As a long-time fan of Middle Earth, I can’t help but feel a mix of anticipation and trepidation as I watch “The Rings of Power.” Having grown up with Tolkien’s works, I’ve always found comfort in the intricate details and rich history that make Middle Earth feel like a second home. Yet, I also understand that any adaptation will inevitably reflect the vision and emotional connection of its creators.
This article contains spoilers for LOTR: The Rings of Power Seasons 1 and 2
Key Takeaways
- Season 2 of LOTR: The Rings of Power ends with betrayals & brutal deaths, setting the stage for a darker tone.
- Showrunners refer to season 2 as “The Villain Season,” focusing on Sauron’s manipulation to craft the rings of power.
- Characters face critical moments in Middle Earth history, leaving key storylines open for a necessary third season.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power just concluded its second season on Amazon Prime. The season finale, EP8, “Shadow and Flame” sent the second season of the fantasy series out on a dramatic high note, that leaves its sizeable cast of characters all at critical points not only in the history of the second age, but in their lives as beings of Middle Earth. The second installment of Rings of Power was an improvement on all fronts; pushing the high standard set by the first season’s ambitious sense of pacing and world-building, while infusing a genuine core of profound darkness at the center of its narrative.
In certain aspects, the structure set in the first season has persisted. Just like before, we’re still navigating several intertwining storylines and character groups, all unfolding concurrently across the expansive world of Middle Earth, sometimes extending beyond its boundaries. Nori, Poppy, and the stranger are now journeying through Rhun, seeking his destiny. However, things become more complicated in Khazad-dûm as a ring of power intensifies the deep emotional rift between prince Durin IV and his father king Durin III, the realm of Númenor is rapidly disintegrating, Galadriel is fighting off waves of Adar’s forces on her quest to vanquish Sauron, and Bear McCreary’s music continues to be awe-inspiring throughout – these are just a few significant elements that were thoughtfully carried forward from season one into this new series of hour-long episodes.
From my perspective as an ardent fan, Season 2 takes on a noticeably somber tone, often referred to by showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay as “The Villain Season.” This moniker is fitting given that the narrative centers around Sauron, or Annatar, and his cunning manipulations. We delve into how he skillfully deceived Celebrimbor and the Elven smiths of Eregion, ultimately persuading them to forge the nine remaining Rings of Power in his favor.
In contrast to expanding its narrative scope, the second season of The Rings of Power delves even further into intense dramatic elements. The driving force behind this season is its rich, intricate storylines. As darkness spreads across Middle Earth, the malevolent influence of the shadows and the corrosive power of the rings become increasingly evident. With numerous significant plots unfolding by the season’s conclusion, a third series (and potentially more) of The Rings, is not only desirable but essential.
What May Come To Pass
In the second season, Celebrimbor stood out as a remarkable character. Tragically, he sacrificed his life heroically, safeguarding the nine rings of men from Sauron’s control until the end (an awe-inspiring moment). Later, Sauron assumed the form of the deceased elven smith during his confrontation with Galadriel. Could this fleeting instance hint at some influence from “Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor“? Indeed, even for a show that occasionally bends the rules of canon, the notion of Celebrimbor reappearing as a vengeful spirit seems doubtful. However, Sauron’s ability to mimic (similar to Mystique in Middle Earth) might summon the spirits of the greatest smiths of Eregion at least.
Sauron and Galadriel: On two separate occasions in the first two seasons of Rings of Power, Sauron has proposed making Galadriel queen of Middle Earth. His fascination with absolute power and breathtaking beauty, traits that Galadriel seems to embody, is undeniable. Yet, his interest isn’t merely a one-way attraction. It isn’t until episode 8 when Galadriel firmly declares “The door is shut” during their thrilling duel, that we as viewers feel assured she is free from Sauron’s sinister charm. Even in their final encounter, instead of ending her life (which he easily could), the deceiver chooses to wound Galadriel with Morgoth’s crown, mirroring the injury Adar inflicted on him at the start of season two. In Sauron’s thoughts, he continues to picture Galadriel ascending to the dark throne he envisions for her; a future she herself glimpses in The Fellowship of the Ring’s Mirror of Galadriel.
