The Rings of Power season 2 has brought a new perspective to the myth of Isildur, introducing details that directly recall the Dead Marshes seen in The Two Towers. In the third episode of the new season, following the devastating attack on the Southlands, Isildur finds himself in a situation that foreshadows an iconic element of Tolkien’s trilogy.
The Rings of Power and the echoes of the Dead Marshes
After the destruction of his land, Isildur is captured by Shelob and, once he escapes, he stumbles upon a body of water where he discovers floating corpses. Although not explicitly named Dead Marshes, this scene immediately evokes the eerie dead marshes that Frodo, Sam, and Gollum traverse in The Two Towers.
An homage to the haunting marshes
The Dead Marshes indeed owe their name and unsettling reputation to the events of the Second Age, particularly the Battle of Dagorlad. However, the series seems to pay an anticipatory tribute to these iconic locations through Isildur’s encounter with the floating bodies, hinting at a direct connection between his adventure and the marshes that will become famous for the spectral faces of fallen soldiers.
Interweaving the two eras
This nod to the Dead Marshes not only enriches Isildur’s storyline but also showcases how The Rings of Power skillfully utilizes references to Tolkien’s vast mythology. Set thousands of years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, the series continues to weave familiar elements with new narratives, offering an immersive experience true to the world created by the British writer.
With these narrative choices, The Rings of Power not only expands Isildur’s story but also celebrates the deep connection with Tolkien’s source material, creating a fascinating bridge between the different eras of Middle-earth.
