"‘The Two Towers" begins with the Scattering of the Fellowship. Each member must face new and unique perils and challenges. The members of the Fellowship must each find their place in determining the fate of Middle-earth.
Frodo Baggins is a brave and resilient Hobbit tasked with destroying the One Ring in Mount Doom. He struggles with the heavy burden of the Ring's corrupting influence, showing both his vulnerability and determination to protect Middle-earth from darkness.
Protagonist's servant and loyal friend
Samwise Gamgee
Loyal, optimistic, courageous.
Samwise Gamgee, Frodo's loyal companion, is a steadfast and courageous Hobbit who provides unwavering support throughout their perilous journey. His deep sense of loyalty, practical wisdom, and unyielding optimism shine through as he faces overwhelming odds to protect Frodo and help him resist the Ring's corrupting influence.
Antagonist
Saruman the White
Ambitious, cunning, arrogant
Saruman, once a wise and powerful wizard, becomes a traitor, consumed by his desire for power and knowledge. His ambition leads him to ally with Sauron, and he employs deceit and manipulation, seeking to keep the One Ring.
Rating
Rating:
4.9/5
Continue down for all the characters to The Two Towers
B.Sc. degree in parasitology and entomology from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
“The Two Towers” by J.R.R. Tolkien is the second installation in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Gimli, Aragon, and Legolas descend the hills of Emyn Muil into the land of Rohan hot on the trails of a band of Orcs to rescue their friends Merry and Pippin. Far to the east, Frodo and Sam are lost in the hills till they notice they are being followed by the creature Gollum. They set a trap and captured him, and then made him swear by the Ring to guide them to Mordor.
Frodo Baggins
Role: Ring-bearer and central character.
Key Info: Hobbit from the Shire, tasked with destroying the One Ring, deeply compassionate
Frodo, a brave and kind Hobbit, is tasked with bearing the One Ring of Sauron to Mount Doom where he destroy it.
Background: Simple Hobbit from the Shire with little knowledge of the outside world until he inherited the One Ring from his uncle, Bilbo.
Personality: Quiet, thoughtful, and determined and although he struggles with the immense corrupting power of the One Ring, Frodo displays immense inner strength.
Development: As the journey progresses, Frodo becomes more burdened by the Ring. The strain of constantly resisting the Ring’s corruption gets increasingly worse, wearing him out.
Significance: Frodo’s role embodies the theme of endurance and sacrifice, illustrating the damage that the battle between good and evil can do to an individual.
In “The Two Towers,” Frodo becomes more introspective as he struggles with internal conflict. As he and Sam travel deeper into Mordor, the Ring’s influence grows stronger. His interactions with Gollum serve as a mirror, showing what Frodo could become if he gives in to the Ring’s power. Frodo perseveres in the face of despair, despite the near-constant temptation to surrender to the Ring.
Aragorn
Role: Leader of the Three Hunters, heir to the throne of Gondor.
Key Info: Ranger of the North, skilled warrior, and tracker.
Aragorn is the lost heir of Isildur, and the rightful king of Gondor and Anor. he leads the Three Hunters as they attempt to rescue their Hobbit friends.
Background: Aragorn starts as a ranger known as Strider and later reveals his royal lineage, becoming a guiding force in the fight against Sauron.
Personality: Brave, compassionate, and noble, Aragorn is deeply committed to his friends and his destiny, always prioritizing the greater good.
Development: Throughout “The Two Towers,” Aragorn grows into his role as a leader, becoming more comfortable with his identity as the future king.
Significance: Aragorn represents the theme of reluctant kingship, showing leadership through action and empathy rather than power.
Aragorn’s character is defined by his transition from Ranger to leader of men. His skills as a tracker and warrior come to the forefront as he leads Legolas and Gimli in pursuit of Merry and Pippin. He represents hope and the rightful return of true leadership, which will play a crucial role in the fate of Middle-earth.
Samwise Gamgee
Role: Frodo’s gardener and loyal friend.
Key Info: Gardener from the Shire, deeply brave and resource.
Samwise Gamgee is a steadfast and brave Hobbit of the shire who followed his master into the dangers of Mordor to keep him safe and help destroy the One Ring.
Background: Sam starts as Frodo’s gardener but grows into one of the most essential characters, embodying loyalty and courage.
Personality: Humble, brave, and fiercely protective of Frodo, acting as a stabilizing force.
Development: Sam matures from a simple Hobbit into a key figure in the quest, displaying leadership Frodo as Frodo weakened.
Significance: Sam represents the power of loyalty and the strength found in ordinary individuals.
Sam’s character development is subtle but powerful. He begins as Bilbo and Frodo’s gardener, but his loyalty and dedication push him into an almost equal partnership as they travel deeper into bleak land of Mordor. His pragmatic approach and unshakable optimism act as a counterbalance to Frodo’s increasing despair. Sam’s inner monologues reflect his growing understanding of the larger world and his role in it. By the end of “The Two Towers,” Sam is more than just a sidekick, he is Frodo’s protector and a hero in his own right.
Gandalf the White
Role: Returned to Middle-earth as Gandalf the White, he continues guiding and revitalizing the Free Peoples of Middle-earth.
