The One Ring Forums: Tolkien Topics: Movie Discussion: The Lord of The Rings:
Favourite character in the lord of the rings



flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 10 2012, 4:28am


Views: 1477
Favourite character in the lord of the rings

I am sorry if this has already been asked, but who is your favourite character in all of the LOTR world. This could be from the LOTR books or movies, the hobbit books or movies, the sillmarillion, the children of Hurin, unfinished tales, any video game( lotr conquest, battle for middle earth, the third age, the white council, guardians of middle earth, war in the north) or even from the appendices. My personal favourite is Legolas. He is just so cool and funny, not to mention good at fighting. It can be a major or minor character. Just wanna know what you think.


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 10 2012, 4:40am


Views: 986
Out of curiosity

What do you find funny about Legolas?


flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 10 2012, 4:47am


Views: 982
Legolas is pretty funny

Just how he argues with gimli all the tim about their kills and who's winning and how he does that one scene in the two towers EE where gimli outkills him in te battle of helms deep and afterwards, to tie it up, legolas shoots an arrow in between gimlis legs saying he was twitching. And the drinking contest. LaughLaughLaugh


PattyJB
Rivendell


Nov 10 2012, 5:02am


Views: 955
Legolas was my favorite from my first reading, back in the 1960's

And the relationship between Legolas and Gimli was the most interesting to me. One of the things that appealed to me about Legolas was that he seemed much less grand than the older elves and more of the realm of the Fae.

He is funny, to me, in the passage during the blizzard on Caradhras.


Quote
Legolas watched them for a while with a smile upon his lips, and then he turned to the others. 'The strongest must seek a way, say you? But I say: let a ploughman plough, but choose an otter for swimming, and for running light over grass and leaf or over snow-an Elf.'

With that he sprang forth nimbly, and then Frodo noticed as if for the first time, though he had long known it, that the Elf had no boots, but wore only light shoes, as he always did, and his feet made little imprint in the snow.

'Farewell!' he said to Gandalf. 'I go to find the Sun!' Then swift as a runner over firm sand he shot away, and quickly overtaking the toiling men, with a wave of his hand he passed them, and sped into the distance, and vanished round the rocky turn.




flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 10 2012, 5:05am


Views: 942
lEgolas

A! That is funny! I always noticed how in the movies he just kind of walks lightly over the snow while all the others are trudging chest-deep through it!


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 10 2012, 5:16am


Views: 956
Got it...

 


Elutherian
Rohan


Nov 10 2012, 5:21am


Views: 962
Gandalf, of course!

Smile

The Grey Pilgrim, they once called me. Three hundred lives of men I walked this earth, and now I have no time...


iandea14
Rivendell


Nov 10 2012, 6:56am


Views: 959
Legolas!

Legolas, he's so awesome and does do so many awesome things!


DanielLB
Immortal


Nov 10 2012, 8:21am


Views: 934
This I a tough question

Since they all have an important role in the story. They all have their interesting quirks. And each one is as different as the other. I could come up with a reason to like all of them (yes, even Grima - what a complex character he is!)

But I'll sit on the fence, and say all of them.Tongue

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Radagast-Aiwendil
Gondor


Nov 10 2012, 8:56am


Views: 944
Gandalf for me

Not only is he so wise, he is also very human despite his high heritage and unlike Saruman possesses a sense of humility. He tells you what you need to hear (as oppose to Grima who tells you what you want to hear) but he never allows himself or others around him to give up hope.

Surely everybody wants somebody like Gandalf in their lives?

"Radagast is, of course, a worthy wizard, a master of shapes and changes of hue, and he has much lore of herbs and beasts, and birds are especially his friends."-Gandalf, The Lord of the Rings.


Elenorflower
Gondor


Nov 10 2012, 5:26pm


Views: 936
I actually find Legolas

the least profound of the companions in the book. I dont think I really got much sense of his personality from the book. But maybe thats just me. On the other hand Gimli was excellently drawn, and I got a real sense of his character, his poetic artistic side is something I really admire about him. A rough tough dwarf with a sensitivity to beauty.

