How Did Merry and Pippin Get Their Barrow Blades Back in Lord of the Rings?

In The Lord of the Rings, the hobbits Merry and Pippin find themselves in a series of thrilling and dangerous adventures. One of the most memorable experiences for them involves their Barrow blades, which hold significant symbolic and practical importance in their journey.

Loss and Reclamation of the Barrow Blades

Early in their quest, Merry and Pippin, along with their friends Frodo, Sam, and the other members of the Fellowship, encounter a group of Barrow-wights. This encounter leaves the hobbits in a dire situation as they are forced to confront the malevolent spirits of the Barrows. However, their journey takes unexpected turns, and they are eventually rescued by Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli.

Merry's Barrow Blade

Merry's barrow blade is a dagger that he carries during his adventure. It serves as a weapon and a symbol of his bravery and strength. However, during his fight with the Witch-King of Angmar, a powerful leader of the Nazg?l, Merry uses his dagger to weaken the Witch-King's spell. Though this action proves effective, it ultimately leads to the blade withering away, much like the other blades that touch the Nazg?l. This tragic outcome signifies the end of an era for Merry, and it is likely that he is given another sword by King éomer as a token of his valor.

Pippin's Barrow Blade

In contrast to Merry's blade, Pippin retains his barrow dagger throughout the journey. When Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli find the hobbits, they locate Pippin and return his weapon. This act serves as a symbolic gesture of reclaiming their lost and stolen identity and heritage.

The Journey and the Battle of Parth Galen

Merry and Pippin's journey is not without its challenges. After being captured by the Uruk-hai, they manage to break free and return to the Fellowship. This reunion occurs at Parth Galen, where the Fellowship is broken. During this chaotic encounter, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas locate the hobbits, and Pippin's barrow blade is returned to him.

Significance of the Barrow Blades

The barrow blades play a crucial role in the overall narrative. Not only are they symbols of the hobbits' spirit and determination, but they also prove to be effective weapons against the Nazg?l during the crucial battles at the end of the story.

Effective Weapon Against Nazg?l

During the battle against the Nazg?l, Merry's discarded blade and Pippin's reclaimed one demonstrate their ability to harm the Nazg?l. This effectiveness is highlighted during the final assault on Minas Tirith, where the blades prove to be a valuable asset in the fight against the dark forces.

In conclusion, the reclamation of Merry and Pippin's barrow blades is a significant moment in The Lord of the Rings. It not only represents their journey and growth as characters but also underscores the importance of their role in the broader narrative of the story.