Key Info: Once known as Gandalf the Grey, he is made more powerful after his death battling the Balrog and serves as a spiritual and tactical leader.
Gandalf the White is a re-embodiment of Gandalf the Grey, a Maia of Valinor sent by the Valar to aid the Free Peoples of Middle-earth in their wars against Sauron.
Background: Gandalf was thought to have perished at Bridge of Khazad Dum in Moria, but he returns with enhanced abilities and a renewed sense of purpose, helping the armies of Rohan secure a victory against the Wizard Saruman.
Personality: Wise, powerful, and determined, Gandalf leads with both strength and compassion.
Development: Gandalf’s transformation into Gandalf the White marks his evolution into a more authoritative figure in the war against Sauron.
Significance: Gandalf embodies hope and resilience, guiding others through the darkest moments of the war.
Gandalf’s return is a pivotal moment in the story, marking a shift in the fortunes of the Free Peoples. As Gandalf the White, he is more decisive and powerful, reflecting his role as a spiritual leader who brings hope to those around him. His revitalization of Théoden and leadership during the Battle of Helm’s Deep show his ability to inspire and guide others toward victory. Gandalf’s transformation underscores the theme of rebirth and the idea that even in the face of death and despair, there is always hope.
Legolas
Role: An Elf of the Woodland Realm and member of the Fellowship.
Key Info: Son of Thranduil, skilled in archery, close friendship with Gimli.
Son of King Thranduil of the Woodland Realm, Legolas is a great hunter who represented the Elves in the Fellowship of the Ring.
Background: Legolas begins as a representative of the Elves of Mirkwood and brings their ancient knowledge and skills to the Fellowship.
Personality: Calm, perceptive, and resourceful, Legolas often acts as a stabilizing presence in the group.
Development: Legolas forms an unexpected bond with Gimli, marking a significant growth in the relationship between their cultures.
Significance: Legolas’s friendship with Gimli symbolizes the reconciliation of long-standing enmity between Elves and Dwarves.
Legolas plays a tactical role as a member of the Three Hunters, using his agility and keen senses to support the group in battle and during their pursuit of Merry and Pippin. His relationship with Gimli is particularly notable for its development, as their initial animosity gradually turns into mutual respect and friendship.
Gimli
Role: A Dwarf warrior from the Lonely Mountain, son of Glóin, and skilled in battle.
Key Info: Representative of Durin’s Folk in the Fellowship, known for his bravery and loyalty.
Gimli, son of Gloin, is a Dwarf of Durin’s folk from the Lonely Mountain. A fierce fighter and solid friend, he represented the Dwarves in the Fellowship of the Ring.
Background: One of the greatest warriors of the Lonely Mountain, Gimli starts with a distrust of Elves but proves himself as a fierce and dependable friend.
Personality: Gruff, proud, and humorous, Gimli’s loyalty and honor shine through in his actions.
Development: Throughout the story, Gimli’s presence and reputation as a sturdy and dependable warrior grows. His relationship with Legolas also shows growth, as he moves beyond old prejudices and forges a lasting friendship.
Significance: Gimli’s character highlights themes of reconciliation and unity across different cultures in Middle-earth.
Gimli’s role is marked by his fierce loyalty and battle prowess. His rivalry with Legolas shifts into one of mutual respect as they engage in friendly competitions during battle, a symbolic act of bridging the gap between Elves and Dwarves. Gimli’s humor and bluntness provide relief in dark moments, but his courage and fierce sense of duty make him an integral part of the team.
Gollum
Role: Antagonist, guided Frodo and Sam to Mordor.
Key Info: A former Hobbit corrupted by the Ring, hungers to be reunited with it, suffers from a split personality.
Gollum is a tortured creature bound to the One Ring and enslaved by it. Frodo captures him and forces him to guide him and Sam to Mordor.
Background: Gollum was once a Hobbit-like creature, but centuries of possessing the Ring have transformed him into a twisted, pitiful being.
Personality: Deceptive, cunning, yet pitiful, Gollum is driven by his obsession with the Ring.
Development: Gollum’s internal struggle between loyalty to Frodo and his desire for the Ring plays out throughout the book. He battles with his desire to obey and please Frodo, and his obsession with possessing the Ring. He finally decides to lure Frodo and Sam to Shelob’s lair.
Significance: Gollum represents the long-term corruption of power and the potential fate of Frodo if he succumbs to the Ring.
Gollum’s character takes center stage both as a guide and a cautionary figure. His dual personalities, Sméagol and Gollum, reflect his internal battle between a lingering goodness and the overwhelming corruption caused by the Ring. Gollum presents a complex relationship with Frodo, he is at once a threat and a tragic figure who mirrors Frodo’s potential future. His presence adds depth to the narrative’s exploration of power, corruption, and the struggle between good and evil.
Saruman
Role: Saruman is the corrupted wizard who betrays the Free Peoples by allying with Sauron.
Key Info: A powerful Wizard who seeks the One Ring for himself, originally a member of the White Council.
Saruman is the head of the Order of Wizards and the Council of the Wise, but was corrupted by his desire for Sauron’s One Ring.