I must admit Orlando Bloom was perfect casting for Legolas. Wink


(This post was edited by Elenorflower on Nov 10 2012, 5:26pm)


starlesswinter
Lorien

Nov 10 2012, 7:14pm


Views: 902
Eowyn

I find her struggles to be really compelling, especially how she turns to darker thoughts as a method of coping with her powerlessness. It's not a particularly admirable thing, but it gives her a depth and refreshing attitude that's missing in the other characters. That's something I missed a bit in the films, even though they do sort of imply it with Wormtongue's speech to her. Miranda Otto did do a wonderful acting job, but there's a bit more to Eowyn than just the "early feminist" role she was given in the films. But I suppose the simplification was warranted among everything else that has to be told. It was still implied, after all.


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 10 2012, 7:42pm


Views: 906
Aragorn

Simply because I am a wanderer (and hopefully, not lost!)


imin
Valinor


Nov 10 2012, 8:04pm


Views: 882
Frodo

He never gets a mention in these things.


Istaris'staffs
Rivendell


Nov 10 2012, 8:41pm


Views: 882
Morgoth

simply because out of all the times I have read about him, I have never been able to put together a mental image of him. I find him fascinating.


DanielLB
Immortal


Nov 10 2012, 10:41pm


Views: 893
He just didn't do much ;-)

I kid ....

I wonder why he is rarely mentioned? It's a food point imin.

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Misto
Lorien

Nov 11 2012, 12:06am


Views: 884
Actually there's three of them

Book: Denethor. And yes, I am being serious Evil
Movie: Wormtongue. Simply a very well-done and very lively character who was pretty non-existent in the book.
Overall winner: Elrond. I know a lot of you would disagree with me but I actually like both versions of him, book- and movie-verse.


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 11 2012, 2:18am


Views: 863
He is ultimately the best character, for me

But Tolkien did describe a reason for Frodo's lack of popularity in the narrative (such as his lack of popularity in the Shire during and after the Scouring), which I think is consistent with his lack of popularity among general audiences.

That is, he essentially becomes a slightly detached vessel for the transmission of mercy and uncomfortable notions of justice, which many people do not admire. Merry and Pippin and Sam were admired by their peers because they were earthier, closer to the "throng," less detached, more personable, and ultimately exhibited martial virtues.

Frodo's public demonstrations of mercy, and slight aloofness from the mob (during the scene of vengeance against Sharkey and Wormtongue, for example), make people uncomfortable. Most value vengeance, and feel "judged" when someone like Frodo comes along to reprimand them for letting their passions get the better of them. In this sense, some find Frodo too "intellecutual" or "philosophical" for their liking. This is why I, however, find him to be the most noble and worthy character.

This also strikes at the heart of Tolkien's choice of the name Frodo, which is tied to an old Norse story of a humble man that was forgotten by history, while his prouder, more prideful contemporaries have been remembered down the ages.


zarabia
Tol Eressea


Nov 11 2012, 4:28am


Views: 844
Frodo, Aragorn, and Galadriel

Frodo because, "Even the smallest person can change the course of the future." A very inspiring character. Aragorn because he is so yin-yang: He's a valiant fighter, but also caring and nurturing. He's extremely self-confident, but also has self-doubt. He's proud, but humble; bold, but careful and diplomatic. Galadriel because she is so wise. And let's face it, she's just plain cool:)


zarabia
Tol Eressea


Nov 11 2012, 4:49am


Views: 854
Good point

I think that often plays into it, but, for me, I was hesitant to list Frodo as one of my favorite character(s) in my profile (and my answer here which is taken from my profile) because he seemed too obvious a choice; I didn't realize that he was rarely named. I included him anyway because, obvious or not, he really is one of my favorites.


Junesong
Rohan


Nov 12 2012, 12:29am


Views: 802
Great question, here's three answers

Books: Sam AND Gollum
Movies: Gandalf the Grey

"Tim... Canterbury... Canterbury Tales... Chaucer... Shakespeare."


Escapist
Gondor


Nov 12 2012, 12:50am


Views: 827
I also think Legolas is funny

but I find that I am moved by the character of Legolas a bit closer to the heart and it is more of a light-hearted longing for elves than the kind of giggling and smirking that takes over me when reading any of Bilbo's parts. It happens almost without my own full awareness and I have come to learn that the slight sadness at the end of LOTR and naive desire to spy out a forest where elves might really live from my younger years are probably linked to his departure in the story.

