-Edhil.<br />
<br />
In 1200 a mysterious craftsman named [[Annatar]] came to the city, offering his considerable talents. For 400 years they learned from him and together forged the [[Nine Rings|Nine]] and [[Seven Rings|Seven]] of the [[Rings of Power]]. Annatar was, in truth, [[Sauron]], who returned to [[Mordor]] to forge the [[One Ring]]. The Dark Lord returned with an army of [[Orcs]] and began the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in which Celebrimbor was slain and Ost-in-Edhil was completely destroyed. <br />
<br />
Centuries later the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] encountered the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil shortly before reaching [[Moria]]. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Cities in Eriador]]<br />
[[Category:Eriador]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Ost-in-Edhil&diff=91841Ost-in-Edhil2010-01-25T09:29:48Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg|300px]]<br />
| name=Ost-in-Edhil<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=[[Sindarin|S.]] ''"Fortress of the Elves"'' <br>(''[[ost]]'' "fortress" + ''[[edhel|edhil]]'' "elves")<br />
| type=City<br />
| location=At the confluence of [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]]<br />
| inhabitants=[[Elves of Eregion]]<br />
| realms=Eregion<br />
| description=<br />
| events=[[Sack of Eregion]]<br />
| references=<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
{{quote|Deep they delved us, high they builded us, fair they wrought us, but they are gone.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Ring Goes South]]}}<br />
'''Ost-in-Edhil''' ([[Second Age 750|S.A. 750]] – [[Second age 1697|1697]], existed for c. 947 years), "Fortress of the Elves" in [[Sindarin]], was the capital city of [[Eregion]], a kingdom of [[Noldor]] and [[Sindar]] in [[Eriador]]. It lay where the rivers [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]] met.<br />
<br />
Ost-in-Edhil was founded by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]], before the time they ruled [[Lothlórien]]. The Elves began trading with the [[Dwarves]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] and built a large road to connect the city with the [[West-gate of Moria|West-gate]] of the Dwarven kingdom. The Elves of Eregion also traded with the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]]. After the Númenóreans founded the city of [[Tharbad]] to the south of Ost-in-Edhil, Galadriel is recorded meeting with [[Aldarion]] before he took up the [[Sceptre]].<br />
<br />
In time the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], a brotherhood of Elven craftsmen, was founded. They were led by [[Celebrimbor]], the greatest smith since [[Fëanor]]. Sometime after [[Second Age 1350|1350]] Galadriel left for Lórien and Celebrimbor become lord of Ost-in-Edhil.<br />
<br />
In 1200 a mysterious craftsman named [[Annatar]] came to the city, offering his considerable talents. For 400 years they learned from him and together forged the [[Nine Rings|Nine]] and [[Seven Rings|Seven]] of the [[Rings of Power]]. Annatar was, in truth, [[Sauron]], who returned to [[Mordor]] to forge the [[One Ring]]. The Dark Lord returned with an army of [[Orcs]] and began the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in which Celebrimbor was slain and Ost-in-Edhil was completely destroyed. <br />
<br />
Centuries later the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] encountered the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil shortly before reaching [[Moria]]. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Cities in Eriador]]<br />
[[Category:Eriador]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Ost-in-Edhil&diff=91840Ost-in-Edhil2010-01-25T09:28:08Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{location<br />
| image=[[Image:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg|300px]]<br />
| name=Ost-in-Edhil<br />
| othernames=<br />
| etymology=''[[ost]]'' "fortress" + ''[[edhel|edhil]]'' "elves"<br />
| type=City<br />
| location=At the confluence of [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]]<br />
| inhabitants=[[Elves of Eregion]]<br />
| realms=Eregion<br />
| description=<br />
| events=[[Sack of Eregion]]<br />
| references=<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
{{quote|Deep they delved us, high they builded us, fair they wrought us, but they are gone.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Ring Goes South]]}}<br />
