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{{Infobox_Race|title1 = Nazgûl|image1 = Nazgul by allianceelite.jpg|name = Ringwraiths, The Nine, The Fallen Kings, Black Riders, Nunbolg, Ulairi|dominions = [[Mordor]], [[Angmar]], [[Dol Guldur]], [[Minas Morgul]]|languages = [[Black Speech]], [[Westron]]|height = Man-high|lifespan = Indefinite|distinction = Without physical form|members = [[Witch-king]], [[Khamûl]]}}
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{{Infobox_Race|title1 = Nazgûl|image1 = Nazgul by allianceelite.jpg|name = Ringwraiths, The Nine, The Fallen Kings, Black Riders, Úlairi|dominions = [[Mordor]], [[Angmar]], [[Dol Guldur]], [[Minas Morgul]]|languages = [[Black Speech]], [[Westron]]|height = Man-high|lifespan = Indefinite|distinction = Without physical form|members = }}
 
{{Quote|q1 = |q2 = |Nine he gave to Mortal Men, proud and great, and so ensnared them. Long ago they fell under the dominion of the One, and they became Ringwraiths, shadows under his great Shadow, his most terrible servants. Long ago. It is many a year since the Nine walked abroad. Yet who knows? As the Shadow grows once more, they too may walk again.|-[[Gandalf]] explaining the Nazgûl to [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', Book One, Ch. II: "[[The Shadow of the Past]]"</ref>}}
 
{{Quote|q1 = |q2 = |Nine he gave to Mortal Men, proud and great, and so ensnared them. Long ago they fell under the dominion of the One, and they became Ringwraiths, shadows under his great Shadow, his most terrible servants. Long ago. It is many a year since the Nine walked abroad. Yet who knows? As the Shadow grows once more, they too may walk again.|-[[Gandalf]] explaining the Nazgûl to [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', Book One, Ch. II: "[[The Shadow of the Past]]"</ref>}}
The '''Nazgûl''' (also known as '''Ringwraiths''', '''The Nine''', '''The Fallen Kings''', '''Black Riders''', '''Nunbolg, '''or '''''Ulairi''''' in [[Quenya]]) were the dreaded ring-servants of the [[Dark Lord]] [[Sauron]] in [[Middle-earth]] throughout the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age|Third]] ages, who in the later years of the Third Age dwelt in [[Minas Morgul]] and [[Dol Guldur]].<ref name="appendixb">''[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]]'', Appendix B: "The Tale of Years"</ref>
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The '''Nazgûl''' (also known as '''Ringwraiths''', '''The Nine''', '''The Fallen Kings''', '''Black Riders''', or '''''Úlairi''''' in [[Quenya]]) were the dreaded ring-servants of the [[Dark Lord]] [[Sauron]] in [[Middle-earth]] throughout the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age|Third]] ages, who in the later years of the Third Age dwelt in [[Minas Morgul]] and [[Dol Guldur]].<ref name="appendixb">''[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]]'', Appendix B: "The Tale of Years"</ref>
   
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
[[File:Nine Kings of Men.png|thumb|left|250px|The Nine Kings with their Rings of Power]]
 
[[File:Nine Kings of Men.png|thumb|left|250px|The Nine Kings with their Rings of Power]]
   
Nineteen rings of power were made in [[Eregion]], forged by [[Celebrimbor]]. These were locked away in one of the safes of [[Eregion]], but all were captured by Sauron. He gave nine of them to great lords and warriors of Men, including three [[Númenóreans]], and [[Khamûl|one]] [[Easterlings|Easterling]] king. Sauron succeeded in corrupting the powerful Nine through his dominance over the rings. These Nine used the rings to achieve great power, wealth, and prestige in life, but as time passed the Rings continued to exert a corrupting influence. The Rings eventually rendered their bearers invisible to all but those who could see into the wraith world, and enslaved them to the will of Sauron. Their lives and their powers became bound to Sauron's via the [[One Ring]]; as Sauron grew or diminished, so too did the Nazgûl.
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Nineteen [[Rings of Power]] were made in [[Eregion]], forged by [[Celebrimbor]]. These were locked away in one of the safes of [[Eregion]], but all were captured by Sauron. He gave nine of them to great lords and warriors of Men, including three [[Númenóreans]], and [[Khamûl|one]] [[Easterlings|Easterling]] king. Sauron succeeded in corrupting the powerful Nine through his dominance over the rings. These Nine used the rings to achieve great power, wealth, and prestige in life, but as time passed the Rings continued to exert a corrupting influence. The Rings eventually rendered their bearers invisible to all but those who could see into the wraith world, and enslaved them to the will of Sauron. Their lives and their powers became bound to Sauron's via the [[One Ring]]; as Sauron grew or diminished, so too did the Nazgûl.
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[[File:NineMen2.jpg|thumb|Khamûl before he was corrupted, according to [[Mordor ~ The Land of Shadow|TheLandOfShadow.com]]]]
   
[[File:Nazgul.png|thumb|300px|Ren the Unclean, as seen in the Weathertops]]Three of the Ringwraiths may be among the first and most powerful [[Númenóreans]] to be corrupted by Sauron, a thousand years before the Downfall: they revered Sauron, and became ensnared in his designs because of their lust for power or knowledge.
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[[File:Nazgul.png|thumb|300px]][[File:Grnazgul_021_Nazgul.jpg|thumb|200px|The Witch-king's true undead appearance in the first ''Lord of the Rings'' film]]Three of the Ringwraiths may have been among the first and most powerful [[Númenóreans]] to be corrupted by Sauron, a thousand years before the Downfall: they revered Sauron, and became ensnared in his designs because of their lust for power or knowledge.
   
 
Only two of the Nine were ever named: the [[Witch-king of Angmar]] and [[Khamûl|Khamûl the Easterling]].
 
Only two of the Nine were ever named: the [[Witch-king of Angmar]] and [[Khamûl|Khamûl the Easterling]].
   
The Nine were first observed around [[SA 2251|2251]] of the Second Age, and soon became Sauron's primary servants. Despite their great power and position as instruments of Sauron's will, not much is known of their activities during the Second Age. They were temporarily dispersed after Sauron's downfall in [[SA 3434]] during the war of [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]]. Though no longer able to maintain physical form, just as Sauron was after losing the One Ring, both the Nazgûl and Sauron were able to endure as long as the ring survived.
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The Nine were first observed around [[SA 2251|2251]] of the Second Age, and soon became Sauron's primary servants. Despite their great power and position as instruments of Sauron's will, not much is known of their activities during the Second Age. They were temporarily dispersed after Sauron's downfall in [[SA 3434]] in the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. Though no longer able to maintain physical form, just as Sauron was after losing the One Ring, both the Nazgûl and Sauron were able to endure as long as the ring survived.
   
 
=== Return of the Nazgûl ===
 
=== Return of the Nazgûl ===
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But Arthedain was not yet defeated, and it managed to maintain a line of defense along the [[Weather Hills]]. In [[TA 1409]] came the attack on [[Cardolan]]. Also during this time, the forces of the Witch-king burned and destroyed the watchtower of [[Amon Sûl]]. After the fall of Cardolan, Angmar's advance was slowed by resistance from the elves of [[Lindon]] and [[Rivendell]]. By [[TA 1974]], Angmar arose again and captured Arthedain's capital of [[Fornost]], and with that, the last kingdom of Arnor was destroyed.
 
But Arthedain was not yet defeated, and it managed to maintain a line of defense along the [[Weather Hills]]. In [[TA 1409]] came the attack on [[Cardolan]]. Also during this time, the forces of the Witch-king burned and destroyed the watchtower of [[Amon Sûl]]. After the fall of Cardolan, Angmar's advance was slowed by resistance from the elves of [[Lindon]] and [[Rivendell]]. By [[TA 1974]], Angmar arose again and captured Arthedain's capital of [[Fornost]], and with that, the last kingdom of Arnor was destroyed.
 
[[File:The_Nazgul_Witch-King.jpg|thumb|225px|The Witch-king shown with his helm]]
 
   
 
A year later, a prince of [[Gondor]] named [[Eärnur]] arrived with the intention of aiding Arthedain. However, Eärnur arrived too late to be of help in defending Arnor's territories, and his army sought revenge against the Witch-king instead. His forces marched against the armies of the Witch-king and utterly destroyed them during the [[Battle of Fornost]]. With the destruction of his forces, the Witch-king fled to Mordor. Despite the complete annihilation of Angmar, the campaign was accounted a tremendous success by Sauron: the territories formerly occupied by Arnor became essentially wilderness, and the [[Dúnedain]] Rangers alone stood between its people and complete lawlessness.
 
A year later, a prince of [[Gondor]] named [[Eärnur]] arrived with the intention of aiding Arthedain. However, Eärnur arrived too late to be of help in defending Arnor's territories, and his army sought revenge against the Witch-king instead. His forces marched against the armies of the Witch-king and utterly destroyed them during the [[Battle of Fornost]]. With the destruction of his forces, the Witch-king fled to Mordor. Despite the complete annihilation of Angmar, the campaign was accounted a tremendous success by Sauron: the territories formerly occupied by Arnor became essentially wilderness, and the [[Dúnedain]] Rangers alone stood between its people and complete lawlessness.
   
Upon his return to Mordor, the Witch-king gathered the other eight Nazgûl. In the year [[TA 2000]] the they attacked, and after two years eventually conquered the city of [[Minas Ithil]] (which then became known as [[Minas Morgul]]), acquiring a [[Palantír]] for the Dark Lord in the process. It was from Minas Morgul that the Nine directed the rebuilding of Sauron's armies and the preparation of Mordor for their master's return. In 2942 Sauron returned to Mordor, openly declaring himself by [[TA 2951]]. He sent three of the Nazgûl to garrison his fortress [[Dol Guldur]] in [[Mirkwood]]. They were led by Khamûl, the second most powerful of the Nazgûl behind the Witch-King.
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Upon his return to Mordor, the Witch-king gathered the other eight Nazgûl. In the year [[TA 2000]] they attacked, and after two years eventually conquered the city of [[Minas Ithil]] (which then became known as [[Minas Morgul]]), acquiring a [[Palantír]] for the Dark Lord in the process. It was from Minas Morgul that the Nine directed the rebuilding of Sauron's armies and the preparation of Mordor for their master's return. In 2942 Sauron returned to Mordor, openly declaring himself by [[TA 2951]]. He sent three of the Nazgûl to garrison his fortress [[Dol Guldur]] in [[Mirkwood]]. They were led by Khamûl, the second most powerful of the Nazgûl behind the Witch-king.
   
