recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Stewards of Gondor

The **Stewards of Gondor** were firstly the chief high councilors to the Kings of Gondor and then the rulers of Gondor, until the return of the rightful ruler King Aragorn II Elessar.

## History

First created by the powerful King Rómendacil I, *Steward* was the traditional title of a chief counsellor to the Kings of Gondor. He was usually an elderly man not from the Royal House chosen for his wisdom and integrity, and was never permitted to go to war nor to go abroad. During the reign of King Minardil the House of Húrin was founded by his Steward, Húrin of Emyn Arnen and afterwards Stewards were usually chosen from his descendants. They were of high Númenórean blood, but not descendants of Elendil in the ruling line. During the time of the Steward Pelendur, the title became hereditary, passing the station of counsellor from father to son, much like the Kingship.

After the death of King Eärnur, who left no heir to the throne of Gondor, the Steward Mardil Voronwë became the first of the Ruling Stewards. Mardil was the first of the Stewards to administer Gondor, and his descendants did so for 25 generations.

The Stewards watched over the throne until it could be reclaimed by a true King of Gondor, an heir of Elendil. When asked by his son Boromir how long a time must pass before a Steward could become a King, if the King did not return, Denethor II replied, "Few years, maybe, in other places of less royalty … In Gondor ten thousand years would not suffice" (reported by Faramir in *The Two Towers*).

The Stewards never sat on the throne of the King; instead, they sat on a simple chair of black stone placed below it. The symbol of their office was a white rod and their emblem the letters R.ND.R surmounted by three stars. Their flag was pure white, without any charge or device.

The Quenya name for the title is *Arandur* , "Servant of the King".

## Ruling Stewards of Gondor

Soon after the death of Denethor II, Aragorn II Elessar was crowned King. The Steward Faramir, son of Denethor II, surrendered to the King his rod of office, but it was returned to him. Faramir nominally ruled briefly as Steward until Elessar's coronation, but since Faramir rested in the Houses of Healing, Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth took his place during much of that time. Though Faramir became Steward a month and a half before Elessar became King, Faramir is not considered one of the Ruling Stewards. King Elessar confirmed in Faramir and his descendants the office of Steward of Gondor, and granted him in addition the Principality of Ithilien, ensuring his line a position as counsellor of the King.
Sting

**Sting** is the sword of Bilbo Baggins, later Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee.

## History

Sting was forged in Gondolin in the late Second Age and was later lost with its other partners, Orcrist and Glamdring.

### In Bilbo's possession

During the Quest of Erebor, Gandalf had rescued the Company from Trolls and later found a cave with the Dwarves assistance. It was behind leaves on the ground. Gandalf later grabbed it and gave ti to Bilbo Baggins so the Hobbit had a weapon to possess in case he got in trouble. The sword fought its service, and its famous service in the Battle of the Five Armies.

Sixty years later, Bilbo later kept it in a chest.

### In Frodo's possession.

Later in Rivendell. Bilbo gave his sword to Frodo. He lost the sword after fighting with Shelob.

### Sam's possession

Sam used it believing Frodo to be dead and use the ring to throw it into the fires to complete Frodo's quest himself, and Sam took up Sting. Later Frodo turned out to be alive, so Sam gave the sword back to Frodo

When Frodo departed over seas, he gave the sword to Sam as a family heirloom with the Red Book of Westmarch with it.
The Moth

**The Moth** is the name given to a non-canonical small moth that comes to Gandalf occasionally, forewarning that Eagles are coming, or used by him to summon them.

## Biography

### The Hobbit film trilogy

During the ambush of Azog and his orcs, Thorin and Company become stranded on uprooted cliff-side trees. Thorin, Kili, Fili, Dwalin, and Bilbo rush in to a fight against the orcs, leaving the rest of the company behind, hanging over a cliff, in attempt to save them. Gandalf, hardly hanging on, notices a moth fly by his face. Shortly after, two dwarves fall from the tree and are caught by eagles, and the eagles take the company safely to the Carrock.

### The Lord of the Rings film trilogy

During the War of the Ring, when Gandalf the Grey is imprisoned by Saruman the White on the pinnacle of Orthanc, with no possible escape, during the night, The Moth appears and when it flies close to Gandalf he grabs it and whispers to The Moth, whom he asks to find and contact Gwaihir, one of the Eagles, that he needs help. The Moth flies away, and shortly thereafter Gwaihir rescues Gandalf.
Months later, the same Moth is also seen during the Battle of the Morannon, flying around Gandalf to advise him that the Eagles are coming, exactly at the same time on which the Nazgûl are to attack Gondor's and Rohan's armies in the battle mounted on their flying fell beasts. The Moth was previously believed to be an Antheraea polyphemus, however as the species is a North American native and filming for the series took place in New Zealand, it is now believed to be a male Opodiphthera eucalypti.
Stair of the Hold

The **Stair of the Hold** was the road leading to the Rohirrim refuge of Dunharrow from the valley of Harrowdale. It consisted of a series of switchbacks leading up a cliff-face, with ancient statues known as Púkel-men at each turn.

## History

The stair and its Púkel-men figures were made by Men of the White Mountains in the Second Age.

In the year TA 2569, Brego, the second king of Rohan, and his son Baldor ascended the stair and discovered Dunharrow, as well as the Dark Door in the forest beyond. Baldor returned the following year, but was never seen alive again.