'''Ost-in-Edhil''' ([[Second Age 750|S.A. 750]] – [[Second age 1697|1697]], existed for c. 947 years), "Fortress of the Elves" in [[Sindarin]], was the capital city of [[Eregion]], a kingdom of [[Noldor]] and [[Sindar]] in [[Eriador]]. It lay where the rivers [[Sirannon]] and [[Glanduin]] met.<br />
<br />
Ost-in-Edhil was founded by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]], before the time they ruled [[Lothlórien]]. The Elves began trading with the [[Dwarves]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] and built a large road to connect the city with the [[West-gate of Moria|West-gate]] of the Dwarven kingdom. The Elves of Eregion also traded with the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]]. After the Númenóreans founded the city of [[Tharbad]] to the south of Ost-in-Edhil, Galadriel is recorded meeting with [[Aldarion]] before he took up the [[Sceptre]].<br />
<br />
In time the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], a brotherhood of Elven craftsmen, was founded. They were led by [[Celebrimbor]], the greatest smith since [[Fëanor]]. Sometime after [[Second Age 1350|1350]] Galadriel left for Lórien and Celebrimbor become lord of Ost-in-Edhil.<br />
<br />
In 1200 a mysterious craftsman named [[Annatar]] came to the city, offering his considerable talents. For 400 years they learned from him and together forged the [[Nine Rings|Nine]] and [[Seven Rings|Seven]] of the [[Rings of Power]]. Annatar was, in truth, [[Sauron]], who returned to [[Mordor]] to forge the [[One Ring]]. The Dark Lord returned with an army of [[Orcs]] and began the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in which Celebrimbor was slain and Ost-in-Edhil was completely destroyed. <br />
<br />
Centuries later the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] encountered the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil shortly before reaching [[Moria]]. <br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Cities in Eriador]]<br />
[[Category:Eriador]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=File:Felix_Sotomayor_-_Ost-in-Edhil_cropped.jpg&diff=91839File:Felix Sotomayor - Ost-in-Edhil cropped.jpg2010-01-25T09:27:31Z<p>Mthomas: Category:Images by Felix Sotomayor
Category:Images of Ost-in-Edhil</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Images by Felix Sotomayor]]<br />
[[Category:Images of Ost-in-Edhil]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durin%27s_Bane&diff=91664Durin's Bane2010-01-24T15:33:24Z<p>Mthomas: /* During the War of the Ring */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - At the Bridge.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Durin's Bane<br />
| othernames=Nameless Terror <br> [[Flame of Udûn]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref><br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]] <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Valaquenta]]</ref><br />
| years=<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
| realm=[[Morgoth]]'s dominions (early), <br> [[Moria]] (after)<br />
| gender=Unknown<br />
| race=[[Balrogs]] ([[Maiar]])<br />
| appearance= Large in scale, bearing a whip and a flaming sword<br />
| accomplishments=Slew [[Durin VI]],<br> ruined [[Khazad-dûm]], <br>defeated [[Gandalf]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
'''Durin's Bane''' refers to a specific [[Balrog]] who was not otherwise named. It was probably one of the last of its kind, having survived the [[War of Wrath]]. After his long hibernation, he was awaken by the [[Dwarves]] in the [[Third Age]] and encountered by the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Before Hibernation===<br />
Durin's Bane was created as a [[Maia]], and followed [[Morgoth]] to [[Arda]] soon after its creation, like the other [[Balrogs]]. There it most likely fought in all major battles until the end of the [[First Age]]. When the [[Valar]] came against Morgoth in the [[War of Wrath]], Durin's Bane managed to flee and escaped into the east from the ruins of [[Angband]], burying itself in the roots of the [[Misty Mountains]], beneath [[Khazad-dûm]].<br />
<br />
===Awakening and Third Age===<br />
For more than five millennia, the Balrog hibernated in its deep hiding place at the roots of the mountains in [[Khazad-dûm]]. It remained undisturbed throughout the [[Second Age]] and most of the [[Third Age|Third]], before the [[mithril]]-miners of [[Dwarf]]-King [[Durin VI]] awoke it in [[Third Age 1980|T.A. 1980]]. Durin was slain by the creature, at which point it became known as ''Durin's [[Bane]]''<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix A]], Durin's Folk</ref>. <br />
<br />
