The Prancing Pony Podcast
Episode: 355 – Dust in the Wind
Release Date: January 19, 2025
Hosts: Alan Sisto and Matt (The Nerd of the Rings)

Episode Overview

In episode 355, titled Dust in the Wind, Alan Sisto and Matt delve deep into the intricate lore of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, focusing on the Battle of Dagorlad and its significant implications for Gondor. The episode weaves together detailed philological analysis, narrative exposition, and engaging discussions, providing both longtime enthusiasts and newcomers with a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in Tolkien's legendarium.

Philology Fair: Decoding Middle-earth Names

The episode begins with a segment known as the Philology Fair, where the hosts explore the etymology and meaning behind various names within Tolkien's works. This deep dive into the linguistic roots offers listeners a richer appreciation of the cultural and historical contexts of Middle-earth.

• King Ondoher:
  Alan Sisto explains:

  "Ondaher is Quenya and it's made up of two elements. The first is Ondo, meaning stone as a material or mass of rock... The second element is Heru, which means lord or master."
  (Timestamp: [02:03])

• Artemir:

  • Comprised of "Arata" (high, noble) and the common element "mire" (jewel, gem).
  • Matt notes:

    "Miriel, jewel daughter, and the Elendilmir, the star of Elendil."
    (Timestamp: [04:27])

• Faramir:

  • Suggested as a mixed name, combining Quenya and Sindarin elements, though the exact meaning remains partially ambiguous.
  • Alan Sisto posits:

    "It's very likely that Faramir is a mixed form, part Quenya, part Sindarin."
    (Timestamp: [05:06])

The hosts also discuss place names such as Dagorlad (battle plain) and Morannon (black gate), elucidating their meanings and significance within the broader narrative.

The Battle of Dagorlad: Strategy and Miscalculations

Central to the episode is the detailed examination of the Battle of Dagorlad, a catastrophic clash between Gondor's forces and the Wainriders. The hosts dissect the strategic decisions, timing issues, and unforeseen challenges that led to Gondor's downfall in this encounter.

• Gondor's Deployment:

  • King Ondoher leads his host north through Ithilien to the Dagorlad, expecting an assault from the north or northeast.
  • Matt summarizes:

    "The army appears to be moving in column up the road from Ithilien, with the main part up front... making Ondaher’s army extremely vulnerable."
    (Timestamp: [22:14])

• Wainriders' Tactics:

  • The enemy employs war chariots and an unexpected cavalry surge, catching Gondor off-guard.
  • Alan Sisto highlights:

    "Ondoher was utterly unprepared to meet a charge of horsemen and chariots, and great weight with his guard and his banner. He had hastily taken up a position on a low knoll, but this was of no avail."
    (Timestamp: [31:10])

• Outcome and Consequences:

  • The swift Wainriders' assault results in the death of King Ondoher and his son Artemir.
  • Matt reflects:

    "Clearly Faramir is no Faramir... It's just so interesting to see this parallel."
    (Timestamp: [45:23])

Implications for Gondor's Leadership and Lineage

The aftermath of the battle ushers in significant changes within Gondor's hierarchy, leading to power struggles and shifts in leadership.

• Rise of Minoctar:

  • As Ondoher falls, Minoctar steps up as the new commander, showcasing his valor and strategic acumen.
  • Alan Sisto notes:

    "Menochtar was Ondoher's nephew and described as both valiant and war-wise."
    (Timestamp: [37:04])

• Faramir's Tragic End:

  • Contrary to the laws of Gondor, Faramir disguises himself to join the battle and meets his demise.
  • Matt elaborates:

    "Faramir was ordered to remain in Minas Tirith as regent, but he chose to go to war in disguise and was slain."
    (Timestamp: [48:11])

• Earnil's Victory:

  • Captain Earnil rallies the retreating northern forces, achieving a decisive victory against the Wainriders.
  • Alan Sisto summarizes:

    "Earnil stormed the camp and set fire to the wagons, routing them and many perished in the Dead Marshes."
    (Timestamp: [54:07])

These events culminate in a shift from stewardship to kingship within Gondor, albeit fleetingly, as further challenges loom on the horizon.

