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To: BrandtMichaels
In my Tolkien Dictionary, I identify the definition of 'mithril' as simply mith, Sindarin 'grey'; -RIL, Silmarillion etymology 'glitter'.

Mithril had supernatural qualities, not really indicated in the name. In the movie "LOTR", Frodo is hit with a huge spear point by a giant cave troll - and survived without injury. That would seem to imply a 'force field shield' more than an unusual metallic property. 🤷‍♂️ I guess make up your own judgment.

2,390 posted on 01/10/2026 12:14:02 PM PST by Bob Ireland (The Democrap Party is the enemy of freedom.They use all the seductions and deceits of the Bolshevics)
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To: Bob Ireland

Force field is a little to “scientific” for the fantasy book and to my understanding of SciFi also implies something outside surrounding the object being protected not part of it.

Magic OTOH is clearly acceptable in the Tolkien world and I would not argue that his mithril coat might have a protective spell though that was not clearly stated in the novel per se we do know the Nazgul fought with enchanted weaponry that almost turned the Hobbit into a Wraith.


2,391 posted on 01/10/2026 12:27:54 PM PST by Gasshog (the amazing disappearing tag)
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