 
=== Hunt for the Ring ===
 
=== Hunt for the Ring ===
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Near the beginning of the [[War of the Ring]] in [[TA 3018]], [[Gollum]], a [[Stoor]] who had once owned the One Ring, was captured and tortured in Mordor. From him, Sauron learned of the location of the One, and the family identity of those who had kept it. Having learned this, Sauron released Gollum, but Gollum was soon recaptured by [[Aragorn II Elessar|Aragorn]], captain of the [[Rangers of the North]]. Learning of this, [[Gandalf]] the Grey went immediately to interrogate the creature and discovered that Sauron now knew where the Ring was and who had it; the hobbit Bilbo Baggins. Accordingly, Gandalf advised Frodo to leave the Shire and make for [[Rivendell]], taking the [[One Ring|Ring]] with him. However, Sauron wasted no time in attempting to capture the Ring, sending all of the Nine to retrieve it.
 
Near the beginning of the [[War of the Ring]] in [[TA 3018]], [[Gollum]], a [[Stoor]] who had once owned the One Ring, was captured and tortured in Mordor. From him, Sauron learned of the location of the One, and the family identity of those who had kept it. Having learned this, Sauron released Gollum, but Gollum was soon recaptured by [[Aragorn II Elessar|Aragorn]], captain of the [[Rangers of the North]]. Learning of this, [[Gandalf]] the Grey went immediately to interrogate the creature and discovered that Sauron now knew where the Ring was and who had it; the hobbit Bilbo Baggins. Accordingly, Gandalf advised Frodo to leave the Shire and make for [[Rivendell]], taking the [[One Ring|Ring]] with him. However, Sauron wasted no time in attempting to capture the Ring, sending all of the Nine to retrieve it.
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[[File:The_Nazgul_Witch-King.jpg|thumb|225px|The Witch-king shown with his helm]]
   
 
Soon the Nazgûl entered the Shire, where they learned the Ring was in possession of [[Bilbo Baggins]]' nephew, [[Frodo Baggins]].
 
Soon the Nazgûl entered the Shire, where they learned the Ring was in possession of [[Bilbo Baggins]]' nephew, [[Frodo Baggins]].
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==== Weathertop ====
 
==== Weathertop ====
   
[[File:Five_of_the_nine_Wraiths.png|thumb|260px|Five Nazgûl confronting the four Hobbits at Weathertop]] Unable to find the Hobbit, the Nine left Bree, and at the hill of [[Weathertop]] several days later they encountered Gandalf the Grey, who was scouting nearby on his way to [[Rivendell]] to meet up with Frodo. An all-night battle commenced at Weathertop between them and Gandalf. Though Gandalf was able to escape, four of the Nine pursued him, the others remaining near Weathertop. Several days later, Aragorn, Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry made camp at the base of the hill.
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[[File:Five_of_the_nine_Wraiths.png|thumb|260px|Five Nazgûl confronting the four Hobbits at Weathertop]] Unable to find the Hobbits, the Nine left Bree; at the hill of [[Weathertop]] several days later they encountered Gandalf the Grey, who was scouting nearby on his way to [[Rivendell]] to meet up with Frodo. An all-night battle commenced at Weathertop between them and Gandalf. Though Gandalf was able to escape, four of the Nine pursued him, the others remaining near Weathertop. Several days later, Aragorn, Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry made camp at the base of the hill.
   
Discovering them, the five Nazgûl attacked the group. As they confronted the four Hobbits, Frodo put on the Ring and attempted to resist the Nazgûl. The Nazgûl [[Witch-king of Angmar|leader]] quickly stabbed Frodo with a [[Morgul-blade]], but the Nazgûl then fled because Aragorn arrived carrying firebrands.
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Discovering them, the five Nazgûl attacked the group. As they confronted the four Hobbits, Frodo put on the Ring and attempted to resist the Nazgûl. Their leader, the [[Witch-king of Angmar]], realizing the hobbit's folly, stabbed Frodo with a [[Morgul-knife]], but the Nazgûl soon fled when Aragorn arrived, wielding firebrands.
   
 
==== The Fords of Bruinen ====
 
==== The Fords of Bruinen ====
 
{{Quote|Come back! Come back! To Mordor we will take you!|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring (novel)|The Fellowship of the Ring]],'' "[[Flight to the Ford]]"}}[[File:TheNineFord_version_2.png|thumb|left|260px|The Nine crossing the fords of Bruinen]]
 
{{Quote|Come back! Come back! To Mordor we will take you!|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring (novel)|The Fellowship of the Ring]],'' "[[Flight to the Ford]]"}}[[File:TheNineFord_version_2.png|thumb|left|260px|The Nine crossing the fords of Bruinen]]
   
The Hobbits and Aragorn kept on to Rivendell Aragorn carrying Frodo for he had been stabbed with a Morgul Blade and was passing into the shadow realm, [[Glorfindel]] caught up to them on horseback and took Frodo onto his white horse, [[Asfaloth]], and with great speed went on to Rivendell. Regrouping, the Nazgûl continued to pursue Frodo until they reached the [[Ford of Bruinen]], the nine Nazgûl, now reunited, demanded Frodo give them the Ring. Frodo refused and defied them. Provoked, the Nazgûl crossed the river to take the Ring by force from the weak and injured hobbit. However by [[Elrond]]'s command the waters of the Bruinen rose, forming a great wave and swept the Nine away, killing their [[horse]]s. Lacking the means to successfully attack Rivendell, where Frodo and his companions took refuge, the Nazgûl were forced to retreat to Mordor on foot and stop their hunt for the Ring.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', Book One, Chapter XII: "[[Flight to the Ford]]"</ref>
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With Frodo wounded, Aragorn and the Hobbits made haste to Rivendell knowing that Ringwraiths were pursuing them. The [[Elf]] [[Glorfindel]] found the five in the wild, and took Frodo onto his white horse, [[Asfaloth]], and with greater speed went on to Rivendell. Regrouping, the Nazgûl chased after him and Frodo until they reached the [[Ford of Bruinen]], where the Nine demanded Frodo give them the Ring. Frodo refused and defied them. Provoked, the Nazgûl crossed the river to take the Ring by force. However, by [[Elrond]]'s command far away, the waters of the Bruinen rose, forming a great wave and sweeping the Nine away, killing their [[horse]]s. This postponed their hunt for the Ring, and by some means they returned to Mordor.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', Book One, Chapter XII: "[[Flight to the Ford]]"</ref>
   
 
==== Battle of the Pelennor Fields ====
 
==== Battle of the Pelennor Fields ====
{{quote|Come not between the Nazgûl and his prey! Or he will not slay thee in thy turn. He will bear thee away to the houses of lamentation, beyond all darkness, where thy flesh shall be devoured, and thy shriveled mind be left naked to the Lidless Eye.|''[[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]],'' the Witch King at "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"}} [[File:Witch_King_confronting_Gandalf.png|thumb|260px|Gandalf confronted by the Witch-King]]
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{{quote|Come not between the Nazgûl and his prey! Or he will not slay thee in thy turn. He will bear thee away to the houses of lamentation, beyond all darkness, where thy flesh shall be devoured, and thy shriveled mind be left naked to the Lidless Eye.|''[[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]],'' the Witch-king at "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"}} [[File:Witch_King_confronting_Gandalf.png|thumb|260px|Gandalf confronted by the Witch-king]]
   
 
Returning to Mordor in complete failure, the Nazgûl were forced to abandon their hunt for the Ring. At this point, the Nine received new mounts to replace their horses: [[Fell beast]]s. With his new mount, the Witch-king [[Battle of Osgiliath|attacked]] the ruined city of [[Osgiliath]] with an army of Orcs and secured it. After this, he made way for the assault on [[Minas Tirith]], leading Sauron's forces during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]]. During the battle, the Witch-king confronted Gandalf the White when attempting to enter the city. However, before the Witch-king could engage Gandalf in battle, the forces of Rohan arrived. The Witch-king immediately left Gandalf to deal with the new threat against Mordor's forces.
 
Returning to Mordor in complete failure, the Nazgûl were forced to abandon their hunt for the Ring. At this point, the Nine received new mounts to replace their horses: [[Fell beast]]s. With his new mount, the Witch-king [[Battle of Osgiliath|attacked]] the ruined city of [[Osgiliath]] with an army of Orcs and secured it. After this, he made way for the assault on [[Minas Tirith]], leading Sauron's forces during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]]. During the battle, the Witch-king confronted Gandalf the White when attempting to enter the city. However, before the Witch-king could engage Gandalf in battle, the forces of Rohan arrived. The Witch-king immediately left Gandalf to deal with the new threat against Mordor's forces.
   
The Witch-king attacked King [[Théoden]] on the battlefield. As Théoden was crushed by his horse, the lord of the Nazgûl prepared to finish him off. However, Théoden's niece [[Éowyn]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] rode up on horseback, and she confronted the Witch-king.
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A few hours later the Witch-king attacked King [[Théoden]] on the battlefield. As Théoden was crushed by his horse, the lord of the Nazgûl prepared to finish him. However, [[Éowyn]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] found them on the field, and she confronted the Witch-king.
 
[[File:Witch_King_death.png|thumb|left|260px|The Witch-king's death]]
 
   
Engaging the Witch-king in battle, Éowyn killed his fell-beast. The Witch-king, however, was unaffected by this and attacked Éowyn with his mace. After injuring her arm, he prepared to kill her before Meriadoc stabbed him in the leg from behind with his [[Barrow-blades|Barrow-blade]], which was of [[Westernesse]] make. Injured, the Witch-king screamed in pain and Éowyn stabbed her sword into his crown and body, thus killing the lord of the Nazgûl and fulfilling the prophecy of [[Glorfindel]]. (For it had been said that no mortal ''man'' could kill the Witch-king.)
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Éowyn killed his winged mount, and the Witch-king attacked her with his mace. Injuring her arm, he prepared to kill her before Meriadoc stabbed his leg from behind with his [[Barrow-blades|Barrow-blade]], of [[Westernesse]] make. At this the Witch-king screamed in pain and Éowyn stabbed her sword into his crown and body, slaying him and fulfilling the prophecy of [[Glorfindel]].
   