During the War of the Ring, in TA 3019, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and the Grey Company ascended the stair on their way to the Paths of the Dead.
Second Age 3319

**Second Age 3319** (abbreviated to **S.A. 3319**) is the 3319th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* By this time, thanks to Sauron's absence from Middle-earth, Gil-galad's power extends to Rhovanion.
* Ar-Pharazôn assails Valinor.
* Deaths of Ar-Pharazôn and Tar-Míriel.
* Changing of the World and Downfall of Númenor; the Undying Lands are removed from Arda which becomes round.
* Elendil, his sons and other Faithful escape on seven ships. Sauron's spirit also escapes to Middle-earth.
Second Age 858

**Second Age 858** (abbreviated to **S.A. 858**) is the 858th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Engagement of Aldarion and Erendis.
* The mariners of the Guild of Venturers are not content. Without the company of Aldarion and his wealth and authority they made fewer and briefer voyages and seldom went further than to the land of Gil-galad.
Third Age 1015

**Third Age 1015** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1015**) is the 1015th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Haradrim led by the lords exiled from Umbar came up with great forces and besiege Umbar.
* King Ciryandil of Gondor slain in battle in Haradwaith during the siege.
* King Ciryandil's son, Ciryaher, became the fifteenth King of Gondor, and the last of the Ship-kings.
Third Age 1349

**Third Age 1349** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1349**) is the 1349th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of King Malvegil of Arthedain.
* After Malvegil, the Kings of Arthedain at Fornost claimed lordship over all Arnor and prefixed their names with *ar(a)* in token of this.
* Argeleb I becomes the seventh King of Arthedain.
Second Age 739

**Second Age 739** (abbreviated to **S.A. 739**) is the 739th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* After four years, Aldarion returns from his third voyage to Middle-earth having explored the coasts from Lindon to the Bay of Belfalas. Aldarion presents gifts from Gil-galad to his father Meneldur.
Third Age 1973

**Third Age 1973** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1973**) is the 1973rd year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1973 was also known as **S.R. 373** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

## Autumn

* King Arvedui of Arthedain sends word to King Eärnil II of Gondor that they are struggling against the threat of Angmar. Eärnil sends a fleet north carrying his son Eärnur with an army.
Third Age 2129

**Third Age 2129** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2129**) is the 2129th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2129 was also known as **S.R. 529** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Galador of Dol Amroth.
* Galador's unnamed son becomes the second Prince of Dol Amroth.
Theodwyn

**Théodwyn** of Rohan was the mother of Éomer and Éowyn.

The sister of King Théoden and youngest child of Thengel and Morwen Steelsheen, she married Éomund of Eastfold in TA 2989. Her son Éomer was born in TA 2991, and her daughter Éowyn in TA 2995. Éomund was slain in TA 3002. Not long afterward, Théodwyn died of illness, and Théoden raised her two children.
Third Age 2204

**Third Age 2204** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2204**) is the 2204th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2204 was also known as **S.R. 604** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Ruling Steward Belegorn of Gondor.
* Húrin I, son of Belegorn, becomes the fifth Ruling Steward.
Third Age 1448

**Third Age 1437** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1437**) is the 1437th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Siege of Osgiliath. Burning of the city and loss of the *palantír* in the river Anduin.
* King Eldacar flees to Rhovanion; his son Ornendil is murdered.
* Castamir "the Usurper", Captain of Ships, takes the throne of Gondor to become its twenty-second King.
Greenway

The **Greenway** was an ancient road which was meant to connect Arnor with Gondor.

## Location

Beginning at Fornost Erain in northern Eriador, it crossed the Great East Road at Bree, and then continued south to Tharbad on the Gwathló, where it crossed the river and became known as the **Old South Road**. From there it led into Dunland, arching slightly towards the Fords of Isen. After it crossed the Isen it was called the **Great West Road**, and ran along the Ered Nimrais through Anórien, then south past Minas Tirith and Osgiliath as the **South Road** and ended at Pelargir.

Other roads which intersected the Greenway included the King's Highway from Minas Tirith past Osgiliath to Minas Ithil, and at Pelargir the road which eventually ended at Erech, as well as the Harad Road which led into South Harad.

## History

The Greenway was the long, main path of traffic between Gondor and Arnor, but in the later Third Age after the division of Arnor, it was used less. Its importance ended after the Great Plague and Long Winter when Tharbad was abandoned and its bridge ruined, and most of its length became overgrown, hence its name.

Boromir took this road, crossing Tharbad but losing his horse, on his way to Rivendell. In the Reunited Kingdom of King Elessar the road was restored and became usable once more.
Third Age 1409

**Third Age 1409** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1409**) is the 1409th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Angmar War: The Witch-king of Angmar invades Arnor with a great host. Fornost and Tyrn Gorthad are defended.
* The Tower of Amon Sûl destroyed, but its *palantír* was saved and moved to Fornost.
* Rhudaur became a fief of Angmar, occupied by evil Men; Cardolan was ravaged with some fleeing to the Old Forest.
* The Dúnedain were defeated and King Arveleg I of Arthedain slain.
* Arveleg I's son, Araphor, becomes the ninth King of Arthedain.
* Fornost and the North Downs are defended by Araphor with help from Círdan.
* The Elves of Lindon and Elrond, assisted by the Galadhrim who came from beyond the Misty Mountains, subdue Angmar for some time.
* The last prince of Cardolan is killed and buried in a barrow of Tyrn Gorthad.
Theo

