LotR Book 5 Changes

 

The Book	The Movie
Chapter I: Minas Tirith
After waking up, Pippin asks Gandalf where they are. Gandalf tells him they are in Gondor, and the land of Anorien is passing by.	Gandalf tells Pippin they just passed into the realm of Gondor.
Pippin sees fire on the mountain and thinks it to be a dragon. Gandalf tells him it is Minas Tirith calling for aid from other cities within Gondor.	After Denethor refuses to call for aid, Gandalf sends Pippin up to light the beacons to call for aid from Rohan.
They see three riders going the opposite direction, heading for Rohan.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf tells Pippin of some of the customs and history of Gondor, and tells Pippin why they travel to Minas Tirith.	Not shown in the movie.
Pippin wakes outside the walls of Pelennor. Gandalf talks briefly with men, and Pippin lets slip that Boromir is dead.	Not shown in the movie.
There are towns, farms, and orchards within Pelennor.	Pelennor appears to have just grassy fields.
As Gandalf rides into Minas Tirith, the soldiers realize the storm is coming, and wonder at Shadowfax and Rohan.	Gandalf rides through the city shouting “Make way!”
Gandalf dismounts before the seventh gate.	Gandalf rides up to the courtyard and dismounts before the Citadel.
Pippin sees the fountain and the white tree, and understands some of the words Gandalf said to himself earlier.	Pippin sees the tree and recognizes it from his vision from the Palantír.
Gandalf tells Pippin Denethor is not like Théoden, and will likely question him of Boromir.	Gandalf tells Pippin not to give Denethor news of Boromir’s death.
Gandalf tells Pippin not to speak much of Aragorn because he should not be heralded by them, and that no one expects him. Also, Aragorn should not overshadow Boromir’s death.	Gandalf tells Pippin not to talk about Aragorn, Frodo, the Ring, and that it would be better if he didn’t speak at all.
Gandalf knocks on the door. They open, but nobody is seen opening them.	The doors are opened by two guards at the door.
Denethor asks Gandalf if he brings someone who knows of Boromir’s death.	Denethor asks he comes to explain the cloven horn and why his son is dead.
Gandalf praises Boromir’s valiant efforts and says Pippin is not the Halfling of prophecy. Gandalf asks how he knew of Boromir’s death beforehand. Denethor shows the horn.	Denethor shows the cloven horn to them and Pippin has a flashback of Amon Hen.
Pippin tells of Boromir’s valiance in saving the hobbits. He offers Denethor his service and lays his sword at Denethor’s feet.	Pippin tells Denethor that Boromir died saving the hobbits, and offers his service. Gandalf thinks Pippin’s actions foolish.
Denethor asks to see Pippin’s sword weapon, and recognizes its heritage.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf tells Pippin to take the hilt and swear loyalty, repeating the words of the Steward.	Pippin swears kneeling, holding no sword, the next day, having memorized the oath.
Denethor’s first command is for Pippin to give a full account of Boromir’s death.	Not shown in the movie.
Denethor calls for food and one hour’s break to talk with his new servant and to eat with the guests.	After swearing the oath the next day, Denethor alone eats while Pippin looks on.
Gandalf presses to talk of current events now. Denethor claims to already know much of what has taken place.	Denethor already knows about Aragorn, and refuses to bow to him, which angers Gandalf.
Gandalf and Denethor stare at each other as the tension rises. Denethor says they still have keener sight though the stones are lost.	The tension rises as their tempers flare.
Denethor questions Pippin while they eat. Pippin remains guarded of what he tells.	Denethor eats while Faramir marches to Osgiliath and Pippin sings.
Denethor tells the guard of Pippin’s oath. He is to be taught the lesser passwords and they are to be given shelter.	Not shown in the movie.
Denethor asks Gandalf to let his wrath go. Gandalf accuses the steward of using grief as a cloak to pry information from Pippin.	Gandalf, angry with Denethor’s stubbornness, accuses him of using his grief as a cloak while storming out of the citadel.
Denethor says the rule of Gondor is his unless the king should come again.	Denethor refuses to bow to a ranger and says the rule of Gondor is his and no others.
Gandalf reminds Denethor that his (Gandalf’s) purpose does not necessarily include saving Gondor, and that he, too, is a steward.	On their way out, Gandalf expounds on the history and decay of Minas Tirith. He explains the weather. Pippin wonders where they’re off to next.
Pippin asks Gandalf if he is angry. Gandalf tells him no, but Denethor learned more than Pippin said.	Gandalf is generally annoyed by Pippen but appears to soften later that night.