 
==== Battle of the Morannon and Defeat ====
 
==== Battle of the Morannon and Defeat ====
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However, the Nazgûl failed; the Ring was cast into the fires of Mount Doom when Gollum bit Frodo's finger and accidentally fell into the [[Cracks of Doom]] himself, with the ring. Sauron was immediately defeated by the loss of the Ring, Mount Doom underwent a gigantic volcanic eruption and all eight Nazgûl were destroyed, their form and power dissipating forever.
 
However, the Nazgûl failed; the Ring was cast into the fires of Mount Doom when Gollum bit Frodo's finger and accidentally fell into the [[Cracks of Doom]] himself, with the ring. Sauron was immediately defeated by the loss of the Ring, Mount Doom underwent a gigantic volcanic eruption and all eight Nazgûl were destroyed, their form and power dissipating forever.
   
== Weapons and Abilities ==
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== Weapons and abilities ==
{{quote|Hinder me? Thou fool. No living man may hinder me!|''[[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]],'' "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"}}[[File:Angmar_witch_king.jpg|thumb|250px|The Witch-king]]
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{{quote|Hinder me? Thou fool. No living man may hinder me!|The Witch-king in ''[[The Return of the King (novel)|The Return of the King]],'' "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"}}[[File:Angmar_witch_king.jpg|thumb|250px|The Witch-king]]
   
The Nazgûl were sustained by the power of Sauron. The Witch-king in particular was difficult to slay, for any weapon that struck him would be destroyed. The Nazgûl's own weapons included long [[Ringwraith sword|swords]] of steel and [[Morgul-blade|daggers]]. Their leader possessed a powerful black mace as well. Their arsenal of deadly armaments was not confined to physical means; they also had powerful voices, which brought terror into the hearts of mortals and a general aura of dread. They wore hauberks of silver mail and had enhanced senses of hearing and smell.
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The Nazgûl were sustained by the power of Sauron. The Witch-king in particular was difficult to slay, for any weapon that struck him would be destroyed. The Nazgûl's own weapons included long [https://lotr.fandom.com/wiki/Weapons#Swords swords] of steel and [[Morgul-blade|daggers]]. Their leader possessed a powerful black mace as well. Their arsenal of deadly armaments was not confined to physical means; they also had powerful voices, which brought terror into the hearts of mortals and a general aura of dread. They wore hauberks of silver mail and had enhanced senses of hearing and smell.
   
The Nine could not see during the day as mortals do; instead they see shadowy forms. During the night, they see many signs and forms invisible to mortal eyes; it is at night that they are to be feared most. They could smell the blood of living things that they desired and hated. Their presence could be felt as a troubling of the heart, and they could more keenly feel the presence of others. At all times, they sensed the presence of the Ring and were drawn to it.
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The Nine could not see during the day as mortals; instead they saw shadowy forms. At night they saw shapes and forms invisible to mortal eyes, and were to be feared the most at that time. Their presence could be felt as a troubling of the heart, and they could more keenly feel the presence of others. In their function, they particularly sensed the presence of the Ring at all times, and were drawn to it especially if it was put on.
   
 
[[File:Nazgul.jpg|left|thumb|220px|A Nazgûl]]
 
[[File:Nazgul.jpg|left|thumb|220px|A Nazgûl]]
   
They were surrounded by an aura of terror, which affected all living creatures; their aura (called the [[Black Breath]]) could be toxic to those hapless enough to come near them. Of course, their horrible cries put many a battle-hardened warrior to flight as well. Some of the Nazgûl appear to have been accomplished sorcerers and used magic to devastating effect. The fear the Nine inspired was one of their greatest strengths. According to Gandalf, if Sauron regained the One, they would become vastly more powerful. However, it is unclear as to how. However, as Sauron's strength grew through the books, the Nazgûl became obviously more powerful. In ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', the Nazgûl's cries were simply unnerving to the hobbits, and they appeared to be physically weak, as Aragorn managed to hold off five of the Ringwraiths single-handedly on Weathertop. In ''The Return of the King'' however, their cries are powerful enough to send all but the most stout-hearted of Gondor's defenders into a state of helpless terror, and the Witch-king in particular has become so powerful that he challenged Gandalf the White (which of the two is the more powerful is not revealed).
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They were surrounded by an aura of terror, which affected all living creatures; their aura called the [[Black Breath]] could be toxic to those hapless enough to come near them. This fear the Nine inspired was one of their greatest strengths. According to Gandalf, if Sauron regained the One, they would become vastly more powerful (in an unspecified way). However, as Sauron's strength grew in the course of ''The Lord of the Rings'', the Nazgûl did become more powerful. In ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', their cries were simply unnerving to the hobbits, and they appeared to be physically weak, as Aragorn managed to fend against five of them single-handedly on Weathertop. In ''The Return of the King'' however, their cries are powerful enough to send all but the most stout-hearted of Gondor's defenders into helpless terror, and the Witch-king in particular had become so powerful that he challenged the reborn Gandalf the White.
   
 
== Weaknesses ==
 
== Weaknesses ==
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At the start of the War of the Ring, the Nine rode black horses descended from horses stolen from Rohan, which they relied heavily on for transport. However, after the encounter with Glorfindel at Ford of Bruinen, the Black Riders lost their horses, which were killed in the flood.
 
At the start of the War of the Ring, the Nine rode black horses descended from horses stolen from Rohan, which they relied heavily on for transport. However, after the encounter with Glorfindel at Ford of Bruinen, the Black Riders lost their horses, which were killed in the flood.
   
Returning to Mordor by foot to regroup, the Nazgûl received [[Fell beast|winged creatures]] from [[Sauron]] in addition to new horses. With these fell beasts, the nine attacked the ruined city of [[Osgiliath]] in order to clear the way for a siege on [[Minas Tirith]]. Subsequently, the Nazgûl used the fell beasts to their advantage at the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] and the [[Battle of the Morannon]], but most of all in attempting to seek and find the ringbearer, Frodo.
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Returning to Mordor by foot to regroup, the Nazgûl received [[Fell beast|winged creatures]] from [[Sauron]] in addition to new horses. With these winged "fell beasts", the nine attacked the ruined city of [[Osgiliath]] in order to clear the way for a siege on [[Minas Tirith]]. Subsequently, the Nazgûl used the fell beasts to their advantage at the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] and the [[Battle of the Morannon]], but most of all in attempting to seek and find the ringbearer, Frodo.
   
 
== Etymology ==
 
== Etymology ==
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The term '''''Nazgûl''''', which literally means "'''Ring-wraith'''," comes from the [[Black Speech]] words ''nazg'' ("ring") and ''gûl'' ("wraith").<ref>''[[Parma Eldalamberon|Parma Eldalamberon 17]]'', Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in ''The Lord of the Rings'' by J.R.R. Tolkien</ref>
 
The term '''''Nazgûl''''', which literally means "'''Ring-wraith'''," comes from the [[Black Speech]] words ''nazg'' ("ring") and ''gûl'' ("wraith").<ref>''[[Parma Eldalamberon|Parma Eldalamberon 17]]'', Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in ''The Lord of the Rings'' by J.R.R. Tolkien</ref>
   
The rarely used [[Quenya]] name for Nazgûl is '''Úlairi''';<ref>''[[The Silmarillion]]'', Index of Names</ref> from this, it can be conjectured that the [[Sindarin]] term is '''Ulaer'''.
+
The rarely used [[Quenya]] name for the Nazgûl is '''Úlairi'''.<ref>''[[The Silmarillion]]'', Index of Names</ref>
   
 
=== Other titles ===
{{Fact}}
 
 
=== Other Titles ===
 
 
*'''Fell Riders'''<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King'', Book Five, Chapter I: "[[Minas Tirith]]"</ref>
 
*'''Fell Riders'''<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King'', Book Five, Chapter I: "[[Minas Tirith]]"</ref>
 
*'''Black Wings'''<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers'', Book Four, Chapter III: "[[The Black Gate is Closed]]"</ref>
 
*'''Black Wings'''<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers'', Book Four, Chapter III: "[[The Black Gate is Closed]]"</ref>
Line 124: Line 121:
 
*'''The Ringwraiths'''
 
*'''The Ringwraiths'''
   
=== Individual Titles ===
+
=== Individual titles ===
 
*The Witch-king of Angmar was often referred to as '''Lord of the Nazgûl''' and '''The Black Captain'''.<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King'', Book Five, Chapter IV: "[[The Siege of Gondor]]"</ref>
 
*The Witch-king of Angmar was often referred to as '''Lord of the Nazgûl''' and '''The Black Captain'''.<ref>''The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King'', Book Five, Chapter IV: "[[The Siege of Gondor]]"</ref>
 
*[[Khamûl]], second-in-command, was called the '''Shadow of the East'''.
 
*[[Khamûl]], second-in-command, was called the '''Shadow of the East'''.
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{{Quote|q1 = |q2 = |They are the Nazgûl, Ringwraiths, neither living or dead. At all times they feel the presence of the ring...drawn to the power of the one..they will never stop hunting you.|-[[Aragorn]] explaining the Nazgûl to [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Pippin]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Sam]]<ref>[[The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]</ref>}}[[File:Ringwraith(s).jpg|thumb|260px|The Ringwraiths]]
 
{{Quote|q1 = |q2 = |They are the Nazgûl, Ringwraiths, neither living or dead. At all times they feel the presence of the ring...drawn to the power of the one..they will never stop hunting you.|-[[Aragorn]] explaining the Nazgûl to [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Pippin]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Sam]]<ref>[[The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]</ref>}}[[File:Ringwraith(s).jpg|thumb|260px|The Ringwraiths]]
   
The Nazgûl portrayed in [[Peter Jackson]]'s films are emphasized with their deafening shrieks, provided by Jackson's wife and co-screenwriter [[Fran Walsh]]. [[Andy Serkis]] voices [[Khamûl]], who briefly speaks in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.
+
The Nazgûl portrayed in [[Peter Jackson]]'s films are emphasized with their deafening shrieks, provided by Jackson's wife and co-screenwriter [[Fran Walsh]]. [[Andy Serkis]] voices [[Khamûl]], who briefly speaks in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.[[File:Khamul's_true_apperance..jpg|thumb|170px|The model for Khamûl's true appearance as seen in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'']]Storywise, the Nine are largely unchanged from their novel roles, with the most notable changes taking place in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'' and centering on the Witch-king. Here he is only seen riding his Fell beast mount, and never without his hood; he is also established in the film's extended edition as being more powerful than Gandalf the White, shattering his staff during a brief confrontation.
   
