Modern analysis reveals overlooked plot subtext in LOTR

Thread starter BWV
Start date Mar 12, 2025

AI Thread Summary

The discussion critiques Gandalf's character in "The Lord of the Rings," labeling him as selfish. Participants express surprise at the notion that his actions were motivated by personal gain, such as acquiring new clothing, a staff, and magical powers, rather than purely heroic intentions. There's a humorous suggestion that Gandalf could have leveraged his fame for commercial opportunities, like a clothes detergent advertisement, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in his character's motivations. Overall, the conversation challenges the traditional view of Gandalf as a selfless hero, suggesting a more self-serving interpretation of his actions.

Mar 12, 2025

BWV

Gandalf was a selfish jerk

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Mar 12, 2025

jedishrfu

Mentor

Insights Author

And all this time, I thought it was so Ian McKellen could do something heroic in the movie and get new clothes, a staff, new magic powers, hazard pay and a pay raise.

Mar 12, 2025

256bits

Gold Member

wow.
He could have cashed out big on a clothes detergent commercial.

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