**Theo** was a resident of Tirharad in the Second Age, and the son of Bronwyn.

## Biography

### *The Rings of Power*, Season One

Theo is at first skeptical of the Elf Arondir's feelings toward his mother. Shortly after Arondir's company is relieved of duty watching over Tirharad, and Hordern has been destroyed, Theo accidently unleashes an Orc that had long hidden under his house, and he is almost killed before Bronwyn beheads it. This incident prompts the people of Tirharad to leave and find safety in an Elven tower. In the same week, Theo had also found a mysterious, haunted weapon bearing Sauron's sigil and exuding a subtle black force, while trespassing in a barn with Rowan.
Third Age 2299

**Third Age 2299** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2299**) is the 2299th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2299 was also known as **S.R. 699** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of the unnamed fourth Prince of Dol Amroth.
* The fourth Prince's unnamed son becomes the fifth Prince of Dol Amroth.
Third Age 1998

**Third Age 1998** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1998**) is the 1998th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1998 was also known as **S.R. 398** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Steward Pelendur of Gondor.
* Vorondil, son of Pelendur, becomes the steward of King Eärnil II.
* The Stewardship becomes hereditary.
Second Age 850

**Second Age 850** (abbreviated to **S.A. 850**) is the 850th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Aldarion convinces Erendis to sail with him from Rómenna to Andúnië.
* Valandil holds a feast in honour of Aldarion upon the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Guild of Venturers.
Third Age 2455

**Third Age 2455** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2455**) is the 2455th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2455 was also known as **S.R. 855** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Chieftain of the Dúnedain Araglas.
* Arahad I, the son of Araglas, becomes seventh Chieftain.
Second Age 750

**Second Age 750** (abbreviated to **S.A. 750**) is the 750th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Eregion founded by the Noldor.
* Galadriel and Celeborn arrive at Eregion.
* The Woodland Realm in Greenwood the Great is founded. Oropher is taken as a lord of the Silvan Elves.
* Construction of Ost-in-Edhil begins.
* Aldarion founds the Guild of Venturers.
Tar-Miriel

**Tar-Míriel** was the daughter of King Tar-Palantir, and the last rightful heir of Númenor.

## Biography

As the only child of Tar-Palantir, Míriel should have been the Ruling Queen, but her throne was usurped by her cousin, Ar-Pharazôn, who married her against her will and gave her the name **Ar-Zimraphel** (as Ruling Queen, she would have preferred the Quenya *Tar-* and been **Tar-Míriel**).

Ar-Pharazôn thereafter sailed to Middle-earth upon hearing of the conquests of Sauron, and defeating him, brought him back to Númenor. However, Sauron, in his fair form, corrupted the minds of many Númenóreans, including Ar-Pharazôn and his counselors. The culture of Númenor quickly became more evil, Sauron turning many towards worship of Melkor and the defilement of many good things in the hopes of evading death. Eventually, Ar-Pharazôn became desperate, and Sauron convinced the king to break the Ban of the Valar by sailing to Valinor, saying by this he could gain eternal life.

Because of Ar-Pharazôn's actions and in setting foot in Valinor, the Valar destroyed his fleet and sent a great wave to destroy Númenor. Upon sighting the wave, Míriel attempted to ascend Meneltarma, but was caught by the waters and drowned before reaching the summit.
Third Age 2877

**Third Age 2877** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2877**) is the 2877th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2877 was also known as **S.R. 1277** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Madoc Brandybuck.
* Marmadoc Brandybuck, son of Madoc and Hanna Goldworthy, becomes the Master of Buckland.
Third Age 1940

**Third Age 1940** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1940**) is the 1940th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1940 was also known as **S.R. 340** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Gondor and Arnor renew communications and form an alliance. Arvedui weds Fíriel daughter of Ondoher of Gondor.
Third Age 1975

**Third Age 1975** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1975**) is the 1975th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1975 was also known as **S.R. 375** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

## Early

* Having learned from Aranarth about King Arvedui, Cirdan send an elven ship to Forochel to rescue him.

## March

* Long winter, the ice of the north didn't break yet.
* Arvedui drowned in the Icebay of Forochel.
* The *palantíri* of Annúminas and Amon Sûl are lost. The Ring of Barahir stays with the chief of the Lossoth.

## Later

* Angmar War: Eärnur brings a fleet to Lindon.
* The Host of the West is assembled; Glorfindel with a force from Rivendell joins them.
* The Witch-king defeated at the Battle of Fornost. He is pursued to the Ettenmoors where Eärnur fails to fight him. He vanishes from the North.
Third Age 1856

**Third Age 1856** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1856**) is the 1856th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1856 was also known as **S.R. 256** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Wainrider/Balchoth War: Gondor loses its eastern territories following the Battle of the Plains.
* King Narmacil II of Gondor slain in the battle.
* Calimehtar, son of Narmacil II, becomes the thirtieth King of Gondor.
* Death of Marhari of the Northmen in rearguard action after the Battle of the Plains.
* Marhwini leads Northmen refugees out of Rhovanion to the Vales of Anduin where they become the Éothéod.
* Around that time, the Ringwraiths return to Mordor.
Third Age 1250

