Summary
- The Mearas are an ancient and powerful breed of horses with extraordinary speed, intelligence, and beauty.
- They play a pivotal role in the War of the One Ring, symbolizing hope, courage, and freedom in Middle-earth.
- After the war, the Mearas continue to roam the open lands of Rohan, serving as a reminder of the enduring bond between the people and their land.
In J.R.R. Tolkien's vast and enchanting fantasy realm of Middle-earth, a myriad of creatures and beings shape the narrative, adding depth and wonder to the imaginative world of Lord of the Rings. From the fiery and fearsome Balrogs that haunt the depths of Moria to the quaint and unassuming Hobbits who dwell in the idyllic Shire, Middle-earth's diversity knows no bounds.
The Mearas are a breed of horses with remarkable qualities, making them stand out as jewels in Middle-earth's crown. Renowned for their unparalleled speed, intelligence, and breathtaking beauty, these magnificent creatures play a pivotal role in the War of One Ring. The One Ring is also called the Ruling Ring. It grants its bearer immense power, but it also corrupts and controls those who possess it, a central plot element in The Lord of the Rings. The War of the Ring is a significant conflict that takes place which encompasses the struggle between the forces of good, which include the people of Middle-earth (Men, Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits, and others) and their allies, against the evil forces of Sauron, who used to be a divine being but got corrupted and turned into an evil entity.
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The Mearas continue to symbolize freedom and resilience, serving as living legends in the green pastures of Rohan. These majestic creatures are more than mere horses; they are enduring symbols of hope and courage in the epic tale of The Lord of the Rings.
What are the Mearas?
According to tradition, the ancestors of the Mearas were brought from the West by Orome, A huntsman of the Valar. The horses of the Vales of Anduin were special. During the Angmar War, the Host of the West included noble Northmen riders, and when they landed at Lindon, their horses were especially praised.
Although there are multiple Mearas in existence, there are four of them that are briefly known. Nahar was the legendary horse ridden by Oromë, the Huntsman of the Valar. Nahar's coat was said to be white under the Sun but to shimmer in silver in the night, and his feet were shod in gold.
Mearas Quick Facts:
- The Mearas are an ancient and powerful breed of horses.
- They are known for their extraordinary speed, intelligence, and beauty.
- They are wild and elusive by nature, making them a challenge to tame for even the most skilled horse masters.
- Shadowfax, the most famous of the Mearas, is a legendary member of this breed and is the trusted steed of Gandalf the White, known for his incredible speed and nobility.
A wild foal was captured by Léod, the horse-tamer, in the Third Age 2501. Leod was the father of Eorl the Young, the first king of Rohan. Despite others failing to tame the horse, Léod attempted to ride it but tragically lost his life when the stallion threw him. Eorl, determined to avenge his father, spared the horse's life and named it Felaróf, commanding it to serve him. Remarkably, Eorl rode Felaróf without using a bit or bridle. This tale is recorded in Eorl's Hallow, also known as the Memorial of Eorl, in the Wold region.
Shadowfax was a descendant of Felaróf and a chieftain of the race of long-lived Mearas, Middle-earth's best horses. Shadowfax could understand human speech and was said to run faster than the wind. Initially owned by Théoden, King of Rohan, during the War of the Ring, Shadowfax was too wild for the Rohirrim to tame. Théoden eventually gave him to the wizard Gandalf. Shadowfax’s speed was seen when he made the sorcerer run for three days to test him.
What Role Do the Mearas Play in the War of the One Ring?
In the grand War of the One Ring, the Mearas play a pivotal and symbolic role. Shadowfax becomes not just a trusted companion but also a symbol of hope and freedom, carrying Gandalf swiftly across Middle-earth in the service of the greater good.
The role of the Mearas in the War of the One Ring is also highlighted when they come to the aid of Rohan in its darkest hour. During the Battle of Helm's Deep, the horses play a crucial role in turning the tide of the battle. They inspire courage and hope, enabling the Rohirrim to overcome the forces of Saruman. This pivotal moment underscores the profound connection between the people and these remarkable horses.
"That is Shadowfax. He is the chief of the Mearas, lords of horses, and not even Théoden, King of Rohan, has ever looked better. Does he not shine like silver and run as smoothly as a swift stream? He has come for me: the horse of the White Rider. We are going to battle together.”
-Gandalf about Shadowfax
What Happened to the Mearas After the War?
After the War of the One Ring, the fate of the Mearas remains a subject of intrigue and wonder. These incredible creatures, closely associated with Rohan and its royal lineage, continue to roam the vast plains and open lands. Shadowfax, in particular, stands as a symbol of freedom and untamed beauty residing in the green pastures of Rohan.
The Mearas represent an integral aspect of Middle-earth's history and culture. While they remain elusive and challenging to tame, they share a unique bond with the people of Rohan and continue to symbolize hope, courage, and the enduring spirit of free will.
In the post-war era, the Mearas, especially Shadowfax, assumed a more tranquil yet significant role. They become a testament to the enduring spirit of Rohan and its unbreakable connection with its land. The Mearas continue to inspire awe and reverence, and their presence serves as a reminder of the heroic efforts made during the War of the One Ring.
The Mearas are more than mere horses in Tolkien's Middle-earth; these magnificent creatures, known for their swiftness, intelligence, and beauty, have left an enduring mark on the hearts and minds of those who have ventured into the wonder of Middle-earth through the written word or on the cinematic screen. The Mearas are not just a remarkable breed of horses but a representation of the deep connections between the inhabitants of Middle-earth and the extraordinary world they inhabit. The legacy of the Mearas lives on, reminding us of the strength, courage, and enduring bond between the people of Rohan and their land.
- Created by
- J. R. R. Tolkien
- Current Series
- The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
The Lord of the Rings is one of the most iconic names in entertainment. The franchise started with novels from J. R. R. Tolkien before being adapted onto the big screen by Peter Jackson in one of the most critically-acclaimed film trilogies of all time. There have also been numerous The Lord of the Rings video games of varying quality.
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