Legolas and Gimli: Their Journey to the Undying Lands
Did Legolas Go with Gimli to the Undying Lands at the End of The Lord of the Rings?
After Aragorn's death and the conclusion of The Lord of the Rings, many fans and scholars have pondered the fate of Legolas and Gimli. Specifically, is it true that Legolas went with Gimli to the Undying Lands, and if so, how and why did this come to be?
The Story of Legolas and Gimli's Journey
The journey of Legolas and Gimli to the Undying Lands is a tale rich with both speculation and literary evidence. During the war, Legolas and Gimli forged a strong bond, and after the final battles, the two Elves and Dwarf became inseparable.
Travels After the War
Following the war, Gimli and Legolas had a brief period of exploring together. According to The Return of the King, they traveled to the Glittering Caves of Aglarond and Fangorn Forest, seemingly taking some time to enjoy their freedom and the camaraderie they had built during their shared adventures.
The Appendices provide a glimpse into the life of these two characters after the main events of the story. In one appendix, it is mentioned that Gimli and Legolas traveled to these places as they had promised each other. This journey appears to be more about enjoying their post-war leisure than anything else.
Legolas' Journey to the Undying Lands
Decades later, when Aragorn took his final breath, he had never ventured to the Undying Lands. It is important to note that only a few of the morts (mortals) are allowed to sail to the Undying Lands, and this privilege is typically reserved for those who are chosen by the Valar.
However, Galadriel, a powerful Elf, might have interceded and obtained permission for Gimli to join Legolas in the Undying Lands. Alternatively, it could simply be that Gimli, an old and wise Dwarf, considered no other ban to be a barrier. His deep love for Galadriel and his wish to see her one more time before passing may have driven him to seek this journey.
Legolas and Gimli's Lifelong Journey
Their journey did not end in that brief post-war exploration. The appendix also mentions that Gimli led dwarf artisans back to the Glittering Caves, fulfilling a promise he had made to Aragorn before the war. Over the decades, Gimli served as the leader of this community, and near the end of his life, he reunited with Legolas.
After rejoining Legolas, the two companions undertook the significant journey to the Undying Lands. In the final chapters of their lives, both had found fulfillment in their shared experiences and in serving their respective peoples. This final journey symbolized the deep bond they had shared and the respect they held for each other.
Conclusion
Legolas did indeed go with Gimli to the Undying Lands, not because Aragorn was dead (as was Aragorn's case), but due to the special permission obtained for Gimli, or his choice to defy the established rules. Their journey was not only a pilgrimage to the Undying Lands but also a testament to their unbreakable friendship and the enduring bond formed in their shared adventures.