Why Eowyn is the Pinnacle of Heroic Femininity

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Eowyn is one of the absolute best examples of powerful, virtuous femininity in fiction. (Certainly better than almost any modern "strong female lead"). She is loyal, caring, and loving. And yet, she also struggles. Eowyn struggles with fatalism, with the lack of hope, with her desire for a quick and glorious death. Rather than trust in the strength of others and hope for a better future, she would rather rush to meet the bloody end she believes to be inevitable. Her story is one of the renewal of hope, with some incredible deeds done along the way.
0:00 - 12:49 Eowyn's Established Virtue
12:49 - 20:25 Eowyn's Longing for Battle
20:25 - 29:22 Protecting and Connecting
29:22 - 42:06 The Power of Femininity
42:06 - 54:23 The Healing of Eowyn's Heart
54:23 - 56:14 Conclusion
#lordoftherings #eowyn #femininity

[@master_samwise]

Go to ground.news/mastersamwise to see through media bias and better understand the world. Subscribe through my link for 40% off unlimited access this month. Also, like the video if you want me to do the One Punch Man workout for month or two. I’m gonna do a video on Saitama later this year and need encouragement to get into his headspace.

[@MaverickCulp]

My father, a massive Tolkien fan, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2001, and died in 2021. I was born in 1999, and only knew him as a Parkinson’s patient. At the end of his life he looked and acted much like Theoden did before being freed of the words of Grima. The scene of Eowyn being reunited with a healthy Theoden was something I vainly thought was an experience my dad and I would share. I’ve thought I’ve seen him twice since he’s passed, and even though I’m at peace with his life and death, the reality of his absence still hits me like a train every once in awhile. Learning of Bernard Hill’s passing was one of those moments. Thank you Master Samwise for such excellent dissertations on these characters that mean so much to us.

[@master_samwise]

I'm so sorry for your loss, and I pray you'll be reunited with him in the next life.

[@militcageorgeva2712]

My most sincere condolences!!! I believe you and your father will have that scene of a healthy reunion some day! My dad past away too. The had Alzheimer's and later lung cancer. And your words hit me hard, eventhought I don't conciansly miss him, because, as you alluded to, I can bearly remember him as himself.

[@MaverickCulp]

@@militcageorgeva2712 I am very sorry, but it’s always good to know that we’re not alone in that experience. I’m only 25, so all my friend’s parents are fortunately still in good health, and it’s hard to relate this to them. Thank you for the reply!

[@militcageorgeva2712]

@@MaverickCulp Thank you too!!! My teenage, immature way of dealing with my dad's sudden shift was filling myself with a lot of resentment towards him. I hope you have the strength to handle it better than me. Mostly for your own sake, because anger really doesn't help. In the last few years I've learned to look at the situation with more compation and it really helped me calm down. I hope we both have a long, healthy lifes that will give as the time to wise up and come to peace with everything! * God, I sound so preachy and zen, it's awlful :D :D :D It's just a joke, don't mind me ;)

[@MaverickCulp]

@@militcageorgeva2712 I understand, I’ll make sure to pray for you and your dad.

[@VKiera]

Ewoyen and Faramir were my two favorite characters in the books. I always hated that some people saw her turn from despair to love and life as some kind of discredit to her strength as a powerful female character. This was a fantastic take.

[@master_samwise]

It's literally the change of heart everyone should hope to have. It's so profoundly beautiful and inspiring in all the right ways.

[@justwonder1404]

It took me some maturing to stop seeing her being a happily married local ruler insted of a warrior as an underwhelming ending. As I grew up, I came to understanding that finding hope after years of despair was Eowyn's ultimate victory. I love her story.

[@joannemoore3976]

Yes, it's a modern take, that Tolkien married off the kick ass heroine so she could be the little woman again 😂 totally misses the point. Faramir tells us earlier how war is only to defend what we love whereas the Rohirrim tend to glory in war for its own sake. Her realisation that glory is not an end in itself is perfectly expressed by her union with Faramir. And it is such a beautiful love story, sweetly and profoundly told.

[@di3486]

As a woman, I haven’t read or seen a better feminine character than Eowyn. As her, there was a time when feeling “caged” was worse than death and death was a desirable fate in order to find peace. I went to my own battle in life and I have conquered goals I never knew I could, however, as Eowyn, I have found peace and joy in other things different than my wins in “battle” or life. Tolkien had such a beautiful take on feminine virtue and how the virtuous man, Faramir was her perfect complement.

[@justwonder1404]

Growing up is realizing Eowyn's main victory wasn't beating the Witch-king but her own depression. And it was also a harder thing to do. 54:43 - this take reminds me of Faramir's quote about how he doesn't love weapons but for what they defend. This is why he's not 'the second best thing' but actually the perfect partner for Eowyn. In Aragorn, she sees what she wants - greatness of old, eternal glory in a heroic death, while in Faramir she finds what she actually needs - hope and peace. Any writing coach will tell you how the 'want - need' conflict is important for a good character, and this is why Eowyn's arc is much more fulfilling than your average 'tough girl smashing patriarchy' trope.

[@hamsnub]

I love it when characters find their inner strength through their love for family and not just gaining power for power's sake

[@Eilonwy95]

Right. Even in a villain power for powers sake is largely boring. Though there are some where that works for the character. For a hero power for powers sake is extremely off putting.

[@quarkoloca5832]

Your videos about femininity have helped me feel more comfortable in my own skin. I grew up in a household where anything girly or womanly was automatically considered stupid and mocked. I didn't feel like I could be my own person or was encouraged to explore who I was because of that. In my opinion, a lot of people really underestimate how damaging this kind of cognitive dissonance is for young girls, especially with the rise of the "strong, girl boss" characters in media that just further confuse the definition of femininity. Now that I have just entered my twenties, I have a good idea of the kind of person I want to be and it's partially thanks to your videos. Thank you, Master Samwise!

[@master_samwise]

These kind of comments warm my heart more than you could know.

[@BirdMonica95]

It can be really tough unlearning the message than girly = weak, especially if you grew up a tomboy.

