The Role of Women in The Lord of the Rings

[Encaitare]

Galadriel in this line of thought could be viewed as a priestess, able to see visions due to her immense power and insight, and also a bestower of magical gifts. Shelob is symbolic of the 'hag', Rosie as the 'mother' and Arwen of the 'maiden'.

If we're going to follow the Triple Goddess idea here, then I'd like to add my two cents! Arwen as the Maiden makes sense, despite her age, and Rosie clearly works as the Mother (and how!). But as for the Hag or Crone, I would not say Shelob. These words have very negative connotations; they immediately bring to mind an ancient, ugly woman with a nasty streak. However, religions based on the Triple Goddess consider the Crone to be wise and powerful -- her male counterpart is the Sage or the Elder, which has far more positive connotations. Therefore I would say the Crone would be Galadriel. She does not look old, but she has the wisdom of ages and the ability to use "Elvish magic."