Oh, this chapter paints such vivid pictures!
We see many portraits of the characters, details and qualities that rise to the surface as they each contribute in their own way. There are two potent images that I find particularly striking in particular, the first one being that of Eowyn facing the WK with his defeated steed at her feet. Tolkien tells us in the midst of the battle “with its [the winged creature’s] fall the shadow passed away. A light fell about her, and her hair shone in the sunrise.” I can see this very clearly in my mind’s eye, a very dramatic snapshot of Eowyn alone, though surrounded by so many. Yet the sun, seemingly so distant, is rising on the rim of the land and she is held, lit by the streaming sunlight. The dawning of some new future.
Another ‘snapshot’ is of Aragorn.
Quote:
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Thus came Aragorn son of Arathorn, Elessar, Isildur’s heir, out of the Paths of the Dead, bourne upon a wind from the Sea to the kingdom of Gondor….
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Did this bring to anyone else’s mind memories of Elendil and his arrival in Middle-earth? As though Gondor has a chance at a new beginning? Note that he was ‘bourne upon
wind from the Sea.”
It is also interesting that among the characters that we have been following, the ones who would not be considered ‘key players’ by a military strategist score some impressive victories that are highlighted by Tolkien. Of course I am referring to Eowyn and Merry’s defeat of the WK. It is sad in a way that it over shadows Theoden’s own defeat of the King from Harad. But perhaps this is a good thing as the WK’s defeat is prompted out of love and concern more then duty etc.
Also touching was Eomer’s speech to rally his men even as he grieves.
In short this chapter reminds me of a old painting of a crowded battlefield, and everywhere you look some story is unfolding. All of them important.