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Questions and Answers
What is one of the primary descriptions of the Watcher in the Water?
What is one of the primary descriptions of the Watcher in the Water?
What event likely drove the Watcher to the surface of the lake?
What event likely drove the Watcher to the surface of the lake?
What role does the Watcher serve in Moria's West Gate?
What role does the Watcher serve in Moria's West Gate?
Which of the following ideas about the Watcher's origin is suggested?
Which of the following ideas about the Watcher's origin is suggested?
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What happens to the Watcher as the water levels in the lake recede?
What happens to the Watcher as the water levels in the lake recede?
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Study Notes
The Watcher in the Water
- The Watcher in the Water is a creature encountered by the Fellowship of the Ring outside the West Gate of Moria
- Described as a tentacled, luminous creature with fingers on its appendages
- Seemingly targeted Frodo, the Ringbearer, not simply drawn by the thrown rock
- Originates in deep waters beneath the mountains, where Gandalf describes things "older and fouler than Orcs"
- Tolkien maintains the Watcher's mystery, offering few details about its appearance, capabilities, or origins
The Watcher's Role
- Likely driven to the surface lake by Barlin's Dwarven colony, who sealed the Siron River outside Moria's West Gate
- Prevented Dwarves from escaping Moria through the West Gate, guarding the entrance for 30 years until the Fellowship's arrival
- History suggests a protective, guarding role, rather than a predatory one
Possibilities for the Watcher
- Possible origin 1: Morgoth's creation, a mockery of sea life, driven into hiding after the War of Wrath in the First Age.
- Possible origin 2: One of the "nameless things" older than Sauron, dwelling in the deepest parts of the Earth.
The Watcher's Fate
- Ultimate fate unknown
- Implied retreat back to the depths as the lake's water level decreased
- Existence hints at unknown, ancient, and powerful forces lurking beneath Middle-earth.
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Description
Test your knowledge about The Watcher in the Water, a mysterious creature from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Fellowship of the Ring'. This quiz will cover its characteristics, origin, and role in guarding the entrance to Moria. Find out how well you understand this enigmatic being's place in Middle-earth lore.