[@Eilonwy95]

Eowyn’s love is as inspiring as her bravery

[@m.q.m.39]

The story between Faramir and Eowyn is really just a small part of the novels, but it's one of my most favorite love story ever, idk why.

[@Concetta20]

I love it, too. I think it’s the sweet, patient way he draws Eowyn out of her grief and bitterness and gently changes her perspective.

[@franug]

I re-red Eowyn and Faramir's stay at the Houses of Healing so, so many times as a teenager. As any other young woman, of course I thought she was so badass at battle, but her transformation from depression to hope was so compelling to me growing up. Now, as a mother myself, I empathize with her even more! Nothing is more hope-oriented than having children, imho, and now I understand better the peace and happiness she found with Faramir, not in battle but in nurturing a garden and a family. Maybe it doesn't look "cool", but that's missing the point entirely! Her tremendous capacity for love and loyalty would have been perfectly realized in such a setting, instead of dying in battle, searching for a release from hopelessness. Great video!

[@Eilonwy95]

Well said! There is so much beauty in the simple life. We love Eowyns great bravery and love which led her to glorious deeds. But her decision to hope and live peacefully is as if not more inspiring.

[@master_samwise]

Wonderfully said.

[@ilvivente]

Love this comment

[@ElizabethMcCormick-s2n]

Miranda Otto did a spectacular job as Eowyn!

[@cloudwolf6770]

Yes, she and David Wenham as Faramir are perfect for these characters.

[@ninakrishnamurthy6674]

@@cloudwolf6770 For some reason I keep forgetting the name of Faramir's actor. I don't know why; I think he did as great a job as anyone else.

[@wcs792]

I gotta shout out my man Brad Dourif as Grima, too. There's no one better for being a crazy slimy motherfucker than Dourif. Also I had such a crush on movie!Eowyn as a kid you have NO idea.

[@bloodspatteredguitar]

Love ending with Jupiter in the sound track! I've always enjoyed that she ends up with Faramir- the Lord of Ithilien; a gardener. Yet a garden beset by the mountains of shadow; her skills with a blade will still be needed, but she no longer seeks battle through disordered attachments, but to its proper end of peace.

[@Eilonwy95]

Well said

[@UnderratedBurnyBadger]

I swear, your videos do more therapy for me than any therapist ever could. Just thinking about the notion of, "Your suffering giving you a greater ability to empathize with others who have suffered." Everyone suffers, and it's too easy to rail against the world and say, "Why did I have to suffer like this!?" Turning that into something positive and instead saying, "I suffered so I can be better equipped to help others who are suffering" is such a healing thought. Appropriate, I guess, since a good portion of Eowyn's journey is about healing. Anyway, I appreciate you, Samwise. Cheers. :)

[@master_samwise]

I appreciate you!

[@tell-me-a-story-]

I am working to be a family therapist. My great aunt, (Lovely lady, bless her heart,) Expressed concern that I hadn’t suffered enough to really empathize with other people’s struggles. It felt like a checkmate because if I pointed out times I had suffered, it would seem like whining, and she could easily think, (She probably wouldn’t say it,) That what I brought up was small beans compared to many people. So I just reminded her that nobody can directly relate to every problem; so no matter who you are and what you’ve been through, you have to use your imagination in order to walk in their shoes. I don’t think my life has been as flawless as she believes, but I am very fortunate in many ways. I think people will look at your life on the surface. My life has been very nice, that’s true. But I’ve experienced loss just like anyone else. And I’m sure I could make a just fine therapist.

[@holysecret2]

​@@tell-me-a-story- To my understanding, suffering is essentially subjective, and always relative to your own experience and comprehension. You can contrast the experiences of a millionaire celebrity struggling against depression against a humble family living in relative poverty, yet loving each other and being contented in their way of being. It has been a while since Robin Williams' passing, so I may not be remembering some details, but as far as I remember he had been struggling with depression for a long time, ultimately (presumably accidentally) overdosing on his antidepressants. He no doubt had amazing people around him, all the money, fame, influence, personal achievements and admiration a single person can ask for, yet his self-perception was still his own. Money and status don't make a person, in your heart you will always be guided by your own self-understanding and sense of self-worth. Of course, as opposed to this line of thinking (and this example) you can truly have cases where a person needs to either toughen up a little or develop some humility, gain a better comprehension of the world, and understand that even though the individual experience and suffering is important, it is not all-important, and even ultimate suffering does not legimimize ultimate means against that suffering (by which I mean harming others to get rid of your own suffering, to be precise), if that makes sense. But there's exceptions and extremes to every rule, that does not mean the rule should not be formulated or exist in the first place. As a person who has struggled with several such problems of my own, and having known quite a few people of the same kind, I was glad (and improved) every time someone met me with understanding and a true motivation of wanting to help me improve myself and my situation. True improvement requires a cooperation of the helper and the one being helped, as improvement demands a change in mentality in a lot of cases as well, where you either have to learn to humbly accept your limitations, or to slowly build yourself back up and readily carry that burden that you may not think you deserve to have to carry, or perhaps a bit of both. Therapy in that sense isn't a cure, it is a guide or maybe even a training or mentorship. It requires one side to want to change, and the other to want to (and know how to) guide towards and prepare for that change.

[@joosthuibregtse8143]

​@@holysecret2 Well said!🫡

[@user-bz9of6tn6l]

I would rather no one have to suffer. Some suffering is inevitable, like the death of a parent or grandparent. But there is also so much unnecessary suffering in the world, such as poverty. We should be empathetic to others' suffering, yes, but we should not have to suffer when there is no need for some forms of suffering to exist.

[@pauloaugustolazzarotto5569]

Since I read Lord of The Rings Éowyn's fight with the Wich King is one of my favorite scenes ever in the books. The way she met Faramir was also something I loved and I got surprise by it, since when I watched the movie it looked more like: "Oh, Éowyn won't be with Aragorn, let's just have her end up with Faramir." It felt so much more profound in the book, I wish they had time to do that in the movie too. It's amazing how Tolkien was a genius writing both male and female characters in a way that would fit them perfectly.

[@master_samwise]

Her and Faramir's love story is so beautifully profound. I honestly didn't do it justice in the video. It's uniquely perfect.