It is hard to tell how much the familiarity and comraderie of Legolas in contrast to the other elves is due to a real difference in him between other elves versus the sheer amount of time spent and kind of friendship developed between himself and other members of the fellowship. I'm sure that there is some variation in elvish personalities but just like humans (although not exactly like humans since they aren't humans), there can be sides to a personality that come out in different situations.


grammaboodawg
Immortal


Nov 12 2012, 2:32am


Views: 827
*spasm* Just one!? *kerplunk*

AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN!!!

Because so many characters touch my heart and imagination in different ways.

Gandalf the Grey (not white, thank you) is such a unique character. Rough, supportive, funny, intense, whimsical, witty, heroic, passionate, inventive... he loves hobbits. I love the Grey more than the White because grey is not condemned to his transition. When he became white, it was almost like he had a new assignment that took away his permission to enjoy Middle-earth and its inhabitants, imho. White was so consumed with the on-going war, he didn't have time to hang out and enjoy a good smoke at Bag End.

Frodo is so solid and focused, but still maintains that hobbity love of friends, food, and home. And anyone who has am as a very best friend (both glad to be with you and glad you are with me) is okay in my book. He stries so hard to do the right thing in everything he does.

Sam. O Sam. He's faithful beyond reason. No matter what, he's fiercely loyal to those he loves. His priorities are home, friends, food, and his love of things that grow. He's so busy watching out for Frodo that he nearly loses himself... but that's what ultimately wins the day. He's wonderful!



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I really need these new films to take me back to, and not re-introduce me to, that magical world.



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Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 12 2012, 3:03am


Views: 804
Are you referring to the Grey and the White of the books?

Or of the films?

Because in the books, they are nearly indistinguishable.


flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 12 2012, 3:25am


Views: 805
Me too!

I Know right! I also love legolas' humor but also because he is a valiant fighter. One of my favourite parts of the movie the two towers is when he argues with aragorn about the desperateness of the battle of helms deep, and how earlier in the film the care he and gimli show when aragorn returns, after seemingly dying. Gimli reacts by flipping out with joy and legolas simply reacts by saying," you're late." in an extremeley compassionate underlying tone.


flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 12 2012, 3:29am


Views: 525
I personally enjoy

Going for walks in my local(massive) forest as well, simply for the fact it reminds me of the elves! It's just so peaceful, I find secluded trails through the forest that aren't even cemented and I walk for hours.Wink


flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 12 2012, 3:32am


Views: 549
Cool choice!

I find morgoth extremeley interessting as well. He's very cool, in a dark kind of way.Evil


grammaboodawg
Immortal


Nov 12 2012, 10:32am


Views: 519
The movie :)

In the book, he just changed his clothes and combed his hair ;)



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I really need these new films to take me back to, and not re-introduce me to, that magical world.



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sam gamgee
Registered User

Nov 12 2012, 5:21pm


Views: 509
You forgot Samwise the brave!

Sam is uncontested as my favorite LOTR character. He is: undying loyalty, cheerfulness, courage. He doesn't really give a damn about the ring, just wants to protect Frodo. Sam fights off Shelob, encourages Frodo over and over, and finally carries him up Mount Doom. "Frodo wouldn't have gotten far without Sam!"


Sam20
Lorien

Nov 12 2012, 5:44pm


Views: 535
Favorite character

I recall having responded to a similar thread in the Pollantėr not so long ago but I've no problem responding again since my favorite characters seems to change at times.

It is difficult for me to narrow it down to one character but if I must I'll probably choose Gandalf. Charismatic, wise, mystic, powerful, strange he's pretty much got everything that makes it a great character. Who can think of LOTR without thinking of Gandalf? Not me. No wonder is as become over years a figure, an emblem. I also very much like character such as Aragorn, Merry, Galadriel, Frodo, Sam, Legolas, Tųor, Tųrin, Finarfin, Fingolfin, Turgon.


(This post was edited by sam90 on Nov 12 2012, 5:47pm)


Ayiana
The Shire


Nov 12 2012, 7:16pm


Views: 539
My favourite characters

in the book are Legolas, Gimli and Aragorn. I'm not entirely happy with the film versions, though.


flameofudun
Lorien

Nov 14 2012, 4:03am


Views: 476
I love Turin too!