Cross-References and Narrative Parallels

Throughout the episode, the hosts draw parallels between the events described in the chronicles of Cirion and Eorl and other occurrences in Tolkien's works.

• Connection to "Return of the King":

  • The strategic positions and battlefield maneuvers bear resemblance to Aragorn's tactics in later battles.
  • Alan Sisto points out:

    "That's exactly what's going on here... it's the same deep cutting where Aragorn's forces trapped and defeated an attempted ambush."
    (Timestamp: [42:18])

• Eowyn and Faramir's Parallel Actions:

  • Both characters defy their prescribed roles, choosing to engage directly in battle, leading to personal loss.
  • Matt comments:

    "Eowyn also doesn't survive... Eowyn hides among her own people, so she is clearly better at disguises."
    (Timestamp: [46:22])

These connections enrich the listener's understanding of character motivations and thematic continuity within Tolkien's narratives.

Listener Interaction and Community Engagement

In addition to the analytical segments, the episode features a Bartolin section where listener questions and comments are addressed, fostering a sense of community and shared passion among fans.

• Listener Question on Adaptations:

  • A listener from Ohio inquires about filmmakers the hosts would love to see take on Middle-earth adaptations.
  • Matt responds:

    "One that I definitely don't want is John Boorman... Or Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings ... I do think Paul King would be a fantastic director for a new adaptation of the Hobbit."
    (Timestamps: [64:57] – [67:45])

• Discussion on Potential Directors:

  • The hosts debate various directors, expressing preferences and reservations based on stylistic compatibility with Tolkien's vision.
  • Alan Sisto muses:

    "Tim Burton would have a really interesting take... Wes Anderson could bring a sense of fairy tale charm."
    (Timestamp: [68:20] – [72:35])

This segment not only showcases the hosts' insights but also engages listeners in envisioning alternative creative interpretations of beloved stories.

Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

As the episode concludes, Alan and Matt extend their gratitude to the dedicated members of their team and the podcast's patron community. They encourage listeners to stay connected through various platforms and express excitement for future episodes that will continue unraveling the rich tapestry of Middle-earth.

• Patron Appreciation:

  • Alan Sisto expresses:

    "Thank you all so very much for your support indeed."
    (Timestamp: [76:43] – [76:10])

• Upcoming Content Tease:

  • Matt hints:

    "Next week we'll make up for it with a longer one... continue the story of Kirjan and Aoral."
    (Timestamp: [75:08] – [77:47])

Listeners are invited to explore additional resources, such as the podcast's website and social media channels, to further immerse themselves in the lore and community discussions.

Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps

• Alan Sisto on King Ondoher's Name:

  "Ondaher is Quenya and it's made up of two elements... Heru, which means lord or master."
  (02:03)

• Matt on Faramir's Fate:

  "Faramir was ordered to remain in Minas Tirith as regent, but he chose to go to war in disguise and was slain."
  (48:11)

• Alan Sisto on Minoctar's Leadership:

  "Menochtar was Ondoher's nephew and described as both valiant and war-wise."
  (37:04)

• Matt Reflecting on the Battle's Outcome:

  "It's very likely that Faramir is a mixed form, part Quenya, part Sindarin."
  (05:06)

Conclusion

Episode 355 of The Prancing Pony Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of one of Gondor's most significant battles, blending linguistic analysis with narrative storytelling. Through meticulous examination and lively discussion, Alan Sisto and Matt provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the Battle of Dagorlad, its strategic intricacies, and its lasting impact on Middle-earth's history. Engaging with both the textual material and the broader implications within Tolkien's universe, this episode stands as a testament to the hosts' dedication and passion for the legendarium.