The [[Dwarves]] attempted to fight the Balrog, but its power was far too great. Despite their efforts to hold Khazad-dûm against it, King Náin and many of the Dwarves were killed and the survivors were forced to flee. This disaster appears to have also reached the [[Silvan Elves]] of [[Lothlórien]], many of whom also fled the "'''Nameless Terror'''" (it was not recognized as a Balrog at the time). The elves began to call the place ''Moria'', "The Black Pit". <br />
<br />
For five hundred years, Moria was left to the Balrog <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix B]]''</ref>. <br />
<br />
[[Sauron]] began to put his plans for war into effect around the year 2480 of the [[Third Age]]. As part of these, he sent [[Orcs]] and [[Trolls]] to the Misty Mountains to bar all of the passes. Some of these creatures came to Moria. It is unclear as to whether Sauron could have controlled the Balrog (they were both [[Maiar]]) but it is probable that they would have been allied against the "common good". The Balrog did allow the Orcs and trolls to remain in Moria while it dwelt there. We do not know whether Sauron was aware of the Balrog's presence prior to this time.<br />
<br />
The [[Battle of Azanulbizar]] was the climactic battle in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]]. It took place before the eastern gate of Moria in 2799 and was a victory for the Dwarves. However, the victors did not conquer Moria because [[Dáin II Ironfoot|Dáin Ironfoot]], having slain the Orc [[Azog]], felt the terror of the Balrog at the gate. Despite a failed attempt to recolonise Moria by [[Balin]] in 2989, Durin's Bane remained a menace in the ancient kingdom of the Dwarves whose nature was hidden to the outside world.<br />
<br />
=== During the War of the Ring ===<br />
<br />
[[Image:Danny Staten - Durin's Bane.jpg|thumb|left|250px|''Durin's Bane'' by [[Danny Staten]]]]<br />
In January of 3019, the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] travelled through Moria on the way to [[Mount Doom]]. There they encountered Durin's Bane at the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]. The Elf [[Legolas of Mirkwood|Legolas]] instantly recognised the Balrog despite having never seen one before. More importantly, the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] was there (perhaps for this very purpose); knowing that it was far more powerful than even the greatest of his companions, he challenged it<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref>.<br />
<br />
Since Gandalf and the Balrog were both Maiar, they were beings of the same order. As they faced each other, Gandalf broke the Bridge in front of him, but as the Balrog fell it wrapped its whip around Gandalf's ankle, which dragged him down to hanging onto the edge. As the Company looked in horror, Gandalf said, "Fly, you fools!" and let go. Neither he nor the Balrog was killed by the fall, and Gandalf pursued the creature for eight days until they climbed to the peak of [[Zirakzigil]]. Here they fought for two days and nights. In the end, the Balrog was cast down and it broke the mountain-side as it fell. Gandalf himself died following this ordeal, but was later sent back to Middle-earth with even greater powers as Gandalf the White.<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal on Adaptations==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|Durin's Bane in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
*'''''[[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]''''':<br />
Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. Jackson's Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
*'''''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]], [[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]''''':<br />
The evil factions of the can summon a balrog, specifically Durin's Bane for a short period of time. It is one of the mightiest units of the game, but it cannot be build by the player, but it can be picked as a game power.<br />
As the games are closely related to the film trilogy in terms of appearance, Durin's Bane is designed like the one seen in the films, except the fact tha he is not flame and smoke surrounded.<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
{{References}}<br />
#<small> [[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Mirror of Galadriel]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], [[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]], [[Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath]]<br />
<br />
{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Durins Fluch]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs:fleau_de_durin]]<br />