**Third Age 1250** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1250**) is the 1250th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Regent Rómendacil of Gondor sends his son, Valacar, to dwell with King Vidugavia of Rhovanion as an ambassador in order to understand the language, manners and policies of the Northmen.
Third Age 1976

**Third Age 1976** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1976**) is the 1976th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1976 was also known as **S.R. 376** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Aranarth takes the title of Chieftain of the Dúnedain.
* The heirlooms of Arnor (the shards of Narsil and the Sceptre of Annúminas) are given into the keeping of Elrond at Rivendell.
Third Age 1813

**Third Age 1813** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1813**) is the 1813th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1813 was also known as **S.R. 213** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of King Arveleg II of Arthedain.
* Araval, the son of Arveleg II, becomes the thirteenth King of Arthedain.
Third Age 2

**Third Age 2** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2**) is the 2nd year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Isildur plants a seedling of the White Tree in Minas Anor. He delivers the South-kingdom to Meneldil.

## September

* **25** Disaster of the Gladden Fields; deaths of Isildur, Elendur, Aratan and Ciryon.
Third Age 1601

**Third Age 1601** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1601**) is the 1601st year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1601 was also known as **S.R. 1** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Led by the Fallohide brothers Marcho and Blanco, many Periannath migrate from Bree, and are granted land beyond Baranduin by Argeleb II.
Second Age 863

**Second Age 863** (abbreviated to **S.A. 863**) is the 863rd year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

## Víressë

* Aldarion departs on a six year long voyage to Middle-earth with three ships. The voyage takes longer than planned, because the haven of Vinyalondë had been totally ruined by great seas and when he wants to return home the ships are twice blown off course far to the north from a great wind coming from the south.
Third Age 2991

**Third Age 2991** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2991**) is the 2991st year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2991 was also known as **S.R. 1391** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Éomer, first child and son of Éomund and Théodwyn.
* Birth of Ilberic Brandybuck, second child and second son of Seredic Brandybuck and Hilda Bracegirdle.
* Birth of Moro Burrows, second child and second son of Milo Burrows and Peony Baggins.
* Death of Sigismond Took.
Third Age

The **Third Age**, often abbreviated to **T.A.**, began after the first downfall of Sauron, when he was defeated by the Last Alliance of Elves and Men following the downfall of Númenor.

This age was characterized by the rise and decline of the exiled Númenorean kingdoms, in contrast to the slow recovery of Sauron's power. In the meantime the Elves, Dwarves and other peoples did little new; also known as the **Fading Years**, the Age marked the waning of the Elves.

It lasted for 3021 years, only ending after the defeat of Sauron had finally and utterly been achieved by destroying his Ruling Ring. With the One Ring gone, the power of three rings waned and the realms that had been preserved by them began to fade. These events prompted many of the Eldar remaining in Middle-earth to sail for the Uttermost West, and so much memory and beauty were lost to Middle-earth for ever. With the Last Riding of the Keepers the Fourth Age began.

## Major events of the Third Age

 2nd millennium
* Kin-strife (1432-1447)
* Corsair Wars (1448-3019)
* Wainrider/Balchoth War (1851-2510)
* Dissolution of Arnor (1974)
* Evacuation of Moria (1981)
* Thráin I establishes the Kingdom of Erebor (1999)
 3rd millennium
* Ruin of Osgiliath (2475)
* War of the Dwarves and Dragons (2570-2589)
* Battle of Greenfields (2747)
* War of the Dwarves and Orcs (2793)
* Attack on Dol Guldur (2941)
* Battle of Five Armies (2941)
* Thorin I leaves Erebor and joins the Dwarves of the Grey Mountains (2210)
* Founding of Rohan (2510)
* Thrór re-establishes Erebor (2590)
* Saruman occupies Orthanc (2759)
* Sack of Erebor (2770)
* Dwarves establish Thorin's Halls (2802)
* Restoration of Erebor (2941)
* Establishent of the Kingdom of Dale (2944)
* Balin's Colony of Moria (2989-2994)
* The One Ring is found (c. 2463)
* Long Winter (2758)
 4th millennium
* Departure of the White Ship and end of the Third Age (3021)
Third Age 2254

**Third Age 2254** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2254**) is the 2254th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2254 was also known as **S.R. 654** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of the unnamed third Prince of Dol Amroth.
* The third Prince's unnamed son becomes the fourth Prince of Dol Amroth.
Third Age 2360

**Third Age 2360** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2360**) is the 2360th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2360 was also known as **S.R. 760** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Steward Hador of Gondor adds an extra day to this year to reduce the *millennial deficit* to keep the calendar in synchronization with the seasons.
Talking Purse

The **Talking Purse** was the purse of the troll William. When Bilbo Baggins tried to pick the purse from William's pocket, the purse suddenly squeaked "Ere, 'oo are you?". William was thus warned of the pickpocketing and captured Bilbo.

The size of the purse was huge: it is told to have been "as big as a bag to Bilbo". Apparently "Trolls' purses" were known for their mischief.
Third Age 3010

**Third Age 3010** (abbreviated to **T.A. 3010**) is the 3010th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 3010 was also known as **S.R. 1410** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Adrahil II of Dol Amroth.
* Imrahil, son of Adrahil II, becomes the twenty-second Prince of Dol Amroth.
* Death of Bruno Bracegirdle.
Secret Door

The **Secret Door** is located somewhere Smaug would never fit. Thorin Oakenshield and the company he led to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from Smaug. The key hole would only be shown on the light of the full moon.