 
According to IMDB, the Nazgûl were portrayed by the following actors throughout the trilogy: [[Victoria Beynon-Cole]], [[Lee Hartley]], [[Sam La Hood]], [[Chris Streeter]], [[Phil Grieve]], [[Jonathan Jordan]], [[Semi Kuresa]], [[Clinton Ulyatt]], [[Paul Bryson]], [[Lance Fabian Kemp]], [[Jono Manks]], and [[Ben Price]]. Thomas McGinty and Kate O'Rourke are uncredited.
Storywise, the Nine are largely unchanged from their novel roles, with the most notable changes taking place in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'' and centering on the Witch-king. Here he is only seen riding his Fell beast mount, and never without his hood; he is also established in the film's extended edition as being more powerful than Gandalf the White, shattering his staff during a brief confrontation.
 
 
According to IMDB, the Nazgûl were portrayed by the following actors throughout the trilogy: [[Victoria Beynon-Cole]], [[Lee Hartley]], [[Sam La Hood]], [[Chris Streeter]], [[Phil Grieve]], [[Jonathan Jordan]], [[Semi Kuresa]], [[Clinton Ulyatt]], [[Paul Bryson]], [[Lance Fabian Kemp]], [[Jono Manks]], and [[Ben Price]]. Thomas McGinty and Kate O'Rourke are uncredited. It is unknown which one of them portrayed which Nazgûl.
 
   
 
=== The Hobbit film trilogy ===
 
=== The Hobbit film trilogy ===
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In ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies]], ''the nine Ringwraiths appear in armored, ghostly versions of their mortal selves after [[Galadriel]] rescues Gandalf from his cage in Dol Guldur. The Nine fight against Galadriel, Saruman and Elrond and are seemingly banished by them. Radagast arrives to take Gandalf to safety. But after a few moments, Sauron appears with the Nine hovering before him. [[The Witch King of Angmar|The Witch-king]] floats forward to stab Galadriel, but she quickly takes the shape she did in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' and banishes the Nine, leaving only Sauron. After a short duel Sauron flees towards [[Mordor]] together with the Ringwraiths.
 
In ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies]], ''the nine Ringwraiths appear in armored, ghostly versions of their mortal selves after [[Galadriel]] rescues Gandalf from his cage in Dol Guldur. The Nine fight against Galadriel, Saruman and Elrond and are seemingly banished by them. Radagast arrives to take Gandalf to safety. But after a few moments, Sauron appears with the Nine hovering before him. [[The Witch King of Angmar|The Witch-king]] floats forward to stab Galadriel, but she quickly takes the shape she did in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring (film)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' and banishes the Nine, leaving only Sauron. After a short duel Sauron flees towards [[Mordor]] together with the Ringwraiths.
   
== Non-canon Nazgûl ==
+
== Non-canonical Nazgûl ==
Since the Witch-king and Khamul are the only named Nazgûl, the other seven remain unidentified. Several non-canon adaptations of Tolkien's work have given identities to these seven.
+
Since the Witch-king and Khamul are the only named Nazgûl, the other seven remain unidentified. Several non-canon adaptations of Tolkien's work have given identities to them.
   
 
=== The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game ===
 
=== The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game ===
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The Games Workshop model company give each Ringwraith a particular title, as well as backstory and personality. The seven Ringwraiths unnamed by Tolkien are listed as follows:
 
The Games Workshop model company give each Ringwraith a particular title, as well as backstory and personality. The seven Ringwraiths unnamed by Tolkien are listed as follows:
   
'''The Dark Marshal''' - The most black-hearted and unrelentingly cruel of all the Nazgûl, his name is a byword for misery and death. Where the Dark Marshal passes, evil creatures fight harder, fearful of their lives whilst good warriors feel the icy touch of death upon their hearts. By his armour it is guessed that he is one of the three [[Númenórean]] Ringwraiths (the best match for this particular Nazgûl is Herumor or Fuinur)
+
'''The Dark Marshall''' - The most black-hearted and unrelentingly cruel of all the Nazgûl, his name is a byword for misery and death. Where the Dark Marshall passes, evil creatures fight harder, fearful of their lives whilst good warriors feel the icy touch of death upon their hearts. By his armour it is guessed that he is one of the three [[Númenórean]] Ringwraiths.
  +
 
'''The Knight of Umbar''' - The third of the Númenórean Lords to become one of Sauron's servants, the Knight of Umbar's past is shrouded in mystery. If the rumours pertaining to him hold any truth, he was once one of the great [[Númenórean]] kings who ruled the Southlands prior to the days of the Last Alliance.
   
 
'''The Betrayer''' - Cursed long ago for yielding the [[Haradrim|Southlands]] to Sauron's rule, the Betrayer is driven by malice and self-hatred that knows no bounds. Of all the Nazgûl, the Betrayer is amongst the lowest of Sauron's lieutenants, for even the Dark Lord is wary of placing trust in one who betrayed his kin so readily. The Betrayer was once one of the [[Haradrim]], as seen by the ancient turban that he still wears.
 
'''The Betrayer''' - Cursed long ago for yielding the [[Haradrim|Southlands]] to Sauron's rule, the Betrayer is driven by malice and self-hatred that knows no bounds. Of all the Nazgûl, the Betrayer is amongst the lowest of Sauron's lieutenants, for even the Dark Lord is wary of placing trust in one who betrayed his kin so readily. The Betrayer was once one of the [[Haradrim]], as seen by the ancient turban that he still wears.
Line 175: Line 172:
   
 
'''The Tainted''' - Where the other Nazgûl were slowly swallowed by the taint of their rings, the Tainted gave himself wholly and willingly to Sauron. Now all natural things rebel in his presence, vegetation withers, animals sicken and bold warriors cower. He is an abomination whose merest presence is poison to life, honor and hope.
 
'''The Tainted''' - Where the other Nazgûl were slowly swallowed by the taint of their rings, the Tainted gave himself wholly and willingly to Sauron. Now all natural things rebel in his presence, vegetation withers, animals sicken and bold warriors cower. He is an abomination whose merest presence is poison to life, honor and hope.
 
'''The Knight of Umbar''' - The third of the Númenórean Lords to become one of Sauron's servants, the Knight of Umbar's past is shrouded in mystery. If the rumours pertaining to him hold any truth, he was once one of the great [[Númenórean]] kings who ruled the Southlands prior to the days of the Last Alliance. (the best match for this particular Nazgûl is also Herumor or Fuinur who came from Numenor island to the south during the second age, eventhough either one or both of them became the Lords of Haradrim. It is also known that, both Haradrim and Umbar were in league to destroy Gondor)
 
   
 
{{Gallery|width=120|height=160|captionalign=center|position=center
 
{{Gallery|width=120|height=160|captionalign=center|position=center
 
|Witch-King_GW.jpg|The Witch-King
 
|Witch-King_GW.jpg|The Witch-King
 
|Image_%28180%29.jpg|Khamul the Easterling
 
|Image_%28180%29.jpg|Khamul the Easterling
|Dark Marshal.jpg|The Dark Marshal
+
|Dark Marshal.jpg|The Dark Marshall|Knight_of_Umbar.jpg|The Knight of Umbar
 
|Betrayer.jpg|The Betrayer
 
|Betrayer.jpg|The Betrayer
 
|Shadow_Lord.jpg|The Shadow Lord
 
|Shadow_Lord.jpg|The Shadow Lord
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|Dwimmerlaik.jpg|The Dwimmerlaik
 
|Dwimmerlaik.jpg|The Dwimmerlaik
 
|Tainted.jpg|The Tainted
 
|Tainted.jpg|The Tainted
|Knight_of_Umbar.jpg|The Knight of Umbar
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
=== ===
 
   
 
=== Forge World Miniatures ===
 
=== Forge World Miniatures ===
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=== Middle-earth Roleplaying ===
 
=== Middle-earth Roleplaying ===
The Ringwraiths each received unique names and backstories in MERP, though [[Khamul]] remained as "the Black Easterling". The Witch-king is identified as the Black Númenórean prince '''Er-Mûrazôr''', while the other seven unnamed Ringwraiths are named '''Dwar of Waw''', '''Ji Indûr Dawndeath''', '''Akhôrahil''' '''the blind Sorcerer''', '''Hoarmûrath of Dir''', '''Adûnaphel''' '''the quiet''', '''Ren the Unclean''', and '''Ûvatha''' '''the horseman'''. Akhôrahil and Adûnaphel were also Black Númenóreans, with the latter surprisingly being a woman. <ref name="names">The Encyclopedia of Arda. [http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/faq/nazgul.html "What were the names of the nine Nazgûl?"] Retrieved May 16, 2012.</ref> The the fan-written lore of Mordor at [[Mordor ~ The Land of Shadow|landofshadow.com]] also uses these eight names.
+
The Ringwraiths each received unique names and backstories in MERP, though [[Khamul]] remained as "the Black Easterling" known as '''Komûl I''' originally. The Witch-king is identified as the Black Númenórean prince '''Er-Mûrazôr''', while the other seven unnamed Ringwraiths are named '''Dwar of Waw''', '''Ji Indûr Dawndeath''', '''Akhôrahil''' '''the blind Sorcerer''', '''Hoarmûrath of Dir''', '''Adûnaphel''' '''the quiet''', '''Ren the Unclean''', and '''Ûvatha''' '''the horseman'''. Akhôrahil and Adûnaphel were also Black Númenóreans, with the latter surprisingly being a woman. <ref name="names">The Encyclopedia of Arda. [http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/faq/nazgul.html "What were the names of the nine Nazgûl?"] Retrieved May 16, 2012.</ref> The fan-written lore of Mordor at [[Mordor ~ The Land of Shadow|landofshadow.com]] also uses these eight names.
   
 
These names were also used for their appearances in the ''Middle-earth Collectible Card Game.''
 
These names were also used for their appearances in the ''Middle-earth Collectible Card Game.''
  +
===The Lord of the Rings Online===
  +
All the Ringwraiths are given one or more titles (but there names are not 'remembered', lost in time, and they are now known by their most common of many nicknames). Some of their backstory and the name of their rings are revealed. The Nazgul were 'corrupted' by use of their rings, but did not choose to join Sauron out right.
   
