r/LOTRExtendedEdition

Silly question, but was the scene in the Two Towers where Merry & Pippen where taken under the oaks of a tree and then released by Tree Beard an ode to Tom Bombadil who did something very similar in the books?

I don't remember Tree Beard doing this in the books.. that's why I'm asking

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u/jaywritethekid — 3 days ago
▲ 75 r/LOTRExtendedEdition+1 crossposts

If Balrogs are fallen Maiar (spirits), could one have ever been redeemed, or is their corruption absolute?

To expand, I know Tolkien stated that nothing is evil in the beginning; even Sauron and Melkor were created "good." And I get that as beings with Eä (being/existence) given by Eru Ilúvatar, Maiar theoretically retain the agency to repent.

But still, is it theoretically still possible for redemption? Or is it not possible because maybe practically a Balrog’s pride and the depth of its "morgoth-element" (the spiritual stain of their master) make the choice to repent unthinkable to them.

Also.. If a Balrog did repent, would it lose its shadow and flame and return to being a 'bright' spirit, or is that physical form a permanent cage?

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u/jaywritethekid — 14 days ago