Aragorn Quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
““A time may come soon," said he, "when none will return. Then there will be need of valour without renown, for none shall remember the deeds that are done in the last defence of your homes. Yet the deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised." She answered: "All your words are but to say: you are a woman, and your part is in the house. But when the men have died in battle and honour, you have leave to be burned in the house, for the men will need it no more. But I am of the House of Eorl and not a serving-woman. I can ride and wield blade, and I do not fear either pain or death." "What do you fear, lady?" he asked. "A cage," she said. "To stay behind bars, until use and old age accept them, and all chance of doing great deeds is gone beyond recall or desire.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Lord of the Rings, 1954
The passage explores a woman's courage and desire for freedom, rejecting traditional gender roles and the fear of confinement, asserting that bravery does not require public acclaim.
In simple terms: A woman defies expectations, valuing personal freedom over fame.
Key Takeaway
Seek freedom over fear.
Themes
courage
gender roles
freedom
identity
valor
Mood
defiant
hopeful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- war narratives
- feminist literature
- personal growth
- leadership training
- mental health counseling
Key Concepts
heroism without recognition
social expectations
personal agency
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true bravery mean to you?
- How can you resist restrictive norms?
A Different Perspective
Societal pressure may still limit opportunities.