[@holysecret2]

​@@master_samwise They are both what you would traditionally think of as unconventionally femininely masculine (Faramir) and masculinely feminine (Eowyn), Faramir being strong and capable, yet tender and reserved, Eowyn being fair and empathetic, yet fierce and "terrible". I'm not sure that shared sense of identity has much, if anything to do with their closeness, but I find it interesting. I don't think that sense of identification actually is the true core of their relationship, but it may have eased or enhanced that initial sense of connection between them. She immediately saw herself reflected in him, wanting to be strong and capable, yet being restrained due to circumstance. Only that he was a little bit further in his development and humility (ie. acceptance of his (at least current) limitations). I wonder though, would you agree with this framing of warfare and fierceness as masculine, and caring and empathy of feminine? I think it's important to distinguish and acknowledge the differences between the terms of feminine and female, and masculine and male in this context as well.

[@AJWhite-qi3jo]

As an aspiring and probably terrible writer, I'm actually kinda scared to try and write female characters because I might mess them up, and so I just don't put many female characters into my stories.

[@mk71618]

​@@AJWhite-qi3jo just focus on building a solid, fully developed, authentic character, just like you would any other. If you make that your main priority and don't just approach it as if you're just trying to tick all the right "female" boxes, you should be fine. Aside from that, just try to be as empathetic as possible, closely observe how other strong feminine characters are written and take note of all the subtleties that make them interesting/realistic to you, and solicit as much honest feedback as you can from women in your life. Also, don't be afraid to emulate certain aspects of other existing characters here and there while you're just starting out and establishing your own style/voice. Good luck!

[@xenomorph6599]

Tolkien's work is like an immortal never-ending wellspring of thoughtfulness. Your analyses really make it blossom, especially when such a sophisticated work can be hard to understand or it can be easy to lose track of all these themes interwoven between such a magnum opus of a book (series). Please never stop making these video essays

[@master_samwise]

I might eventually run out of characters, but until I do, the videos will keep coming!

[@nedyahydarb]

I listened to this video on my run today. Crying while running is also incredibly inconvenient. Thank you for the beautiful retelling and analysis of one of my favorite heroines in literature.

[@master_samwise]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dxmxrxsbxxckthxwxxdxlf3931]

It's sad that most writers in Hollywood don't know how to write a 'strong female character' without giving her toxic ambition, unrealistic physical strength, and everything else that makes those characters unrelatable to a normal young girl who has to fulfill daily expectations and duties in her normal life, often without praise and acknowledgement. Eowyn shows us who to be strong in our love which is more attainable and virtuous than the lessons that captain Marvel (among many other "strong female characters) gave us.

[@michaelman957]

Eowyn is such a phenomenal character.

[@jacobcarter6332]

I just watched return of the king for the first time (had already known most of the movie so never really felt the urge to watch it) with my best friend a month or so ago. I couldn't stop talking about how much i loved Eowyn in it. She is strong, but not rude, she is a genuinely cool and dope character. But it's all earned. She doesn't smugly say "your welcome boys" or anything, she clearly knows the risks and is willing to face it. She is someone I want my niece (and lord willing) future daughters to look up to

[@master_samwise]

That is a big part of what sets Eowyn apart from the modern "heroines". She's not rude, brash, or arrogant. She's loving, compassionate, and kind.

[@jacobcarter6332]

@master_samwise totally, the issue isn't that they *start* like that, nor do they end like that. Ewoyn isn't perfect at the end, But the story doesn't treat her as perfect. Whete as with these morden "heroines" the stories act like they perfect, better then any person who walked the earth.

[@master_samwise]

@@jacobcarter6332 The sad thing is, said heroines are held up as examples for young women, as if being overpowering, dominating, and completely wrapped up in one's own power is at all healthy or virtuous. As much as Eowyn wants battle and death for herself, she at the same time wants to fight for those whom she loves, and is willing to suffer her worst nightmare for the sake of her father figure. And of course, she also comes to realize that her own desires were flawed and needed to be purified. That is the kind of behavior and wisdom that young women should be encouraged to imitate.

[@master_samwise]

Sorry for all the title changes. The video has not performed anywhere close to what I expected, and I've futilely tried to fix it.

[@Ale_ER]

As time goes by, Eowyn speaks to me more and more. From the fear, the sadness, the uncomfortable admirers, the one sided feelings, but also the hope that we will see brighter days. What makes her stand out for me too is that her great deed was not slaying the Nazgûl but defending her kin. In the end she chose peace which many forget is such an important arch for Eowyn Her relationship with Theoden and the love she found with Faramir will live forever in my heart 🤍

[@ODST_Parker]

I remember reading through the Weapons and Warfare book for Lord of the Rings when I was a kid, and there's a passage in there about Eowyn and Faramir. It says that after the war, they married and settled into a peaceful life in Ithilien. It was one of those things which wasn't in the movies, so finding that was like adding even more to a story I already loved so much. Felt nice just knowing that those two found happiness after so much hardship.

[@badraster7909]

Thank you so much for making this deep dive. You’ve fleshed out a character I thought I knew and loved to a whole new level for me, and I’m crying my eyes out realizing how much her story is reflected in mine. The most devastating agony in my life has been watching my loved ones hurting, and not being able to save them. Watching my dad fall into to alcoholism this past year has been ripping my soul apart. I try to fight through the exhaustion to be there for him and my whole family the way Eowyn does, but I know her desperate impulse to grasp for some control even if it’s destructive. Some days I want to blow everything up rather than keep fighting quietly and diligently. I still don’t have any answers, but thank you for reminding me to keep my hope alive.

[@master_samwise]

I can't imagine how tough that must be.

[@julianneandrews219]

Excellent commentary. I didn’t appreciate how deeply Eowyn epitomizes the feminine experience when I was younger. Her journey, in many ways is the beginning of the female “hero’s journey.” Of finding our place in and understanding our ever evolving roles throughout life, and in finding meaning and joy in nurturing life.

