Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power introduces many new characters, including Círdan the Shipwright, played by Ben Daniels. In the first episode, Círdan helps Elrond, played by Robert Aramayo, try to destroy the three Elven Rings of Power by throwing them into the sea.
However, he changes his mind when an unusual wave rocks his boat. Círdan is highly respected by Galadriel, played by Morfydd Clark, and High King Gil-Galad, played by Benjamin Walker, as one of the wisest and most reasonable Elves in Middle-earth. But what makes Círdan so esteemed?
Círdan Is Among the Oldest Elves in Middle-earth
Círdan’s first words in The Rings of Power Season 2 are, “Perfection exists only in Valinor.” Interestingly, he has never been to Valinor.
In fact, Círdan is the last Elf to leave Middle-earth for the Undying Lands after the events of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. He is one of the oldest Elves in Middle-earth, and his mission has always been to provide safe passage for those traveling to the West.
In the earliest days of Middle-earth, the Elves awoke and grouped themselves into three factions: the Vanyar, the Noldor, and the Teleri. Círdan is from the Teleri, known for their skill in sailing and shipbuilding.
While some Teleri went to Valinor, others, including Círdan, stayed in Middle-earth and became known as Sindar. Although Círdan has never been to Valinor, it remains his greatest wish.
Círdan is also known for his unique physical trait: he is the only Elf with a beard, symbolizing his great age and wisdom. While most Elves appear eternally youthful, Círdan’s beard highlights his ancient lineage and the many years he has witnessed.
Why Has Círdan Chosen To Stay in Middle-earth?
Círdan decided to remain in Middle-earth because he felt it was his purpose to help others reach Valinor. He became the lord of the Grey Havens, a harbor in Lindon, to ensure safe passage for Elves called to the West. He wanted to be the last one to leave Middle-earth if the Light of the Eldar ever faded.
Círdan’s foresight, gifted by the Valar, made him aware of his crucial role in the Second and Third Ages. He saw that his skills and presence would be needed to fight evil and guide others to Valinor. His role was not just about building ships but also about guiding and protecting Middle-earth’s people during times of great peril.
What Happens to Círdan’s Ring of Power, Narya?
In The Rings of Power, Círdan believes the rings play an important role in protecting Middle-earth. However, in J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings, his story differs slightly.
Like Galadriel, he advises against forging the three Elven rings. Yet, when Celebrimbor, played by Charles Edwards, forges them, he chooses Círdan to possess Narya, the Ring of Fire. Narya can inspire hope and courage, making Círdan a fitting bearer due to his age and wisdom.
Círdan kept Narya for a while but saw that its power would be needed by someone with a greater destiny. When the Istari, including Gandalf, played by Ian McKellen, arrived in Middle-earth in the Third Age, Círdan recognized Gandalf as the one who would benefit most from Narya’s power.
Knowing Gandalf’s crucial role in the fight against Sauron, played by Charlie Vickers, Círdan decided to pass Narya to him.
Narya thus passed from Círdan to Gandalf, aiding the wizard in his mission to combat despair and inspire resistance against Sauron during the Third Age. Círdan’s selflessness and foresight ensured that Narya was used to fight darkness, reflecting his deep wisdom and commitment to Middle-earth’s well-being.
Season 2 of The Rings of Power is available on Prime Video, with new episodes airing weekly on Thursdays.
