"For the Elves the world moves, and it moves both very swift and very slow. Swift, because they themselves change little, and all else fleets by: it is a grief to them. Slow, because they do not count the running years, not for themselves."
~- Legolas, The Great River

Legolas: Gorgeous elf whose existence in the film potentially has no purpose but to look pretty, be the epitome of grace and agility, and of course show off some kick ass moves with a bow and arrow. Actually, isn’t that enough? What more do you want from him!

Legolas Greenleaf (though Greenleaf is not his last name; it is what “Legolas” means) is the elven Prince of Mirkwood. Though in the film he has blond hair it is more likely that Toilken intended him to be a brunette. But what do technicalities matter! He is over a thousand years old, but holds the youth and beauty of an ethereal being. Even those tough men of Gondor admit that he is the most beautiful thing they had ever seen. Legolas is perhaps more spontaneous and out going than most elves, as well as exhibiting more rushes of youth. He can climb quickly, ride amazingly (no saddle required), is a master with a knife, and cannot be beaten when it comes to the accuracy of shooting an arrow. His eagle like eyesight can account for his use of the bow and arrow as he can see up to many miles in the distance.

Also, being an elf, he can hear the whispers and songs of nature and adores the songs of trees (perhaps a residual effect of living in a forest.) He has a natural curiosity for life, but maintains a usually dignified and reserved face. In addition, his voice is clear and more beautiful than mans (though, thankfully, we were all spared the singing of Legolas and Aragorn in the film. It just wouldn’t have flown.)

Despite being a prince himself, he is fully capable of bowing to the orders of others, and shows honourable respect to Aragorn, Galadrial and Gandalf. However, sometimes he can be stubborn as Gimili, as in when he is told to part with his bow (if you want to live I don’t suggest that you demand this of him).

Yet it isn’t just his physical aspects that are so admirable. He is equally open-minded and has a wonderful spirit of adventure. He breaks all codes of hatred by striking up a friendship with the dwarf Gimili (yes, I say friendship. Don’t you try and tell me their relationship was anything more than platonic).

Despite his love of the forest, Legolas is drawn to the sea, as predicted by Galadrial.

There is more that could be said, but I believe I might die in a puddle of drool if I went on.

So, what’s your opinion on the Elf? Email me and get it posted! Mirkwood Darling