The Witch-king: The Fallen Wizard of Númenor | The Red Book

The Witch-king: The Fallen Wizard of Númenor | The Red Book | Episode 1

Рет қаралды 57,595

Күн бұрын

The Red Book Podcast ran for 12 episodes. This is the first episode and it relates to the development of the Witch-king of Angmar over the course of Tolkien's writings. Did you know that the Lord of the Nazgûl, the Witch-king, was once written as a Wizard from Númenor, of the same order as Gandalf? In this episode, I explore the development of this figure from the earliest drafts to the character we recognise today. Why did Tolkien make these changes? Does any part of Tolkien's original idea for this character remain in the finished tale? This episode was adapted from an early video on the channel.
► Chapters:
0:00 - The Red Book Podcast
2:48 - Intro
3:58 - The Witch-king of Angmar
7:26 - The Istari (Wizards)
10:31 - Unknown Origins
12:52 - Interlude
13:10 - The Wizard King drafts Part I
17:09 - The Wizard King drafts Part II
18:51 - The Wizard King drafts Part III
21:40 - Thoughts on Tolkien's changes
25:20 - Outro
► Support the Channel:
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► Supporters:
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► On-Screen Notes:
Not included
► Artwork:
All artists, images, and links to sources are found by following the link below. If you would like to see your artwork appear in videos or discuss the use of your artwork on the channel, please get in touch.
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
► Thumbnail art :
LOTR: Eowyn & Witch King Angmar - Coliandre (www.xaviercollette.art)
► Audio:
The following music was used for this media project:
The Death Of A Dark Star by MusicLFiles
Link: filmmusic.io/song/7297-the-de...
License: filmmusic.io/standard-license
Angelic Interlude by Tim Kulig
Link: filmmusic.io/song/8805-angeli...
License: filmmusic.io/standard-license
► Disclaimer:
All videos are the result of my own research into the works of Tolkien unless otherwise stated. I do not claim rights to any audiobooks, music, or artwork used. All scripts and editing are my own work. Permission has been requested from all copyright holders.
#tolkien #witchking #numenor #onering #sauron

Пікірлер: 178

@istari0 2 жыл бұрын

The Witch King is a fascinating character and hearing how he developed into the character we see in LOTR is just the sort of thing I really enjoy. I do wonder if once Tolkien decided he would not be a member of Gandalf's order that that led Tolkien to change from Wizard King to Witch King in order to avoid confusion with the Istari who were often referred to as wizards.

@Enerdhil 2 жыл бұрын

Maybe Warlock King would've been better, or more confusing.😋

@Allexstrasza Жыл бұрын

@@Enerdhil Witch King rolls off the tongue a lot better than Warlock King, but yeah

@bobdrooples Жыл бұрын

Witch being the descriptor ascribed to a male (albeit a practically divine being) struck something in me when young, yet didn't evoke anything of the traditional witchy tropes. I still prefer Witch being used for both sexes than resorting to Warlock It's odd, still feels discordant today and for reasons. The more naturalistic Wych and etymology of being pliant, bent...twisted, is where I start to think I'm getting somewhere close. Though I dare say Tolkien would have spelt it that way if he'd meant it so. Not that ten year old me knew much of etymology. OT...merriem-webster is the Wikipedia of dictionaries. It's dire when it comes to etymology of words, prefixes and suffixes. Case in point, wych is merely a different spelling of -wich a suffix meaning salt pit. Unless you pay, that is.

@jansandman6983 11 ай бұрын

me too.

@David_Fellner 2 жыл бұрын

I never knew about this earlier concept of the Witch-king. I used to be one of the people who assumed he was a king of Númenór in life. But I eventually realized that didn't make sense, as a Númenórean king becoming a Nazgul would have given Sauron control over that entire kingdom, and the later events of the Akallabêth would have never happened. As for the fallen wizard idea, I'm guessing one reason Tolkien abandoned it was when he realized that Saruman would be one of the main villains of the story; having two of the primary antagonists both be fallen wizards would feel repetitive. One of them gaining power through a ring (but losing their free will in the process) not only added variety, but also demonstrated the hubris that is common in the Tolkien's villains. Actually _seeing_ the end result that a ring of power has on a mortal also makes Frodo's struggle as a Ringbearer a lot more understandable and relatable to the readers.

