Lord of the Rings: A Brief History of the Witch King - The Fantasy Review

Lord of the Rings: A Brief History of the Witch King

The Fantasy Review‘s brief history of the Witch King from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Introduction

The Witch King of Angmar, also known as the Lord of the Nazgûl, is a memorable villain from Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. I remember watching the movies as a kid and being terrified of his character; to this day I find him to be one of the most facinating of the Dark Lord’s minions.

A Brief History of the Witch King

The Rise of the Witch King

The tale of the Witch King begins in the Second Age of Middle-earth when he was still a mortal man. He was one of the nine men Sauron gifted with corrupting Rings of Power. Over time, the ring transformed him into an undead wraith, the most powerful of the Nazgûl.

The Reign of Angmar

In the Third Age, the Witch King founded the realm of Angmar in the northern regions of Middle-earth. From his fortress in Carn Dûm, he waged war against the northern kingdoms of men, aiming to expand Sauron’s influence. He was brutal and cruel in his rule, and eventually caused the fall of the North Kingdom, Arnor.

The Fall of the Witch King

The Witch King met his end during the War of the Ring, at the battle of the Pelennor Fields. Prophecy foretold that no man could kill him. However, he was slain by Éowyn (”I am no man!”). In the final war against Sauron, Éowyn’s bravery at the battle of the Pelennor Fields started to tip the scales in favour of men.

Conclusion

The Witch King of Angmar’s story is an inportant part of The Lord of the Rings. His transition from a powerful king to a servant of Sauron illustrates the seductive and corrupting power of the Rings. His tale, much like the land he once ruled, is a chilling testament to the darkness that can arise when power is pursued without wisdom.

Related to: A Brief History of the Witch King

Owner and Editor of The Fantasy Review. Loves all fantasy and science fiction books, graphic novels, TV and Films. Having completed a BA and MA in English Literature and Creative writing, they would like to go on to do a PhD. Favourite authors are Trudi Canavan, Steven Erikson, George R. R. Martin and Brandon Sanderson.

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