The Fate of the Other Balrogs After Durin’s Bane Was Defeated in Moria

Alas, J.R.R. Tolkien deliberately left the fate of the other Balrogs ambiguous, adding an air of mystery to their existence. Whether they all went to Moria or dispersed throughout Middle-earth remains open to interpretation and speculation. In this article, we will explore the various arguments supporting both sides, leaving you to draw your own conclusions.

Arguments for Moria

Durin’s Bane: The presence of one Balrog in Moria suggests the possibility of others having chosen similar deep and secluded refuges. Moria's vast, unexplored depths could harbor more of these creatures, making the caverns a prime location for Balrogs.

Attraction to Mithril: Dwarven mining for Mithril may have inadvertently awakened Durin’s Bane, indicating a potential draw for other Balrogs to regions rich in that precious metal. The lure of Mithril could be a significant factor for Balrogs.

Isolation: Balrogs are creatures of fire and shadow, preferring darkness and solitude. Moria’s labyrinthine caves could offer the perfect sanctuary for them to remain hidden and undisturbed, away from prying eyes.

Arguments Against Moria

Lack of Evidence: Throughout the history of Moria, no other Balrogs were encountered, even during periods of extensive dwarven activity. This silence could suggest their absence. The absence of Balrogs in Moria during extensive Dwarven operations adds to the argument against their presence.

Vastness of Middle-earth: Tolkien's world is vast and diverse, with unexplored regions like the mountains and the depths of the oceans. Other Balrogs could be in hiding beyond Moria's reach, waiting for a call to emerge.

No Single Unifying Factor: Unlike the Dwarves, who gravitated towards specific locations, Balrogs lack a known unifying desire or need for Moria. Their motivations for choosing their lairs could be individual and varied.

The Uncertain End of the Balrogs

The question of whether all Balrogs went to Moria remains unanswered. The evidence is inconclusive, leaving room for different interpretations and intriguing possibilities. Some believe that Moria may hold more secrets, harboring hidden Balrogs ready to emerge. Others envision these monstrous creatures scattered across the world, waiting in forgotten corners of Middle-earth for an opportunity to re-emerge.

Tolkien's genius lies in crafting this ambiguity, allowing readers to engage with the mystery and draw their own conclusions. Whether you imagine other Balrogs hidden in Moria's depths or envision them scattered across the world, the possibility adds a thrilling layer of depth and intrigue to Tolkien's legendarium.