@Stratos.2 2 жыл бұрын

I have been watching all the major KZfaqrs who focus on Tolkien content, and while you're not the first I believe you have become the finest of them all.

@fearthekilt Жыл бұрын

I have been enamored with middle earth since I was in 6th grade. I'm 47 now and still love it. Great channel my friend.

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

A veteran of Tolkien :D glad you are enjoying my content too!

@ryanratchford2530 2 жыл бұрын

My favourite videos of yours are deep dives in how certain things change in the legendarium.

@enocescalona 2 жыл бұрын

hey, congrats! can't wait to enjoy this.

@andrewfanner2245 2 жыл бұрын

I rather like the idea, expanded with Gandalf's explanation of how some folk would be tempted to take the Ring to "do good", that the Man who became the Witch King was equally so tempted. The nature of Sauron seems to have an element of corrupting good where the end is the same as co-opting or compelling evil to service and thus it seems plausible that one of the Nine might be given to a Man who was very much one of the more powerful and perhaps influential Numenoreans,, more aligned to keeping the freindship of the Elves and reverence for the Valar. How soon after getting the first of the Nine the effects of corruption and adherence to evil would show we probably cannot really tell, but at the very least Sauron would have "eyes and ears" with influence in Numenor or one of its overseas possessions.

@Skelstoolbox Жыл бұрын

It was said, first the men became rich and powerful, even more so with their rings, highly respected and influential in society, until the effects of the ring began to cause them to waste away, each to their native resolve..

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for checking out the first episode of my new Podcast. Hopefully there's an episode 2! If you'd like to listen to this on Spotify, The Red Book Podcast can be found here: open.spotify.com/show/1ie7z2PKCBJVpk1U8bk2Qo . Those looking to support the channel can do so here: www.patreon.com/theredbook

@Enerdhil 2 жыл бұрын

I just discarded my Spotify App because I wasn't listening to anything on Spotify and the App was eating a lot of storage space on my tablet.😒 I guess I have to download the App again for the third time.🙄

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

I have it on Anchor (anchor.fm/red-book) that allows me to add it to other platforms. Did you have any other platforms in mind? I'd happily see what I can do in that regard.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

It is now available on a couple of other platforms (still sorting out more) -> anchor.fm/red-book . You should find Apple there.

@Enerdhil 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook I just click your link to Anchor and there was a message saying sorry but they don't have that page.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

I tried it there and it does go to my page.

@foofighter5509 Жыл бұрын

The Witch King of Angmar always intrigued me and I think it would make a great film.

@Enerdhil 2 жыл бұрын

This was fantastic, Steven. I have said before that you don't need to support your work with visual or audio materials, although the audiobook clips were fantastic. Just your voice and content are enough for me.😁👍

@nfragala 2 жыл бұрын

You rock, Steven! Praise Ulmo, Lord of Waters!

@pathfinder3405 2 жыл бұрын

Brilliant as always ,the witch king is a fascinating character

@TeutonicKnight92 Жыл бұрын

I’ve always like the idea that the Witch-King was one of or the only one of them men who became the Nine who fell willingly.

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

I've always felt he would be willing - everything about him seems like he'd be the greatest evil among them.

@Pub2k4 2 жыл бұрын

Sweet. I’m gonna relax and listen to this. Time to chill

@ryanratchford2530 2 жыл бұрын

Oooo let’s take a look

@mumblingmercian 2 жыл бұрын

Awww yeah, this is the content I’ve been waiting for from you! Enjoying this first episode a lot.

@pCeLobster Жыл бұрын

One of the best things about Tolkien is that people aren't necessarily connected. It makes the world bigger and more mysterious. Like the Witch King being a fallen wizard makes him known. We get that. It shrinks things and is more of a cliche as we've seen that same type of thing many times. But to have his origins be unclear and and not connected at all with Gandalf elevates the whole feeling. Like this must be quite a big and mysterious world if there's someone so powerful and legendary out there who our heroes know so little about.

