The use of the word ‘man’, in this certain conversation, might be irrelevant. I try not to look at it as a euphemism with any form of a hidden meaning. I think the comment made from Gandalf, ‘His name is Peregrin, a very valiant man.’, is simply an answer to the guards question, ‘What is he? A dwarf out of the mountains in the North? We wish for no strangers in the land at this time, unless they be mighty men of arms in whose faith and help we can trust.’. And since, ‘obviously’ this man could not tell the difference of a ‘small boy’ from a ‘dwarf’, I don’t think the word man or hobbit would have had much of a negative effect. I believe the phrase, ‘A valiant man’ is meant to please the ears of the guard, and not to arouse suspicion or in this cause wonder ( as the word halfling did). I also believe that Gandalf does indeed believe that Pippin is valiant as this quote must assuredly proves , ‘And as for valour, that cannot be computed by stature. He has passed through more battles and perils than you have, Ingold,’ Thirdly Gandalf might have a premonition of Pippin’s future roles that will require much bravery, courage, love, compassion and of course valor. Even though Pippin rebuttals this comment. All in all, it might simply be seen as a compliment.
‘Many a doer of great deeds might say no more,’ said Ingold.
|