Why the Fellowship of the Ring Chose Moria in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings

Both Gandalf and Gimli, along with the rest of The Company of The Ring, journeyed through Moria in their quest to destroy the One Ring. Their primary goal was to avoid Sauron's forces and find a safer and more hidden passage to Mount Doom. This journey was fraught with dangers, as indicated by the encounters with the Balrog and other perils. Here, we delve into the reasons why they chose Moria as a crucial part of their quest.

Avoiding Sauron's Forces

The primary goal of the Fellowship was to destroy the One Ring. Traveling through Moria allowed them to avoid the more heavily patrolled routes that might be monitored by Sauron's forces, particularly those in the lands of Mordor. By circumventing these areas, the Fellowship hoped to remain undetected and thus increase their chances of successfully destroying the Ring.

The Path of the Dwarves

Moria, also known as Khazad-d?m, was once a great Dwarven kingdom. The Fellowship believed that the ancient Dwarven tunnels could provide a hidden and safer passage toward their destination, Mount Doom. These tunnels were established centuries ago and were known for their complexity and secrecy, making them a viable option for their perilous journey.

Gandalf's Knowledge

Gandalf, a member of the Fellowship and a powerful wizard, was familiar with Moria and its history. He believed that the ancient tunnels could offer a passage through the mountain that would lead them safely to the other side. This knowledge was crucial in convincing the rest of the Fellowship to proceed with this risky route.

Desperation and Time Constraints

The Fellowship was under extreme pressure to move quickly. With only a limited amount of time to destroy the Ring, they needed to find a route that could expedite their journey. Moria, despite its dangers, presented an option that, while perilous, offered a shorter path to their destination. This urgency underscored the risky decision they made to enter Moria.

The Perils of the Journey

Entering Moria proved to be a perilous decision. They soon encountered the Balrog, a powerful and ancient demon. This encounter, among others, highlighted the risks associated with their choice. Despite the dangers, the Fellowship continued their journey, driven by their urgent mission.

Ultimately, the journey through Moria serves as a pivotal moment in the story, highlighting the importance of their quest and the sacrifices required to achieve it. The perils they faced in these subterranean depths underscore the overarching themes of bravery, peril, and the sacrifices made for grand missions.