[@charleslarrivee2908]

I cannot stress enough how important it is to remember how Eowyn did not surrender the sword as much as she TRANSCENDED it. “The hands of a king are the hands of a healer” as an old Gondorian prophecy told, and thus did none other than Aragorn prove himself as king to the people of Minas Tirith; not through his rescue of the city nor his lineage, but because of how he brought back many people from the brink of death after the battle. And Eowyn chose to be a healer; she did not diminish herself, but rose in dignity and joy to become close to an equal to Aragorn, the Heir of Numenor. If anyone “diminished” it would be Faramir, who rather than falling in love with a lady of Numenor chose instead “a wild shieldmaiden of the North” and refused to care what his people would say. And her destruction of the Witch-king would be remembered in songs and tales for years to come, and would give her the surname "of the Shield-arm." I also appreciate how the complexity of Book Eowyn is paid homage to, if somewhat unintentionally, by Galadriel's arc in Season 1 od Rings of Power. In the pilot, when Elrond urges her to lay aside her sword and try to find peace in the West, she responds: “Without it, what am I to be?” But in Episode 7, in the course of her long retreat to friendly lines she gives Theo her sword, and before she goes off on another mission she refuses to take it back: “Keep it, soldier.” And in the finale, despite the undoubted emotional pain, she sacrifices her brother Finrod’s dagger which she has carried since the Elder Days for the greater good. While her journey is just beginning, these are two concrete instances of Galadriel, like Eowyn, not so much giving up the sword as transcending it and not being defined solely by it.

[@nightrocker1343]

I need a Faramir essay!

[@master_samwise]

Then you shall have it (eventually lol)

[@nightrocker1343]

@@master_samwise Take your time. Your videos are fantastic.

[@barubary4477]

Eowyn was a big deal for me as a little girl. She's by far one of the most impactful female heroines in western literature and media to this day. Your video essay poignantly explained how meaningful her character is.

[@jodieg6318]

Strength and feats of arms is never just what vanquishes evil in Middle Earth, it is love. Eowyn loves her family, country, and everything else with fierceness worthy of any warrior, which of course she is. When I was 14 I idolized Eowyn as a warrior woman with her bravery and strength and dealt with bitter disappointment that she marry Faramir rather than continuing to be a warrior. Now in 30s I love Eowyn for her devotion and the courage she derives from it and also love the story between her and Faramir; a man who loves her for who she is and when they wait on the walls of Gondor to know if new life or the end of all things is coming to them, hope triumphs over despair again as their hands clasp, and love heals them both.

[@master_samwise]

Beautifully said!

[@Pajali]

Absolutely agree. When I was younger, I saw Eowyn getting married as her settling for the role she’d been fighting so hard against, but rereading it as an adult I see it as her rediscovering her hope for the future, a future that wouldn’t be dominated by death and despair. Her determination to fight was an extension of her desire to share in the trials and successes of those she loved most, even if that meant dying beside them, and at the end of the series she could envision a time where those trials and successes would come primarily off the battlefield.

[@jodieg6318]

@@Pajali I think it because Tolkien dies require a degree of maturity and life experience to fully appreciate. As a teenager you can love the high fantasy and heroics, as an adult you can appreciate the nuance and journey of each character.

[@SonicBRmario]

​@@PajaliTolkien probably draws this from his firsthand experience as a warrior. Imagine what it fealt to come back home after years of being surrounded by death?

[@jodieg6318]

@@SonicBRmario Tolkien also more than likely also new many capable and brave women as a solider in WW1 serving as nurses, ambulance drivers, and in the armed service in their own right even if they weren't allowed in combat. I'm willing to bet that Eowyn's courage during crisis has some foundation in these women, many who were never recognized for their courage an account of being in support roles or just being female in general.

[@yokai333]

I know full well the depths of eowyn's desire for a swiftness. Unlike the world, I chose to suffer, for I do not desire others to hurt. My suffering is not to look inward, but to ensure that another can smile in my stead. Her love and loss was indeed underutilized in the movies, but it is still a strength far greater than I've seen and will ever see again. For those brothers by your side, the sisters behind, the mothers waiting and fathers watching

[@christopherberger4458]

I hope/would absolutely love, if you did a character analysis on Gimli. He's one of my personal favorite characters, as I'm sure many others love too.

[@master_samwise]

Basically every character in LotR will get a video eventually.

[@christopherberger4458]

@@master_samwise very true. But, Gimli.

[@MysticaFaery]

Loved this, Eowyn and Faramir are so heartwarming and inspiring, especially together ❤ Thank you.

[@robinriebsomer4607]

I love your enthusiasm!! Thank you for affirming the importance of allowing each person to embrace both masculine and feminine traits to practice virtue What a wonderfully nuanced analysis of Eowyn's character you have given us. Yes, she laughs because the devil does NOT like to be laughed at. Faramir is a man who empathizes with Eowyn. He is able to do so because he has also lost loved ones and like her, cannot join the other warriors. Because of Faramir, Eowyn realizes that she can find peace and hope. She also lets go of seeking glory in war but instead seeks to be a sage and healer.

[@allisou]

This was beautiful! I teared up when you said the part about what true love is, wishing that they're happy regardless of our relationship with them. This made me think about a relative with whom I have a complicated relationship, and thinking that yes, I do love him because I wish him good and happiness. I guess is the moment to be courageous and tell him so. Thank you so much for this wonderful essay and for the reflection. Keep the good work ✨

[@jennytargaryen]

This video brought me to tears it is what i needed now thank you, your work(art) appeared just like a wizard in the right moment

[@master_samwise]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@RHRC1942]

Thank you for everything master samwise

[@master_samwise]

Let me know what LotR character I should feature next! As always, my content will rotate through various franchises and fictional universes, but you know I'm always going to come back to Tolkien.

[@joannemoore3976]

This was wonderful. And oh my goodness, what a writer Tolkien was!

[@megantouchton4636]

This is a masterful analysis of Éowyn's character--thank you for it. Reminiscent of Háma's position, before (the men) ride to Helm's Deep: Théoden: Is there none whom you would name? In whom do my people trust? Háma: in the House of Eorl T: But Éomer I cannot spare, nor would he stay...and he is the last of that House. H: I said not Éomer...and he is not the last. There is Éowyn...She is fearless and high-hearted. All love her. Let her be lord to the Eorlingas, while we are gone. (If Háma had a mic, he would have dropped it right there, lol.)

