The Role of Eagles in 'The Return of the King': Debunking the Myth

In the grand narrative of The Return of the King, the role of eagles in saving Frodo and Samwise from Mount Doom has been a subject of much speculation and misinterpretation, particularly regarding the number and function of the eagles involved. Many fans have questioned why Gandalf took three eagles with him, when the movie seems to suggest only one was necessary. However, a closer examination of the book reveals that this interpretation is inaccurate, and these details were probably elaborated upon by the director, Peter Jackson.

Understanding the Book's Vision

Consistent with J.R.R. Tolkien's The Return of the King, Gandalf was indeed assisted by three eagles: Gwaihir, Landroval, and one unnamed eagle. Here's how it played out:

Gandalf was carried by Gwaihir, the swiftest of all eagles. As for the remaining two eagles, one was specifically tasked with carrying Frodo and the other with carrying Samwise.

This division was not a casual decision, but rather a strategic move to ensure the safety and efficiency of the mission. Gandalf, being a wise and experienced traveler, anticipated that his companions may still be present at Mount Doom, despite their perilous journey. He did not hypothesize that Gollum would be involved, as he had already met with Faramir, who confirmed that Gollum was traveling with Frodo and Sam. Thus, the eagles were deployed to maximize the chances of successful rescue and carry the two hobbits quickly away from the perilous location.

Clarifying Movie Discrepancies

The movie has introduced some artistic liberties that slightly cloud the narrative. Specifically, the film shows Gandalf lifting Frodo onto Gwaihir, leaving one eagle seemingly unoccupied. However, this portrayal of eagles, while visually captivating, does not accurately reflect the book's description. Eagles do not typically operate in single-occupant mode, as both Gandalf and the other eagles are swiftly moving together to reach Mount Doom.

Gwaihir had indeed carried Gandalf before, albeit for a shorter and less physically taxing journey due to recent recovery from his battle with a Balrog. While Gandalf may have been somewhat lighter after his resurrection, the necessity of speed and efficiency dictated the decision to use three eagles to ensure the timely extraction of Frodo and Samwise.

The Multi-Dimensional Role of Gollum

Another aspect often misunderstood is the role of Gollum. Contrary to the movie's interpretation, the eagles were not sent with the specific intention of dealing with Gollum. If Gollum were still alive, Gandalf would have undoubtedly attempted to assist him and potentially even share the eagle with Frodo, but this was not foreseen.

In summary, the role of the three eagles in The Return of the King was a masterful yet practical deployment to ensure the safe and swift rescue of Frodo and Samwise. While the movie's portrayal of this scene is artistic and engaging, adherence to the original text reveals a more complex and efficient operation orchestrated by Gandalf with the eagles he trusted the most.