[[fi:Durinin Turma]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durin%27s_Bane&diff=91362Durin's Bane2010-01-23T11:50:10Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - At the Bridge.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Durin's Bane<br />
| othernames=Nameless Terror <br> [[Flame of Udûn]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref><br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]] <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Valaquenta]]</ref><br />
| years=<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
| realm=[[Morgoth]]'s dominions (early), <br> [[Moria]] (after)<br />
| gender=Unknown<br />
| race=[[Balrogs]] ([[Maiar]])<br />
| appearance= Large in scale, bearing a whip and a flaming sword<br />
| accomplishments=Slew [[Durin VI]],<br> ruined [[Khazad-dûm]], <br>defeated [[Gandalf]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
'''Durin's Bane''' refers to a specific [[Balrog]] who was not otherwise named. It was probably one of the last of its kind, having survived the [[War of Wrath]]. After his long hibernation, he was awaken by the [[Dwarves]] in the [[Third Age]] and encountered by the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Before Hibernation===<br />
Durin's Bane was created as a [[Maia]], and followed [[Morgoth]] to [[Arda]] soon after its creation, like the other [[Balrogs]]. There it most likely fought in all major battles until the end of the [[First Age]]. When the [[Valar]] came against Morgoth in the [[War of Wrath]], Durin's Bane managed to flee and escaped into the east from the ruins of [[Angband]], burying itself in the roots of the [[Misty Mountains]], beneath [[Khazad-dûm]].<br />
<br />
===Awakening and Third Age===<br />
For more than five millennia, the Balrog hibernated in its deep hiding place at the roots of the mountains in [[Khazad-dûm]]. It remained undisturbed throughout the [[Second Age]] and most of the [[Third Age|Third]], before the [[mithril]]-miners of [[Dwarf]]-King [[Durin VI]] awoke it in [[Third Age 1980|T.A. 1980]]. Durin was slain by the creature, at which point it became known as ''Durin's [[Bane]]''<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix A]], Durin's Folk</ref>. <br />
<br />
The [[Dwarves]] attempted to fight the Balrog, but its power was far too great. Despite their efforts to hold Khazad-dûm against it, King Náin and many of the Dwarves were killed and the survivors were forced to flee. This disaster appears to have also reached the [[Silvan Elves]] of [[Lothlórien]], many of whom also fled the "'''Nameless Terror'''" (it was not recognized as a Balrog at the time). The elves began to call the place ''Moria'', "The Black Pit". <br />
<br />
For five hundred years, Moria was left to the Balrog <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix B]]''</ref>. <br />
<br />
[[Sauron]] began to put his plans for war into effect around the year 2480 of the [[Third Age]]. As part of these, he sent [[Orcs]] and [[Trolls]] to the Misty Mountains to bar all of the passes. Some of these creatures came to Moria. It is unclear as to whether Sauron could have controlled the Balrog (they were both [[Maiar]]) but it is probable that they would have been allied against the "common good". The Balrog did allow the Orcs and trolls to remain in Moria while it dwelt there. We do not know whether Sauron was aware of the Balrog's presence prior to this time.<br />
<br />
The [[Battle of Azanulbizar]] was the climactic battle in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]]. It took place before the eastern gate of Moria in 2799 and was a victory for the Dwarves. However, the victors did not conquer Moria because [[Dáin II Ironfoot|Dáin Ironfoot]], having slain the Orc [[Azog]], felt the terror of the Balrog at the gate. Despite a failed attempt to recolonise Moria by [[Balin]] in 2989, Durin's Bane remained a menace in the ancient kingdom of the Dwarves whose nature was hidden to the outside world.<br />
<br />
=== During the War of the Ring ===<br />
<br />
[[Image:Danny Staten - Durin's Bane.jpg|thumb|300px|''Durin's Bane'' by [[Danny Staten]]]]<br />
In January of 3019, the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] travelled through Moria on the way to [[Mount Doom]]. There they encountered Durin's Bane at the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]. The Elf [[Legolas of Mirkwood|Legolas]] instantly recognised the Balrog despite having never seen one before. More importantly, the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] was there (perhaps for this very purpose); knowing that it was far more powerful than even the greatest of his companions, he challenged it<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref>.<br />
<br />
