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Eowyn is one of just a few female characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord Of The Rings. Though lacking in quantity, Tolkien’s female characters do not lack in quality. Characters like Galadriel and Arwen are powerful, wise, and respected for their mastery. While Tolkien can overly focus on stereotypical representations of his female characters, this is more a reflection of misrepresentation than overt sexism. Though he places many of his women into traditional roles of mothers and wives, they are never subservient. Even more villainous characters like Lobelia Sackville-Baggins are strong and outspoken about their rights.
Even if Tolkien did not fully ally himself with feminist values, we could still learn from his strong female characters’ journeys. They capably determine their own destinies in addition to being activists for the betterment of the world around them. However, Tolkien does not neglect those still searching for their place in society. Eowyn echoes many young women’s fears and self-doubts as they grow into adulthood. Being a feminist icon is more than just being skillful or “better than the boys.” It takes inner confidence that you deserve to have a voice and place in the world. Eowyn’s narrative shows women how to face their fears and embrace the journey to who they’re meant to be.
Eowyn’s Fears
So many strong female characters are displayed as tough, competent, and able to hold their own. However, being a strong female doesn’t mean you don’t have emotions and struggles. Eowyn is proficient in warfare, an expert horsewoman, and a beloved member of the royal household. However, she still struggles with the pressures and fears of becoming an adult in a world filled with strife. The expectations placed on her as a woman and royal drive her to fight in anonymity.
Even with a life of comfort and luxury before her, Eowyn wants to experience real-life and relate to her people. When tasked with caring for the kingdom’s affairs as the men ride off to battle Isengard, Eowyn dutifully and quite literally “holds down the fort.” Her dreams of battlefield glory are continually suppressed by the men and cultural barriers in her life. This suppression is mirrored in real life, even if not as blatantly. When girls are steered away from traditionally male careers or even just held to a different standard, the chasm of inequality grows.
“(I fear) A cage, to stay behind bars, until use and old age accept them, and all chance of doing great deeds is gone beyond recall or desire.”
Eowyn in The Return Of The King
Though a skillful shieldmaiden, the Rohirrim value her more for her skills in “less dangerous” areas of ruling. Eowyn does not fear death or the violence of battle, but rather a cage, a restriction or expectation to fit into a mold she cannot shake. While ruling, caring for the home, fighting, and familial duties are all vital, Eowyn understands that the freedom to choose one’s own path can be the most important. As female fans follow Eowyn’s path, her inner turmoil relates to their own.
Eowyn’s Privilege
Eowyn has great privilege as the niece of the king. Her basic needs are met, education is at her fingertips, and she has the love and respect of a kingdom. However, Eowyn is still constricted by her doubts and the duties she has as a royal member. When women allow external expectations to dictate their lives, they can become bitter and discontent. This discontent can then be directed towards those close to them, even those who might support independent decisions. Eowyn is hurt by the men who devalue her ability to fight alongside them. When females today are disparaged for their gender, Eowyn reminds them to stand strong and assert their worth.
Poverty and inequality in education and opportunities inhibit many women from reaching their potential. In addition, many of us are inhibited not so much by our social or economic status but rather stereotypes and our own mental barriers. As we learn to choose our own path, we should also support and lift those who don’t have the same privilege. Eowyn’s bravery not only saves a world from darkness but also sets an example for other women to lead. As the elven female leaders retreat to the Grey Havens, Eowyn stands as the human example of strong feminine leadership. Finding ways to empower and equalize the opportunities for women across the world only helps improve the world for us all.
Eowyn’s Place
Though Eowyn is privileged, her journey mirrors many women’s own walks to navigate societal and familial expectations and our own insecurities. Eowyn desires freedom and the ability to choose her own path. Choosing to fight as Dernhelm allows her to learn what fabled battle glory is truly like. Her experiences on the battlefield open her eyes to the horrors of war and the difficulties of being an honorable warrior. However, this does not cow her into meekness or, in any way, scare her. Instead, she uses her time as Dernhelm to add to her wisdom while defeating Angmar’s Witch-king.
While Eowyn’s decision to live the rest of her life as a mother and wife to Faramir might seem to go against the feminist within, it is her choice. Throughout her narrative, Eowyn learns how to look within and understand what she truly desires for herself and her future. Her decision to stay in the healing and heal houses shows her growth and understanding of what her true desires are for who she wants to be. Finding true purpose is one of the greatest achievements in life. Eowyn shows women of all ages that pursuing their passions can lead to a clearer understanding of this purpose.
From Rohan To Reality
Though she inhabits Tolkien’s fantasy universe, Eowyn’s journey is relatable to young women today. Her self and autonomy discovery leads her through the difficulties of personal aspirations, feminist ideals, and societal expectations. Even if this expectation is being a nation’s ruler, one should be free to choose their own path. This is true feminism. Women ought to have the freedom to fight for their country, be free of stereotypes, be loved by a partner, or rise as leaders.
Just because one is a strong, independent woman does not mean they are devoid of insecurities. When people read about characters that mirror their own struggles, it inspires them to take hold of their own destinies. Eowyn shows the realities of navigating society’s pressures as well as personal doubts to become who she truly was meant to be.