Does Eowyn Kill the Witch King in the Books?
In the beloved fantasy series “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien, the character of Eowyn has captured the hearts of readers with her bravery and resilience. One of the most debated questions among fans is whether Eowyn kills the Witch-king of the Nazgûl in the books. In this article, we will delve into this topic and provide an analysis based on the original text.
Understanding the Context
To answer this question, it is crucial to understand the context of the story. Eowyn is a princess of Rohan, a realm that is closely aligned with the Free People of Middle-earth. She is portrayed as a strong-willed and skilled warrior, who takes a significant role in the fight against Sauron’s forces. The Witch-king of the Nazgûl is the leader of the Ringwraiths, an evil entity that has been corrupted by the One Ring.
The Battle of Pelennor Fields
The climactic battle between the Free People of Middle-earth and the forces of Sauron takes place at the Battle of Pelennor Fields. Eowyn, disguised as a man, joins the battle alongside her brother, Faramir. The Witch-king is present at this battle, leading the Nazgûl in their relentless pursuit of the ringbearer, Frodo Baggins.
Eowyn’s Confrontation with the Witch-king
During the battle, Eowyn has a fierce confrontation with the Witch-king. She manages to wound him with her sword, Sting, which is imbued with the power of the Elven kingdom of Noldor. However, it is not Eowyn who delivers the final blow to the Witch-king. Instead, it is Aragorn, also known as Strider, who ultimately kills the Witch-king. Eowyn plays a crucial role in the battle, but she does not kill the Witch-king herself.
Reasons for the Debate
Despite the clear evidence from the books, many fans have continued to debate whether Eowyn kills the Witch-king. Some argue that the scene where Eowyn wounds the Witch-king is so intense and powerful that it feels like she has defeated him. Others believe that Tolkien wanted to emphasize the importance of the Elves and the role they played in the destruction of the Witch-king.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Does Eowyn kill the Witch-king in the books?” is no. While Eowyn does play a significant role in the battle against the Witch-king, it is Aragorn who ultimately delivers the fatal blow. The debate surrounding this topic highlights the rich and complex nature of “The Lord of the Rings” and the deep emotional connections readers have with its characters.
