Heraldry in The Lord of the Rings

Abstract

Through the lenses of anthropology, modern heraldry, and history, author Sam Long examines how Tolkien’s use of emblems, flags, and symbols mirrors and differs from the Western European use of heraldry. He discusses the arms of Gondor, Rohan, and Dol Amroth in detail, explaining the meaning, aesthetics, and historical inspiration behind some of the designs. He then shifts to discuss other emblems and symbols - of the Dwarves, Sauron, and Saruman. Through this dive into the use of heraldry, Long concludes that Tolkien handled his heraldry quite well, allowing each faction to contain their different uses of symbols to create a wide array of meanings and pleasing designs.