Since Gandalf and the Balrog were both Maiar, they were beings of the same order. As they faced each other, Gandalf broke the Bridge in front of him, but as the Balrog fell it wrapped its whip around Gandalf's ankle, which dragged him down to hanging onto the edge. As the Company looked in horror, Gandalf said, "Fly, you fools!" and let go. Neither he nor the Balrog was killed by the fall, and Gandalf pursued the creature for eight days until they climbed to the peak of [[Zirakzigil]]. Here they fought for two days and nights. In the end, the Balrog was cast down and it broke the mountain-side as it fell. Gandalf himself died following this ordeal, but was later sent back to Middle-earth with even greater powers as Gandalf the White.<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal on Adaptations==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|Durin's Bane in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
*'''''[[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]''''':<br />
Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. Jackson's Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
*'''''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]], [[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]''''':<br />
The evil factions of the can summon a balrog, specifically Durin's Bane for a short period of time. It is one of the mightiest units of the game, but it cannot be build by the player, but it can be picked as a game power.<br />
As the games are closely related to the film trilogy in terms of appearance, Durin's Bane is designed like the one seen in the films, except the fact tha he is not flame and smoke surrounded.<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
{{References}}<br />
#<small> [[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Mirror of Galadriel]]"<br />
#[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]], [[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]], [[Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath]]<br />
<br />
{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Durins Fluch]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs:fleau_de_durin]]<br />
[[fi:Durinin Turma]]</div>Mthomashttps://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Durin%27s_Bane&diff=91359Durin's Bane2010-01-23T11:41:15Z<p>Mthomas: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{evil infobox<br />
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - At the Bridge.jpg|250px]]<br />
| name=Durin's Bane<br />
| othernames=Nameless Terror <br> [[Flame of Udûn]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref><br />
| created=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]] <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Valaquenta]]</ref><br />
| years=<br />
| age=<br />
| destroyed=[[Third Age 3019|T.A. 3019]]<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
| realm=[[Morgoth]]'s dominions (early), <br> [[Moria]] (after)<br />
| gender=Unknown<br />
| race=[[Balrogs]] ([[Maiar]])<br />
| appearance= Large in scale, bearing a whip and a flaming sword<br />
| accomplishments=Slew [[Durin VI]],<br> ruined [[Khazad-dûm]], <br>defeated [[Gandalf]]<br />
|}}<br />
<br />
'''Durin's Bane''' refers to a specific [[Balrog]] who was not otherwise named. It was probably one of the last of its kind, having survived the [[War of Wrath]]. After his long hibernation, he was awaken by the [[Dwarves]] in the [[Third Age]] and encountered by the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
===Before Hibernation===<br />
Durin's Bane was created as a [[Maia]], and followed [[Morgoth]] to [[Arda]] soon after its creation, like the other [[Balrogs]]. There it most likely fought in all major battles until the end of the [[First Age]]. When the [[Valar]] came against Morgoth in the [[War of Wrath]], Durin's Bane managed to flee and escaped into the east from the ruins of [[Angband]], burying itself in the roots of the [[Misty Mountains]], beneath [[Khazad-dûm]].<br />
<br />
===Awakening and Third Age===<br />
For more than five millennia, the Balrog hibernated in its deep hiding place at the roots of the mountains in [[Khazad-dûm]]. It remained undisturbed throughout the [[Second Age]] and most of the [[Third Age|Third]], before the [[mithril]]-miners of [[Dwarf]]-King [[Durin VI]] awoke it in [[Third Age 1980|T.A. 1980]]. Durin was slain by the creature, at which point it became known as ''Durin's [[Bane]]''<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix A]], Durin's Folk</ref>. <br />
<br />
