Throughout all the previous adaptations of Tolkien’s works, it has been very clear that elves are the good guys in Middle Earth. They are the race of beings who have long been protectors of the peace. But in the recent Rings of Power series, there has been a completely new portrayal of the elves. This new depiction has offered a new perspective on the immortal beings and their intentions, which may not always be as pure as they first seem.
Several factors contribute to portraying the elves differently. Viewers see their problematic occupation of the Southlands. They see that the Numenoreans no longer trust the elves, who were once great allies. Finally, the elves' persistence to obtain Mithril from the heart of the mountain of Khazad Dum has begun to change fan perspectives of this once noble race. And with the release of the 6th episode comes Galadriel’s persecution of the orcs, a new and interesting dynamic never before seen on screen.
Rings of Power: An Exploration of Mithril's Origin Story
In fact, Rings of Power has done something fascinating with the orcs in general. This new series has given them much more personality and culture than in previous iterations of Tolkien’s works. From the early episodes, they were shown to have rituals to respect and bury their dead. They have kinships with other members of their tribes, and a sort of love towards Adar, whom they call «father.» With these surprising aspects of their personalities revealed, the orcs become more relatable, more emotive. They are more human in a sense, despite still using attack and violence as their main method of communication. However, the Rings of Power ensures that it is no longer clear-cut what constitutes evil and what constitutes redemption. As
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