The Two Towers E45: Uphold Anarcho-Tolkeinist Thought
Mar 9, 2024
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Dive into the vibrant themes of 'The Two Towers,' where anarcho-Tolkienist thought meets heartfelt character dynamics. Discover the significance of Helm's Deep, the emotional struggles of Gimli, Frodo, and Sam, and the quirky representations of Rohan. Explore Tolkien's views on leadership, environmentalism, and the Shire's anarchic essence, all sprinkled with humor. The discussion also tackles the complexities of adaptation and the social interactions of Orcs and Elves, revealing deep insights and witty commentary on this beloved franchise.
The film's narrative structure highlights character arcs tied to themes of trust, betrayal, and identity as the Fellowship fragments.
Hope and despair are juxtaposed throughout the story, with Sam's optimism symbolizing perseverance against overwhelming odds and darkness.
Environmental and class dynamics are explored through the conflict between nature and industry, critiquing societal hierarchies and advocating for ecological stewardship.
Deep dives
Plot Structure and Character Journeys
The plot of the film is structured around the fragmentation of the Fellowship, which has broken into three distinct groups. This division allows for the exploration of various character arcs, particularly focusing on Frodo, Sam, and Gollum as they navigate the treacherous path to Mordor. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli align themselves with the people of Rohan in the fight against Saruman's forces. Each group's journey highlights individual growth, the struggle for identity, and the themes of trust and betrayal, leading to the climactic convergence of their narratives.
Thematic Elements of Hope and Despair
A central theme in the film revolves around the juxtaposition of hope and despair, particularly evident in the character arcs and the choices they face. While many characters, such as Theoden, grapple with feelings of hopelessness, Sam's steadfast optimism serves as a counterbalance, embodying the belief that perseverance can lead to triumph. This theme is amplified through significant moments, such as Sam's monologue about heroism and the importance of small acts of resistance. The film ultimately posits that the darkest moments can precede significant transformations, fostering a sense of hope against overwhelming odds.
Gollum's Complex Nature
Gollum stands out as one of the most compelling characters, showcasing a complex duality between his Smeagol and Gollum identities. His interactions with Frodo and Sam illustrate the constant struggle against the corrupting influence of the Ring, emphasizing the themes of temptation and redemption. As Gollum guides the hobbits, moments of vulnerability reveal his lost humanity, drawing parallels to Frodo's own battle with the Ring. Ultimately, Gollum’s tragic fate serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of hope and the repercussions of succumbing to darkness.
Environmentalism and the Industrial Threat
The film also explores environmental themes, particularly through the characterization of Saruman and the destructive forces of industry he represents. The portrayal of the Ents serves as a symbol of nature's resilience, contrasting sharply with Saruman's mechanized destruction of the forests. This conflict underscores the notion that caretaking the environment is a moral obligation, as evidenced by the Ents’ eventual decision to rise against the threat. Through this lens, the narrative critiques the exploitation of nature while advocating for a return to harmony with the earth.
Class and Hierarchical Structures
Class dynamics are another integral theme, particularly illustrated through the orc hierarchy and their interactions with other races. The orcs are depicted as a working-class community with distinct personalities and tensions among them, reflecting broader societal structures. In contrast, the Rohan and Gondor factions embody noble concepts, yet their leaders often reveal flaws in their governance, questioning the effectiveness of hierarchical power. These reflections on power dynamics in Middle-earth prompt critical discussions on authority, leadership, and the impact of societal structures on collective action.
The 2nd part of our 3 part series on the Lord of the Rings–one of the 2000s most beloved franchises. We get into the themes of the movie including Tokien’s own politics on Anarchy, Environmentalism and Class Politics.