@gib59er56 Жыл бұрын

You need to understand ( not you personally) that Tolkien was still making changes to the Silmarillion up until the day he died. J.R.R. would never have allowed it to be published because of this.

@Swiftbow 9 ай бұрын

@@gib59er56 While true, recall that Tolkien tried to get the Silmarillion published at the same time as Lord of the Rings. Authors often keep working on things that they haven't published... the act of publishing kind of sets your ideas in stone. So just because he was working on it doesn't mean he didn't want to release it. I would say you're partially right, though, in that near the time of his death, he was working on some rather large alterations and unfinished ideas that may or may not have made his new final version. So, AT THE TIME he wasn't ready, even though he had actually been ready years before. If that makes sense.

@gib59er56 9 ай бұрын

@@Swiftbow Hey!! Awesome to hear from a well read Tolkien person. I like what you laid out as a point in the status of the Silmarillion through time. My take basically comes from Christopher. I did not re-read my comment cuz I believe I know what you are replying to. Chris said he felt the his Dad really did not want it published as he felt (prob. subconsciously) that it would "kill him" , rather, it would be a sign of the end, or a farewell, idk how to put thought to word here as it is 4:28 a.m. e.s.t. So, yes he did pitch Sil to Raynar Unwin ,his publishers during the 40`s and maybe 30`s and 50`s as well. So I am taking the thoughts of Christopher and , in a way , it is almost directly from J.R.R. himself as those twain were incredibly close, and Chris was THE son who loved his father and his "world" so very dearly. Just think of how much Christopher has given us. Amazing, beautiful and done with passion and love. I think we agree on this matter, and thank you for your thoughts. Mae govannen mellon ni ! Namarie (for the present) !

@CarterBlackburn Жыл бұрын

Engagement comment for the algorithm. Great video.

@kellysmith1144 2 жыл бұрын

He's such a badass character.. With a badass sword!

@nikoluslira7753 Жыл бұрын

Phil’s audio book is amazing. Ive listen to it at work every damn day. I’ve read the lotr books like 40 times. I know it has a lot of Peter Jackson’s vision. But I like to think I can understand Tolkien’s Intent I’ve listened to it every day for years as well as read the books very regularly. Your channel is really captivating.

@samarnasir Жыл бұрын

"Enough with introductions" Begins introduction section Hehehe this made me giggle love your content and thank you so much for pouring through all this information for years

@carltuckerson7718 2 жыл бұрын

I look forward to listening to each and every podcast

@Davlavi 2 жыл бұрын

Nice first episode hope you have lots of fun doing this project. for the algorithm.

@Crafty_Spirit 2 жыл бұрын

A strange time to upload it 😁 I like podcasts, they can really fill some empty time slots like relaxed evenings and travel time. Also recently I listened to your podcast with the Mellon Heads, which had a really fun, joyful dynamic.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, it would be fun to do another one with them. For mine, this was really a first effort and first attempt. I've not planned out a timetable or anything like that. This episode was live for a few days before I made the video. Just put the video up last night since I hadn't uploaded in a while.

@thysdebeer2911 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your research and that which you create. Such a wonderful pleasure to discover your channel. Please know that your efforts are appreciated.

@MichaelDG2023 2 жыл бұрын

My friends and I are getting together for a 16 hour day of food from LOTR inspired cookbooks, films and legendarium trivia. I am going to be reviewing your material as part of my prep.

@thebrotherskrynn 2 жыл бұрын

Fascinating, loved this video and the topic of the Witch-King of Angmar. Great job Steven!

@25gramsofbluesky33 2 жыл бұрын

Just love it!

@marcod53 2 жыл бұрын

I'm sorry your old content was stolen, and I'm sorry your channel isn't as popular as it deserves to be. FWIW I think you are THE channel for Tolkien, and I advertise where I can. Good luck, Steven. I'm really cheering for you.

@marcod53 2 жыл бұрын

Also I could listen you for days. I understand the need to play the KZfaq game, but I am IN TO the long form content

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Appreciate that! While I don't have many subscribers, I seem to have many great subsribers who engage with the content. That's a plus!

