Legolas' Departure: A Symbol of Change in Middle-earth

Legolas, the elven prince from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, is a character whose departure from Middle-earth carries significant symbolic weight. In this article, we delve into why Legolas left Middle-earth, his decision influenced by personal traumas, the call of the Undying Lands, and the lasting friendships forged during his legendary adventures.

The End of the Third Age

Legolas' departure symbolizes the end of the Third Age and the diminishing of the Elves' presence in Middle-earth. The defeat of Sauron marks a pivotal moment where the Elves recognize their time in Middle-earth is coming to a close. Many make the choice to journey to the Undying Lands, where they can live in peace and tranquility. In The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, the Appendix mentions that Legolas takes Gimli, the dwarf, with him, seeking the shrines and islands where the Elves gather.

The Call of the Undying Lands

The Undying Lands, or Aman, are a realm of peace, healing, and bliss. Elves who choose this path often do so to escape the fading light of their immortal futures and the threats that linger in Middle-earth. After the loss of his father, Thranduil, and the profound changes brought by the victory over Sauron, Legolas feels an enduring pull towards this realm.

Friendship and Legacy

Legolas leaves Middle-earth not only to heal himself but also to fulfill a profound friendship. When he journeyed with Gimli, the two became inseparable during the War of the Ring. Their shared experiences and the bond they formed symbolize unity between Elves and Dwarves, showcasing the lasting impact of their journey and the shared struggle against Sauron. Together, they sailed to the shores of the Undying Lands, where their union represents a new hope for Middle-earth.

Personal Healing and Final Stand

Throughout the War of the Ring, Legolas experienced significant loss and hardship. The journey to the Undying Lands, while bittersweet, offers a way to restore his spirit and find a new beginning. Legolas eventually understood that the future of Middle-earth required more than just Mirkwood's safety—it demanded a coordinated effort against Sauron. Influenced by his sense of duty and his father's wisdom, Legolas sought Aragorn, the heir to Gondor, to find the heart of the problem and to address it decisively.

Thranduil recognized that through his son's courage, skills, and resolve, Aragorn was the key to gathering the Free Peoples of Middle-earth. Sauron, aware of Aragorn's lineage and capabilities, feared unifying these forces. Thranduil's support and encouragement were a testament to his role in shaping the future of Middle-earth, even in his absence.

Legolas’ departure is a poignant moment, reflecting the broader themes of loss, friendship, and the transition from one age to another in Tolkien’s mythology, and underscores the enduring impact of individual choices on the fate of a realm.

Keywords: Legolas, Middle-earth, Elven Departure