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Legolas: The Elven Prince of Middle-earth

May 13, 2025

Legolas

General Information

  • Race: Sindar Elf
  • Titles: Prince of the Woodland Realm
  • Parentage: Son of Thranduil
  • Realms: Woodland Realm, Ithilien
  • Weaponry: Bow and "long white knife"
  • Physical Description: Tall, with keen eyesight and sensitive hearing
  • Portrayed by: Orlando Bloom in films

Biography

Early Life

  • Only son of Thranduil, King of Northern Mirkwood.
  • Date of birth and mother's identity are unknown.

War of the Ring

  • Attended the Council of Elrond in Rivendell as a messenger from his father.
  • Volunteered to represent the Elves in the Fellowship of the Ring.
  • Known for skills in archery, sight, and hearing.
  • Developed a friendship with Gimli the Dwarf despite historical differences.
  • Received a Galadhrim longbow in Lothlórien.
  • Participated in key events and battles such as the Battle of the Hornburg and the Battle of Pelennor Fields.
  • After the war, traveled with Gimli to Helm's Deep and Fangorn Forest.

After the War

  • Moved to Ithilien to restore war-torn woodlands.
  • Built a ship post-Aragorn's death to leave Middle-earth for Aman, allowing Gimli to join him.

Etymology

  • "Legolas" means 'green leaf' in Silvan dialect, derived from Sindarin "Laegolas".
  • Suggests a connection to the Green Elves of the First Age, ancestors of the Silvan Elves.

Character

  • Not fully of the Silvan Elves due to Sindar heritage.
  • Held deep appreciation for nature and loyalty to friends.
  • Known for bridging gaps between Elves and Dwarves through his friendship with Gimli.

Powers and Abilities

  • Typical Elf abilities: silent movement, keen eyesight, ability to sleep while walking.
  • Skilled in taming horses without reins or saddles.

Weapons

  • Used an Elven bow and a long white knife.
  • Preferred ranged attacks with his bow; used a dagger for close combat.

Media Portrayal

In Films

  • The Lord of the Rings Trilogy: Portrayed by Orlando Bloom, with a role consistent with the books.
  • The Hobbit Trilogy: Also portrayed by Bloom, included in the story as the son of Thranduil.

Other Adaptations

  • Appears in various radio series, video games, and other media such as "The Lord of the Rings Online."

Behind the Scenes

  • Tolkien emphasized Elves' vitality and stature, adding descriptive elements to Legolas's character to align with these traits.
  • Speculation exists about Legolas's potential inclusion in a rewrite of "The Hobbit."

Appearances

  • Books: The Lord of the Rings series
  • Films: Both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies
  • Video Games: Various including "The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth" and "The Lord of the Rings Online."

Gallery

  • Artwork and depictions across various platforms and media, including LEGO and card games.