The Role of Women in Medieval Times as Displayed by the Film “The Lord of the Rings”

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The Role of Women in Medieval Times as Displayed by the Film “The Lord of the Rings”

Although the role of women in the movie “The Lord of the Rings” appears to be insignificant, at first glance, actual historical records from the middle ages have offered scholars sufficient evidence that the role of women within society was substantial. The insignificance of women is mostly attributed to the fact that most of the characters in the Tolkien’s movie; “The Lord of the Rings,” are male. Furthermore, the group that makes up “Fellowship of the Ring” is comprised of only male characters. However, a deeper look at the movie reveals that the role of the female characters in the movie; “The Lord of the Rings,” is actually rather significant. This essay posits that, although the role of the women in the film “The Lord of the Rings” seems to be passive, and only played the background, at first glance, their role is actually quite substantial and fundamental, essentially, transcending even the plot of the film.

According to Tolkien, fantasy films are more interesting if they are viewed as historical rather than imaginary. Therefore, based on the author’s sentiments, the film “The Lord of the Rings” is, essentially, designed as a historical movie based on the Middle-Ages, but with fantasy elements. Thus, it is not a pure fantasy film but rather, for the most part, medieval in nature. A close glance at the film’s themes and design elements will reveal the movie’s medieval roots, plainly, to the eye of any keen observer. For instance, the costumes, the customs of the people, the set locations, the manner in which the characters speak, as well as their battle-gear, all seem to borrow from elements and themes that are historically associated with the Middle-Ages. Furthermore, Tolkien, himself, admitted that many elements and themes of the film were influenced by the arts and crafts movement that took place in 19th-century Europe (Manni, 28). Accordingly, rather than emphasizing on mechanization and industry, such as is common practice among many modern and futuristic film makers, Tolkien looked back at history in order to provide more cultural emphasis, essentially using art and craft, nature, as well as spirituality, as the basis for his story. Therefore, the movie is sufficiently medieval, and, more specifically, neo-medieval.

A common belief peddled by modern day films portraying medieval times, is that; “