Why Did the Nazg?l Attack Gandalf at Weathertop?

The Nazg?l's attack on Gandalf at Weathertop serves as a pivotal moment in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth saga. This strategic maneuver was aimed at weakening the Free Peoples' defenses and capturing the Ring-bearer, Frodo Baggins. Gandalf, as a powerful wizard and trusted ally, presented a significant obstacle to their mission of retrieving the One Ring for their master, Sauron.

The Strategic Importance of Weathertop

Weathertop, a strategic vantage point with commanding views of the region, was the perfect location for both the Nazg?l and Gandalf to set their traps. The Nazg?l were searching for the One Ring, now in the possession of Frodo Baggins and his companions, including Aragorn, Sam, Merry, and Pippin. Gandalf had arrived at Weathertop in an attempt to protect the hobbits from the pursuing Nazg?l.

The Pursuit and Attack

During the day, the Nazg?l strategically drew away from Gandalf, creating a false sense of security. However, during the night, they launched a surprise attack on both Gandalf and the hobbits. The Nazg?l were well aware that the Ring was with the hobbits, and Weathertop's elevated position offered a clear view of any movement in the surrounding area.

The Were Not Orcs, But the Nazg?l

Contrary to popular belief, it was not orcs who attacked Weathertop but the Nazg?l, also known as the Ringwraiths or the Nine. The Nazg?l, spearheaded by the Witch-king, were determined to capture the Ring and its bearer, Frodo. During the attack, Gandalf, though severely pressed, managed to fend off the Nazg?l's assault, but the hobbits, especially Frodo, were left vulnerable.

The Hinterland and the Enemy's Knowledge

The Nazg?l knew that the hobbits were with a Ranger, presumably Strider (Aragorn), who had been in Bree with Aragorn and the hobbits. They knew that the Ranger was familiar with the area and its dangers, making Weathertop an ideal location. The Nazg?l, through the network of spies and their subordinates, such as the Nazg?l themselves, knew that the hobbits were in a vulnerable position and would move away from the road towards the wild, specifically towards Weathertop.

Meanwhile, Gandalf had a similar reasoning. Gandalf had reached Bree just before the hobbits and Aragorn, knowing the dangers of the wild and the importance of intercepting the Nazg?l before they could capture the Ring. He understood that Aragorn would head to Weathertop if they hoped to find the hobbits. Thus, both Gandalf and the Nazg?l arrived at Weathertop with the intention of thwarting each other's plans.

The Attack on Gandalf

The Nazg?l's attack on Gandalf was not aimed at killing him; instead, it was designed to drive him away and prevent him from coming to the aid of the Ring. This is why four of the Nazg?l followed Gandalf when he withdrew, chasing him while the others stayed behind to set their trap. The Witch-king, with a Morgul blade, managed to wound Frodo, almost capturing him, but Gandalf's intervention saved the hobbit. The Ring was crucial, and the Nazg?l knew that Frodo carried it, making him their primary target.

Conclusion

The attack on Gandalf at Weathertop was a significant event in the quest to reclaim the One Ring. It not only showcased the growing power of Sauron and the urgency of the mission but also highlighted the dangers that Frodo and his companions faced on their perilous journey. The Nazg?l's strategic move at Weathertop was a testament to their cunning and the complexity of the battle for the Ring.