@flyfisherMN1 Жыл бұрын

Great podcast! That the Witch King has such great intrinsic power prior to his final corruption clearly points to him being a man of Westernese. What is interesting is that three of those that became Nazgul were Numenorean. So what would differentiate him from the others? A possibility is that he was indeed of the line of Elros. Not a king (as was noted), but instead a second son of a king, or a sicon of some other noble house with royal blood.

@CJ-111 11 ай бұрын

Great episode. Looking forward to listening again

@gunders85 2 жыл бұрын

This is amazing! Cant wait for episode 2

@joeybox0rox649 2 жыл бұрын

EXCELLENT reading! I'm looking forward to Episode 2. Thank you so much!👍👍

@joseraulcapablanca8564 2 жыл бұрын

Good stuff as ever Steven. I like the format too. Keep up the good work.

@lovecraft1874 Жыл бұрын

Keep up the great work fella.

@WhoIsCalli 15 күн бұрын

Great vid. I’ve always loved the idea that he was linked with Numenor - something about a human fallen so far and wishing to destroy the kingdoms in exile always shone strong to me

@TheRedBook 15 күн бұрын

I do believe that even in the last writings that it makes sense for the Lord of the Nazgul to be a man of high birth. I don't go as far as to say he was a King of Numenor or Prince but I think he was certainly a Lord of some sort associated with Numenor.

@WhoIsCalli 14 күн бұрын

Agree

@superlegomaster55 2 жыл бұрын

Congrats on this!

@bradym13 2 жыл бұрын

That was deadly as usual !!!

@martystrasinger3801 2 жыл бұрын

Concure with the others. These are the topics that I didn’t know I needed to know.

@wkmalory 2 жыл бұрын

Your content is always by the book, this was again fascinating, kudos

@rickstorm4198 2 жыл бұрын

Love your work mate! Keep it up.

@alancowan4377 Жыл бұрын

Great to hear an informative analysis and background to Tolkien writings. Thank you.

@ThunderhawkVeronicaLazerwolf Жыл бұрын

I enjoy your style! You ask interesting questions! Thanks! Keep it up!

@durendalarcas8209 2 жыл бұрын

Amazing as always! I'm a sucker for all things Nazgul.

@VierasMarius 2 жыл бұрын

Fascinating discussion, and I like the format. Looking forward to more podcasts!

@specialnewb9821 Жыл бұрын

This discussion makes me want to focus on the magic Men were capable of using in Middle Earth. For example did the Mouth of Sauron gain some of his abilities because of his ties to Sauron or could any man do what he did absent an angelic overlord? Were there "good" magic users in Numenor as sorcery is associated with drawing on Morgoth? In ME magic is never a neutral mechanical force but always tied into divine power in someway whether Valar, Melkor, or granted as a part of nature to the Elves by Eru. Obviously there is not a whole lot on this topic.

@williammcdonald3147 5 ай бұрын

This was great keep it up

@shanenolan8252 2 жыл бұрын

Cheers Steven, best of luck with the podcast.

@shawnthompson2303 7 ай бұрын

This is *MY HOUR.*

@neant2046 2 жыл бұрын

I think it is an enjoyable podcast, I look forward to the next episode! The fact that we can trace the evolutionary path of Tolkien's Legendarium in general and certain characters in particular from his earliest notes to the latest version is one of the most captivating aspects of his whole writing for me, and it's cool to see this topic in good hands :)

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

I think I'd like to do a similar thing with other characters in the future - tracing how they changed. Obviously not every episode but it's a good idea for future episodes.

@user-sd7ri9fy4i 10 ай бұрын

Nice work dude

@drewp9819 2 жыл бұрын

The podcast is a great idea for sure

@almastidyatlov9641 2 жыл бұрын

I listened to this on Spotify and just wanted to say that I hope there'll be plenty more! Fascinating thoughts as always and quite perfect for a shorter walk.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it, I'm just in the process of recording the second episode as well!

@MistaGify 2 жыл бұрын

I will be following your podcast on Spotify with great interest! 😊

@mosesgunn6937 2 жыл бұрын

Easily my favorite LotR KZfaq channel. Criminally low subscriber count.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks :D And yes, it sucks. Think my average now is like 6 a day or something. Not getting anywhere with subscriber count!