Gandalf reminds Pippin of Denethor’s lineage and of his new duties. Gandalf doesn’t understand why Pippin did it, but didn’t stop it.	At night, Pippin thinks his new duty as a ceremonial position. Gandalf reminds him he is in the service of the Steward. He is bemused because of Pippin’s new title.
Gandalf leaves to gather news. He asks Pippin to check on Shadowfax.	Not shown in the movie.
Pippin meets Beregond. Pippin asks questions about guard duty and food. They go to tend Shadowfax, then eat and talk of Gondor customs.	Not shown in the movie.
Pippin sees the aged, the women, and the children leave to gather in refuge. Beregond’s son is with them.	The women and children still stay in the city during the attack.
Pippin sees and asks about Osgiliath. Beregond says they won it back in the youth of Denethor as an outpost, but the Nazgûl won back the eastern shore. Boromir led the drive to win the western shore.	Boromir is shown winning back Osgiliath in a flashback of Faramir’s.
Pippin asks about the beacons and the rush everyone was in, yet now things are slow. Beregond says it is because things are ready, and it is the deep breath before the plunge.	Pippin notices how quiet things are at night. Gandalf says it is the deep breath before the plunge.
Beregond muses on the bigger picture of the war, that all realms will stand or fall. It is Gondor’s honor to bear the brunt of the Dark Lord’s hatred. The hammer-stroke will fall hardest in Gondor.	Gandalf does some exposition about the Haradrim and the Corsairs. He says the hammer-stroke will fall hardest in Gondor.
They feel a Nazgûl fly overhead. It is a sign of their doom. Beregond says the very warmth of his blood is stolen away.	Not shown in the movie.   Gimli says this line in place of a similar line just before entering the Paths of the Dead.
Pippin thinks of recent events, and Beregond compares Faramir and Boromir.	Not shown in the movie.
Rumors grow wild in the city while Pippin walks with Beregond.	Not shown in the movie.
Pippin meets Bergil and has a small contest of boasts.	Not shown in the movie.
They see men from outlying towns enter Minas Tirith to defend it, but always fewer than hoped.	Not shown in the movie.   Theoden says something similar at Dunharrow.
Pippin falls asleep waiting for Gandalf to return, but wakes to find him pacing, wondering about Faramir.	Not shown in the movie.
Chapter II: The Passing of the Grey Company
The remaining four members of the Fellowship remain with Théoden and plan to ride with him to Edoras and Minas Tirith.	The remaining four members of the Fellowship remain at Edoras with Théoden and the Rohirrim.
A rider tells Théoden of horsemen behind them. They turn and ready for battle. It is more of the Dúnedain and Elrond’s sons.	The rangers are nowhere to be seen. Elrond comes himself to meet with Théoden and Aragorn to tell of Arwen’s fate.
Elrohir brings a message from Elrond: Remember the paths of the dead to save time. Aragorn saves it only as a last resort.	Gandalf hints to Aragorn to take a different road before he leaves with Pippin. Elrond tells Aragorn to recruit the dead because they are outnumbered.
Halbarad bears a gift from Arwen, as well as a message.	Elrond comes on behalf of Arwen to save her life with a reforged Narsil.
Merry talks with Legolas and Gimli about the Dúnedain. They guess from whence came the message for them to aid Aragorn.	Not shown in the movie.
Gimli wishes he had wished for some dwarves and elves to help them. Legolas hints at the war occurring in the North.	This happens in Edoras just before they leave for Dunharrow.
While in Helm’s Deep, Merry pledges his service to Théoden after telling Merry they may ride together.	Merry pledges his service to Théoden in Edoras after it is decided they will go to Minas Tirith.
Aragorn emerges from his struggle with Sauron and the Orthanc stone. He consults with Théoden and decides to take the Paths of the Dead. The Dúnedain and sons of Elrond accompany him.	Aragorn decides to take the Paths of the Dead after receiving Andúril from Elrond and consulting with him. He leaves by himself, but Gimli and Legolas insist on going. Nobody is told why they are going, and they appear as being hopeless.
Aragorn recalls the words of Malbeth the seer.	Legolas repeats some of these words before entering the cave.
Aragorn tells his group of his struggle. He proclaimed his title and showed Sauron his sword to let fear and doubt gnaw Sauron.	Aragorn did this after the Last Debate in Minas Tirith. In response, Saruon shows Aragorn a dying Arwen, and he drops her pendant, breaking it.
Aragorn saw the Haradrim and the Corsairs, and the need to reach the southern coastline.	Elrond, using his gift of foresight, tells Aragorn of the Haradrim and Corsairs.
Aragorn tells of the history of the dead and their oath breaking.	Legolas tells Gimli the history of the dead and their oath breaking.