  +
In addition the series establishes lesser wraiths the [[Cargûl]] ("Red Wraiths", forced into servitude by Morgul-blades), and Gúrzyul (disciples, those who chose to become immortal lieutenants of Sauron), many of which 'survive' the fall of Sauron, but in a weakened state.
  +
*Witch-king of Angmar, originally a great Númenórean king. In the Second Age, he received Un (Heart-stopper)
  +
*The Cursed Rider (Lieutenant of Dol Goldur, Black Easterling), an Easterling King, recipient of Orôm (Warmonger)
  +
*The Bane of Rhûn, once an Easterling King, recipient of Sâkhla (The Cruel One)
  +
*The Black Blade of Lebennin, once a Numenorean king, recipient of Sapthân (Foolstone)
  +
*The Forsaken Reaver, once a Southron king, recipient of Khânto (Pain-giver)
  +
*The Gloom of Nurn, once a Numenorean king, recipient of Nitîr (Terror's Sting)
  +
*The Grim Southron, once a king of the Southron people, recipient of Jûru (Herald of Mourning)
  +
*The High Sorcerer of Harad, once a king of Southron, recipient of Mêbat (Mirth-eater)
  +
*The Woe of Khand (aka The Reaver of Khand), he was an Easterling King, recipient of Adâsh (Foe-maker)
 
=== Middle-earth: Shadow of War ===
 
=== Middle-earth: Shadow of War ===
  +
{{Spoiler}}
 
In the video game [[Middle-earth: Shadow of War|''Middle-earth: Shadow of War'']], three of the Nazgul Talion faces as bosses are given identities and a sense of individuality in order to provide more variation to the fights and more depth to the story. It is shown that the role of being a Nazgûl can be passed on to other Ring-bearers following the 'true death' of their predecessor.
 
In the video game [[Middle-earth: Shadow of War|''Middle-earth: Shadow of War'']], three of the Nazgul Talion faces as bosses are given identities and a sense of individuality in order to provide more variation to the fights and more depth to the story. It is shown that the role of being a Nazgûl can be passed on to other Ring-bearers following the 'true death' of their predecessor.
[[File:Suladan taking Annatar's ring.png|thumb|195x195px|Suladan taking one of the Nine from Sauron]]
+
[[File:Suladan taking Annatar's ring.png|thumb|195x195px|Suladân taking one of the Nine from Sauron]]
'''Suladân''' - A Númenórean king who besieged Sauron's fortress, Sauron surrendered and offered Suladân one of the nine rings of power, Suladân accepted and due to the ring's influence slowly became corrupted by it, making Sauron his most trusted advisor before becoming fully corrupted and turning into one of the Nazgûl. It is likely that Suladân was based on Ar-Pharazôn, the last king of Númenor who took Sauron captive in canon, with "Suladân" being King Ar-Pharazôn's birth name as opposed to his ruling name.
+
'''[[Ar-Pharazôn|Suladân]]''' - A Númenórean king who besieged Sauron's fortress, Sauron surrendered and offered Suladân one of the nine rings of power, Suladân accepted and due to the ring's influence slowly became corrupted by it, making Sauron his most trusted advisor before becoming fully corrupted and turning into one of the Nazgûl. It is likely that Suladân was based on Ar-Pharazôn, the last king of Númenor who took Sauron captive in canon, with "Suladân" being King Ar-Pharazôn's birth name as opposed to his ruling name.
   
 
[[File:Helm as Nazgul.png|thumb|210x210px|Helm shown as a Nazgul]]
 
[[File:Helm as Nazgul.png|thumb|210x210px|Helm shown as a Nazgul]]
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'''[[Talion]]''' - After Talion kills Isildur and subsequently discovers Celebrimbor wants to replace Sauron rather than kill him Celebrimbor betrays Talion and possesses the Elf Eltariel. Talion's throat wound then reopens without having Celebrimbor or a ring of power to keep him alive. Choosing to survive in order to contain the forces of Mordor for as long as he can Talion places on Isildur's ring, keeping him from dying and slowly corrupting him into becoming one of the nine. Talion subsequently uses the power of the ring to conquer Minas Morgul and drive the Nazgûl from it. After decades of keeping Sauron in a stalemate Talion becomes fully corrupted and joins the Nazgûl.
 
'''[[Talion]]''' - After Talion kills Isildur and subsequently discovers Celebrimbor wants to replace Sauron rather than kill him Celebrimbor betrays Talion and possesses the Elf Eltariel. Talion's throat wound then reopens without having Celebrimbor or a ring of power to keep him alive. Choosing to survive in order to contain the forces of Mordor for as long as he can Talion places on Isildur's ring, keeping him from dying and slowly corrupting him into becoming one of the nine. Talion subsequently uses the power of the ring to conquer Minas Morgul and drive the Nazgûl from it. After decades of keeping Sauron in a stalemate Talion becomes fully corrupted and joins the Nazgûl.
  +
  +
{{Endspoiler}}
   
 
=== Other ===
 
=== Other ===
 
''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II: The Rise of the Witch-king]]'' dubs one of the Ringwraiths as "[[Morgomir]]".
 
''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II: The Rise of the Witch-king]]'' dubs one of the Ringwraiths as "[[Morgomir]]".
   
''[[The One Ring (Roleplaying Game)|The One Ring]]'' also gave titles to the three wraiths sent to Dol Guldur by Sauron: the Lieutenant of Dol Guldur, the Ghost of the Forest, and the Messenger of Mordor. <ref>{{cite book |last1=Ryder-Hanrahan |first1=Gareth | last2=Nepitello | first2=Francesco |date= |title=The Heart of the Wild | publisher=Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd |isbn=9780857441430 |pages=87, 103, 106 |accessdate=2014-02-18 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Ryder-Hanrahan |first1=Gareth | last2=Nepitello | first2=Francesco |date= |title=The Darkening of Mirkwood |publisher=Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd |isbn=9780857441348 |pages=24, 128–9 |accessdate=2014-02-18 }}</ref>
+
''[[The One Ring (Roleplaying Game)|The One Ring]]'' also gave titles to the three wraiths sent to Dol Guldur by Sauron: the Lieutenant of Dol Guldur (note: this a title given to Khamul in several sources), the Ghost of the Forest, and the Messenger of Mordor. <ref>{{cite book |last1=Ryder-Hanrahan |first1=Gareth | last2=Nepitello | first2=Francesco |date= |title=The Heart of the Wild | publisher=Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd |isbn=9780857441430 |pages=87, 103, 106 |accessdate=2014-02-18 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Ryder-Hanrahan |first1=Gareth | last2=Nepitello | first2=Francesco |date= |title=The Darkening of Mirkwood |publisher=Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd |isbn=9780857441348 |pages=24, 128–9 |accessdate=2014-02-18 }}</ref>
   
 
== Trivia ==
 
== Trivia ==
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}}
 
}}
   
==Translations around the world==
+
==Translations==
  +
 
<div style="overflow:auto; height:300px; width:500px; float:left">
 
<div style="overflow:auto; height:300px; width:500px; float:left">
  +
  +
 
<!--<div style="overflow:auto; height:200px;">-->
 
<!--<div style="overflow:auto; height:200px;">-->
{| class="itemtable" bgcolor="#EDEEFF" style="color:#6f3d0b; border:2px solid #FFF; border-top: 0; text-align:left; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft:8px; -moz-border-radius-bottomright:8px; -webkit-border-bottom-left-radius:8px; -webkit-border-bottom-right-radius:8px;"
+
{| class="itemtable" style="color:#6f3d0b; border:2px solid #FFF; border-top: 0; text-align:left; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft:8px; -moz-border-radius-bottomright:8px; -webkit-border-bottom-left-radius:8px; -webkit-border-bottom-right-radius:8px;" bgcolor="#edeeff"
| width="300px" |'''Foreign Language'''
+
| width="300" |'''Foreign Language'''
| width="300px" |'''Translated name'''
+
| width="300" |'''Translated name'''
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Amharic
 
|Amharic
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|Czech
 
|Czech
 
|Nazgûlové
 
|Nazgûlové
  +
|-
  +
|Danish
  +
|Nazgûl or Ringånder
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Estonian
 
|Estonian
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|נאַזגול
 
|נאַזגול
 
|}
 
|}
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
  +
 
{{Clear}}
 
{{Clear}}
   
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[[fr:Nazgûl]]
 
[[fr:Nazgûl]]
 
[[it:Nazgûl]]
 
[[it:Nazgûl]]
  +
[[nl:Nazgûl]]
 
[[pl:Nazgûle]]
 
[[pl:Nazgûle]]
 
[[pt-br:Nazgûl]]
 
[[pt-br:Nazgûl]]

Revision as of 14:24, 19 May 2020

Template:Infobox Race

"Nine he gave to Mortal Men, proud and great, and so ensnared them. Long ago they fell under the dominion of the One, and they became Ringwraiths, shadows under his great Shadow, his most terrible servants. Long ago. It is many a year since the Nine walked abroad. Yet who knows? As the Shadow grows once more, they too may walk again."
-Gandalf explaining the Nazgûl to Frodo[1]

The Nazgûl (also known as Ringwraiths, The Nine, The Fallen Kings, Black Riders, or Úlairi in Quenya) were the dreaded ring-servants of the Dark Lord Sauron in Middle-earth throughout the Second and Third ages, who in the later years of the Third Age dwelt in Minas Morgul and Dol Guldur.[2]

History

Nine Kings of Men

The Nine Kings with their Rings of Power

Nineteen Rings of Power were made in Eregion, forged by Celebrimbor. These were locked away in one of the safes of Eregion, but all were captured by Sauron. He gave nine of them to great lords and warriors of Men, including three Númenóreans, and one Easterling king. Sauron succeeded in corrupting the powerful Nine through his dominance over the rings. These Nine used the rings to achieve great power, wealth, and prestige in life, but as time passed the Rings continued to exert a corrupting influence. The Rings eventually rendered their bearers invisible to all but those who could see into the wraith world, and enslaved them to the will of Sauron. Their lives and their powers became bound to Sauron's via the One Ring; as Sauron grew or diminished, so too did the Nazgûl.

NineMen2

Khamûl before he was corrupted, according to TheLandOfShadow.com

Nazgul
Grnazgul 021 Nazgul

The Witch-king's true undead appearance in the first Lord of the Rings film

Three of the Ringwraiths may have been among the first and most powerful Númenóreans to be corrupted by Sauron, a thousand years before the Downfall: they revered Sauron, and became ensnared in his designs because of their lust for power or knowledge.

Only two of the Nine were ever named: the Witch-king of Angmar and Khamûl the Easterling.

