May 3, 2003

The Faramir Mistake
Jason

The problem with Jacksons artistic freedom in respect to the role of Faramir is that, at least according to Tolkien, the outcome of the war would probably have been different if Faramir hadn't shown Frodo mercy. When Pippin, or was it Merry?, looks into the orthanc stone, Sauran believes that Saruman has captured the hobbit and the ring. In fact shortly after Pippins scream, a Nazgul is felt flyiong swiftly to Isengard. Gandalf comments that Pippins foolishness actually has bought them and Minas Tirath time. How could the dark lord been fooled if Frodo actually stood on the walls of Minis Tirath and showed the ring? We are all encouraged by tolkien to 'get what we will' from his story. I know that I am not alone in seeing the theme of humbleness being a virtue, and pride being destructive throughout the book. Boromirs desire for greatness is what ended up to be his downfall. Faramir, the younger and less proud brother, was suppose to be a lesson. It was silly of jackson to change his role.