In ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’, the prologue highlights the Last Alliance’s battle against Sauron, narrated by Galadriel. Her absence raises questions, especially given her significant role in ‘The Rings of Power’. While Tolkien doesn’t specify her involvement, she may have led elven troops and could have sustained injuries during the lengthy siege. Anticipation builds for her potential role in the upcoming seasons, as the series approaches the climactic battle.
In the epic saga of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring’, we witness the legendary confrontation known as the Last Alliance, featuring Elrond (Hugo Weaving), Elendil (Peter McKenzie), and his son Isildur (Harry Sinclair) battling against the dark lord Sauron. This iconic moment is introduced in the film’s prologue, narrated by the ethereal voice of Galadriel (Cate Blanchett), who recounts the chaos of the battlefield, yet does not physically appear in the fray.
Despite her formidable powers and the fierce warrior persona she embodies in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ (as portrayed by Morfydd Clark), Galadriel’s absence from this pivotal battle raises questions, especially considering her growing animosity towards Sauron throughout the series. The reason for her lack of participation remains an intriguing enigma.
Exploring Galadriel’s Absence in the Battle
The absence of Galadriel from the battlefield is primarily a cinematic choice, as Tolkien’s writings do not specify her involvement or lack thereof. This opens the door to the possibility that she may have been present during the Last Alliance, given her significant role as a commander under Gil-galad (Ben Walker). It is plausible that she led a contingent of elven warriors during this monumental conflict.
Considering the groundwork laid by the Amazon series, it is reasonable to assume that she may have sustained injuries or retreated with her troops, which could explain her omission from the prologue of ‘The Fellowship’. The film portrays only the climax of a protracted siege against Sauron that spanned seven years, hinting at many untold stories and losses on both sides.
Galadriel’s Role Compared to Key Figures
Since Tolkien does not highlight Galadriel’s participation in the Last Alliance, it is likely she played a role, albeit not a central one. The primary figures in this battle are Elrond, Isildur, Elendil, and Gil-galad, who engage directly with Sauron, ultimately weakening him enough for Isildur to claim victory. Isildur’s brother, Anárion, also plays a crucial part in the siege of Barad-dûr, although he has not been featured prominently in the films or series yet.
However, there are hints that we will soon see Anárion, especially since Elendil (Lloyd Owen) has mentioned plans to travel to him in the upcoming season of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’.
Potential Involvement of Galadriel in the Last Alliance
As the men and elves unite against Sauron, they gather in Rivendell seven years before the events of the film’s prologue. Given her role as the commander of northern troops in the series, it is likely that Galadriel is present in this assembly.
The troops then embark on their march to Mordor, engaging in initial skirmishes against Sauron’s forces, including a notable battle at the Dead Marshes, which is depicted in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’. This leads to a lengthy siege of Sauron’s stronghold.
While Galadriel may participate in the adaptation of this battle in the final season, her role is expected to be limited. She might also face injuries over the course of the seven years, necessitating her return to Rivendell for recuperation.
It’s possible that Galadriel, due to her past encounters with Sauron, may take on a protective role, safeguarding the rear flank rather than engaging directly in combat. Gil-galad cautions her in ‘The Rings of Power’ about the dangers of confronting Sauron again, emphasizing the manipulative power the dark lord holds:
“You must not confront him again. It is said that when the traitor gains someone’s trust, he gains the ability to shape that person’s thoughts. Not just to deceive their heart and mind, but their eyes and ears. To change reality itself. You have been affected by it before.”
Even though Galadriel confronts Sauron in the Season 2 finale, her history may lead Gil-galad to prefer her remaining back to ensure the safety of their mission, although her strength and significance in the battle cannot be underestimated.
As work progresses on ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 3, which is intended to span five seasons, anticipation builds for the series to culminate in the legendary battle of the Last Alliance.