Was Taurel's Role in The Desolation of Smaug New or Did Her Character Appear Briefly in Tolkien’s Novels?

In the cinematic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit trilogy, one of the intriguing characters that fans both new and old have discussed is Taurel, a prominent character in The Desolation of Smaug. This article delves into the creation of Taurel's character, examining whether her role in the film was a new invention or if she had a brief mention in Tolkien's original books.

Introduction to Taurel

Taurel plays a significant role in The Desolation of Smaug, serving as a dark and formidable character who adds depth to the narrative. Her character brings a unique balance of power and menace, contributing to the overall tension and action in the film.

Creation of Taurel in The Hobbit Film Trilogy

The The Hobbit film trilogy, directed by Peter Jackson, is known for introducing new characters to enhance the storytelling and viewer experience. Taurel is one such character, completely invented for the films to add more depth and balance to the female characters in the story.

New Female Character in The Hobbit

The introduction of Taurel was a strategic decision by the film adaptation team to bring about a female character who offers a distinct presence. Unlike some of the characters in the book (such as Tauriel, a character from The Hobbit novel), Taurel was not based on any existing Tolkien creations. Instead, she was meticulously crafted to fit the narrative needs of the film.

Character Development and Purpose in the Film

Her character serves multiple purposes in the film: to provide a foil for the main protagonist, to introduce complexity in the storyline, and to offer a fresh perspective to the battle against Smaug. Taurel's presence in the film helps adversaries stand out, enhancing the fearsome and relentless nature of the conflict against the dragon.

Theories About Taurel’s Origin

While Taurel is a new invention for the film, some fans and literary critics have theorized that her character could be rooted in the original Tolkien books, specifically in the novel The Hobbit. There are two key characters mentioned in Tolkien’s works that fans often compare to Taurel: Tauriel and the character of Beorn’s sister.

Comparison with Tolkien's Characters

Tauriel: The Hobbit film introduced Tauriel as a significant character from the Laketown people, who also serves as a warrior and advisor. However, it is important to note that while Tauriel is a character in the books, Taurel is entirely new for the film adaptation. Her detailed background and development are not directly based on any original source material.

Beorn’s Sister: In Tolkien's work, Beorn’s sister is mentioned briefly as an elderly female figure who assists in the house. While Beorn’s sister is a character in the books, there is no direct connection to Taurel in terms of her role or development.

These theories suggest that the filmmakers might have drawn some inspiration from these characters or others to craft Taurel's unique presence in the film. However, it is crucial to understand that Taurel is not a retelling or adaptation of any specific character from the books but a fresh creation for the cinematic experience.

The Debate: New or Retold?

The debate around Taurel’s origin highlights the broader discussion between the original written works and cinematic adaptations. Some fans argue that reimagining a character from existing lore might be more suitable and faithful to the spirit of Tolkien's works, while others appreciate the opportunity for new characters to bring fresh perspectives and narratives to the screen.

Regardless of one's stance, the introduction of Taurel and the subsequent discussions only contribute to the rich tapestry of literature and film adaptations of Tolkien’s mythological world. Her presence in The Desolation of Smaug serves as a testament to the creative choices made in storytelling, blending the familiarity of Tolkien's universe with the dynamic possibilities of cinematic adaptation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Taurel's character in The Desolation of Smaug could have been inspired by certain elements from the original Tolkien books, her role is a new invention for the film adaptation. The introduction of Taurel enriches the narrative by offering a fresh perspective and a formidable character that complements the overarching story. Fans and critics alike have debated her origin, but the fact remains that she is a significant addition to the expansive world of Middle-earth as brought to life by Peter Jackson.

Whether one sees Taurel as a new creation or a brief mention in Tolkien’s original works, her character's significance cannot be overlooked. She adds depth, complexity, and excitement to the film, making her an integral part of the cinematic storytelling experience.