[Estelyn Telcontar]

The events of this chapter take place in Dunharrow. The Riders’ journey there is briefly told at the beginning, and its topography and appearance are described vividly. As usual, we experience things through the eyes of a Hobbit, in this case Merry.

His thoughts bring the readers in touch with the other members of the Fellowship near the beginning, and even remind us of Boromir later on when he sees Hirgon. He is the one who asks the readers’ questions about the Paths of the Dead. We feel his sense of being lost in events that are larger than life to him, though he is eager to take his place and be active. We can sympathize with his loneliness as a unique character in a strange land, attempting to understand a strange language.

What do you feel when you read of Théoden’s courageous set of mind? How do Éomer and the other Riders of Rohan impress you? What do you think of Éowyn’s emotional state of mind? Remember, we don’t yet ‘really’ know who Dernhelm is – did you recognize 'his' identity right away when you first read the book?

Brego shows up in this chapter, at least indirectly, and no – he’s not a horse! Is there any further information anywhere else on the old man who guarded the Door ?

What do you think of the significance of the Red Arrow?

We see how Gandalf has become more commanding in the preparations for war – “Gandalf spoke with great authority.”

There is another instance of Aragorn’s foresight in his request to Éowyn (told only indirectly in her conversation with Merry) to arm the Hobbit for battle. This is the beginning of their “partnership” – official at first, clandestine later on, and decisive in the end.

We haven’t had a poem in awhile! There’s one in alliterative verse here, actually recorded in advance, as it was made later. There are also several proverbs and sayings – just enough different from our own to make them sound strange though familiar.

The chapter closes very much like it began – with a brief description of the valley and mountains, but this time the Riders (and Merry) are leaving. It also closes in darkness, though it is day, and speaks of the loss of hope, not for the first or only time in the chapter.