My interpretation of the passage where Théoden shakes off the depression which has paralyzed him has changed greatly over the years. Initially, I thought that Gandalf was responsible for dispelling some effect that was placed on Théoden. I thought that Théoden’s malaise was some sort of enchantment that was placed on him by Wormtongue.  That Gandalf was a strong enough sorcerer to ward off the spell and return Théoden to his proper state.

Many fans will notice that this interpretation is very close to Jackson’s portrayal of the event. Interestingly, when I saw Jackson’s interpretation of this scene, which agreed with my own, but made more explicit the conflict, I realized that I was wrong.

Instead of confronting some spell placed on Théoden by Wormtongue, Gandalf’s approach is a bit more nuanced. It is true that he initially uses his magic as a means of daunting: Gandalf cows Wormtongue before he addresses Théoden. When he talks to Théoden, however, the atmospheric changes that take place are the result of Théoden’s actions, not their cause. This becomes obvious in the passage where Théoden descends from his throne:

‘Slowly Théoden left his chair. A faint light grew in the hall again’ (TT, III, vi, 515).

Notice that the atmosphere does not respond to Gandalf here, but to Théoden. Gandalf is responsible for taking away Grima, who has restricted Théoden’s actions for a while, but only Théoden can throw of the burden which is placed upon him. This harkens back to Gandalf’s role as a kindler of spirit, not as the conquering hero. His task is to allow Théoden to show forth his true courage in overcoming the malaise himself.

Once the two men are outside and Gandalf is able to whisper to Théoden, there is no magic. Gandalf simply tells Théoden of deeds that may bring hope and fortify his mind against the gathering darkness. The movies overplay Gandalf’s use of magic here quite considerably. It is true that he manipulates the weather, but after this first show of strength, his main focus is on fermenting Théoden’s will, not destroying Saruman or Wormtongue.

Where Do We Go From Here?

What Do You Think?

How did you perceive Theoden’s transformation?
Did you like Jackson’s vision of the transformation?
​Did I miss anything? Let me know!

When I first came across Théoden, I thought he was a withered old king and that Éomer would soon replace him. This made sense as a means to establish a leader in Rohan sympathetic to the Fellowship. His transformation into a true king was quite a marvel to me, and I found his reinvigorated personality to be magnetic.

Théoden’s persona as the protector of his people made him a kind of father figure to me in my first reading. I loved his courage in the face of adversity and his determination to defend others. He is the kind of leader who has always inspired me: one who leads by example, not by command. I have such a hard time expressing my response to Théoden. This is one of those rare instances where something seems too important for words. The thoughts and feelings are there, but the words fail.

Whenever I revisit the text, I am shocked at how small Théoden’s role actually is. I always conflate his importance to me personally with his prominence in the text.

His role as the stalwart leader who comes to the aid of Gondor in the last moment foreshadows Aragorn’s arrival in similar circumstances. Unlike Aragorn, however, Théoden is not destined to keep his kingship. The fateful events surrounding the House of Eorl at the Pelennor Fields make me cry every time. I always want to save Théoden, so I can watch he and Merry settle in to have a long talk about herb-lore.

Where Do We Go From Here?

I want to talk specifically about Théoden’s transformation, then move on to address Wormtongue and Saruman.

What Do You Think

What was your very first impression of Théoden?
How did you react to his demise?
Did I miss anything? Let me know!