@mosesgunn6937 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook Here's hoping it turns around. FWIW you've earned a new Patreon. :)

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

@@mosesgunn6937 I noticed :D thanks for that and glad to have you on board! Hope you will make it onto Discord as well.

@mrmoto66 Жыл бұрын

Love your content. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

@Peter-wc7dg Жыл бұрын

Something that might be interesting to consider is how important this character is being Sauron's lieutenant - as Sauron was for Melkor / Morgoth. Clearly this character was incredibly important and his arc may have links back to the tales of Melkor and Sauron themselves - but it would require some good thinking to tease out. His creation and nature clearly should be major plot points. It is surprising that this was not really resolved given the amount of depth given to Melkor and Sauron, however I guess there is only so much one can write in a lifetime! Some thoughts about themes in his demise are that he was slain by innocence, divine providence and his own actions (e.g. the leaf blade for the latter two points), which are major themes throughout the book feeding into the concept of good ultimately conquering evil. On the topic of the Witch King being a wizard at an early stage, being a Maia would definitely complicate the poem of the one ring relevant to the Nazgul "Nine for Mortal Men doomed to die". You might be able to argue that in a fleshy cage a Maia is a kind of mortal man, but Tolkein decided not to go there. It is really interesting to think where his 'magical' power came from. Perhaps it is related to the idea that all beings have some kind of innate 'magical' ability (e.g. telepathy), and this human was particularly good at it and became a lay wizard / non-Istari sorcerer. Perhaps he had some strange connection to Melkor and went willingly to Sauron when he heard his (metaphorical) song. Sauron might of lent him some of his own reserves, but one might imagine that he would expect his chief lieutenant to be powerful in his own right. Another thought (totally baseless of course) is the role of the blue wizards - perhaps some strange and powerful characters like the Witch King and the Mouth of Sauron might have actually been those Istari - somehow captured and converted over the millennia. I wonder what he had planned for those characters, at what point he decided the number of five Istari, and then ultimately decided to do away with two of the five. He was quite happy retconning other things, but he didn't do it with the number of wizards, which was interesting.

@Carelock Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this content. It is fantastic.

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

Very welcome :)

@thomasmcglynn8813 Жыл бұрын

Keep up the good work thanks

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

Thank you very much :)

@starkilr101 11 ай бұрын

Even though the Witch-King has a fallen wizard is a good idea, I much like him being a man of Numenor. I can see him in the temple of Morgoth giving sacrifices as a priest-like figure and a possible apprentice to Sauron

@tarawells3185 Жыл бұрын

I love the sound of his voice!!

@reuvenpolonskiy2544 Жыл бұрын

Please make the possible continuation of the unfinished "New shadow"

@thomasmcglynn8813 Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@bookmouse2719 Жыл бұрын

That recording reminded me of Darth Vader confronting Obi-won Kanobi.

@420bvnny 2 жыл бұрын

lets all pour one out for our boy trotter

@Hero_Of_Old 2 жыл бұрын

Yeah boiiii

@hardikgurung6027 28 күн бұрын

Thanks ❤

@user-cx7kg6ok9b 5 ай бұрын

All of the Kings of Numenor are accounted for, but not all of the children of Kings who did not inherit the sceptre. So the Witch King could have been a noble or even a Prince of Numenor. However, I get the feeling that he was a Numenorean who had come to middle earth before the sinking of Numenor and had carved himself out a kingdom, probably among Easterlings and was ensnared when Sauron hid in the East.

@ronniewestherly3435 Жыл бұрын

I love the witch king.he is my favorite Character.

@cavetroll666 2 жыл бұрын

very nice your on spotify for work :) btw what do you think of the book announcement the fall of numenor.

@bryceanwhimsey 3 ай бұрын

I like the Witch King as the Wizard King... As you say, it would open other discussions. However, having him be of a different nature from Gandalf's makes him more terrible; he's more of a mystery, thus a more frightening foe for the White Rider.