Background: Once a wise and respected leader, Saruman falls to ambition and greed, seeking power through domination.
Personality: Arrogant, manipulative, and power-hungry, Saruman embodies the dangers of unchecked ambition.
Development: Saruman’s descent into villainy is complete by “The Two Towers,” showing no remorse for his betrayal as he sends an armer of Orcs and men from the East to invade Rohan and lay siege to Helm’s Deep.
Significance: Saruman represents the corrupting influence of power and the fall from grace of once-noble figures.
Saruman’s betrayal is a pivotal moment, marking the extension of Sauron’s influence. As a once-great wizard sought out for wisdom and counsel, his fall into the pursuit of domination and his manipulation of Rohan through Gríma Wormtongue highlight the theme of corruption. Saruman’s ambition blinds him to the broader moral battle, and his eventual downfall is a commentary on the destructive nature of unchecked power and ambition.
Treebeard
Role: Treebeard helped Merry and Pippin when got lost inside Fangorn Forest. He also roused the Ents against Saruman at Isengard.
Key Info: The oldest of the Ents, Treebeard is wise and patient, deeply connected to nature..
One of the oldest living creatures in Middle-earth, Treebeard is the guardian of the dwindling forests of Middle-earth.
Background: Treebeard is a guardian of Fangorn Forest and the oldest creature in Middle-earth, representing the ancient power of nature.
Personality: Thoughtful, deliberate, and cautious, Treebeard values the preservation of nature and takes his time making decisions.
Development: Treebeard shifts from passivity to action, mobilizing the Ents against Saruman after seeing the destruction of the forest.
Significance: Treebeard represents the power and resilience of nature, serving as a symbol of nature’s resistance to industrialization and destruction.
Treebeard’s role serves as a powerful symbol of nature’s endurance and ability to fight back against destruction. His decision to lead the Ents in their attack on Isengard after witnessing the devastation caused by Saruman reflects the theme of nature’s reclaiming power. Treebeard’s slow, deliberate manner contrasts with the haste and violence of the other characters, highlighting the importance of patience and wisdom. His leadership in the destruction of Isengard serves as a pivotal moment in the book, showing that even the oldest and seemingly most passive forces can play a vital role in the fight against evil.
Théoden
Role: Théoden is the King of Rohan, who regains his strength and leads his people against Saruman’s forces.
Key Info: Théoden transitions from a passive, manipulated figure to a proactive and valiant king who leads his people in battle..
King Theoden of Rohan was held under a spell of despair and lethargy by Wormtongue, Saruman’s spy, but he was soon healed by Gandalf the White.
Background: When first introduced, Théoden is a weakened, manipulated ruler, but he returns to strength after Gandalf’s intervention. After he was freed, he becomes a strong and decisive leader, showing his mettle as a battle-lord at the Siege of Helm’s Deep.
Personality: Courageous and noble, once freed from manipulation, Théoden shows strong leadership and loyalty to his people.
Development: Théoden transitions from a passive, manipulated figure to a proactive and valiant king who leads his people in battle.
Significance: Théoden symbolizes the restoration of rightful leadership and the importance of hope and resistance in times of despair.
Théoden’s revitalization is a key turning point in “The Two Towers.” Gandalf’s ability to break Saruman’s hold over him not only restores his strength but also symbolizes the larger theme of overcoming manipulation and despair. Théoden’s decision to lead his people in the defense of Helm’s Deep represents his transformation from a passive ruler to a courageous and active leader. His arc is also significant in showing the importance of unity, as he brings the Rohirrim back to their fighting spirit in the larger struggle against evil.
Sauron
Role: Dark Lord and primary antagonist.
Key Info: Former servant of Morgoth, creator of the One Ring, Lord of the Dark Tower
The Dark Lord Sauron is a corrupted and evil Maia bent on dominion over the free peoples and creatures of Middle-earth.
Background: Sauron is the malevolent force driving the conflict in Middle-earth. He seeks to recover the One Ring, which he imbued with a portion of his own power. Though he is largely absent from the physical realm, his presence is felt through his agents and the dark influences he exerts across the land.
Personality: Sauron is characterized by his cunning, ambition, and cruelty. He embodies the archetype of the dark overlord, manipulating and corrupting others to achieve his goals.
Development: Throughout “The Two Towers,” Sauron’s desperation becomes increasingly apparent as he seeks to reclaim the One Ring at any cost. His strategic use of Saruman and the Nazgûl reflects his adaptability and determination.
Significance: Sauron serves as a crucial catalyst for the events of “The Two Towers,” representing the ultimate threat to Middle-earth. He embodies the themes of power and corruption, illustrating the dangers of unchecked ambition.
Sauron stands as a formidable symbol of darkness in “The Two Towers,” representing not just an external threat, but the internal struggles against temptation and corruption. His existence underscores the dangers of power and the ease with which it can corrupt even the noblest of intentions. While he does not appear physically, his influence permeates the narrative, affecting the actions and motivations of both heroes and villains.
B.Sc. degree in parasitology and entomology from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
Michael Chude has years of experience writing flash fiction and reviewing books with his book club members. He is also an avid reader who loves great stories and extensive world-building.
