Arwen’s Movie Role Created a Problem in ‘The Lord of the Rings’

In Peter Jackson’s film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Arwen Undómiel, a character from J.R.R. Tolkien’s books, was given a more significant introduction in the early stages compared to her original portrayal. This resulted in Arwen becoming a character who embodied both ethereal grace and courageous strength in The Fellowship of the Ring, with her confrontations against the Ringwraiths enhancing her image as a powerful elven figure in The Lord of the Rings series.

The combination of her first appearance and additional details from Tolkien’s appendices suggesting a larger role for Arwen, led viewers to anticipate that she would be an important character throughout the story. This was quite different from her limited involvement in the original material. Yet, enhancing Arwen’s role in the films ultimately caused some conflict with the main plotline.

The Lord Of The Rings Movies‘ Arwen Role Made Her Absence From The Main Plot A Problem

Arwen Makes A Strong First Impression In Fellowship

In “The Fellowship of the Ring,” director Jackson opted for a creative twist, swapping Glorfindel’s character from the books with Arwen in a pivotal scene that shaped her character. While Glorfindel was the one sent by Elrond to confront the Nazgûl and aid Frodo in his journey towards Rivendell in the novels, in the film, it is Arwen who takes on this role. She makes an immediate impact with her blend of elegance and strength upon her debut; she appears ethereal on her initial appearance, and her bold line, “‘If you want him, come and claim him,’” underscores her courage.

Initially, Jackson’s portrayal of Arwen led viewers to anticipate her as a significant character. However, this expectation contrasted with Arwen’s minimal role in the books. Interestingly, Liv Tyler was even prepared for hand-to-hand combat to fight alongside Arwen’s kin during the Battle of Helm’s Deep in The Two Towers. This wasn’t the only difference from the books, as the elves were absent from this battle in the original text. Yet, the strong reactions from Tolkien fans likely influenced the decision not to have Arwen participate in the final fight.

The Movies Couldn’t Diverge Too Far From Tolkien’s Story Even With Their Arwen Changes

Arwen’s Key Decision To Choose Mortality Is Too Poignant To Distract From

In the movies, Arwen’s character is expanded compared to the books, but the filmmakers had to stay relatively close to the original story. It could be said that this was the best choice because turning Arwen into another warrior like Éowyn might have restricted the variety of femininity presented in the series even more. After her initial display of combativeness, Arwen assumes a more subdued role, but this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a negative aspect. She demonstrates her strength through her choice to live as a mortal, which would bring intense sorrow to her elven kin.

Enhancements should not deviate excessively from the storyline of her “Lord of the Rings,” emphasizing her wisdom’s significance. Moreover, while elves from Lothlorien participate at Helm’s Deep in “The Two Towers,” the battle is essentially portrayed as a human struggle. From the plight of the refugees to the ominous darkness and rain that heighten the anticipation for the conflict, this scene underscores essential human qualities. The elves’ presence symbolizes their alliance one final time. Arwen might have been the scene-stealer.

Arwen’s Book Story Makes Her Absence Throughout The Story Much Less Noticeable

Tolkien Has Her As A Much More Minor Character In The Books

In contrast to her significant screen presence in “The Fellowship of the Ring”, Arwen’s role in J.R.R. Tolkien’s book is minimal, with her appearing just once, standing beside Aragorn at Rivendell. Despite this limited appearance, more of their story is revealed in the appendices. Tolkien intentionally kept her backstory largely confined to the appendices to minimize her impact on the primary narrative of “The Lord of the Rings”. Furthermore, one of Arwen’s enchanting aspects in the books lies in her scarcity among men.

Her lack of frequent appearances in the books feels less surprising due to the way movies depict some of Arwen and Aragorn’s relationship through visionary sequences instead of direct dialogues. The depth provided by the appendices is utilized effectively for the movie version of Arwen, considering Liv Tyler’s excellent acting skills and her ability to convey a poignant bittersweetness. Yet, it’s essential to note that this character was initially planned differently in the early stages of the Lord of the Rings series.

2025-05-03 13:12