@stephenandersen4625 Жыл бұрын

Cool

@MichaelDG2023 9 ай бұрын

“Trotter???” 🤯

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

"Death!" roared his riders Eomer led them spotting his sister flung on the fallen king in his noon-years eager for killing Rohan's anointed at the sun's rising Theoden's fallen gone to his Fathers Eorl's wunderkind worthy of honor Slew the Black Serpent Sauron's surrogate midwinter minstrels shine his memory shattered by Snowmane bane of his master When he's embarrowed women will mourn him Last of his bloodline crown must pass sideways Son of his sister starts a new mounds-row Eowyn's brother eclipsed in battle Theoden's fallen gone to his Fathers Dropping his home-guard rode to save Mundburg Bright flairs the sunset Third Age is ending

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

An Age before, a smith of Numenor forged weapons to defy the Angmar king. The writhen sword that Meriadoc bore was fated for the battle of the Ring. The lady Eowyn brought her own blade unsuited to her brother's combat form. No tales survive that tell where it was made nor whether distaff combat was the norm. The morgul-lord prefered to wield a mace a brutish club of which he'd grown quite fond, in tribute to another Age and place when Morgoth swung the hammer known as "Grond". Black powder makes its MiddleEarth debut, but Tolkien's not enamored of what's new

@ronniecorbett6306 Жыл бұрын

Maybe one of the Blue Wizards?

@AlaskanGlitch Жыл бұрын

We do know the name of the Witch-King of Angmar. He was the Númenórean Prince Er-Mûrazôr, or just Mûrazôr, the son of Tar-Ciryatan and Theanil, he was the younger brother of Tar-Atanamir. He was also the only human given a ring of power by Sauron before he became King. He was already a ring-wraith when he ruled Angmar as the Witch-King.

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

Nope. That's just a fan theory and isn't written anywhere in the text.

@nex-ex5100 5 ай бұрын

I don't think it makes sense that the Witch-King would be an Istari. For one, Sauron didn't control any other Maia including Saruman nor the Balrog or Smaug for that matter as Fire Drakes were Maiar fire spirits. There were Numenorian kings outside of Numenor in places like Umbar and further South. Colonies created by Numenorian princes in generations prior to Akallabeth.

@shadowwarrior2197 2 жыл бұрын

When comes the next episode? I hope soon

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

I tend to make one of these a month :)

@hewe4625 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent research and podcast! Since Tolkien's views of the Blue Wizards changed over time, I wonder if he may have intended to have one of them be the Witch King. Maybe turn or kill the other.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

That's a common theory but Tolkien's last writings on the Blue Wizards doesn't hint at anything like that. The Witch-king is a mortal man, the Blue Wizards arent and apparently they aided in stopping forces from the East overwhelming the West for the War of the Ring through uprisings and rebellions.

@hewe4625 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook Agreed. I was only musing that as the concept for one changed, that may have further influenced Tolkien to change the other. Indicating how the legendarium further evolved in a continuing, inclusive process. 😆

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

"Turn, Hellhound!" Dernhelm snarled. The Morgul-king can't know his lease on MiddleEarth's been torn. The undead servant of the Ruling Ring was helpless to no man of woman born. Already, Birnham Wood's marched up the Coomb and much that looked like wisdom's proven daft. Before his Mordor-Lord, he'll meet a doom he never dreamt for all his dwimmercraft. professor Tolkien seemed dissatisfied with Shakespeare's climax to the Scottish play. The oracle need not have baldly lied but women feel excluded from the fray. Amid the carnage smoulders a romance the lady Eowyn rocks chainmail pants.

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

The heir of Isildur called back the host Who'd turned their coats an Age of Man before. The Dark Lord's minions fled before such ghosts belatedly reporting to wage war. This Shadow Army came with sword and spear but never got to demonstrate they'd bite. Their enemies that didn't die of fear cast down their arms and ran away in fright. The ships of Umbar bore them all aboard to turn the tide when everything looked grim. When Dernhelm's thrust unstrung the Morgul lord few save the Hobbit spared an eye for "him". For those who long ago had broken faith the call to serve's atonement for a wraith.

@616gnosismaster Жыл бұрын

You rule!