The Downfall of Númenor: The decline of the mighty kingdom of Númenor has commenced by the end of season two. Elendil bids farewell to Queen Tar-Míriel and rides towards the sanctuary of loyal Númenorians on the western side of the island nation, before departing. However, prior to his departure, the queen bestows upon him the legendary sword Narsil’s Flame, later wielded by Isilidur to sever Sauron’s ring from his finger. Simultaneously, Elendil’s daughter Earien remains with the cunning Ar-Pharazon, while his son Isilidur sets sail for the shores of Númenor, oblivious to the perilous circumstances he will encounter upon his return. To be honest, certain characters in this narrative, like the vexing Earien or the irritating Kemen, are at times more challenging to sympathize with than Sauron himself, whose aura exudes an allure of charm, enigma, and threat. Nevertheless, the climactic events that this plot is building towards will be rewarding if we ever get to witness their accurate portrayal on the big screen.
Nori and the Stranger: By the conclusion of season two, Nori and the enigmatic figure bid each other farewell. She departs solo, not accompanying Poppy or the Stoors (who are genetically linked to Sméagol). Given her name Elanor Brandyfoot, it’s not hard to envision her playing a role in the lands that would later be known as the Shire. Although creating the Shire could provide an intriguing backstory, depicting the development of a peaceful farming community inhabited by hobbits seems rather challenging for dramatic purposes. Nevertheless, it could potentially make for an engaging DIY home improvement series set in Middle-earth.
In the aftermath of Eregion, Narvi informs Durin IV that Elrond, Galadriel, and other Elves have departed to a valley located north of Khazad-dûm. While not explicitly stated, it’s assumed this is Rivendell. The final scene of season two portrays the high king Gil-Galaad atop the valley, brandishing his sword aloft, symbolizing a rallying cry for his fellow Elves, echoing another esteemed king’s words, “It’s time to pursue and defeat some orcs.
Khazad-dum: Despite King Durin IV crowning his son as his successor before perishing in battle against the Balrog, the coronation was never formally executed, leaving various factions scrambling for Khazad-dûm’s throne. As mentioned by Narvi, Durin’s brother, who remains unnamed in the series, is one of these contenders, along with several claimants from the Blue Mountains. Notably, they are kin to Thorin Oakenshield, which makes them formidable adversaries for Durin and Disa. The discovered caverns rich in mithril by the late king may mark the downfall of the Durin dynasty. As Saruman forewarns in The Fellowship of the Ring, “The dwarves mined too avidly and too deep. You are aware of what they stirred up in Khazad-dûm… darkness and fire.” In the third season, we will witness firsthand the ominous reality of Saruman’s words.
You might ponder: It’s understandable that Elrond’s views on Dwarves might not align perfectly with their portrayal in Peter Jackson’s trilogy. After all, season two concludes and we see a shift in Elrond’s feelings towards them when he talks to Gandalf in Rivendell in The Fellowship of the Ring. If Elrond and Durin were to become adversaries, it would be quite disheartening for fans, marking a somber end to a beloved friendship. However, given that the days of Khazad-dûm are limited, this future could provide some deeply moving material.
In a subtle yet clear hint, the mysterious Dark Wizard from the accursed desert lands of Rhun during season two seems to be none other than Saruman the White. This is suggested by his acknowledgment of Gandalf as an “old friend,” echoing dialogue from the Jackson trilogy. It’s unlikely that he is one of the blue wizards, leaving only Saruman as the remaining possibility.
Gandalf and Tom Bombadil: Regardless if you know him as Mithrandir, Stormcrow, or Greybeard, following the unexpected disclosure in episode 8’s finale, we can now officially address the enigmatic figure by his true name: Gandalf. As season 2 draws to a close, Gandalf’s transformation, from a bearded apprentice to the revered wandering wizard of the west, is only just getting started.
- Where is Tom Bombadils wife Goldberry? A female voice can be heard singing with Tom Bombadil when the stranger first arrives. After their little duet, Tom speaks to her and refers to her by name, but we never see her. When Gandalf asks Tom, he pleads total ignorance. The lyrics of the song that Tom sings with Gandalf at the end of the season reference Goldberry as well, saying, “Old Tom Bombadil and the river-daughter”. Hopefully, season three will bring them together in the flesh.
- Will Tom teach Gandalf how to craft fireworks, blow elaborate smoke rings, or turn a map of Middle Earth into a slice of sourdough bread like he does in episode 4?
