Symbolism:  God and Satan

The Lord of the Rings trilogy has many Christian images and symbols that may have been intentional by Tolkien who was a devout Catholic.  Religious themes, such as mercy, forgiveness, love, and temptation are widespread throughout the novel and film.  Several characters, such as Gandalf, Frodo, and Sam, display mercy, love and forgiveness.  Frodo offered the Ring to others (Gandalf, Galadriel, and Aragorn) who were forced to resist the temptation of the power of the Ring.  Although not explicit in the story, the viewer gets the sense that much of what happens is predestined by a higher being – Frodo is chosen to carry the ring but by whom?

Christian Symbols Several characters exhibit Christ-like characteristics.  The actual death and resurrection of Gandalf and the symbolic death and resurrection scenes of Frodo and Aragorn can symbolize the death and resurrection of Christ.  Gandalf can also be seen as a prophet of old by his physical appearance and his staff.  His decision to sacrifice himself on the Bridge of Khazad-dum can be seen to represent the sacrifice Christ made for the world.  In the film, Gandalf falls in a perfect cruciform position.  Frodo’s self-sacrifice in carrying the ring to Mount Doom can be seen to symbolize Christ’s carrying of the Cross – the ultimate act of selflessness.  Aragorn appears Christ-like by his healing skills.  Other Christian references can be seen in the films.  Sam can be seen as the devoted disciple.  Galadriel has been noted to represent the Virgin Mary – she appears to Frodo as a vision when he is fighting with Shelob for his life.  The Hobbits resemble and act like children, especially at the beginning of the story, and are looked upon favorably by the Christ-like figure, Gandalf. The Fellowship can be seen to resemble the early Christian church.  The Elvish bread lembas may represent the Host of Holy Communion – the Hobbits had only to take a bite to be satisfied.  Finally, Boromir’s confession to Aragorn and Aragorn’s absolution can symbolize God’s forgiveness for sins.

Galadriel

Gandalf

Aragorn healing Faramir

Sam and Frodo

Visions of Satan and Hell

Satan is the ultimate symbol of evil and the films have several satanic images that help the viewer experience the full impact of the evil forces in the film.  The landscape of Mordor with its bleakness and fires can be seen as hell and is in sharp contrast to the paradise of the Shire.  Sauron is the primary satanic figure in the films although he is not visible.  The Balrog, the demon that attacks the Fellowship in Moria, is the classic representation of the devil:  a flaming, horned, hoofed monster.  Finally, there are characters that are possessed by demons and the film portrays the change that occurs when Gandalf exorcises Saruman from Theoden.

Balrog

Mount Doom

Mordor

The Witch King

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