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

A dismal world, and every path is steep as Meriadoc plods back into town but he's sworn oaths that he intends to keep they'll get back up when Hobbits get knocked down. The lady Eowyn stood not alone the morgul lord was fool to overlook her ally with a sharp sword all his own be he a Brandybuck, or doughty Took. When Fangorn Wood has marched on Isengard The undead Angmar king confronts his death 'though Tolkien points no footnote toward the Bard the reader calls to mind scenes of 'Macbeth'. Old oaths his father's fathers swore before king Theoden fulfilled for Denethor.

@kenbair 11 ай бұрын

The balrog's motives nowhere get explored could he aspire to wield this parlous thing? He's no mere worm, to stash it in his hoard; a maia'd be a monster with the Ring! Olorin'd held it once, but let it go; he wasn't hither-sent to dominate. The One's not his to wield, or to bestow. This Age, it's little folk hold their world's fate. While Gandalf fell, ring-bearer bore it East through Lorien, where Time seemed not to pass. unwitting how the mage threw down the beast returning through his darkness, at the last. Of all the characters to face the test, for Tolkien, humble Samwise comes out best.

@redheadsilver8041 2 жыл бұрын

Suburb as always.

@NickBR57 Жыл бұрын

Ha! You're Steven (Stephen?) you're obsessed with the Tokien Legendarium and you produce the best Tolkien content on YT.

@supernautacus 2 жыл бұрын

a very Well- done review! But, it might be....that as Isildur was nobility, but NOT royalty. That so was the Witch-King. To me it's very interesting he was always used against Arnor and Gondor. A Black Númenórean (most likely to me). I wonder if he was a Lord of Lond Daer? Which was founded by King's Men. Could he have met the Blue Wizards and Glorfindel? Tar-Palantir was succeeded by his nephew (who seized the throne), a sea captain who warred against the coastal people. That nephew was the twenty-fifth king, Ar-Pharazôn, who in the year 3255, he sailed to Middle-earth. Seeing the might of Númenor, Sauron submitted to the king's authority, and he was brought back to Númenor as a hostage. Could this be where the Witch-King and Sauron met? Sauron soon became an adviser to the King as Tar-Mairon, and promised the Númenóreans eternal life if they worshiped Melkor. With Sauron as his advisor, Ar-Pharazôn had a 500-foot temple to Melkor erected, in which he offered human sacrifices to him. That would certainly be more understanding of the how this happened, IF, Sauron had past out 3 Rings of Power and had their positive-seeming effects shown now. Sméagol's extended life and possible increased physical toughness shows how THAT might have made Sauron's words seem true. The Witch-King did NOT go with Ar-Pharazon to Aman. He never would have returned TO serve Sauron. And Sauron knew that.

@PoorMarvoloSawyer Жыл бұрын

Do you remember the reference for the second age wizards, by any chance? Given the new Rings of Power series (still unconfirmed whether the stranger is a wizard) I'd be interested to look into that further.

@TheRedBook Жыл бұрын

Yes, if you want to read Tolkien's thoughts on that then check out The History of Middle-earth - XII - The Peoples of Middle-earth - Part Two - Late Writings - Last Writings

@crusader9576 2 жыл бұрын

Any chance this could make it to apple podcasts? Thanks for what you do!

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Should be up there now!

@crusader9576 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook Left my review :)

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

@@crusader9576 Oh cool :D I can't see it yet but I hope it's good!!

@jensphiliphohmann1876 8 ай бұрын

18:25 _Sauron not coming except when victory is assured..._ Of course. In the last year of the 2nd age, he himself came defeated anyway, even losing the ring. There is a thing I never understood: Why was 3rd age Sauron more powerful _without_ his ring than late 2nd age Sauron with it?

@TheRedBook 8 ай бұрын

He's more "powerful" because his enemies are weaker. His 3rd age resistance (militaristically) pales in comparison to the forces of the Last Alliance.

@jensphiliphohmann1876 8 ай бұрын

@@TheRedBook That makes perfect sense. The late 3rd elves seem a shadow of their former selves by comparison, and Arnor and Gondor were split.

@Irish_Pete 2 жыл бұрын

Alright ramblers, let's get rambling

@beornthebear.8220 6 ай бұрын

Sauron the White replaced Melkor; is it that out of place that the Witch-King was waiting his turn to take over Sauron's place? Even Sauron didn't remember his own name. I believe that's why Aragorn calls him the "Dark Lord"; a title, not a name. Also. the Witch-King would be a man, unlike Sauron. He may just be waiting to move up a rank. However, Gandalf saying He was a member od our order" would make him seem more than a man.