## History

### Creation

At some point, the Side-door was created during Thror's reign, with support of his son Thrain. Many figured it was meant to be used as means of escape in case of emergency.

### Quest of Erebor

The Back Door’s dimensions were described on Thrór's Map as: "Five feet high the door and three may walk abreast." When Gandalf brought out the map at the unexpected party in Bilbo Baggins' home he also produced the small and curious silver key with a long barrel and intricate wards, which would open the door.

#### Rivendell

Elrond was given permission to examine Thrór's Map and discovered the moon-letters which revealed the method of opening the door. Elrond read them out as: "Stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks and the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day will shine upon the key-hole."

### The Last Light of Durin

When Bilbo and the Dwarves reached the Lonely Mountain they eventually found rough steps that led upwards to a little steep-walled bay above a cliff. In the back was a flat wall that rose as smooth and upright as masons' work. Although without any sign of a post or lintel or threshold, nor any sign of bar or bolt or key-hole, they knew that they had found the door. However, the Company began leaving, neglecting the thrush had to knock when the last light of Durin's day shined upon the keyhole. Bilbo tried calling them back, but the dwarves left, as Thorin begrudingly gave their hobbit companion the map and letting the key fall onto the ground.

Bilbo remained behind, remembering the entire prophecy, remembering the Thrush had to knock, as it did at that moment when the moonlight shone upon the keyhole. Bilbo called his friends back, and began to desperately search for the key. Howeveer, his foot ended up hitting the key, which nearly fell off the cliff. However, Thorin stepped on it before it fell and picked it up as the rest of the dwarves returned.

After Thorin turned the key in the hole the Dwarves pushed the door inward and the way into the mountain was opened. However, the company could not exit through the door a second time as they ran from Smaug and resolved to kill the dragon themselves. Its further fate is unknown.

## Description

The door blended into the side of the wall on the outside; however, on the inside, the door's inscription above it, while a picture of the Arkenstone was carved into the side.

## Visitors

* Balin
* Bifur
* Bilbo Baggins
* Bombur
* Dori
* Dwalin
* Glóin
* Nori
* Ori
* Thorin Oakenshield
Third Age 2106

**Third Age 2106** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2106**) is the 2106th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2106 was also known as **S.R. 506** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Chieftain of the Dúnedain Aranarth.
* Arahael, the son of Aranarth, becomes second Chieftain.
Third Age 2190

**Third Age 2190** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2190**) is the 2190th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2190 was also known as **S.R. 590** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of King Thráin I.
* Thorin I becomes King of Durin's Folk and King under the Mountain.
Shadow

**The Shadow** is a very broad and abstract term that seems to be used in reference to the Darkness, the extent of evil and its influence to the minds of people as a result of the Marring of Arda. Because Morgoth tainted Arda with his rebellious spirit, his will could continue to affect the hearts of people living on Earth after he was gone. At different points the Shadow refers to the Darkness of the Enemy, Sauron or their servants, the Ringwraiths, also called **Shadows** (and their Black Breath). Sauron was called the **Shadow of the Forest** (while he dwelt in Dol Guldur) or the **Shadow of the East** (in Mordor). Shadow also described the Unlight of Ungoliant.

**Shadows** was also a name for the Oathbreakers, having become Wraiths, also called Shadow-hosts, Shadow-men.

Peoples came under the sway of this corrupting power were said to be "under the Shadow". The term is also a euphemism that alludes to the seduction of Men by Morgoth in the beginning of their history: "Men came forth in the East of the world; but they fell under the shadow of the Enemy". This usage is similar to the other examples above, but is more far-reaching in that all Men living at that time were said to have succumbed to Morgoth's power. The Men fell under the Shadow already in Hildórien and became afraid of the Gift of Men. A similar fear came in the realm of Númenor when its people became restless and began to envy the immortality of the Elves.

A few kindreds of Dwarves also fell under the Shadow, especially among those clans that lived in the mountains to the far east of Middle-earth. Some Dwarves fought on Sauron's side during the Last Alliance.

Though the Shadow was less evident among populations of the Elves, the Shadow of the Kinslaying lay upon the kindred of the Noldor.

The Shadow however also referred to more concrete and evident things, like the Shadow covering Mordor, the **Storm of Mordor** that covered Gondor on the Dawnless Day.

After the passing of Sauron, the Shadow was lifted from the hearts of the Free Peoples and they managed to fight the remnants of his forces.

When he met Durin's Bane, Gandalf expelled it to return to the Shadow it came from, perhaps the Void.

In more general applications, "Shadow" is a term that apparently refers to the bewilderment and darkness accompanying certain enchantments. Sauron's tower of Barad-dûr was surrounded by Shadow, and the word is also associated with the land of Lothlórien and with the Ents.

Saruman referred to the Ents and Huorns as the **Shadow of the Wood**.
Stairs of Cirith Ungol

The **Stairs of Cirith Ungol** were the means by which the pass of Cirith Ungol was accessed from the Morgul Vale, near Minas Morgul. The stairs consisted of two sections, named the Straight Stair and the Winding Stair respectively, cut into the western face of the Ephel Dúath. The stairs ran nearly vertically from the valley floor for hundreds of feet, ending in a cleft through which the path led through Shelob's Lair to Cirith Ungol.

