The Debate Over the Balrog's Wings: Myth and Reality in Tolkien's Middle-earth

Introduction

One of the most intriguing and debated elements of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings narrative involves the nature of the Balrog's so-called wings. This article will explore the pros and cons of the argument, examining Tolkien’s textual evidence and the implications for our understanding of one of Middle-earth's most fearsome creatures.

Textual Evidence and Tolkien’s Usage

Centuries of academic discussion and fan debate surround whether the Balrog in The Lord of the Rings possesses literal, physical wings. However, through a careful analysis of key passages from Tolkien's work, it becomes clear that the Balrog’s wings are not literal but rather figurative elements of its power and presence.

In the text, the Balrog is described in Chapter 5 of 'The Bridge of Khazad-d?m', where Tolkien writes:

‘The Balrog reached the bridge. Gandalf stood in the middle of the span leaning on the staff in his left hand but in his other hand Glamdring gleamed cold and white. His enemy halted again facing him and the shadow about it reached out like two vast wings. It raised the whip and the thongs whined and cracked. Fire came from its nostrils. But Gandalf stood firm.’(Chapter 5, 'The Bridge of Khazad-d?m')

Subsequent passages also highlight this metaphorical imagery:

‘Its shadow seemed like the shadow of a great winged creature and the light of the torches flickered in fear. The Balrog’s wings, if it had any, were hidden in the darkness. The creature drew itself up to its full height, and its wings expanded from wall to wall, but still Gandalf could be seen glimmering in the gloom. He seemed small and altogether alone, grey and bent like a wizened tree before the onset of a storm.’(Chapter 5, 'The Bridge of Khazad-d?m')

Proponents of the argument for literal wings often cite the second passage as evidence, while disregarding the first. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that Tolkien is using simile in the first instance and metaphor in the second for the sake of stylistic and narrative expedience.

The Best Argument Against Literal Wings

The strongest argument against the Balrog having literal wings is a simple one: the Balrog simply doesn’t fly. A hypothetical creature with powerful wings would likely use them for movement and escape. However, during the climactic standoff between Gandalf and the Balrog, the Balrog does not attempt to fly or use its wings to gain an advantage. Instead, it uses its powers to choke Gandalf and casts him off the bridge.

‘The Balrog reached down and seized Gandalf by the arm, dragging him down into its vast shadow. The Balrog flew through the air, taking Gandalf with it, and they fell together down a great gap in the bridge.’(Chapter 5, 'The Bridge of Khazad-d?m')

Given this evidence, it seems evident that the mention of 'wings' in Tolkien's description is a figurative representation of the Balrog's oppressive presence and not an indication of literal, functional limbs.

The Nature of the Balrog

The Balrog in Tolkien’s description is fundamentally a shadow-creature, a dark, powerful being that wields darkness and fire. Its description in the text is consistent with its overall nature:

‘What it was could not be seen: it was like a great shadow in the middle of which was a dark form of man-shape, maybe yet greater and a power and a terror seemed to be in it and to go before it. The fire in it seemed to die but the darkness grew. ’(Chapter 5, 'The Bridge of Khazad-d?m')

This description emphasizes the Balrog’s fearsome presence and its ability to create darkness and fear, rather than any physical traits such as wings.

Conclusion

The argument over whether the Balrog has literal wings or not is largely a debate of interpretation and style. Through a close reading of Tolkien's text, it becomes clear that the Balrog's shadow-like form and powerful reach are more accurately represented as metaphorical extensions of its terrifying and overwhelming presence. The Balrog's wings, if we choose to see them, are better understood as a representation of its overwhelming darkness and darkness-spreading power, rather than physical appendages that could be used for flight.

The debate, thus, serves as a reminder of the importance of context and interpretation in understanding Tolkien’s rich and complex narrative world.