The Prancing Pony Podcast: Episode 350 – "Wanted Dead Or Alive"

Host(s): The Prancing Pony Podcast
Release Date: November 24, 2024
Episode Title: Wanted Dead Or Alive

1. Episode Overview

In Episode 350 of The Prancing Pony Podcast, hosts Alan Sisto and Don Marshall delve deep into the rich history of Gondor's Stewards as outlined in Appendix A14 of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. This episode marks a significant exploration of nearly a millennium of stewardship, culminating in the reign of Denethor II, the last Steward of Gondor before the return of the kingship.

2. The 70th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of The Lord of the Rings

Alan and Don kick off the episode by discussing the newly released 70th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of The Lord of the Rings. Alan expresses his enthusiasm for the set, highlighting its superior build quality compared to other editions.

Alan Sisto [02:24]: "HarperCollins has finally solved, for the most part, a problem that we really haven't thought of very often... It really is the best blend of deluxe quality and readability."

Don echoes Alan's sentiments, praising the edition's aesthetic and physical attributes.

Don Marshall [06:08]: "I've googled it. These books are really beautifully quarter-bound with a very matte blue leather with gray cloth. There's a silver gilt on the spine... It is stunning to look at."

Key Features Discussed:

• Sturdy Slip Case: Cloth-covered with Alan Lee's silver images of Barad-dûr and Minas Tirith.
• Mounted Art Prints: High-quality, loose art prints accompany each volume.
• Printing Quality: Dual-color footnotes and red ring text enhance readability and aesthetic appeal.
• Fore Edge Illustrations: A continuous depiction of the One Ring across all three volumes.

Alan further compares this edition to the expensive Folio Society sets, concluding that the 70th Anniversary Edition offers unparalleled value for a mass-produced three-volume set.

3. Reading of Appendix A14 – The Stewards of Gondor

The hosts proceed to read Appendix A14, which chronicles the lineage and influence of Gondor's Stewards.

Don Marshall [14:34]: "The House of the Stewards is called the House of Hurin..."

Key Historical Points:

• Hereditary Stewardship: Transition from appointed stewards to a hereditary line began with Pelendur.
• Denethor I to Denethor II: Tracing the lineage and their roles in defending Gondor.
• Threats Faced: Rise of Uruks, threats from Mordor, and internal strife within Gondor.

4. In-Depth Analysis of Denethor and Gondor’s Stewardship

Post-reading, Alan and Don dissect the implications of the Stewards' hereditary rule and its impact on Gondor's stability.

Alan Sisto [24:21]: "They hardened their hearts... determined not to receive any such claimant, but to remain supreme rulers of Gondor."

Discussion Highlights:

• Denethor II’s Leadership: His reliance on the Palantír and the ensuing moral and psychological toll.
• Relationship with Gandalf: Strained interactions and Denethor’s mistrust.
• Impact on Gondor: Shifting power dynamics and the eventual need for the return of the kingship.

5. Discussion on Naming Conventions in Tolkien’s Works

Don introduces a community question regarding the repetition of names within Tolkien's legendarium.

Don Marshall [107:59]: "I noticed in the appendices that there is more than one Denethor and more than one Boromir..."

Alan elaborates on this phenomenon, comparing it to real-world historical naming practices and providing examples from Tolkien's works.

Alan Sisto [110:05]: "There are many real-world examples and many Tolkien examples, most of whom are not quite royalty, but they do make up a large number of the names that are repeated."

Examples Discussed:

• Denethor: Multiple Stewards bearing the name.
• Ecthelion: Both Ecthelion I and II in Gondor’s history.
• Gothmog: Appears as both a commander of Sauron’s army and a high captain of Angmar.

6. Farewell to Don Marshall

Towards the end of the episode, Don Marshall announces his departure from the podcast, marking his final appearance.

Don Marshall [114:27]: "I have been Don Marshall, the obscure Lord of the Rings Facts guy, and I have had the absolute pleasure of working through..."

Alan expresses his gratitude and hints at future episodes without Don, while also thanking the listener community.

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with expressions of gratitude towards listeners and patrons, encouragement to join the podcast community on various social media platforms, and a brief mention of upcoming content focused on Denethor’s rule and the stewardship of Gondor.

Alan Sisto [119:20]: "This has been far too short a time to spend among such excellent and admirable listeners, and with such an excellent and admirable co-host."

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Sisto [26:40]: "As the narrator says, such an oath had not been heard in Middle Earth since Elendil himself had sworn alliance with Gilgalad, King of the Eldar."

• Don Marshall [44:07]: "Vanda Sina Termaruva, Elena Norio Alkar and Yalia Nar Elendilmassen Minumen ari ERU I or Ilie Mahalmar Eaten." (Note: This was a fabricated Quenya sentence for dramatic effect.)

• Alan Sisto [61:55]: "He wed Gandalf and later, through his interactions with the Palantír, truly lost himself to despair and pride."

• Don Marshall [84:00]: "You realized that the strength of Eothelion runs nearly true in him."

• Alan Sisto [100:38]: "Faramir... a lover of lore and music."

Final Thoughts:

Episode 350 offers an intricate examination of the Stewards of Gondor, blending textual readings with insightful analysis. The departure of Don Marshall adds an emotional layer, leaving listeners anticipating future episodes that continue to unravel the depths of Tolkien's Middle-earth. Whether you're a seasoned Tolkien enthusiast or a newcomer to the legendarium, this episode provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Gondor's storied past.