Episode 257 Summary

[Tony Meade]

SESSION 257

They might fetch the Sun:

• Note: In early drafts of this passage, Gandalf was much harsher in response to Legolas than in the final version, which is a pattern that Tolkien does in revision to soften his initial sharpness.
• In shifting from the plural first-person “us” to the second-person “you”, this is the first indication that Legolas is not personally impeded by the snow and doesn’t feel he needs any assistance.
• The context for this is immediately shown in description of Legolas’ physical and mental state.
• It’s possible that Legolas is attempting to stay light of heart in order to stave off any despair.
• Note: This may be an example of Sam’s interjection into the narration in his awe of the Elves.
• While up to this point the emphasis has been on the threat over the Company and the suffering they have experienced, it is now that Legolas speaks and breaks that mood as they turn back.
• Legolas takes it for granted that Gandalf is capable of doing what he suggests if he wants to do it, though there does seem to be general uncertainty about the extent of the power of wizards.
• There seems to be disconnect between the experience of Legolas and the rest of the Company.
• While it’s uncertain if Legolas intends to be sarcastic, Gandalf’s response is characteristically so.
• Gandalf also points out that Legolas’ suggestion is as obviously impossible as his own comment.
• The tone of his idea of Elves fetching the Sun is much like the poems heard about the Man in the Moon coming down, placing it in the category of things heard in fairy-tales, and as impossible.
• This also emphasizes that while Gandalf certainly possesses magical power, he is not omnipotent, and by pointing out that he cannot burn snow, that he is limited by physical laws.
• It is important that Gandalf is as susceptible to the threat of death as any of the mortals there.
• Part of Gandalf’s irritation is rooted in his inability to actually help through his magical power.
• Note: Many fans of Tolkien may be unaware of the limitations of the powers of the Wizards, and this may be an attempt by Tolkien to preempt that by putting that confusion into the minds and voices of the characters in the story, thereby allowing Gandalf to address it for their benefit.
• While Gandalf would have preferred them to get over Caradhras safely, this is a vindication of his earlier belief that it was not the best path for them, though he doesn’t express that now.

When heads are at a loss, bodies must serve:

• Boromir has chosen this moment to literally take matters into his own hands, after seeing that Gandalf is unable to provide a solution, and having not asserted any leadership up to this point.
• The action steps that Boromir suggests are practical, achievable, and within sight of everyone.
• This shows Boromir’s qualities as a leader, and he transitions to that role by stating a proverb, and he is doing what he can to lighten the mood of the Company in a way that Legolas cannot.
• Boromir is still being diplomatic as he steps into a leadership role, as he doesn’t make it about any superiority in wisdom over the Wise, but rather puts his solution forward as second-best.
• His assertion of physical strength is not self-effacing, though, and points out the difference in values in contemporary Gondor, as opposed to Rivendell, but still places brains over brawn.
• Though Gimli may be physically stronger than Boromir in general, the latter’s height gives him the advantage in this situation, which is what makes the difference in finding the pathway.
• Aragorn takes up Boromir’s plan and immediately throws in with him in the task, as the sees not only the wisdom of Boromir’s idea but appreciates his diplomacy and lends his authority.
• Aragorn also puts himself in the “bodies” category, showing his humility and leadership.
• It’s important that Boromir did not nominate himself when he suggested the strongest seek the way, but rather it is Aragorn who nominates himself and Boromir and is willing to go first.
• Even as pathfinder and guide of the Company, Aragorn endorses Boromir’s direction of the path.
• Bill the Pony is not nominated to help because all horses are not good at walking in deep snow.

Burrowing rather than walking:

• Boromir now literally taking the lead in the job with Aragorn following, as they did rhetorically.
• For both Boromir to be willing to go first and for Aragorn to allow it shows both their character.
• There is great humility for the son of the Steward of Gondor and the Heir of Elendil to put themselves through this very undignified labor for the benefit of the others, and that is notable.
• They are willing to do what is needed, and this raises the hopes of the others as they progress.

END OF SESSION