Elrond and Gandalf: Why Didn't Elrond Help Gandalf in the Battle of Five Armies?

The strategic maneuvers and alliances in 'The Lord of the Rings' can be as intricate as they are fascinating. One such complex relationship is between Elrond and Gandalf. It often raises questions why Elrond, despite his close bond with Gandalf, did not join him in the pivotal Battle of Five Armies. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this decision and the broader implications of their dynamic within the context of Middle-earth.

Context and Initial Considerations

No doubt, Gandalf was a close friend and advisor to Elrond. However, in the event of the Battle of Five Armies, Elrond and Galadriel (Elrond's wife) did not provide direct military aid. This raises several questions: Why not? Did they have the capacity to aid? What other commitments did they have?

The Distance and Timing

The sheer distance between Rivendell and the battlefield at Erebor makes quick and effective aid nearly impossible. Elrond's army, estimated to be around 1000 men, would have been insufficient to turn the tide of battle. Of course, Galadriel was an exception. There are records suggesting she does not often send military aid, but her reasons for not sending aid are subjective and open to interpretation.

Elrond's Values and Priorities

Elrond's aversion to aiding in the Battle of Five Armies aligns with his overarching values. In Appendix A of 'The Lord of the Rings,' Elrond is portrayed as understanding the plight of humanity while maintaining a sense of distance. Unlike Galadriel, he does not seem to value the lives of Men and Dwarves as high as those of the Noldorin Elves. This is also evident in his decision not to interfere in disputes involving gold, such as Thranduil's conflict with Thorin Oakenshield.

Unify and Conserve Resources

Elrond largely saw his vision as one of unification and unity among the races of Middle-earth, rather than committing resources to direct military conflicts. This is why he initially sought to help unify the forces against Sauron, hoping that open dialogue could avert the conflict altogether. By the time the battle broke out, the situation was too hastily resolved for such a strategy to be employed quickly.

Gandalf's Wisdom and Authority

Another crucial reason is the belief in Gandalf's authority and wisdom. Both Elrond and Galadriel, recognizing Gandalf as the wisest being in Middle-earth, prefer to collaborate with him rather than directly intervene in the conflict. This is exemplified in scenarios such as when Saruman, Radagast, Galadriel, and Elrond all came together to rescue Gandalf from Dol Guldor.

In the Battle of Five Armies, Gandalf was primarily concerned with the safety and success of Bilbo Baggins. His sixth sense, honed through years of experience, has often warned him of impending dangers and guided him to act in Bilbo's best interest. By the time the battle began, Gandalf was likely aware of the orc movements, having built a network of spies and informants across Middle-earth. His primary objective was to ensure Bilbo's survival rather than direct military control.

The Eagles and Bilbo's Survival

Ultimately, the Battle of Five Armies had a complex component of supernatural forces, including the Eagles. Gandalf's belief in the Eagles' aid and his knowledge of their actions likely played a key role in his decision-making processes. The Eagles were sent by Radagast, another ally, and were a critical factor in the battle's outcome. Gandalf's foresight in arranging this support demonstrates his strategic acumen and his belief in the importance of diverse forms of assistance.

It's important to note that Elrond did send military aid when it was feasible, such as during the battle at Dol Guldor. These instances highlight a balance between strategic military engagements and the overarching goal of maintaining peace and unity in Middle-earth. The decision to not aid in the Battle of Five Armies demonstrates Elrond's commitment to broader strategic goals and his belief in the wisdom of Gandalf.

In conclusion, while Elrond and Gandalf share a deep and longstanding friendship, the decision to not aid in the Battle of Five Armies reflects a complex interplay of strategic considerations, resource constraints, and the broader vision of unification and peace sought by Elrond. This complex dynamic between two key figures in Middle-earth offers valuable insights into the political and social landscape of J.R.R. Tolkien's world.