[@SapphireLeto]

I loved this video. Éowyn's journey from self-destructive depression to finding hope for the future is such a wonderful one. I need to re read her story.

[@master_samwise]

Glad you enjoyed it! And I'm obliged to share my love for Rob Inglis' audiobooks of LotR. If you have the opportunity, I strongly recommend you give them a listen.

[@cosmicprison9819]

The thing is, you could easily turn that into a negative character arc by just changing the surrounding circumstances. Where the kind of hope she discovers is a dangerous delusion. It obviously wouldn’t work with Éowyn and the Lord of the Rings, because this is a “nobledark” setting, so Tolkien’s world can be saved, whereas a “grimdark” setting like G.R.R. Martin’s probably cannot. With the founder of grimdark being Warhammer 40k, all it would take for Éowyn’s eventual hope to become a dangerous delusion would be for the war to continue - rather than ending, as it does at the end of the Lord of the Rings. And I say this as someone who despises grimdark, and finds the explanations for the eternal state of warfare in Warhammer 40k ridiculous. However, there are some real-world conflicts which I could easily imagine continuing forever - especially those fuelled by religion. Because as long as these religions survive, the underlying conflict will continue. And religions have a habit of surviving long, because that’s in part their feature, not a bug. This idea of “metaphorical truth” is one of the reasons why the Lord of the Rings is aging so well. But when you have a clash between at least two different sets of beliefs that are fundamentally irreconcilable, this can become a self-reinforcing loop.

[@stellastarnes627]

Thank you, thank you so much for such a beautiful and impassioned character analysis on Eowyn, the White Lady of Rohan. I love how much you love her and go deep into her character's psyche to highlight how strong and resilient she is, even with the fatalistic worldview that she adopts in response to trauma and wanting to fight to the end to help achieve good ends. Eowyn has been and will always be my favourite female character of the books and movies, especially from the moment I first went to see the movies as they came out in cinemas in my early teens. To a teenage girl Eowyn is an icon, she's just the boss girl, she is the boss; the belle of the ball and the badass in battle who totally owns the creepy nutter wearing a weird crown on a hoodie who starts monologuing while she's like, to hell with you mate and sends him there with a blade through the face. To get a video like this dedicated to the only human female character of the books as well as arguably the only female character to get the most page time to get a full character arc that only starts at the beginning of the second book "The Two Towers" going into "The Return of the King" to its full on page resolution over the span of just two novels within a trilogy and, again the only human woman in comparison to two Elven women in Arwen and Galadriel in the films is a huge treat; a treat. I love it. I like Arwen in the films but, for me personally, Eowyn always seems to have an edge over her in how she not only views and welcomes death compared to how Arwen has no choice but to await the tragedy and doom that she and all of her Elven kind, especially Elrond perceive about death with all of his mournful prophecies of fated gloom, but also, how while Eowyn is scared in the face of death, she takes that fear of death and transforms it into her greatest strength to wield and deal out death both as dictated by prophecy and also as a mercy to one whose soul is constantly suffering in a perpetual state of living death. It is also due to how Eowyn, like the rest of her kind is not bound by any sense of magical contract between herself and any overseer of the world like the Valar to hold the powers of life and death over her and that mortals have more free will than Elves do over the matter of how long they will live their lives and die their deaths. Arwen, as shown in the films, has no agency in the face of impending death since death will still ultimately befall her in becoming mortal whether she likes it or not. With all of her fatalistic view on the state of a war ravaged world and wanting to end her own life in the way of the warrior, and later, to live in the way of a wise woman instead, Eowyn has the gift of choice and human agency and freedom on how long or short a time she will choose to live as well as how and when she will welcome the moment that she will die on her own terms. As an Elf, Arwen does not get to have that freedom of choice or autonomy and control over her life or death until later, after becoming mortal, albeit at great cost. Even when she initially seeks out death for a noble end to enable a noble cause Eowyn embodies the freedom of the perception and intuition of the human mind and soul in the ability to accept death and welcome it as a blessing rather than seeing it as a curse by letting it frighten or overwhelm her as it frightens and overwhelms Arwen who has no control over the shortening of her lifespan let alone the freedom to accept death as its shadow falls over her to haunt her well before she's ready to accept it. So of all of the race of Men, Eowyn shows how embracing and welcoming the cold, hard, real fatalism of death as the ultimate end of life as she knows and understands it to be is sound, smart, strategic, realistic, intelligent and brave since she uses her affinity with that fact both as a human and as a woman who understands death and is freer and abler to accept it than Arwen as a weapon and her super power against an enemy who promises a slow and drawn out, agonizing fate far worse than death where death itself would be preferable to her. Eowyn is the bright and pure, shining female opposite to the Witch King's dark and twisted, malign masculinity on the battlefield as the White Lady of Rohan in opposition to the elite Black Rider to deliver death itself as a woman who has seen death and knows death, and does the bravest thing for herself in managing to come back around to finding new meaning in life from initially seeking the peace that she knows can come with the gift of death. A gift that the Elves both fear, and yet, on a deeper level, also wish they had the freedom and agency to choose for themselves as only humans can, as Arwen comes to understand with Aragorn's passing and which Eowyn already knew about and was all too ready to accept as the lot of mortals all too well before Arwen ever did. So in some way Eowyn's sense of fatalism carries a certain kind of dark beauty on one of the darkest aspects that rules over human nature; the beauty of a woman who is greater in wisdom than her opponent over the force of death through her unique understanding of the nature of death; a wisdom that arguably transforms her beyond the recognition of all the men around her who have not the audacity and steadfastness of a woman as Eowyn proves she has in her ability to stand up to the very worst of men who frightens all of them to death with his supernatural aura of menace. An enemy who makes a big mistake in underestimating the sheer, instinctive, maternal willpower and feminine courage that Eowyn naturally possesses as she turns it against him with all of the radiant, raw and primal force of the fierce, feminine love and devotion at the core of her being as a warrior woman to defend her uncle's life. Eowyn very much metes out and delivers her enemy the gift of death which also serves as a final, merciful end to his painful existence as an eternally corrupted, tortured soul who was promised death, only to be survived by the very woman who brought him face to face with his death rather than riding to the death that she anticipated for herself, not knowing that she was destined to deal it out with her own hand as a divine bringer of death to the unfortunate servant of evil incarnate.