Shadows of Tomorrow
The opening scene of season two clearly demonstrates that defeating Sauron is no easy feat for even the mightiest beings. As he explains in the premiere, “After every setback, the darkness assumes a new form and regrows.” Even when reduced to a writhing mass of slimey tendrils, Sauron somehow finds a way to reform, this time taking on the appearance of a strong and capable warrior named Halbrand. Indeed, he has shown an uncanny ability to withstand total destruction, only to be reborn again – in this instance, as a giant, flaming, lidless eye. Some even call him the Michael Meyers of Middle Earth. But as Galadriel warns Sauron through clenched teeth, “The free folk of Middle Earth will always stand against you.” War has now arrived in Middle Earth.
At the conclusion of season two, all the magical rings have been crafted. During the siege of Eregion, the Orcs destroyed all ancient manuscripts detailing the Elven blacksmiths’ techniques from Eregion. These documents held the complete history of Elven metalworking since the birth of Middle Earth. With Celebrimbor deceased, any chance of forging new rings similar to those produced through his unfortunate partnership with Annatar in Eregion vanished alongside the burnt scrolls. Now, only one ring is left to be made – the One Ring itself. Given the image of Sauron holding Feanor’s hammer as Poppy delivers her poignant speech in episode 8, it appears we are moving towards the very event where this final ring will be crafted. In light of Poppy’s words, “all anyone can do is try and create something new,” it seems that is exactly what lies ahead.
In Tolkien’s epic universe, its grandeur mirrors that of biblical tales, crafted solely within the imagination of one author. However, parts such as the Silmarillion and Appendices share similarities with George RR Martin’s “Fire and Blood,” offering accounts of historical events that have been orally transmitted over generations, leaving room for various interpretations. The challenge arises when some storyline decisions in later timeline events appear inconsistent or illogical. Yet, the key aspect is ensuring a sense of familiarity and belonging within Tolkien’s Middle Earth.
The debate over whether any adaption should have a strict, orthodox adherence the text, is a topic that encompasses nearly all fandom communities. Crucially, in beleoved properties with massive and dedicated fanbases, things like Star Wars, and especially Frank Herbert’s Dune, but even more so with something like The Lord of the Rings, which is as detailed as any feral world ever conceived. But even Jackson’s trilogy has a group of detractors who believe his adaptation is not accurate enough.
Regardless of how closely a creator aims to stay true to the original work, their adaptation will inevitably reflect their unique perspective and emotional attachment to it. The limitations of storytelling in TV shows and movies often necessitate changes, reductions, or even exclusions of certain elements that can be fully explored in books, in order to create a clearer, more visually appealing narrative. Where one draws the line on what changes are acceptable is always a matter of personal opinion.
A Last Alliance
In a sense, comparing Tolkien’s Legendarium to a religious text isn’t too far-fetched. Just as scripture leaves room for interpretation, so does Tolkien’s work, especially in texts like The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth. For instance, while Gandalf and Tom Bombadil share a relationship hinted at in the text, their backstory remains largely undefined. Similarly, regions such as Rhun and Harad are mentioned frequently but are not explored in depth. Yet, from the moment Gandalf steps onto Bilbo’s doorstep at Bag End in The Hobbit, his affection for the Hobbits is apparent. However, the details of his history with these little folk remain untold. This is where The Rings of Power can bridge gaps in Middle-earth’s history by providing a compelling backstory. As we follow this series to its conclusion, the reasons behind Gandalf’s deep affection for the Hobbits (and their leaf) will become more clear and satisfying.
McKay and Payne drew inspiration for the show from a particular line in The Fellowship of the Ring by Galadriel: “I tell you, Frodo, even now I sense the Dark Lord, and I perceive his thoughts as they touch on elves – yet still, the door remains closed to him.” This dialogue ignited their creativity, leading to the development of the two seasons we’ve seen so far. One can only wonder what more awaits us if they are granted the opportunity and backing to finish the story they originally intended to share.
Additionally, if the series is not renewed for another season, we won’t have an opportunity to enjoy Poppy’s rendition of a climactic song like “Wandering Day” or her impassioned performance that mirrors Samwise Gamgee’s, summarizing the main ideas of the season in her season finale speeches, which has become customary at the end of each season.
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2024-10-10 04:05