## History

The stairs' origins are unknown, but were known to be a treacherous place by at least the late Third Age. During the War of the Ring, in the year TA 3019, Gollum led Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee up the stairs as a means to enter the land of Mordor undetected. Though little used, the Orcs from the Tower of Cirith Ungol were aware of the stairs' existence.
Third Age 2340

**Third Age 2340** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2340**) is the 2340th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2340 was also known as **S.R. 740** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Gorhendad Oldbuck abdicates Thainship and crosses the Brandywine river. The Oldbucks occupy the Buckland and rename themselves to the Brandybucks.
* Isumbras I becomes thirteenth Thain, and first of the Took line.
Seven Rings

The **Seven Dwarf-rings** were the Rings of Power given to seven Dwarf Lords by Sauron in the guise of Annatar.

## History

Apparently the Lords were the Kings of the Seven Houses, as Gandalf mentions that the Rings were given to the "Dwarf-kings".

The most famous was the Ring of Thrór: in Dwarven tradition it was said Celebrimbor gave the Ring to Durin III king of Durin's Folk before the Downfall of Eregion, but this seems unlikely as Celebrimbor was said to have yielded the Seven - all the Seven - to Sauron after torture.

The Dwarf Lords proved resistant to the malevolent magic of the rings, which could not even turn them invisible, as they are hard to tame, and the thoughts of their hearts are hidden. The rings, used only for the gaining of wealth, amplified their wearer's natural skills and desire for dominion which as a consequence, made them greedy and exceedingly rich; the Rings gave them the power to multiply whatever they mined. It is said that thanks to them the Seven Hoards were made. But also the Rings kindled greed and wrath in the Dwarves, bringing evils that in the long-term benefitted Sauron.

Four were swallowed or destroyed by Dragons, but Sauron succeeded in finding two. The last one was worn by Thráin II, but in T.A. 2845 he was imprisoned by Sauron in the dungeons of Dol Guldur, and the ring was taken from him.
Third Age 2733

**Third Age 2733** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2733**) is the 2733rd year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2733 was also known as **S.R. 1133** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of the unnamed fourteenth Prince of Dol Amroth.
* The fourteenth Prince's unnamed son becomes the fifteenth Prince of Dol Amroth.
Swords

**Swords**, one of the most common weapons in Middle-earth, makes a good stabbing weapon as well as a slashing weapon. Among the Elves, the Ñoldor were famed for their swords. The Dwarves used swords as well. In *The Hobbit,* Dáin's troops bear short swords and shields as well as mattocks. Telchar the Dwarf forged Narsil, the sword of Elendil, and later Aragorn II Elessar (as Andúril). As described in *Unfinished Tales*, the Númenóreans used a short sword called an ***eket***. It was a stabbing weapon. Isildur threw all his weapons and armor away except his *eket* when escaping from an Orc-ambush at the Disaster of the Gladden Fields. Common Orcs used curved swords (the word Tolkien uses is scimitars) while Saruman's Uruk-hai used short broad-bladed ones.
Third Age 1621

**Third Age 1621** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1621**) is the 1621st year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1621 was also known as **S.R. 21** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of King Hyarmendacil II of Gondor.
* Hyarmendacil II's son, Minardil, becomes the twenty-fifth King of Gondor.
Third Age 1944

**Third Age 1944** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1944**) is the 1944th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1944 was also known as **S.R. 344** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* **9 July**: News of the oncoming of the enemy reach Pelargir.
* Disaster of the Morannon
* King Ondoher falls in battle. His sons Artamir and Faramir are also killed.
* **13 July**: Minohtar is overwhelmed by Wainriders and slain by an arrow.
* Eärnil defeats the enemy in South Ithilien. He then wins the Battle of the Camp, and drives Wainriders into the Dead Marshes.
* Pelendur briefly rules Gondor.
* Arvedui claims the crown of Gondor.
Second Age 882

**Second Age 882** (abbreviated to **S.A. 882**) is the 882nd year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

* Aldarion returns to Númenor after a five-year voyage aboard his ship *Hirilondë*.
* Aldarion and Erendis become separated.
* Tar-Meneldur reads a letter from Gil-galad warning him of a new shadow arising in the East, a servant of Morgoth. The king resolves to give the Sceptre to his son in the following year.
Second Age 870

**Second Age 870** (abbreviated to **S.A. 870**) is the 870th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

## Spring

* Aldarion weds Erendis.
* Aldarion and Erendis ride throughout the island and make their way to Andúnië at midsummer. Valandil holds a feast in their honour.
Third Age 2999

**Third Age 2999** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2999**) is the 2999th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2999 was also known as **S.R. 1399** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Lothíriel, fourth child and only daughter of Imrahil, Prince of Dol Amroth.
* Death of Falco Chubb-Baggins.
* Death of Gruffo Boffin.
Snaga

**Snaga** was the name of an Orc scout in Uglúk's band sent by Saruman to pursue the Fellowship in TA 3019 and capture the hobbits carrying the One Ring.

