What Happened to the Ring Wraiths After They Fell into Mount Doom?

In J.R.R. Tolkien's masterful work, The Lord of the Rings, the fate of the Ring Wraiths (also known as the Black Riders or Nazg?l) has intrigued many readers for decades. This article delves into their ultimate fate.

Myth vs Reality: Understanding the Ring Wraiths’ Descent

The popular belief is that the Ring Wraiths fell into Mount Doom, where the One Ring was destroyed, and that they were destroyed in the process. However, a closer examination of Tolkien's own text reveals a different truth.

According to Tolkien's original narrative, the Ring Wraiths did not fall into Mount Doom. Instead, they disintegrated simultaneously with Sauron's eradication, as the One Ring was destroyed. Sauron's failed attempt to make immortal slaves came to an end when his essence was vanquished, and the Ring Wraiths, being extensions of Sauron, were also destroyed. One notable exception is the Witch-king of Angmar, who was actually defeated in battle, but the specifics of his demise are less clear.

The Impact of Sauron's Defeat

The defeat of Sauron marked the end of an era of darkness. With the destruction of the One Ring, the veil that held back the Ring Wraiths was lifted, and they were no longer able to maintain their corporeal form in the physical world. The power that sustained them was gone, and thus, they faded into the spirit world.

Interesting Insights from Tolkien's Text

Aragon, Eowyn, and Merry play pivotal roles in the final moments of the Ring Wraiths. The King himself, Aragorn, did not retrieve the Ring but rather, it was destroyed along with the rest of the world when the One Ring was cast into the fires of Mount Doom. No further mention is made of the Ring in the text, indicating its final fate.

The King of the Ring Wraiths, known as the Witch-king of Angmar, met his end at the Battle of Pelennor Fields. He was mortally wounded by Eowyn, who fought with the help of Meriadoc (Merry) of the Shire. With the Ring's destruction, the remaining Ring Wraiths, including the Witch-king, disappeared, unable to sustain their existence without their master Sauron.

Conclusion and Further Reading

The journey of the Ring Wraiths through Middle-earth reflects the complex interplay of fate and free will as explored in Tolkien's work. Their ultimate fate - and that of the One Ring - is a testament to the power of resistance and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. To fully understand this intricate narrative, it is highly recommended to read The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien himself, a text that remains a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature.

For those interested in delving deeper, consider purchasing the original edition of the book. Versions by different authors or abridged text might omit some of the detailed descriptions and subtleties present in Tolkien's original work.