In the Lord of the Rings movie series the plot involves numerous characters using different sorts of weapons with various implications. Such artifacts as battle axes, maces, spears, bow and all sorts of arrows and chiefly swords. Arwen’s Swords, particularly those with proper names, receive blessings, often deriving from the lineage or intended function of their wielders.
The Tradition of Naming Weapons
In Middle-earth, weapons with names are frequently given to or created for royalty. These names usually carry a significant meaning or foretell the weapon’s purpose. For example, the Arwen’s sword wielded by the Dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield is named Orcrist, which means “Goblin-cleaver,” indicating its ability to effectively defeat goblins.
Arwen’s Sword: Hadhafang
Arwen, an Elven lady, also possesses a notable sword named Hadhafang. The name Hadhafang translates to “throng-cleaver” in Sindarin, the Elvish language. This name implies the sword’s ability to cut through large groups of enemies. Unlike some of the legendary weapons described in J.R.R. In Tolkien’s books, Hadhafang was crafted specifically for Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Despite this, it was endowed with a rich backstory that intricately connects it to the lore of Middle-earth.
The Rich History of Hadhafang
Hadhafang has a storied history within the Elven royal lineage:
Idril: The sword was first given to Idril, an Elven princess.
Eärendil: Idril passed it to her son, Eärendil, a significant figure in Elven history.
Elrond: Eärendil then passed Hadhafang to his son Elrond, who used it during the War of the Last Alliance in the Second Age to combat Sauron’s forces.
Design and Use of Hadhafang
The designers crafted Hadhafang for horseback combat, enabling it to deliver swift and powerful strikes due to its shape. This design made it an effective weapon during battles where Elves fought against large groups of enemies.Hadhafang was designed for horseback combat, allowing for both swift and powerful strikes due to its shape.
The Inscription and Its Meaning
The inscription on Hadhafang’s blade translates to: “This blade is called Hadhafang, a noble defense against the enemy throng for a noble lady.” This directly associates the sword with Arwen, whose name also means “noble lady.” It suggests that she was always destined to use the sword, despite its limited appearance in the films or the books.Arwen does use Hadhafang in a crucial moment when she saves Frodo from the Ringwraiths, demonstrating the sword’s intended purpose.
Significance in the Films
Although Tolkien did not include Hadhafang in his books, its inclusion in the films enhanced Arwen’s character, portraying her as both compassionate and a skilled warrior, despite her reputation as a gentle dancer.
Other Notable Elven Swords
The Elves of Middle-earth used a variety of swords, each tailored to their martial rank and community:
Lhang: A short sword used by High Elves. Its design allows for swift, sweeping motions that can disable enemies quickly.
Elven Lord Sabre:
A curved blade with a short handle, similar to Hadhafang.High-ranking Elves used it, finding it particularly effective on horseback due to its weight and mobility.
Wood-elven Sabre:
A longer sword that one can wield with two hands or use behind a shield. This sword was effective for both stabbing and slashing, allowing Elves to keep charging enemies at a distance.
Conclusion
Arwen’s sword, Hadhafang, holds significant importance in the Lord of the Rings films. It is a symbol of her royal heritage and her role as a protector. Although intended for the movies, the creators endowed the sword with a meaningful backstory that enriches the lore of Middle-earth. Hadhafang’s design, history, and inscription all point to its purpose as a powerful weapon destined for a noble lady like Arwen. This tradition of named weapons in Middle-earth highlights the importance of heritage, purpose, and destiny in the lives of its characters.
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