@TheRedBook 6 ай бұрын

The witch King can't act against the will of sauron. There's no motivation to replace him because he couldn't even think of doing that. There's also no reason to think sauron forgot his name, it's the mouth of sauron who forgot his name.

@stevemiller4494 Жыл бұрын

In my Minds eye..... I personally feel that he's from the East...and that he was maybe a student of one of the blue wizards and maybe also he was part numenorian..... Having him come directly from numenor would have been in my opinion too much.... However in being a half blood pneumonorean trained by one of the blue wizards in the east makes a wonderful background for the witch King or wizard King... Being a half numenorian he would have still had the main traits of a numenorian the tallnes, long life, powerful spirit, intelligence etc... And later he became king of the Angmar region.... Anyway that's my thoughts but thank you for such a astute opinion.... I do believe that you're one of the best if not the best loremaster of tokens works

@planepantsgames1791 2 жыл бұрын

Can the eagles fly between Valinor and Middle Earth after the fall of Numenor?

@integritymatters5114 11 ай бұрын

How do you explain if he is Istari, accepting a ring fo men, and subjugation thru it to Sauron. As a fallen Istari he would have been more powerful and useful with his Istari form vs wraith form.

@TheRedBook 11 ай бұрын

There's nothing to explain. The idea that the Witch-king was actually a Wizard is an old version of the tale, not the finished version. Plus, there were no "Rings for Men", they just happened to be rings given to Men later.

@BeregondFirstCaptain 2 жыл бұрын

Whats your take on the new book being g put out this year. The broken sword made a video on it

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Didn't notice, I don't watch their content. As for the book, I think it will be interesting. The Second Age material is scattered over a few different texts and it will be cool to have it all in one place - especially for research. Maybe calling it The Second Age would have made more sense? I'm looking forward to the commentary. I'm not expecting anything I haven't read elsewhere but it will be a good book I think!

@colindunnigan8621 2 жыл бұрын

Come not between the Nazgul and his prey! Or he will not slay thee in they turn...

@tijltrienen 2 жыл бұрын

Eowyn was nog allowed to fight in wars by order of Theodon so yea she never killed a living thing. But then again she did killed a mumakil before the witchking. But maybye that is only in the movie adaptation

@Swiftbow 9 ай бұрын

Yeah, that's just in the movie. However... she does kill the Fell Beast (and most likely some orcs) before taking out the Witch King. Merry had some orc kills to his name, too, so neither of them qualified for the previous stipulations. (But BOTH of them do for the final.)

@TarMody 2 жыл бұрын

My theory is that the Witch-king was Isilmo, father of Tar-Minastir, the 11th king of Númenor. I have an extensive study on this.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

I don't think he was any named figure. I don't see any evidence for it being Isilmo, except non evidence like the translation of his name or being passed over. I accept he was dead by 1731.

@TarMody 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook Isilmo's accepted date of death may be a mere historical record. It is possible that there is a date of death due to absence.

@TheRedBook 2 жыл бұрын

Exactly but that's where these theories fall apart for me. Every one then relies on re-reading the text or reinterpreting it to make the theory work due to a lack of actual evidence. The date of death can't be later than that date but why don't we just imagine the date was due to him not being there but it's not written anywhere that this was the case but let's imagine it. Can you see where I have the problem? To me, it would be written somewhere - even a scribble or note, but it's not. If Tolkien knew the identity of the Witch-king I truly believe he'd have written it somewhere.

@TalesoftheRings 2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRedBook And I'm glad it's not! It leaves a dose of mystique and horror as I think about it. Enjoyable half an hour 🙌

@GILR8 11 ай бұрын

@@TheRedBook What was the translation of his name? Given Tolkien only admitted he was a Mortal "Lord of Numenor (NOT a King)" Would it not be possible to have been a "Black Numenorean"? If Tolkien DID Know his true identity, could he have left some hints of who he was such as Isilmo or his younger son , Er Murazor?