[@keplerscat28]

Oh man, I was crying at the end. I don't have fancy words to express how much I enjoyed listening to you in this video, so I just want to say thank you. My love for LotR grows as I age a d you put the reasons into words.

[@master_samwise]

I feel the exact same about LotR as a I age.

[@alisonalcock5218]

So also for me. I was introduced to this wonderful book 60 years ago and read it many, many times. Then a gap of some years, but I am now reading it again at 82 and loving it even more. I say "reading" it, but it is really "living" it, imagining Middle Earth as I travel with characters well beloved and vivid long before they were put on screen. Thank you for your excellent character analyses, Faramir and Eowyn have always been my favourites along with the Hobbits, closest to my heart.

[@immortalmonk2891]

The master has returned

[@scottybreuer]

He comes back to us now at the turn of the tide.

[@Eilonwy95]

@@scottybreuerlol. Nice

[@plantemor]

Dude, listening to this video is healing me too lol. Been going through a bit of a rough year. Not exactly war of middle earth rough, but rough nontheless. I have watched this video and the one you did on Théoden and they have both helped me. Im not completely out of my depression yet, but i am a lot closer than i was a month ago. Man, i love Tolkien. Thank you for these videos. You made me cry a little haha.

[@elijahn8992]

Thank you for the great video, I’ve been wanting an Eowyn video. More people, should watch these videos to see how perfect characters are made and excellent examples of how we should live.

[@Emunah_]

I'm glad I finally got around to watching this video! One of my favorite scenes in the movies was when Eowyn faced down the Witch King. This analysis and deep dive into her character really made me think about myself and my own characters. Got chills and a bit teary near the end because of how much hope it takes to be able to keep going and live. To be patient in hopelessness and helplessness really struck a cord with me.

[@michaelcox9855]

This was well spoken and well done. At points even bringing tears to the eyes of this worn old soul. You have earned my like, and my subscription this day.

[@michaelman957]

I see you slipped "Oh God Beyond All Praising" in again. Well played, and fittingly timed yet again.

[@master_samwise]

I will use that song wherever I can.

[@jwalden3821]

I love that song as well and it was fitting!

[@eowynadcox4964]

My name is Eowyn and so every time one of these videos come up, if I'm not paying attention, it takes me a bit to realize that they're talking about Eowyn of Rohan, as apposed to Eowyn of Washington State.

[@DrKaill]

Awesome video, great example of a inspirational female character well portrayed.

[@samuelleask1132]

Didn’t expect to see a reference to the Stormlight Archive here, but I’m all for it

[@master_samwise]

You're the first person to comment on my reference to Vorinism. Glad someone liked that.

[@samuelleask1132]

@@master_samwise Life before death, radiant 🤜 🤛

[@inthemiddleofsomecalibrations]

Great analysis of one of the best written female characters in fiction! At some point you have to make a video on Boromir and Faramir, they're both some of the most human and relatable characters, right next to Theoden and Eowyn.

[@Eilonwy95]

Boromir is. Faramir (in the books) is a fantastic character, but not exactly relatable. But that could just be me.

[@inthemiddleofsomecalibrations]

@@Eilonwy95 A son struggling to live up to his brother's example and his father's ludicrously high expectations sounds very relatable to me.

[@thomasfoolery1377]

24:33 I see yoy're a man of culture. It might not work as far as the algorithm is concerned, but I would love video/s examining various characters and themes in Vinland Saga.

[@annguyen.134]

I can't believe I did not see this video the moment it came out!! Eowyn has always been my favourite character ever since I watch the films as a kid. I wanted to be as strong, kind and brave as she was!

[@master_samwise]

I'm in my 30s (and a man) and I still aspire to be as brave, strong, and kind as Eowyn was! That's the beauty of fiction (especially fantasy). It shows us the heights we can hope to attain.

[@jamesthemuchless]

Such a great analysis of a great character. I haven't gotten around to reading the books yet, but these videos always make me want to make time for it.

[@master_samwise]

They are an incredible journey.

[@RainstormCheetah]

Honestly got chills listening to you read Eowyn's showdown with the Witch King; that's of course a fantastic moment anyway, but hearing it read aloud, coupled with the music you picked for that moment, just made it even more so. Really insightful video too; KZbin's been recommending it to me for a while and I only just got around to watching it, but I'm very glad that I did! (Side note to say that I also love the Delta Squad helmets you have on the shelf behind you in the video :D)

[@gabrielzinho3230]

Your video essays are really touching. Thank you for reminding us of such great character

[@master_samwise]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@IanDaMann12610]

Every one of your videos I find myself cheering, and I mean EVERY VIDEO! This stuff is amazing, thank you for all these wonderful videos Master Samwise.

[@master_samwise]

So glad you enjoy them!

[@puppeiluv826]

I wouldn’t mind a part two on this with the additional items you have in mind that didn’t make it into this video! ❤ Eowyn is forever my favorite

[@usetoothless9473]

Beautiful essay. Appreciate your insights into both the films and books

[@Giosuke_Giogashikata]

I believe I said a different version of this on a separate video, but you have very eloquent speech, Master Samwise. It is delightful listening to your essays if only for the warm and somewhat educated sound that you expel from your largest facial cavity.

[@master_samwise]

Well thank you! I put a lot of effort into making sure my scripts don't repeat words and flow somewhat well, so I'm glad that pays off.

[@MelonLord44]

You should start a Spotify podcast! I'd love to be able to listen to your videos while cleaning or something

[@master_samwise]

Haha, I might look into porting these to a purely audio format sometime.

[@jwalden3821]

Yes please! youtube doesn't always display your videos for me

[@zachbeckman2806]

Excellent analysis, centering on what Jackson fundamentally misunderstands about Eowyn's character arc. Well done sir

[@master_samwise]

Thank you!