The Nine were first observed around 2251 of the Second Age, and soon became Sauron's primary servants. Despite their great power and position as instruments of Sauron's will, not much is known of their activities during the Second Age. They were temporarily dispersed after Sauron's downfall in SA 3434 in the War of the Last Alliance. Though no longer able to maintain physical form, just as Sauron was after losing the One Ring, both the Nazgûl and Sauron were able to endure as long as the ring survived.

Return of the Nazgûl

The Nazgûl re-emerged around 1301 of the Third Age as Sauron at long last began to take shape after his defeat at the hands of the Last Alliance. It was around this time that the Witch-king established himself in Angmar and began to launch attacks against the nearby kingdom of Arnor, which had fractured into three smaller kingdoms. His first target was the realm of Rhudaur. After conquering Rhudaur and replacing the Dúnedain king with one of the native Hillmen in the year TA 1356 the Witch-king moved against Arthedain, resulting in the death of King Argeleb I.

But Arthedain was not yet defeated, and it managed to maintain a line of defense along the Weather Hills. In TA 1409 came the attack on Cardolan. Also during this time, the forces of the Witch-king burned and destroyed the watchtower of Amon Sûl. After the fall of Cardolan, Angmar's advance was slowed by resistance from the elves of Lindon and Rivendell. By TA 1974, Angmar arose again and captured Arthedain's capital of Fornost, and with that, the last kingdom of Arnor was destroyed.

A year later, a prince of Gondor named Eärnur arrived with the intention of aiding Arthedain. However, Eärnur arrived too late to be of help in defending Arnor's territories, and his army sought revenge against the Witch-king instead. His forces marched against the armies of the Witch-king and utterly destroyed them during the Battle of Fornost. With the destruction of his forces, the Witch-king fled to Mordor. Despite the complete annihilation of Angmar, the campaign was accounted a tremendous success by Sauron: the territories formerly occupied by Arnor became essentially wilderness, and the Dúnedain Rangers alone stood between its people and complete lawlessness.

Upon his return to Mordor, the Witch-king gathered the other eight Nazgûl. In the year TA 2000 they attacked, and after two years eventually conquered the city of Minas Ithil (which then became known as Minas Morgul), acquiring a Palantír for the Dark Lord in the process. It was from Minas Morgul that the Nine directed the rebuilding of Sauron's armies and the preparation of Mordor for their master's return. In 2942 Sauron returned to Mordor, openly declaring himself by TA 2951. He sent three of the Nazgûl to garrison his fortress Dol Guldur in Mirkwood. They were led by Khamûl, the second most powerful of the Nazgûl behind the Witch-king.

Hunt for the Ring

Shire and Bree

The Nine leaving Minas Morgul

The Nine leaving Minas Morgul

Near the beginning of the War of the Ring in TA 3018, Gollum, a Stoor who had once owned the One Ring, was captured and tortured in Mordor. From him, Sauron learned of the location of the One, and the family identity of those who had kept it. Having learned this, Sauron released Gollum, but Gollum was soon recaptured by Aragorn, captain of the Rangers of the North. Learning of this, Gandalf the Grey went immediately to interrogate the creature and discovered that Sauron now knew where the Ring was and who had it; the hobbit Bilbo Baggins. Accordingly, Gandalf advised Frodo to leave the Shire and make for Rivendell, taking the Ring with him. However, Sauron wasted no time in attempting to capture the Ring, sending all of the Nine to retrieve it.

The Nazgul Witch-King

The Witch-king shown with his helm

Soon the Nazgûl entered the Shire, where they learned the Ring was in possession of Bilbo Baggins' nephew, Frodo Baggins.

[citation needed] After searching for Frodo, one of the Nine, Khamûl the Easterling, had his first encounter with him.

As Frodo and his friends, Sam, Merry, and Pippin, took Bucklebury ferry to reach Crickhollow, Khamûl, who had narrowly missed them, was forced to go around to the Brandywine Bridge instead. Shortly after this, the Nine arrived at Frodo's new home in Crickhollow.

Though Frodo had already left for Bree by the time the Nine arrived, they were soon given information regarding Frodo's whereabouts by Bill Ferny, a spy of Saruman. Consequently, the Nazgûl attacked the village of Bree, where Frodo was located. However, during the time it took the Nazgûl to reach Bree, Frodo and company, fortunately, encountered Aragorn himself, who had been asked by Gandalf to watch for the hobbits and aid them if he could.

Weathertop

Five of the nine Wraiths

Five Nazgûl confronting the four Hobbits at Weathertop

Unable to find the Hobbits, the Nine left Bree; at the hill of Weathertop several days later they encountered Gandalf the Grey, who was scouting nearby on his way to Rivendell to meet up with Frodo. An all-night battle commenced at Weathertop between them and Gandalf. Though Gandalf was able to escape, four of the Nine pursued him, the others remaining near Weathertop. Several days later, Aragorn, Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry made camp at the base of the hill.

Discovering them, the five Nazgûl attacked the group. As they confronted the four Hobbits, Frodo put on the Ring and attempted to resist the Nazgûl. Their leader, the Witch-king of Angmar, realizing the hobbit's folly, stabbed Frodo with a Morgul-knife, but the Nazgûl soon fled when Aragorn arrived, wielding firebrands.

The Fords of Bruinen

"Come back! Come back! To Mordor we will take you!"
The Fellowship of the Ring, "Flight to the Ford"
File:TheNineFord version 2.png

The Nine crossing the fords of Bruinen

With Frodo wounded, Aragorn and the Hobbits made haste to Rivendell knowing that Ringwraiths were pursuing them. The Elf Glorfindel found the five in the wild, and took Frodo onto his white horse, Asfaloth, and with greater speed went on to Rivendell. Regrouping, the Nazgûl chased after him and Frodo until they reached the Ford of Bruinen, where the Nine demanded Frodo give them the Ring. Frodo refused and defied them. Provoked, the Nazgûl crossed the river to take the Ring by force. However, by Elrond's command far away, the waters of the Bruinen rose, forming a great wave and sweeping the Nine away, killing their horses. This postponed their hunt for the Ring, and by some means they returned to Mordor.[3]

Battle of the Pelennor Fields

"Come not between the Nazgûl and his prey! Or he will not slay thee in thy turn. He will bear thee away to the houses of lamentation, beyond all darkness, where thy flesh shall be devoured, and thy shriveled mind be left naked to the Lidless Eye."
The Return of the King, the Witch-king at "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"
Witch King confronting Gandalf

Gandalf confronted by the Witch-king

Returning to Mordor in complete failure, the Nazgûl were forced to abandon their hunt for the Ring. At this point, the Nine received new mounts to replace their horses: Fell beasts. With his new mount, the Witch-king attacked the ruined city of Osgiliath with an army of Orcs and secured it. After this, he made way for the assault on Minas Tirith, leading Sauron's forces during the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. During the battle, the Witch-king confronted Gandalf the White when attempting to enter the city. However, before the Witch-king could engage Gandalf in battle, the forces of Rohan arrived. The Witch-king immediately left Gandalf to deal with the new threat against Mordor's forces.

A few hours later the Witch-king attacked King Théoden on the battlefield. As Théoden was crushed by his horse, the lord of the Nazgûl prepared to finish him. However, Éowyn and Meriadoc Brandybuck found them on the field, and she confronted the Witch-king.

Éowyn killed his winged mount, and the Witch-king attacked her with his mace. Injuring her arm, he prepared to kill her before Meriadoc stabbed his leg from behind with his Barrow-blade, of Westernesse make. At this the Witch-king screamed in pain and Éowyn stabbed her sword into his crown and body, slaying him and fulfilling the prophecy of Glorfindel.

Battle of the Morannon and Defeat

During Battle of the Black Gate the remaining eight Nazgûl, mounted on Fell beasts, attacked the Army of the West. Eventually, however, the Nazgûl were confronted by the Eagles, led by Gwaihir.

Nazgul Mount Doom

The Nazgûl caught in the firestorm and destroyed

Simultaneously, Frodo Baggins claimed the Ring for himself near the fires of Mount Doom. Sauron immediately became aware of Frodo, as well as his folly. Enraged and frantic, Sauron ordered the Nazgûl to fly with all possible speed to Mount Doom and seize the Ring.

However, the Nazgûl failed; the Ring was cast into the fires of Mount Doom when Gollum bit Frodo's finger and accidentally fell into the Cracks of Doom himself, with the ring. Sauron was immediately defeated by the loss of the Ring, Mount Doom underwent a gigantic volcanic eruption and all eight Nazgûl were destroyed, their form and power dissipating forever.

Weapons and abilities

"Hinder me? Thou fool. No living man may hinder me!"
The Witch-king in The Return of the King, "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields"
Angmar witch king

The Witch-king

The Nazgûl were sustained by the power of Sauron. The Witch-king in particular was difficult to slay, for any weapon that struck him would be destroyed. The Nazgûl's own weapons included long swords of steel and daggers. Their leader possessed a powerful black mace as well. Their arsenal of deadly armaments was not confined to physical means; they also had powerful voices, which brought terror into the hearts of mortals and a general aura of dread. They wore hauberks of silver mail and had enhanced senses of hearing and smell.

The Nine could not see during the day as mortals; instead they saw shadowy forms. At night they saw shapes and forms invisible to mortal eyes, and were to be feared the most at that time. Their presence could be felt as a troubling of the heart, and they could more keenly feel the presence of others. In their function, they particularly sensed the presence of the Ring at all times, and were drawn to it especially if it was put on.

Nazgul

A Nazgûl

They were surrounded by an aura of terror, which affected all living creatures; their aura called the Black Breath could be toxic to those hapless enough to come near them. This fear the Nine inspired was one of their greatest strengths. According to Gandalf, if Sauron regained the One, they would become vastly more powerful (in an unspecified way). However, as Sauron's strength grew in the course of The Lord of the Rings, the Nazgûl did become more powerful. In The Fellowship of the Ring, their cries were simply unnerving to the hobbits, and they appeared to be physically weak, as Aragorn managed to fend against five of them single-handedly on Weathertop. In The Return of the King however, their cries are powerful enough to send all but the most stout-hearted of Gondor's defenders into helpless terror, and the Witch-king in particular had become so powerful that he challenged the reborn Gandalf the White.

Weaknesses

Ringwraith set on fire

A Nazgûl set on fire

Though the Ringwraiths were among the greatest of Sauron's servants, they also had certain weaknesses that could be used against them. One of these was daylight itself. With the exception of the Witch-king of Angmar, none of them (especially Khamûl) could operate as well under the Sun and generally feared it.

