Treebeard, also known as Fangorn, is one of the most iconic characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. He is an Ent, a tree-like being, and the oldest living creature in Middle-earth. Treebeard is known for his slow, thoughtful way of speaking and his love for all living things.
One of the most memorable aspects of Treebeard’s character is his wisdom, which is reflected in his many memorable quotes throughout the books and movies. From his musings on the passing of time to his insights on the nature of war and the importance of trees, Treebeard’s quotes are beloved by fans of The Lord of the Rings. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, exploring Treebeard’s quotes is a great way to deepen your appreciation for this beloved character and the world of Middle-earth.
Who is Treebeard?
Treebeard, also known as Fangorn in the Sindarin language, is an Ent character in J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy novel, The Lord of the Rings. He is described by Gandalf as “the oldest living thing that still walks beneath the Sun upon this Middle-earth.”
Ents are a race of tree-like beings who are guardians of the forests and trees in Middle-earth. They are known for their immense size, strength, and longevity. They communicate with each other through the Entish language, which is an ancient and complex language that takes a long time to speak.
Treebeard is one of the oldest and most powerful Ents, and he is the leader of the Ents of Fangorn Forest. He is known for his wisdom, patience, and kindness towards living creatures. He is also known for his ability to walk and talk like a human, which is a rare ability among the Ents.
In the book, Treebeard is described as having a rough bark-like skin, deep brown eyes that are shot with green light, and a voice that is slow and rumbling like the sound of a tree moving in the wind. He is also described as having a great love for the young trees and a deep respect for the wild trees.
Treebeard’s Role in the War of the Ring
Treebeard played a crucial role in the War of the Ring. As the oldest living thing that still walks beneath the Sun upon this Middle-earth, he was a powerful ally to the forces of good.
When the hobbits Merry and Pippin stumbled upon Fangorn Forest, Treebeard welcomed them and listened to their news of Saruman’s treachery and the damage his Orcs had inflicted upon the trees. He already knew of these disasters, but the hobbits’ arrival spurred him into action.
Treebeard called an Entmoot, a gathering of the Ents to discuss what to do about the threat from Saruman and Isengard. At first, the Ents were hesitant to take action, but Treebeard’s leadership and wise words convinced them to march to war.
Under Treebeard’s guidance, the Ents marched on Isengard, the stronghold of Saruman. They broke the dam and flooded the valley, effectively destroying Saruman’s forces and ending his threat. This action also broke the curse that Saruman had placed on the forest, and the trees were able to thrive once more.
Treebeard’s role in the War of the Ring was not limited to his actions in Isengard. He also played a vital role in the Last March of the Ents, where they joined forces with the armies of Rohan and Gondor to fight against Sauron’s forces.
Throughout the war, Treebeard remained a neutral party, as he stated that he was on nobody’s side because nobody was on his side. However, his actions spoke louder than his words, and he proved to be a valuable ally to the forces of good.
In conclusion, Treebeard’s role in the War of the Ring was significant and should not be overlooked. He provided leadership, guidance, and wisdom to the Ents and played a crucial role in the destruction of Saruman’s forces. His actions helped to break the curse on the forest and aided in the ultimate defeat of Sauron.
Treebeard’s Philosophy
Treebeard, the oldest and wisest of the Ents, has a unique outlook on life and the world around him. His philosophy is shaped by his long life and his deep connection to nature. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key elements of Treebeard’s philosophy.
Good and Evil
Treebeard is not interested in taking sides in the battle between good and evil. He believes that nature is neutral and that it is up to individuals to choose their own path. He says, “I am on nobody’s side, because nobody is on my side.” This philosophy allows him to remain impartial and to see the bigger picture.
The Future
Treebeard takes a long-term view of the world and is concerned about the future. He knows that the Ents are a dying race and that the forests are being destroyed. He says, “I have lived a long time, and I have seen many things. But the Great Darkness is coming, and the trees will wither and die.” He is worried about what will happen to the world when the Ents are gone.
Real Names
Treebeard believes that real names are important. He tells Merry and Pippin, “I am not going to tell you my name, not yet at any rate.” He believes that names have power and that they reveal something about a person’s true nature.
Great Darkness
Treebeard is aware of the danger that is lurking in the world. He knows that Sauron is gathering his forces and that a great darkness is coming. He says, “There is no curse in Elvish, Entish, or the tongues of Men for this treachery.” He is concerned about the fate of Middle-earth and the role that the Ents will play in the coming battle.
Bregalad
Treebeard has a close relationship with Bregalad, also known as Quickbeam. Bregalad is one of the youngest Ents and is full of energy and enthusiasm. Treebeard admires Bregalad’s spirit and says, “He is the most hasty of all the Ents, but he has the truest eyes.” Their friendship is a testament to the fact that even the oldest and wisest of creatures can learn from the young and energetic.
Smoke
Treebeard is not a fan of smoke. He tells Merry and Pippin, “Don’t let your heads get too big for your hats. But smoke rises from Isengard.” He is concerned about the pollution that is being caused by Saruman’s factories and is worried about the impact that it will have on the environment.
Roused
Treebeard is pleased when the other Ents are roused to action. He says, “Many of the Ents are younger than I am, by many lives of trees. They are all roused now, and their mind is all on one thing: breaking Isengard.” He knows that the Ents are a powerful force when they are united and is glad to see them taking action.
Treebeard’s Quotes
Treebeard, also known as Fangorn, is one of the most memorable characters from J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings. As an Ent, Treebeard is a wise and ancient being who is deeply connected to the natural world. His words are often poetic, insightful, and powerful. Here are some of Treebeard’s most memorable quotes:
- “I am not altogether on anybody’s side, because nobody is altogether on my side.” This quote speaks to Treebeard’s neutrality and his belief that the natural world is more important than any political or ideological conflict.
- “Do not be hasty, that is my motto.” This quote is a reminder to take the time to consider all options before making a decision.
- “Many of those trees were my friends, creatures I had known from nut and acorn; many had voices of their own that are lost forever now.” This quote shows Treebeard’s deep connection to the trees and his sadness at their destruction.
- “The Ents cannot hold back this storm. We must weather such things as we have always done.” This quote speaks to the resilience of the Ents and their ability to endure even in the face of great adversity.
- “There is no curse in Elvish, Entish, or the tongues of Men for this treachery.” This quote is a powerful rebuke of Saruman’s betrayal and a reminder that some things are beyond words.
Treebeard’s quotes are not only memorable, but they also reveal important insights into the character’s personality and worldview. His wisdom and connection to nature make him a powerful ally to Aragorn and Gandalf in their fight against the forces of darkness.