Parallels between Gandalf and Glorfindel - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

mormegil · 10-20-2006, 11:52 AM

Do you see the similarities as only relating to those of Gandalf and Glorfindel or more generally as a character type? What I mean is that Tolkien seems to write about heroes, but they are heroes that aren't super powerful. Gandalf and Glorfindel are great in their own right and proved themselves well on the battlefield and in council but they had their weaknesses and could be defeated. Other books I've read have heroes that are all but undefeatable. Tolkien however has some like Turin, Samwise, Frodo, Beleg, Feanor et al that are great but not over the top. That is something I enjoy about Tolkien, his heroes are more believable.

10-20-2006, 11:52 AM	#3
mormegil Maundering Mage Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 4,651	Do you see the similarities as only relating to those of Gandalf and Glorfindel or more generally as a character type? What I mean is that Tolkien seems to write about heroes, but they are heroes that aren't super powerful. Gandalf and Glorfindel are great in their own right and proved themselves well on the battlefield and in council but they had their weaknesses and could be defeated. Other books I've read have heroes that are all but undefeatable. Tolkien however has some like Turin, Samwise, Frodo, Beleg, Feanor et al that are great but not over the top. That is something I enjoy about Tolkien, his heroes are more believable. __________________ “I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”