LotR -- Book 3 - Chapter 01 - The Departure of Boromir

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Welcome to the chapter-by-chapter discussion of The Two Towers! Interestingly, the book begins with an ending, which only emphasizes the fact that LotR is one book, not a trilogy. (In my opinion, Peter Jackson's use of this chapter at the end of the first movie was a good choice.) The chapter title is rather ambiguous - did anyone think that it meant Boromir was going to Minas Tirith when first reading the book? We now know that it's a final and tragic (though redemptive) departure, of course.

Actually, the book begins with a synopsis of FotR; if anyone would like to comment on that or has noticed anything particularly interesting about it, this is the place to do so.

One thing that stands out in this chapter is Aragorn's uncertainty. Do you think that adds depth to his character? As mark/Helen commented in the previous chapter discussion, he is not even able to make use of the possibility of seeing on Amon Hen. Apparently the personal situation of the one who comes there affects what happens.

Unlike the movie, we do not see Boromir fighting against the orcs in the book, but stay with Aragorn, seeing the events from his point of view. He is the only one of the remaining Fellowship members who is not involved in fighting action. Gimli's answer to Aragorn's attempt to make the right decision is fascinating, even chilling:

Maybe there is no right choice.

We have one poem, Aragorn and Legolas' mourning song for Boromir.

Much of the rest of the chapter is searching for clues as to the fate of the four hobbits, and the decision to follow the orcs who took Merry and Pippin closes it with the begin of their chase.

I'm sure Boromir's end will be a major discussion point, but what other parts of the chapter are important to you, and why?