The Untold Fate of Boromir’s Horn: Lost in Middle-earth's Shadows
After Boromir's demise, the fate of his powerful Horn of Gondor remains shrouded in mystery What became of this legendary artifact that could be heard throughout Gondor when blown?
Highlights
The Horn of Gondor is associated with Boromir and represents the sacrifices and heroism of its previous bearers.
When the horn is sounded, its call reverberates across Gondor, summoning aid in moments of desperation. Tragically, the horn met its demise when Boromir wielded it in his plea for assistance, ultimately causing his own demise. However, the shattered fragments transformed into a poignant emblem, representing not only Boromir's enduring legacy but also the unwavering bravery exhibited by the inhabitants of Middle-earth.
The Horn of Gondor, a significant weapon in Lord of the Rings, plays a crucial role in the story. Some weapons and artifacts aid the characters in their troubles, while others leave fans with unanswered questions. One such artifact is the Horn of Gondor, which has a captivating backstory that was not fully explored in Peter Jackson's film adaptations. The horn is deeply connected to Boromir, a beloved character who made a lasting impact on Tolkien's saga.
Boromir, the eldest son of Denethor II, the Steward of Gondor, is closely associated with the Horn of Gondor. This powerful artifact represents the sacrifices of its past bearers and embodies their heroism and bravery. When sounded, the horn's resounding call can be heard throughout Gondor, making it a valuable tool in times of need.
What Is the Horn of Gondor?
The Horn of Gondor, a cherished inheritance of the Stewards of Gondor, was skillfully crafted before the line of Gondorian Kings came to an end. Vorondil, esteemed Steward of Gondor and a proficient hunter, triumphantly shot a legendary creature known as the Kine of Araw, a cattle-like beast that roamed the vicinity of the Sea of Rhûn. Utilizing the creature's horns, Vorondil created the Horn of Gondor, a resplendent ivory instrument adorned with silver accents and inscribed with ancient characters. As its origin story unfolded, it quickly became an emblem of the Stewards of Gondor. Vorondil's son, Mardil Voronwe, extended the legacy by passing it on to his eldest son. Over the course of 25 generations, this hallowed horn was entrusted exclusively to the eldest sons of the Stewards, symbolizing the Gondorian heritage and valor. Its journey eventually led it to Denethor II, who bestowed it upon his eldest son, Boromir, who would ultimately become its final and most renowned bearer.
In Middle-earth, horns served as resounding declarations that were intended to reverberate across the land. Primarily utilized in battle, the significance of their sounds paralleled the impactful symbolism of waving a flag. An age-old belief held that whenever the Horn of Gondor's majestic notes resounded within the kingdom's borders, its echoes would reach every corner, ensuring that its call would not be ignored. Sprouting from rich traditions and historical roots, this notion solidified its sounds as an emblem of unity among the Gondorians. As it passed into the hands of Boromir, the Horn of Gondor transformed into the esteemed Horn of Boromir, flawlessly embodying his pride, nobility, and stature as a formidable warrior.
What Happened to the Horn of Gondor?
Boromir frequently used the horn for various reasons. Initially, after being chosen for the Fellowship at the Council of Elrond, he sounded the horn in Rivendell as a personal tradition and a way to announce himself. However, he was advised to refrain from using it again until he reached Gondor. Despite this warning, Boromir sounded the horn once more in response to the Orcs' horns echoing through Moria, causing them and even the Balrog to momentarily cease their march and halt their attacks until the sound faded away.
The third and final instance of Boromir blowing the horn occurred on the slopes of Amon Hen, near Parth Galen. It was in this moment that the horn's fate became permanently intertwined with his own. In the film adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, this is the only time the horn is heard. When a pack of Uruk-hai attempted to capture Merry and Pippin, Boromir rushed to their aid and sounded the horn as a plea for assistance. Although he successfully defeated the initial attackers, more Orcs appeared, and the arrival of help from the Fellowship was too late. Tragically, Boromir fell grievously wounded by multiple arrows, which also resulted in the Horn of Gondor breaking in two. As his life slipped away, Boromir's final call was heard by Legolas and Aragorn, as well as his brother Faramir and his father, who caught its fading echoes. Aragorn remained by Boromir's side during his last moments until he succumbed to his injuries, while Legolas and Aragorn attended to the fallen Hobbits.
Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli laid Boromir to rest in an Elven boat, alongside the broken pieces of his horn. As they sang the Lament for Boromir, they sent the boat down the falls of Rauros. Several days later, the broken horn pieces were discovered by the Men of Gondor. While guarding Osgiliath's shore near the Anduin river, Faramir stumbled upon the Elven boat containing his brother's body, but the horn he had heard days earlier was missing. The Men who found the broken horn sent the pieces to Denethor II, who kept them by his side while waiting for news of his beloved son. Despite this, he could feel that Boromir was no longer alive. The last time the broken Horn of Gondor is mentioned, it is in the possession of Denethor II as Gandalf and Pippin arrive in Minas Tirith with the news.
The tale of Boromir's Horn is a poignant reminder of the deep connection individuals have with their significant artifacts in Tolkien's legendarium. Boromir's legacy endured, and his horn became a symbol of bravery and unity for both the people of Middle-earth and Lord of the Rings enthusiasts.
