Perfect timing for a format change for me this week. I am travelling at the weekend to the States and held off Book 6 for my travels.
Great news that you intend to do this readalong again. I feel a first read of LOTR is only skimming the surface. There is so much to digest and even more that would have gone over my head had I not been reading with you.
Thank you again and I look forward to the finale next week.
Happy you’ll be on board for another round. I’m hoping that this might grow into a regular thing with more contributors. I’ll look forward to your reflections once you finish.
The first goal of Gandalf's demand for the surrender terns is to take control of the situation away from the Mouth. It makes the Armies into agents instead of fearful (potential) subjects.
The second is to dispel the doubt and disinformation that Sauron has made such effective use of. Once it is clear that negotiation isn't an option, then you fight with or without hope.
New theory: the demand for terms is another distraction. Gandalf realizes that despite appearances the Quest has *not* yet failed. If Sauron had the ring he would have made a much more decisive move than this petty bit of cruel theater. So pushing him to start the battle gives Frodo a few more hours and could save the world even if the entire army dies.
Love the insights that your class was able to make connecting these chapters with Gawain and the Green Knight!
The interweaving in the narrative in this portion of the book of opportunities to despair and the choice by so many characters to still hope in defiance of that temptation is inspiring. And "the Eagles are coming!" is the cry of eucatastrophe about to break through, of hope against hope that is fulfilled against all odds.
Perfect timing for a format change for me this week. I am travelling at the weekend to the States and held off Book 6 for my travels.
Great news that you intend to do this readalong again. I feel a first read of LOTR is only skimming the surface. There is so much to digest and even more that would have gone over my head had I not been reading with you.
Thank you again and I look forward to the finale next week.
Happy Bealtaine to all.
Happy you’ll be on board for another round. I’m hoping that this might grow into a regular thing with more contributors. I’ll look forward to your reflections once you finish.
The first goal of Gandalf's demand for the surrender terns is to take control of the situation away from the Mouth. It makes the Armies into agents instead of fearful (potential) subjects.
The second is to dispel the doubt and disinformation that Sauron has made such effective use of. Once it is clear that negotiation isn't an option, then you fight with or without hope.
Agreed. Implicit in your second statement is that Gandalf is calling Sauron’s bluff—which is exactly what I think is happening.
New theory: the demand for terms is another distraction. Gandalf realizes that despite appearances the Quest has *not* yet failed. If Sauron had the ring he would have made a much more decisive move than this petty bit of cruel theater. So pushing him to start the battle gives Frodo a few more hours and could save the world even if the entire army dies.
Oh, that’s dark—but I think it’s on the money. After all, he says in the previous chapter that they will use the army as “bait.”
It's the ultimate high-stakes gamble.
Love the insights that your class was able to make connecting these chapters with Gawain and the Green Knight!
The interweaving in the narrative in this portion of the book of opportunities to despair and the choice by so many characters to still hope in defiance of that temptation is inspiring. And "the Eagles are coming!" is the cry of eucatastrophe about to break through, of hope against hope that is fulfilled against all odds.
Thanks—and yes, eucatastrope! I have been contemplating an essay on the subject, but it hasn’t quite taken shape. Perhaps I’ll save it for 2025 😉