The Fate of the Witch-king Post-Battle with éowyn and Merry: A Comprehensive Analysis

In the realm of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the Witch-king stands as a prominent antagonist, a servant of Sauron and a force of pure evil. After his battle with éowyn and Merry, did he truly meet his end? This article delves into the intricate fate of the Witch-king, exploring various interpretations and theories.

Canonical Evidence and Christian Scripture

According to Tolkien's works and Christian Scripture, the Witch-king's body was left dead. Being a mortal Man, his soul surpassed the circles of the world, subjected to the fate of Men after judgment by Eru Iluvatar. Scripture suggests that wicked Men face a dreadful fate after death. However, both Tolkien and Christian teachings emphasize Eru's mercy, which has limits. Therefore, it is not for us to speculate on the final fate of any individual soul.

The Significance of the Witch-king's Death

The Witch-king's death marked a significant turning point in the narrative. As one of Sauron's chief servants and a major antagonist, his defeat symbolizes the decline of Sauron's power. Tolkien's narrative implies that the Witch-king did not survive his encounter with éowyn and Merry. This event signals the end of his influence and terror in Middle-earth during that age.

Speculative Theories

While the Witch-king's death appears definitive, an intriguing theory suggests that he might have returned as a menacing figure in the Fourth Age. Harry Turtledove, a historian specializing in Byzantine history, posited this idea in a fan-fiction novel. In this alternate scenario, the Witch-king, now named Rhavas/Avshar/Harvas, returns as the dark force of the Fourth Age.

Upon completing a degree in Byzantine history, Turtledove created the Videssos Cycle, a fantasy series set in a Byzantine Empire-analogue. Turtledove introduced cohorts of Roman legionaries as protagonists, further enriching the story with historical and fantasy elements. In this series, Rhavas/Avshar/Harvas embodies the essence of the Witch-king, driving the narrative and posing as a significant challenge.

The Logic Behind the Theories

It is essential to understand that the Nazgul, including the Witch-king, are mortal men doomed to die. After their deaths, they will face judgment directly by Eru Iluvatar. The Witch-king's death severed his physical form, rendering him unable to return from the Other Side. The protective enchantments of the Nazgul allowed them to remain immortal, but the breaking of these enchantments meant the end of his physical form. Only through the grace of Eru himself could the Witch-king have returned, and there is doubt that Eru would grant such a favor to one who once served Sauron.

Conclusion

While the canonical evidence suggests the Witch-king's definitive demise, the Videssos Cycle presents a compelling and speculative alternative. However, according to Tolkien and Christian teachings, the Witch-king's mortal essence and soul were consumed by death, leaving no chance for resurrection in the natural order of the world. The narrative of the Witch-king's fate is a testament to the complex moral and theological discussions that lie at the heart of J.R.R. Tolkien's works.