All the Ringwraiths but the Witch-king feared water, although it seems this weakness was abandoned by Tolkien in the published version because it was an idea difficult to sustain.[4]

At Weathertop, Aragorn used fire to drive the Ringwraiths away from Frodo. Even the Witch-king feared fire. At the Ford of Bruinen, Aragorn and the hobbits that accompanied Frodo used it to assist Glorfindel and drive the Ringwraiths into the raging water.

If an enemy was strong enough so to resist their aura of dread, then the Ringwraiths (with the exception of the Witch-King) had little real power over them individually.

Heroes of Middle-earth such as Aragorn, Gandalf, and Glorfindel could single-handedly face a Ringwraith and defeat or at least elude them, provided that they were not confronted by multiple Ringwraiths or the Witch-king. However, only a few could resist them all at the same time. Glorfindel was able to in fact instill fear in the Nazgûl's hearts.

Mounts

Witch King on fell beast

The Witch-king mounted on his Fell-beast

At the start of the War of the Ring, the Nine rode black horses descended from horses stolen from Rohan, which they relied heavily on for transport. However, after the encounter with Glorfindel at Ford of Bruinen, the Black Riders lost their horses, which were killed in the flood.

Returning to Mordor by foot to regroup, the Nazgûl received winged creatures from Sauron in addition to new horses. With these winged "fell beasts", the nine attacked the ruined city of Osgiliath in order to clear the way for a siege on Minas Tirith. Subsequently, the Nazgûl used the fell beasts to their advantage at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields and the Battle of the Morannon, but most of all in attempting to seek and find the ringbearer, Frodo.

Etymology

The term Nazgûl, which literally means "Ring-wraith," comes from the Black Speech words nazg ("ring") and gûl ("wraith").[5]

The rarely used Quenya name for the Nazgûl is Úlairi.[6]

Other titles

Individual titles

  • The Witch-king of Angmar was often referred to as Lord of the Nazgûl and The Black Captain.[15]
  • Khamûl, second-in-command, was called the Shadow of the East.

Portrayal in adaptations

Ralph Bakshi version

The Nazgûl appear in the inn of the Prancing Pony to slash the beds of the Hobbits. After this, they remove their hoods, revealing black masks and armor underneath.

Rankin and Bass version

The Rankin-Bass adaptation of The Return of the King also featured the Nine, but with drastically altered appearances. With the exception of the Witch-king, all the Ringwraiths appear as hideous, skeletal humanoids riding black horses with red eyes and bat wings. They notably wear black cloaks and brown tunics that bear the red eye insignia of Sauron, with black crowns atop their heads. The Witch-king shares this outfit save that he initially appears hooded, and upon removing his hood a crown and glowing red eyes are visible but no head. The Witch-king initially appears riding a winged horse, but later rides in atop a Fell beast to attack the body of Théoden before being slain by Éowyn.

The Lord of the Rings film trilogy

"They are the Nazgûl, Ringwraiths, neither living or dead. At all times they feel the presence of the ring...drawn to the power of the one..they will never stop hunting you."
-Aragorn explaining the Nazgûl to Frodo, Pippin, Merry and Sam[16]
Ringwraith(s)

The Ringwraiths

The Nazgûl portrayed in Peter Jackson's films are emphasized with their deafening shrieks, provided by Jackson's wife and co-screenwriter Fran Walsh. Andy Serkis voices Khamûl, who briefly speaks in The Fellowship of the Ring.

Khamul's true apperance.

The model for Khamûl's true appearance as seen in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Storywise, the Nine are largely unchanged from their novel roles, with the most notable changes taking place in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and centering on the Witch-king. Here he is only seen riding his Fell beast mount, and never without his hood; he is also established in the film's extended edition as being more powerful than Gandalf the White, shattering his staff during a brief confrontation.

According to IMDB, the Nazgûl were portrayed by the following actors throughout the trilogy: Victoria Beynon-Cole, Lee Hartley, Sam La Hood, Chris Streeter, Phil Grieve, Jonathan Jordan, Semi Kuresa, Clinton Ulyatt, Paul Bryson, Lance Fabian Kemp, Jono Manks, and Ben Price. Thomas McGinty and Kate O'Rourke are uncredited.

The Hobbit film trilogy

The Witch-king of Angmar appears in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in Dol Guldur, where he briefly fights Radagast, dropping his Morgul-blade. Radagast shows the blade to Gandalf, and Gandalf shows it to the White Council in Rivendell. Galadriel and Elrond are alarmed by the dagger's appearance, knowing it was buried with the Witch-king in his tomb which they believed could not be opened.

In The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Galadriel sends Gandalf to the Ringwraiths' tombs in the High Fells, and find each of them has been broken open from the inside. This is enough to convince Gandalf that the Necromancer of Dol Guldur is, in fact, Sauron in disguise, as the Nine only answer to him.

BOTFA - Nazgul in Dol Guldur

The Nazgûl in Dol Guldur

In The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, the nine Ringwraiths appear in armored, ghostly versions of their mortal selves after Galadriel rescues Gandalf from his cage in Dol Guldur. The Nine fight against Galadriel, Saruman and Elrond and are seemingly banished by them. Radagast arrives to take Gandalf to safety. But after a few moments, Sauron appears with the Nine hovering before him. The Witch-king floats forward to stab Galadriel, but she quickly takes the shape she did in The Fellowship of the Ring and banishes the Nine, leaving only Sauron. After a short duel Sauron flees towards Mordor together with the Ringwraiths.

Non-canonical Nazgûl

Since the Witch-king and Khamul are the only named Nazgûl, the other seven remain unidentified. Several non-canon adaptations of Tolkien's work have given identities to them.

The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game

The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game, which is based on the film trilogy, gave the Ringwraiths other than the Witch-king titles consisting of the word Úlairë, which is another term for Ringwraith, and a number. Thus, the other eight wraiths are identified as Úlairë Attëa (two), Nelya (three), Cantëa (four), Lemenya (five), Enquëa (six), Otsëa (seven), Toldëa (eight), and Nertëa (nine).

Games Workshop models

The Games Workshop model company give each Ringwraith a particular title, as well as backstory and personality. The seven Ringwraiths unnamed by Tolkien are listed as follows:

The Dark Marshall - The most black-hearted and unrelentingly cruel of all the Nazgûl, his name is a byword for misery and death. Where the Dark Marshall passes, evil creatures fight harder, fearful of their lives whilst good warriors feel the icy touch of death upon their hearts. By his armour it is guessed that he is one of the three Númenórean Ringwraiths.

The Knight of Umbar - The third of the Númenórean Lords to become one of Sauron's servants, the Knight of Umbar's past is shrouded in mystery. If the rumours pertaining to him hold any truth, he was once one of the great Númenórean kings who ruled the Southlands prior to the days of the Last Alliance.

The Betrayer - Cursed long ago for yielding the Southlands to Sauron's rule, the Betrayer is driven by malice and self-hatred that knows no bounds. Of all the Nazgûl, the Betrayer is amongst the lowest of Sauron's lieutenants, for even the Dark Lord is wary of placing trust in one who betrayed his kin so readily. The Betrayer was once one of the Haradrim, as seen by the ancient turban that he still wears.

The Shadow Lord - The Shadow Lord was once the king of a small and insignificant kingdom. When Sauron offered him one of the Nine Rings, the promise of its power proved irresistible. Now, his physical being all but gone, and his will enslaved to Sauron, the Shadow Lord wears his dark pride like a cloak, blotting the sun from the sky and dimming the sight of his foes.

The Undying - Originally a great sorcerer, The Undying endured longest when others fell under Sauron's sway. He is said to be the oldest of the Ringwraiths, and the last to succumb to the wasting influences of the Rings of Power. Through an obsessive mastery of evil magics, the Undying has learnt to draw sustenance from the magics of others, fortifying himself with the magical energy that flows around him.

The Dwimmerlaik - The Dwimmerlaik is possibly the most mysterious of all the Nazgûl, for scant record of his past deeds exist in the tomes of the Wise. Yet in Rohan, this particular Ringwraith is feared beyond all others, for he has been a blight upon that realm for centuries untold, directing the Dark Lord's minions against the Sons of Eorl. Because of him a person is quite possible to be blinded by greed.

The Tainted - Where the other Nazgûl were slowly swallowed by the taint of their rings, the Tainted gave himself wholly and willingly to Sauron. Now all natural things rebel in his presence, vegetation withers, animals sicken and bold warriors cower. He is an abomination whose merest presence is poison to life, honor and hope.

File:Witch-King GW.jpg
The Witch-King
Image (180)
Khamul the Easterling
Dark Marshal
The Dark Marshall
Knight of Umbar
The Knight of Umbar
Betrayer
The Betrayer
Shadow Lord
The Shadow Lord
Undying
The Undying
Dwimmerlaik
The Dwimmerlaik
Tainted
The Tainted

Forge World Miniatures

Forge World is a subsidiary of Games Workshop which produces specialist miniatures cast in resin instead of plastic. Forge World has released a set entitled "Nazgûl of Dol Guldur Collection" which depicts the Nine as they appear in The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies film. In this series, the Nazgûl (other than the Witch-king and Khamûl the Easterling) are named differently than in the Games Workshop series. Their names and distinctions are:

  • The Dark Headsman "clutches an executioner’s axe with a wicked curved point."
  • The Witch-king of Angmar "wields a brutal sword."
  • The Slayer of Men "holds an enormous wood and iron spear, taller than each Nazgûl."
  • Khamûl the Easterling "clutches a mace."
  • The Slayer of Men "wields an enormous, brutal barbed spear." (Note: this is a repeated name; but they are separate characters.)
  • The Lingering Shadow "holds not 1 but 2 swords."
  • The Forsaken, "who holds a bizarrely-shaped trident."
  • The remaining two are simply "2 Abyssal Knights"

Middle-earth Roleplaying

The Ringwraiths each received unique names and backstories in MERP, though Khamul remained as "the Black Easterling" known as Komûl I originally. The Witch-king is identified as the Black Númenórean prince Er-Mûrazôr, while the other seven unnamed Ringwraiths are named Dwar of Waw, Ji Indûr Dawndeath, Akhôrahil the blind Sorcerer, Hoarmûrath of Dir, Adûnaphel the quiet, Ren the Unclean, and Ûvatha the horseman. Akhôrahil and Adûnaphel were also Black Númenóreans, with the latter surprisingly being a woman. [17] The fan-written lore of Mordor at landofshadow.com also uses these eight names.

