The Two Towers

Compare and contrast how both Gandalf and Saruman attempt to persuade leaders such as Théoden to make important choices that will determine the future of Middle-earth. How does each figure use or misuse the power of rhetoric?

Discuss how Tolkien describes the Ents. What does this description suggest about Tolkien’s perspective on nature and the wilderness? How does it compare to how other creatures in the story respond to the natural world?

Tolkien borrows heavily from Anglo-Saxon culture and the Old English language in his depiction of Rohan. How do these cultural details serve to characterize the Rohirrim and indicate the significance of their society in the war against Sauron?

Analyze the use of songs and poems in The Two Towers. Why does Tolkien include these different mediums within the text of the novel? How do they illustrate some of the novel’s key themes and ideas?

How does Tolkien portray the notion of duality in The Two Towers? Which characters or settings appear to be doubles, parallels, or contrasts to one another?

Discuss how Tolkien develops the theme of history throughout The Two Towers. How does he show the value of obtaining knowledge of the past through this narrative? Which characters seem to respect history the most? Which do not?

As the middle book in a trilogy, The Two Towers frequently foreshadows later events. How does Tolkien set up events that will become important in The Return of the King?

The bond between Frodo and Sam is an important aspect of their quest. How is friendship depicted in the novel? What qualities does the novel suggest a true friend should have?