The [[Dwarves]] attempted to fight the Balrog, but its power was far too great. Despite their efforts to hold Khazad-dûm against it, King Náin and many of the Dwarves were killed and the survivors were forced to flee. This disaster appears to have also reached the [[Silvan Elves]] of [[Lothlórien]], many of whom also fled the "'''Nameless Terror'''" (it was not recognized as a Balrog at the time). The elves began to call the place ''Moria'', "The Black Pit". <br />
<br />
For five hundred years, Moria was left to the Balrog <ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[Appendix B]]''</ref>. <br />
<br />
[[Sauron]] began to put his plans for war into effect around the year 2480 of the [[Third Age]]. As part of these, he sent [[Orcs]] and [[Trolls]] to the Misty Mountains to bar all of the passes. Some of these creatures came to Moria. It is unclear as to whether Sauron could have controlled the Balrog (they were both [[Maiar]]) but it is probable that they would have been allied against the "common good". The Balrog did allow the Orcs and trolls to remain in Moria while it dwelt there. We do not know whether Sauron was aware of the Balrog's presence prior to this time.<br />
<br />
The [[Battle of Azanulbizar]] was the climactic battle in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]]. It took place before the eastern gate of Moria in 2799 and was a victory for the Dwarves. However, the victors did not conquer Moria because [[Dáin II Ironfoot|Dáin Ironfoot]], having slain the Orc [[Azog]], felt the terror of the Balrog at the gate. Despite a failed attempt to recolonise Moria by [[Balin]] in 2989, Durin's Bane remained a menace in the ancient kingdom of the Dwarves whose nature was hidden to the outside world.<br />
<br />
=== During the War of the Ring ===<br />
<br />
[[Image:Danny Staten - Durin's Bane.jpg|thumb|300px|''Durin's Bane'' by [[Danny Staten]]]]<br />
In January of 3019, the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] travelled through Moria on the way to [[Mount Doom]]. There they encountered Durin's Bane at the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]. The Elf [[Legolas of Mirkwood|Legolas]] instantly recognised the Balrog despite having never seen one before. More importantly, the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] was there (perhaps for this very purpose); knowing that it was far more powerful than even the greatest of his companions, he challenged it<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]"</ref>.<br />
<br />
Since Gandalf and the Balrog were both Maiar, they were beings of the same order. As they faced each other, Gandalf broke the Bridge in front of him, but as the Balrog fell it wrapped its whip around Gandalf's ankle, which dragged him down to hanging onto the edge. As the Company looked in horror, Gandalf said, "Fly, you fools!" and let go. Neither he nor the Balrog was killed by the fall, and Gandalf pursued the creature for eight days until they climbed to the peak of [[Zirakzigil]]. Here they fought for two days and nights. In the end, the Balrog was cast down and it broke the mountain-side as it fell. Gandalf himself died following this ordeal, but was later sent back to Middle-earth with even greater powers as Gandalf the White.<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The White Rider]]"</ref><br />
<br />
==Portrayal on Adaptations==<br />
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Balrog.jpg|thumb|Durin's Bane in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]]]<br />
*'''''[[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]''''':<br />
Durin's Bane has wings, albeit wings that were purely decorative as the Balrog could not fly. Jackson's Demon of Might was indistinct, a real blend of shadow and fire. Only its horned head, cloven feet, and clawed hands could clearly be seen.<br />
<br />
*'''''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]], [[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]''''':<br />
The evil factions of the can summon a balrog, specifically Durin's Bane for a short period of time. It is one of the mightiest units of the game, but it cannot be build by the player, but it can be picked as a game power.<br />
As the games are closely related to the film trilogy in terms of appearance, Durin's Bane is designed like the one seen in the films, except the fact tha he is not flame and smoke surrounded.<br />
<br />
== See Also ==<br />
*[[:Category:Images of Balrogs|Images of Balrogs]]<br />
{{References}}<br />
<br />
{{maiar}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Maiar]]<br />
[[Category:Balrogs]]<br />
[[de:Durins Fluch]]<br />
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:balrogs:fleau_de_durin]]<br />
[[fi:Durinin Turma]]</div>Mthomas