These names were also used for their appearances in the Middle-earth Collectible Card Game.

The Lord of the Rings Online

All the Ringwraiths are given one or more titles (but there names are not 'remembered', lost in time, and they are now known by their most common of many nicknames). Some of their backstory and the name of their rings are revealed. The Nazgul were 'corrupted' by use of their rings, but did not choose to join Sauron out right.

In addition the series establishes lesser wraiths the Cargûl ("Red Wraiths", forced into servitude by Morgul-blades), and Gúrzyul (disciples, those who chose to become immortal lieutenants of Sauron), many of which 'survive' the fall of Sauron, but in a weakened state.

  • Witch-king of Angmar, originally a great Númenórean king. In the Second Age, he received Un (Heart-stopper)
  • The Cursed Rider (Lieutenant of Dol Goldur, Black Easterling), an Easterling King, recipient of Orôm (Warmonger)
  • The Bane of Rhûn, once an Easterling King, recipient of Sâkhla (The Cruel One)
  • The Black Blade of Lebennin, once a Numenorean king, recipient of Sapthân (Foolstone)
  • The Forsaken Reaver, once a Southron king, recipient of Khânto (Pain-giver)
  • The Gloom of Nurn, once a Numenorean king, recipient of Nitîr (Terror's Sting)
  • The Grim Southron, once a king of the Southron people, recipient of Jûru (Herald of Mourning)
  • The High Sorcerer of Harad, once a king of Southron, recipient of Mêbat (Mirth-eater)
  • The Woe of Khand (aka The Reaver of Khand), he was an Easterling King, recipient of Adâsh (Foe-maker)

Middle-earth: Shadow of War

In the video game Middle-earth: Shadow of War, three of the Nazgul Talion faces as bosses are given identities and a sense of individuality in order to provide more variation to the fights and more depth to the story. It is shown that the role of being a Nazgûl can be passed on to other Ring-bearers following the 'true death' of their predecessor.

Suladan taking Annatar's ring

Suladân taking one of the Nine from Sauron

Suladân - A Númenórean king who besieged Sauron's fortress, Sauron surrendered and offered Suladân one of the nine rings of power, Suladân accepted and due to the ring's influence slowly became corrupted by it, making Sauron his most trusted advisor before becoming fully corrupted and turning into one of the Nazgûl. It is likely that Suladân was based on Ar-Pharazôn, the last king of Númenor who took Sauron captive in canon, with "Suladân" being King Ar-Pharazôn's birth name as opposed to his ruling name.

File:Helm as Nazgul.png

Helm shown as a Nazgul

Helm Hammerhand - After Helm refused to allow a warlord named Siric to marry his daughter Bernwyn, Siric ambushed the pair, kidnapping Bernwyn and mortally wounding Helm. On his deathbed Sauron and Celebrimbor appeared and gave him one of the nine rings. With the help of the ring Helm recovered and besieged Siric's fortress. He accidentally killed Bernwyn when she stepped between him and Siric. In a blind fury Helm proceeded to slaughter everyone else in the room including his own men.

Isildur as Nazgul

Isildur shown as one of the Nazgul

Isildur - After Isildur was killed in the Disaster of the Gladden Fields his killers took him back to where Sauron's heavily weakened spirit was residing where Sauron revived and enslaved Isildur by placing one of the nine rings on his finger. Once Talion and Celebrimbor manage to dominate Isildur's mind and break Sauron's control, Talion refuses to let him exist as their slave and kills him in order to free him.

Isildur is skilled in necromancy, being capable of raising the dead to fight for him.

The Nazgûl Sisters - Like Talion the two Nazgul sisters were not the original owners of their rings of power. They were the daughters of a ruler from a distant land who were sent to Mordor in order to recover rings of power. They were able to slay two Nazgûl and take their rings, but by the time they had returned to their father the rings had corrupted them, leading them to murder him and take his throne. Eventually Sauron brought them under his service.

After Sauron and Celebrimbor were trapped in the form of a flaming eye and the Witch-king was defeated by Talion, the sisters took advantage of their master's weakened states by attempting to take Mordor for themselves. After their defeat at the hands of Eltariel and Talion they returned to serving Sauron.

Talion - After Talion kills Isildur and subsequently discovers Celebrimbor wants to replace Sauron rather than kill him Celebrimbor betrays Talion and possesses the Elf Eltariel. Talion's throat wound then reopens without having Celebrimbor or a ring of power to keep him alive. Choosing to survive in order to contain the forces of Mordor for as long as he can Talion places on Isildur's ring, keeping him from dying and slowly corrupting him into becoming one of the nine. Talion subsequently uses the power of the ring to conquer Minas Morgul and drive the Nazgûl from it. After decades of keeping Sauron in a stalemate Talion becomes fully corrupted and joins the Nazgûl.

Other

The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II: The Rise of the Witch-king dubs one of the Ringwraiths as "Morgomir".

The One Ring also gave titles to the three wraiths sent to Dol Guldur by Sauron: the Lieutenant of Dol Guldur (note: this a title given to Khamul in several sources), the Ghost of the Forest, and the Messenger of Mordor. [18][19]

Trivia

  • The Nazgûl are the subject of the song "The Wraith Of The Rings" from the album "Middle Earth" by Bob Catley.
  • They are also the subject for the song "Shadows" by the Swedish Power metal band Sabaton.
  • They are mentioned in the song "Battle of Evermore" by Led Zeppelin "The drums will shake the castle wall, the ring wraiths ride in black, Ride on."
  • They are the focus of the song "Flight of the Nazgul" by the Austrian Black Metal band Summoning. They are also the subject of the songs "Die Schwarzen Reiter" by the German New Age group E Nomine and "Todesschwadron Ost" by the German Pagan Metal band Minas Morgul.
  • It is important to note that the Witch-king's appearance in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is the first time that one of the Nazgûl can be seen in their true form without wearing the One Ring.
  • The Dementors in the Harry Potter series are often compared with the Nazgûl of Middle-earth.

Gallery

The Nazgul alone-greyscale-HV
A Nazgûl alone (greyscale)
Ringwraith(s)
The Nazgûl on their horses
Jackson Ringwraith
The Hobbits and a Nazgûl
LOTR78 beds Bree
The Nazgûl as they appear in Ralph Bakshi's 1978 version of Lord of the Rings
Ringwraith 1978
The Hobbits and a Nazgûl (1978 version)
Tolkein
The Nazgul's armor as seen in Ralph Bakshi's Lord of the Rings

Translations


Foreign Language Translated name
Amharic ኛዝጉል
Arabic نازغول
Armenian Նազգուլ
Belarusian Cyrillic Назгўл
Bosnian Nazgûli
Bulgarian Cyrillic Назгул
Chinese (Hong Kong) 戒靈
Croatian Nazgûli
Czech Nazgûlové
Danish Nazgûl or Ringånder
Estonian Nazgulid
Finnish Sormusaaveet = Ringwraiths

Mustat ratsastajat = Black Riders

Georgian ნაზგული
German Nazgûl,

Ringgeister (Ringwraiths), Schwarze Reiter (Black Riders)

Greek Νάζγκουλ
Gujarati ણઝ્ગુલ
Hebrew נאזגול
Hindi णज़्गुल
Hungarian Nazgûlok
Italian Nazgûl,

Spettri dell'Anello,

Japanese 指輪の幽鬼
Kannada ನಜ್ಗುಲ್
Kazakh Назгүл (Cyrillic) Nazgül (Latin)
Korean 나즈굴
Kyrgyz Cyrillic Назгул
Latvian Nazguli

Gredzena Rēgi - Ringwraiths Melnie Jātnieki - The Black Riders

Lithuanian Nazgulai
Macedonian Cyrillic Назгул
Marathi नाझगुल
Mongolian Cyrillic Назгул
Nepalese णज़्गुल
Pashto نازګول
Persian نازگول
Polish Nazgûle
Portuguese (Brazil) Nazgûl

Espectros do Anel (Ringwraiths), Cavaleiros Negros (Black Riders)

Punjabi ਣਜ਼ਗੁਲ
Russian Назґул
Serbian Назгул (Cyrillic) Nazguli (Latin)
Sinhalese නාස්ගුල්
Slovak Nazgûlovia, Prsteňové prízraky (Ringwraiths)

Čierni jazdci (Black Riders)

Swedish Ringvålnader (Ringwraiths)

De svarta ryttarna (The black riders)

Tajik Cyrillic Назгул
Tamil நஸ்க்குள்
Telugu ణాజ్గుల్
Thai นาซกูล
Ukrainian Cyrillic Назгули
Urdu ںازگول
Uzbek Назгул (Cyrillic) Nazgûl (Latin)
Vietnamese Ma Nhẫn, Nazgûl
Yiddish נאַזגול

References

  1. The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, Book One, Ch. II: "The Shadow of the Past"
  2. The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, Appendix B: "The Tale of Years"
  3. The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, Book One, Chapter XII: "Flight to the Ford"
  4. Unfinished Tales part 3 - The Third Age, The Hunt for the Ring part 2.
  5. Parma Eldalamberon 17, Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
  6. The Silmarillion, Index of Names
  7. The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, Book Five, Chapter I: "Minas Tirith"
  8. The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, Book Four, Chapter III: "The Black Gate is Closed"
  9. The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, Book Three, Chapter XI: "The Palantír"
  10. The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, Book Four, Chapter VI: "The Forbidden Pool"
  11. The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, Book Four, Chapter VIII: "The Stairs of Cirith Ungol"
  12. The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, Book One, Chapter III: "Three is Company"
  13. The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, Book Six, Chapter II: "The Land of Shadow"
  14. The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, Book Four, Chapter II: "The Passage of the Marshes"
  15. The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, Book Five, Chapter IV: "The Siege of Gondor"
  16. The Fellowship of the Ring
  17. The Encyclopedia of Arda. "What were the names of the nine Nazgûl?" Retrieved May 16, 2012.
  18. The Heart of the Wild. Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd, 87, 103, 106. ISBN 9780857441430. Retrieved on 2014-02-18. 
  19. The Darkening of Mirkwood. Sophisticated Games Ltd and Cubicle 7 Ltd, 24, 128–9. ISBN 9780857441348. Retrieved on 2014-02-18.