## Biography

Snaga is portrayed as a young scout brought by Grishnákh to help him gain control of Merry and Pippin and hurry the Uruk-hai Scouts (though it is unclear if all of the lesser Orcs or only Grishnákh are from Mordor, as they look similar to those from Isengard). His personality and role are rather that of the Moria Goblins who are absent from the film, but appear in the books and attempt to eat the captives.
Hunger for fresh meat eventually overcame his limited discipline and loyalty to the Dark Lord Sauron. After one of the orcs known as Mauhúr begins to say that they haven't eaten anything except ill food for three days, Snaga joins in and adds that their captives ''look fresh'' until he is denied his meal by the Uruk-hai scouts loyal to The Eye and The White Hand. He eventually tried to get "Just a mouthful" of the two captured Hobbits by sneaking in behind Uglúk, who was making sure the captives got to Isengard unharmed and unspoiled. When the orc attempted to kill Merry and Pippin, Uglúk saw him and cut off his head after which the Uruk-hai cannibalize his corpse.
Third Age 2644

**Third Age 2644** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2644**) is the 2644th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2644 was also known as **S.R. 1044** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Thráin II, the son of King Thrór.
* Birth of Déor, son of King Goldwine of Rohan.
Third Age 1936

**Third Age 1936** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1936**) is the 1936th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1936 was also known as **S.R. 336** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of King Calimehtar of Gondor.
* Ondoher, son of Calimehtar, becomes the thirty-first King of Gondor.
Third Age 2588

**Third Age 2588** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2588**) is the 2588th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2588 was also known as **S.R. 988** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Chieftain of the Dúnedain Aragost.
* Aravorn, the son of Aragost, becomes the ninth Chieftain.
* Birth of the unnamed thirteenth Prince of Dol Amroth.
Squint

The **Squint** was a Man of Bree and father of the Squint-eyed Southerner who worked as an assassin, mercenary and bandit along with his partner in crime Bill Ferny Sr.

## Biography

### The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

In TA 2941, the Squint was hired by Azog, along with his partner Bill Ferny Sr. to assassinate Thorin II Oakenshield and found him in Bree at the Prancing Pony but failed to kill him due to the appearance of Gandalf and later left the inn by the time of his warning to Thorin about someone planning to murder him.
Second Age 600

**Second Age 600** (abbreviated to **S.A. 600**) is the 600th year of the Sun of the Second Age of Middle-earth.

Notable events in this year include:

## Spring

* The first ships of the Númenóreans begin to appear on the coasts of Middle-earth: Entulessë, a ship headed by Vëantur, Captain of the King's Ships, arrives in Mithlond where the Númenóreans are welcomed by Gil-galad.
* A meeting takes place at Tower Hills between the Númenóreans and the Middle Men of Eriador; the two groups recognise their common heritage. It is noted that it was a millennium or more since the Edain had separated from their kin in Eriador to reach Beleriand.
Third Age 2701

**Third Age 2701** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2701**) is the 2701st year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2701 was also known as **S.R. 1101** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Ferumbras Took II, older son of Isumbras Took III
* Death of the unnamed thirteenth Prince of Dol Amroth.
* The thirteenth Prince's unnamed son becomes the fourteenth Prince of Dol Amroth.
Third Age 1974

**Third Age 1974** (abbreviated to **T.A. 1974**) is the 1974th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 1974 was also known as **S.R. 374** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

## Winter

* Angmar War: The Witch-king overruns Arthedain and takes Fornost.
* End of the North-kingdom.
* Arvedui protects the North Downs then flees to the Dwarf-mines of the Blue Mountains and then north to the Icebay of Forochel.
The Hobbit (film series)

***The Hobbit*** is a trilogy directed by Peter Jackson.

It is based on *The Hobbit* by J.R.R Tolkien*.*

The film features multiple cast members. New cast members included Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Evangeline Lilly, Luke Evans, Lee Pace, Benedict Cumberbatch, Aidan Turner, Dean O'Gorman, Stephen Fry, and Ryan Gage.

Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Cate Blanchett, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, Elijah Wood, and Andy Serkis reprised their roles as Gandalf, Legolas, Lady Galadriel, old Bilbo, Saruman, Elrond, Frodo Baggins, and Gollum respectively.

## Summary

Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) lives a simple life with his fellow hobbits in the shire, until the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) arrives and convinces him to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim the kingdom of Erebor. The journey takes Bilbo on a path through treacherous lands swarming with orcs, goblins and other dangers, not the least of which is an encounter with Gollum (Andy Serkis) and a simple gold ring that is tied to the fate of Middle Earth in ways Bilbo cannot even fathom.

## Cast

### Thorin and Company

* Ian McKellen as Gandalf
* Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
* Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
* Ken Stott as Balin
* Graham McTavish as Dwalin
* William Kircher as Bifur/Tom Troll
* James Nesbitt as Bofur
* Stephen Hunter as Bombur
* Dean O'Gorman as Fili
* Aidan Turner as Kili
* Mark Hadlow as Dori / Bert Troll
* Jed Brophy as Nori
* John Callen as Gloin
* Peter Hambleton as Oin / William
* Adam Brown as Ori

### Erebor. Lake-town and Mirkwood

* Jeffrey Thomas as Thror
* Athony Sher as Thrain
* Lee Pace as Thranduil
* Orlando Bloom as Legolas
* Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel
* Luke Evans as Bard the Bowman
* Stephen Fry as Master of Lake-town
* Ryan Gage as Alfrid Lickspittle
* John Bell as Bain
* Peggy Nesbitt as Sigrid
* Mary Nesbitt as Tilda