He would be my 3rd choice! He is just so grim and depressesed, but if you read the children of hurin, you definetley get why: he had such a hard and terrible life, and I pity for him when I read it. He has witnessed so many tragedies.Frown


Kristin Thompson
Rohan


Nov 14 2012, 4:39pm


Views: 486
And glowed from within!

But he managed not to do that in a conspicuous way very often.


Ring-Bearer
Rivendell


Nov 14 2012, 9:21pm


Views: 488
Definitely Frodo and Sam

Neither would have gotten far without each other; Frodo's perseverance was fueled by Sam's ever-burning loyalty, and Sam's courage by Frodo's strength.

The Moth is also a favorite- it is the unsung hero!

'What are we holding on to, Sam?'
'There's good in this world, Mr. Frodo, and it's worth fighting for!'


'I can't carry it for you, but I can carry you!'



BeornBerserker
Lorien

Nov 18 2012, 3:15pm


Views: 446
Beorn

 


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 18 2012, 4:30pm


Views: 443
Does he appear in Lord of the Rings?

Didn't think so...


FlyingSerkis
Rivendell

Nov 18 2012, 4:52pm


Views: 460
Sorry, but to quote the original post...


Quote
This could be from the LOTR books or movies, the hobbit books or movies, the sillmarillion, the children of Hurin, unfinished tales, any video game( lotr conquest, battle for middle earth, the third age, the white council, guardians of middle earth, war in the north) or even from the appendices.


Angelic


BeornBerserker
Lorien

Nov 18 2012, 6:59pm


Views: 417
Read the opening post

Wink


Shelob'sAppetite
Valinor

Nov 18 2012, 7:13pm


Views: 509
Apologies

I mistakenly just read the title of the thread, which is: Favourite character in the lord of the ring

Probably not the best title in TORN-thread history...Smile



And back again
Rivendell


Nov 25 2012, 6:44am


Views: 373
When it comes to LOTR,

then I'd have to say Aragorn.

But when it comes to the Hobbit, then I always found Beorn to be fascinating. I need honey daily - and he could supply it AND wrap me up in his strong arms. Mmmm.Wink

I will go there ... and back again.


grammaboodawg
Immortal


Nov 26 2012, 12:28am


Views: 477
:) So very cool.... :D //

 



sample

I really need these new films to take me back to, and not re-introduce me to, that magical world.



TORn's Observations Lists
Unused Scenes



Anubis
Rivendell


Dec 11 2012, 8:49pm


Views: 386
Boromir

He didnīt want to be the best, he just didnīt want to fail. He did not desire to be a king with a hot lady at his side, he just wanted to protect his people. His greatest fear was failing, and it was this fear that led him to his death.

Of course, as with all of Tolkienīs works, the roots of the characters are far more deeper than some would suspect. There is a little bit of Boromir in every one of us. He is the great soldier that doesnīt know which path to take.

The main issue he had? Galadriel detected it with a single glance: lack of hope. He didnīt understand how a little thing like a hobbit could change the world. He didnīt see the value of will, as he himself did not have much of it. He was one of those people who doesnīt understand much more than what is in front of their eyes.

Boromir did not believe Galadriel. "I see no hope". But there was hope, Boromir, albeit a faint one, about to be extinguished, easy to look over...but still there, amidst an ocean of darkness.

Boromir only saw the darkness in front of him, and chose to enter it and defeat it. He didnīt see the flare in the distance, and in the end, evilness consumed him. He was left morally destroyed by the ring, and then, in those brilliant seconds with him on the ground, he realizes it: there is hope.

Frodo. Sam. Merry. Pippin. The hobbits, who have resisted the corruption of the ring all along. I tried, and I failed.

They are the true heroes. They can beat Sauron. My people can be protected. There is hope. It is then that he raises his sword to defend the two little hobbits.

Because physical power is not the key; it is will power. I like this character because he represents an aspect of human being that I know and he reflects it perfectly.

If only you could have lived a little bit longer, Boromir, to see the great days of Gondor renewed. But your fate would not be that.


On a side note, Sean Bean was a damn good actor, the casting was perfect...
Shocked


arkenstone
Registered User

Dec 20 2012, 12:37am


Views: 512
Some favorites

I completely agree. I can't say I have an "absolute" favorite because Tolkien literature is filled with so many wonderful, inspiring characters.

I can share some favorites, though, including but not limited to: Galadriel, Eowyn, Bilbo, Pippin, Treebeard...