[@cosmicprison9819]

39:07 And since I just spoke of D&D, this moment was probably when the idea of Halfling rogues doing sneak attacks was born.

[@APG40]

Hello Sam! I couldn’t help but notice those beautiful Stormlight Archive books in the background. Any chance for a future video on them or any other Sanderson work?

[@master_samwise]

Oh absolutely. However, before I do any Stormlight videos, I want to know the full story of the current characters, so I am waiting for the 5th book to come out.

[@APG40]

@@master_samwise sick

[@jwalden3821]

My GF and I love LOTR (it is partially how we met), and her favorite character is Eowyn. I just showed her this video and she says it is one of the best videos about Eowyn. Most content creators just focus on her saying "I am no man" and riding off to war despite what others say and not what truly makes her one of the best female characters of all time. This video was inspiring and amazing. Keep up the good work!

[@jamesdelmontegermanonthemo9711]

A masterful and epic dissertation!

[@izzyrose2424]

I love your videos. I look forward to listening to them with my dad.

[@reubenmiller8575]

I love the constant fidgeting and wielding Herugrim (think that's how the name of Theoden's sword is spelled) throughout the video.

[@master_samwise]

That's actually Eowyn's sword! I got it as a gift for my wife a few years ago.

[@michaelyoung7261]

The more of these nearly hour long video essays I watch the more I want to read the books again

[@master_samwise]

If you haven't already and can get your hands on them, listen to the audiobooks by Robert Inglis. They are absolutely phenomenal. He does every voice to perfection. The Hobbit, too.

[@bphangamer]

I feel like a Vinland saga video from you would change lives. Hopefully you have something planned!

[@master_samwise]

Very much so!

[@GothLady1987]

I loved Eowyn's character so much! I love how she's driven both by her desire to rise up and prove her worth as a soldier AND her love for her family. And she helps Mari achieve his own need to help those he loves. He helps her take down Agmar by rendering him immobile (stabs his leg?), allowing her to drive her sword through his helmet. Though she's not a lead character, she is an amazing supporting one.

[@joelwashere5382]

Love your videos! There is always wisdom to be found in them ✌️😊

[@whaddup691]

How is every single video from you absolute S tier analysis and writing ? I’m glad you broke 100k subs, but you deserve way more. And, frankly, I think every man woman and age appropriate children should watch every one of your uploads

[@master_samwise]

You are too kind!

[@whaddup691]

@@master_samwise my group chat sends these around whenever we come across one, and it sets the tone of conversation for a week. I don’t say it to flatter you, but because it’s true. You do amazing work. Thank you

[@Yuekai64]

I'm going to have to watch this multiple times. So many good points

[@master_samwise]

The ultimate compliment.

[@yvesledauphin1220]

I want a Faramir video !!!

[@master_samwise]

Oh, it will happen.

[@manojipereira9169]

Second vote! Faramir was able to resist the temptation of the ring, when humans were supposed to be the most vulnerable to it

[@militcageorgeva2712]

​@@manojipereira9169 Caunt me in too!!!! I can't express my love and admiration for Faramir, but I feel Sam could :)

[@holysecret2]

"Be virtuous, and providence will follow" is a really beautiful way of putting, well, basically the entirety of LotR, Eowyn represents or encapsulates that idea very well. I have an immediate appreciation for stories that have messaging of this nature, as I think that is essential for humanity to really work out in the long run. I also like the implication that we should sort of "live and let live", describe but not prescribe actions based on immutable characteristics. No matter your size, strength or station, all that matters is that you be virtuous, elevate those around you, and that will ultimately guide towards the right outcome. I believe modern ideologies are failing (us) most in this regard. They attempt, or worse yet believe, to understand and explain everything, and thus prescribe all kinds of particular actions from a moral authority, rather than attempting to guide people towards virtue and having them forge their own paths. The difference being adherence to authority out of fear or cowardice, versus virtuously standing up for yourself and others around you. The prior leaves also no room for individuality, beautiful expressions of personality and creativity, as opposed to virtue which is meant (let) express and elevate true humanity. I'm not personally into news, but from everything I have heard of Groundnews it seems an apt sponsor in this context, as far as not blindly sticking to either side, not allowing yourself to be guided by ideology, but rather forging your own path based on morality and virtue.

[@LuxisAlukard]

Great video!

[@michaelman957]

Love your work.

[@Concetta20]

Literally showing a clip from “Princess Bride” when you said “pit of despair”. 😂

[@LittleWriterSquirrel]

Two of my favorite authors for (genuine!) strong female characters like this are SD Smith and Timothy Zahn… just finished up Zahn’s sibyl’s war trilogy and Nichol’s arc is so beautifully subtle, yet powerful when you look back and see the journey she’s taken to get there. I wish more authors knew how to craft characters like this, thank you for your commentaries and bringing common sense and true art back to the forefront:)

[@SleepyGibbon]

OH MY GOD MASTER SAMWISE REFERENCED THE PRINCESS BRIDE. I fucking love that movie oh my God. Awesome video btw. Just getting that out of my system.

[@master_samwise]

Easily top 10 movie of all time.

[@coffeebux]

@3:36 the music in this scene was so badass

[@chasingbadger3340]

Haven't even watched yet, but I know this video deserves comment.❤

[@master_samwise]

I appreciate you!

[@invisibleman4827]

"I fear neither death nor pain" has a deeper meaning to it. Anyone saying that knows that there's a worse fate than death, and considering women in war zones in some parts of the world - or just dangerous, lawless lands - can face a horrible fate if they cannot fight, there's a resonance to a reality there.

[@Thomas-yf1ve]

its a very lovely and impactful video. that said, all i can think of is “PLIN PLIN PLON”

[@Tasty_Pepesi]

Would love to see a 'the beautiful masculinity' of Arthur Morgan

[@impa2787]

I IMMEDIATELY RECOGNIZED THE GOD OF WAR MUSIC AT THE START- On a real note- you describing Théodwyn’s slow death, with the violin swelling in the background, mixed with how succinct the description was, really impacted me. I’ve always known that middle earth is filled with sorrow, but never have I felt it as much as I did when you said that. Incredible video master Samwise.