### Returning Cast

* Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
* Andy Serkis as Gollum
* Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
* Ian Holm as Old Bilbo
* Christopher Lee as Saruman
* Hugo Weaving as Elrond
* Bret McKenzie as Lindir

### Iron Hills, Rhosgobel, and Beorn

* Mikael Persbrandt as Beorn
* Sylvester McCoy as Radagast
* Billy Connolly as Dain

### Sauron's Force Orc

* Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug / Necromancer
* Barry Humphries as Great Goblin
* Manu Bennett as Azog
* Conan Stevens, Lawrence Makoare, and John Tui as Bolg
* Ben Mitchell as Narzug
* Allan Smith as Ragash

### Other

* Jared Blakiston as Musical Elf
* Andrew Fitzsimons as Elf
* Cameron Jones as Thranduil's Lieutenant
* Craig Hall as Galion
* Robin Kerr as Elros
* Eli Kent as Lethuin
* Simon London as Feren
Third Age 2979

**Third Age 2979** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2979**) is the 2979th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2979 was also known as **S.R. 1379** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Pimpernel Took, second child and second daughter of Paladin Took II and Eglantine Banks.
Third Age 2570

**Third Age 2570** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2570**) is the 2570th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2570 was also known as **S.R. 970** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Baldor, son of King Brego of Rohan, enters the Forbidden Door and is lost.
* Death of King Brego, who dies of grief because of the loss of Baldor.
* Aldor, the second son of Brego, becomes the third King of Rohan.
* Birth of Fréa, fourth child and son of King Aldor of Rohan.
* War of the Dwarves and Dragons: About this time Dragons reappear in the far North and begin to afflict the Dwarves.
Third Age 2244

**Third Age 2244** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2244**) is the 2244th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2244 was also known as **S.R. 644** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Ruling Steward Húrin I of Gondor.
* Túrin I, son of Húrin I, becomes the sixth Ruling Steward.
Stone-trolls

**Stone-trolls** were huge trolls who turned into stone in direct sunlight.

Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield, and twelve other Dwarves encountered three talking stone-trolls, named "Tom", "Bert", and "William", in TA 2941.

## Habits

Stone-trolls tended to be dumb and ill-tempered. Almost all stone-trolls have first names, and a few (like William Hagins) had last names. Stone-trolls ate things such as wild fowl, wild pigs/boars, dwarves, hobbits, and fish (if they could actually catch them). They hunted simply by chasing or ambushing the animals, then hitting them with a weapon such as an axe or a club.

## Shelter

Stone-trolls commonly lived in caves or large burrows that went many yards underground, where they could shelter themselves from sunlight during the day. They slept on beds made of grasses and leaves or animal hides.

## Biography

Bilbo and company met a group of stone trolls known as Tom, Bert, and William - they hold a violent skirmish against them before being put into sacks. Gandalf defeats these trolls by tricking them into staying in the clearing until the sun came out, when they turned to stone.
Bilbo threw a large birthday party and invited Gandalf the Wizard and all of the hobbits in the Shire. Bilbo was telling a story at one point to a group of children about the trolls who were about to eat him and the Dwarves until their demise. Later in the Extended Edition of the film, when Frodo had been stabbed with the Morgul-blade and is laid down in the woods before Sam searches for athelas, the same trolls Bilbo and the Dwarves had encountered are in the background.
Third Age 2545

**Third Age 2545** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2545**) is the 2545th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2545 was also known as **S.R. 945** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Birth of Belecthor I, son of Steward Húrin II of Gondor.
* Renewed attacks of the Easterlings.
* Death of King Eorl who falls in battle in the Wold.
* Brego, son of Eorl, becomes the second King of Rohan.
Third Age 2319

**Third Age 2319** (abbreviated to **T.A. 2319**) is the 2319th year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 2319 was also known as **S.R. 719** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

* Death of Chieftain of the Dúnedain Aravir.
* Aragorn I, the son of Aravir, becomes fifth Chieftain.
Third Age 3001

**Third Age 3001** (abbreviated to **T.A. 3001**) is the 3001st year of the Sun of the Third Age of Middle-earth. Third Age 3001 was also known as **S.R. 1401** in Shire-reckoning.

Notable events in this year include:

## September

* Gaffer Gamgee, Old Noakes, Daddy Twofoot, Sandyman and other strangers are at the *Ivy Bush* and gossip about Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.
* (two days later) Rumors begin that Bilbo's party will have fireworks.
* A Dwarf-wagon loaded with packages comes to Bag End.
* c. **15** - Gandalf rides a cart over the Brandywine Bridge, through Bywater and reaches Bag End.
* The following day and week more wagons and carts arrive. Bilbo sends orders for provisions from the neighboring regions.
* **21** - Cloudy weather over Hobbiton.
* **22** - Bilbo's farewell feast. Gandalf suspects Bilbo's ring to be the One Ring.
* **23** - Frodo Baggins inherits Bag End and has a hard time managing the inheritance and distributing Bilbo's gifts. At the evening Gandalf departs seeking for news of Gollum.
* Gandalf calls on the help of Aragorn. The Rangers of the North double their guard on the Shire.