Merry and Pippin: The Unlikely Giants of the Shire
In the enchanting realm of Middle-earth, where tales of heroism and camaraderie unfold, Peter Jackson's iconic Lord of the Rings movies captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. While staying true to J.R.R. Tolkien's fantastical narrative, the films chose to overlook a peculiar detail concerning two beloved Hobbits, Merry and Pippin. As the Fellowship fractured and our heroes embarked on separate quests, the cinematic portrayal of Merry and Pippin as mischievous troublemakers diverged from the profound growth they experienced in the novels.
Merry and Pippin stand in Fangorn Forest in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
The Unprecedented Growth of Merry and Pippin
Within the lore of Tolkien's works, Hobbits are depicted as diminutive beings, standing merely half the height of men. However, an intriguing deviation arises towards the conclusion of the Lord of the Rings saga, as Merry and Pippin emerge as the tallest Hobbits in Shire history. Previously, the honor of the tallest Hobbit belonged to Bandobras 'Bullroarer' Took, standing at 4'5''.
In The Two Towers, an extraordinary event transpires when Merry and Pippin partake in Treebeard's 'Ent-draught' during their stay in Fangorn Forest. This mystical elixir, meant for the Ents' sustenance, triggers a physical transformation in the two Hobbits, causing them to grow several inches taller and surpassing the typical stature of their kind.
A Missing Scene: Merry and Pippin's Transient Stature
While the extended edition of the Lord of the Rings trilogy unveils an additional scene showcasing the Hobbits' growth, a twist alters the original narrative. In this cinematic depiction, Pippin, in a moment of curiosity, discovers the transformative liquid, assuming it to be ordinary spring water. To his surprise, the substance induces a temporary growth spurt and a peculiar ability to speak 'treeish', prompting Merry to follow suit.
Billy Boyd as Pippin samples the Ent-draught in Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Symbolism in Height: Merry and Pippin's Evolutionary Journey
Although portrayed humorously in Jackson's films, the physical evolution of Merry and Pippin bears significant symbolism in Tolkien's original writings. Unlike the cinematic rendition where their growth is ephemeral, the novels depict the Hobbits maintaining their increased height for a lifetime, returning to the Shire as towering figures among their kin. This transformation serves as a poignant metaphor for their personal growth and transformation from carefree adventurers to esteemed figures in Middle-earth.
Merry and Pippin hiding in branches in Lord of the Rings
Conclusion
As we delve into the intricacies of Merry and Pippin's extraordinary journey, it becomes evident that their physical metamorphosis transcends mere height alteration. It embodies their evolution, resilience, and the profound impact of their experiences throughout the Lord of the Rings trilogy. While the films may have omitted this peculiar detail, the essence of Merry and Pippin's growth as individuals resonates as a testament to the enduring legacy of Tolkien's timeless tale.