[@master_samwise]

That GoW music is just too good. And it fits so well thematically with LotR. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@gyzardo3648]

I was playing complete attention to the video until I noticed the Stormlight archives in the background😂

[@ninakrishnamurthy6674]

Could you make a video about Kaladin? I've never related more to a fantasy hero than I have to him, and the Honor Chasm scene actually saved my life. I was in a very dark place the first time I read Way of Kings, so Kaladin's depression felt uncomfortably close to home. When I got to Chapter 11, I thought to myself "If Kaladin can give living one more try, then I guess I can too".

[@master_samwise]

Yes! However, I am waiting till the fifth book is out and his arc is complete to make any Stormlight Archive videos. So it will be a while, but I absolutely am going to.

[@ninakrishnamurthy6674]

@@master_samwise Ok. I’m looking forward to it, though. Love your content! If we're sticking with Tolkien, though, maybe you could do a video about Luthien? She is, in my opinion, the finest heroine Tolkien ever created and I'd love to hear your thoughts on her.

[@anonthehousemouse]

I would argue the distinction between "peace" and "acceptance". Faramir may have accepted his inability to join the battle at the Black Gate, but he takes no happiness from it. To me the idea of "peace" comes with some form of happiness attached to it.

[@Hero_Of_Old]

Whilst I love the PJ movies and it portrays Eowyn very well, it does treat her triumph over the Witch King as a moment of feminist power fantasy. Whereas, in the books its not that at all. But yeah, our society has gone crazy and thinks women have to act like men in order to be useful. So stupid. Even Eowyn realises this is wrong in the book.

[@Eilonwy95]

Right. Eowyn triumphs over the witch king (with merry of course) because of love and bravery not power.

[@master_samwise]

I mean... yeah, kinda. It's really just a more punchy line. PJ does a similar sort of thing with Sam's most famous line. In the book, he says "I can't carry it for you, but I can carry you, and it beside." IDK it's not like she then struts up to Aragorn and is like "SEE I TOLD YOU SO." She just offs the dude and then crawls to say goodbye to Theoden. I do wish Jackson had kept it how it was in the book, but I don't mind the movie's version.

[@Hero_Of_Old]

@@master_samwise yeah, its still great in the movie but it does change the tone somewhat and I think leads to a misunderstanding of the character.

[@Eilonwy95]

@@master_samwise Good point

[@tiryaclearsong421]

​@@master_samwise Tbh I just wish PJ would have kept the part where he threatens her with a fate worse than her worst fear and she laughs at him and tells him to do his worst, she will hold fast and hinder him if she can because she defends her king and kin. He set it up already and it would have worked fine. I am not defeating the stereotypical book fan with wordy movie complaints though. It's fun to watch. I just struggle with RoK most because of little minor missed opportunities or adaptations that to me don't meet the standard of storytelling Jackson was adapting. Especially those that would not have been a challenge to adapt more faithfully and would have paid off a previous set up, or made more sense within the movie.

[@Ironwizard42]

Is that Soul of Cinder I hear at around 19:25? You have good taste, sir. I've watched a few of your videos on LOTR and they are all lovely. Cheers!

[@RichDenman]

Might I make a suggestion that seems like a joke but I just thought about; the masculine role model of Shrek.

[@Nystagmus8123]

Can we get a video essay that shows the small hero’s like Sam and the other hobbits in contemporary times. The small choices and heroics that every day people can aspire to? Like Merry says in the movie, “I’m not, I’m a hobbit”. We aren’t all given opportunities to be great heroes, but I think the small heroics of normal people are unsung.

[@hyvakoira]

Hans Christian Andersen aced in writing such female characters. They are strong, brave, persevering, loyal and, above all, full of love.

[@nightrocker1343]

I assume that the sword you were fidgetting with throughout the video did not have an edge. I'm glad that the Macbeth plot-twist was brought up.

[@master_samwise]

Very blunt, yes. It's a replica of Eowyn's sword that I gave my wife for Christmas a few years ago.

[@nightrocker1343]

@@master_samwise I'm glad. It looks oddly fun to fidget with.

[@daguroswaldson257]

Eowyn was the inspiration for my historical fiction character, Brenhilda, a warrior princess. Heck, my character is the fictional daughter of the man who was the inspiration for Theoden, the real-life King Theodoric. The relationship arc between Theoden and Eowyn in the films by Peter Jackson was the inspiration for the relationship arc between Brenhilda and Theodoric, and it was sad to kill Theodoric off for how it made Brenhilda suffer.

[@DavetheNord]

Tom knew what he was doing when he the Hobbits those daggers. :)

[@annguyen.134]

10:15 this makes me laugh out loud 😂 a thought to all our unlucky friends watching the Lord of the Rings for the first time with us fans! The continuous pauses for a fun fact or BTS details 😂

[@CynthiaWarren]

Eowyn's love for Aragorn being turned to Faramir was really given short shrift. People who only know the movies have no idea why Eowyn is now interested in Faramir after so much emphasis on her infatuation for Aragorn. I think the best part of Tolkien's showing of her change of heart was how Eowyn said she no longer wished to be a queen and Faramir responded that this is good because he isn't a king. He also tells her that he would love her even if she were Queen of Gondor, married to King Elessar. I think a large part of what made Eowyn so obsessed with being a warrior and dying in battle was heavily influenced by the fact that she had few interactions with women of her own rank. While there is little explanation of the nobility in Rohan, we do know that her mother Theodwyn is dead and her aunt, Theoden's wife, is dead. Having been so young when her mother died, she would have minimal examples of how Rohirric women of the nobility are expected to behave. Most of her time was spent with men. Eomer is a few years older than her. Theodred, the Crown Prince, is 19 years older than her. Most of the women she would know in her daily life would be household servants. As a princess, she needs female nobility to train her. We don't know how much of that she had, but it's quite clear that she had training in weapons, like her brother and cousin did. And we know she was the primary caregiver for her uncle when Grima convinced the king that he was frailer than he really was.