Aragorn and company reach Dunharrow and spend the night there. He tells Éowyn of their path; she bids him to not go that way, and asks to come along.	Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas depart from Théoden’s company at Dunharrow. Éowyn asks Aragorn to not leave and hints at her love for him.
Aragorn declines Éowyn’s offer to fight. Éowyn only fears a cage.	This conversation took place while making preparations to leave for Helm’s Deep.
Éowyn dressed as a rider, farewells the company and again asks to come along. She drinks from a cup and then offers it to Aragorn.	Éowyn rides with Théoden’s company, due to tradition for the women of the court to farewell the men, and packs a sword. The cup scene happens in Meduseld during the celebration/ remembrance.
Gimli says his blood runs chill.	Gimli says the very warmth of his blood seems stolen away.
After arriving at Dimholt, the horses will not pass until the riders dismounted and lead them.	Just before the doorway to the Paths of the dead, the horses are spooked and run away. The three continue on foot.
The Dúnedain horses follow their masters due to their love, but Arod will not go until Legolas sings in Elvish to him.	Something similar happened when Aragorn uses the Elvish language to calm down Brégo, Théodred’s horse in the stables of Edoras before leaving for Helm’s Deep.
As they pass through the dark, Aragorn proclaims his errand to the dead, who follow silently behind them. He summons them to the Stone of Erech.	Surrounded by the dead, Aragorn must prove his lineage by his sword. He offers to hold their oaths fulfilled if they fight for him.
Their torches are blown out in response to Aragorn’s command.	Thousands of skulls pour out of the wall in response to Aragorn’s command.
Legolas says the Dead are following and describes them. Elladan confirms this.	Legolas confirms his own statement. Gimli uses his breath to blow away the ghosts and claims to have known the Dead have been summoned.
After exiting the cave, they Grey Company ride hard to reach the Stone of Erech by midnight.	After exiting the cave, Aragorn despairs at the sight of the Corsairs until the dead pledge their help.
At the Stone of Erech, Aragorn promises to hold the dead’s oath fulfilled if they clean the land of Sauron’s servants. He unfolds the standard of Arwen, the gift given by Elrond’s sons earlier.	While still in the cave, Aragorn promised to hold their oaths fulfilled if they fight after proving he was Isildur’s heir.
The oath breakers come to fulfill their oath and have peace.	The King of the Dead rejects the offer but quickly rescinds his decision.
Chapter III: The Muster of Rohan
Merry accompanies the King on their way back to Edoras, but are met by the other riders, assembled near the mountains per Gandalf’s instructions after a winged Nazgûl flew by near.	Not shown in the movie. The company makes its way back to Edoras without incident.
Merry wonders at the Púkel-men on the winding road to Dunharrow.	Not shown in the movie. However, the road and statues are briefly shown when Elrond scales the road.
The King’s company is greeted by Éowyn, clad in armor and hair braided. She updates the king on Aragorn’s whereabouts.	Éowyn does not greet them, and is dressed normally. Aragorn is with them, so the king needs no updating.
At dinner, Merry asks about the paths of the dead. Éomer begins explaining, followed by Théoden.	Gimli asks where a road leads. Legolas says it’s the Dimholt Road, and Éomer says it’s evil.
Théoden explains about the dead, and the last person to venture there, but doesn’t know why Aragorn has chosen that path.	Théoden explains to his men
Théoden explains how Brégo and Baldor climbed up there and were met by an old man, whom they mistook for a statue.	Not shown in the movie.
The old man says, “The way is shut. It was made by those who are Dead, and the Dead keep it, until the time comes. The way is shut.” Then the old man dies.	Legolas reads what is carved on the door: The way is shut. It was made by those who are Dead, and the Dead keep it. The way is shut.”
Éomer says he would never go that way, even if it were the only way, but maybe it is time for Aragorn to pass.	After seeing the restless horses, Éomer explains to Aragorn that the mountain is evil.
A messenger comes from Gondor bearing the Red Arrow, asking for aid.	Not shown in the movie. The beacons upon the mountains were used to do this.
Théoden discusses with the messenger the time frame of their departure and the war.	Aragorn discusses the time frame of their departure and the war with Théoden.
The next morning, Théoden sees the darkened skies and decides to leave immediately and ride in haste.	After seeing the beacons, Théoden leaves immediately and tells Éomer to gather riders at Dunharrow. They ride light and swift to battle from Dunharrow.
Théoden releases Merry from his service, to serve Éowyn.	Théoden tells Merry little hobbits do not belong in battle.
They go to Edoras before the great race begins.	They leave for Minas Tirith from Dunharrow.
Éowyn prepares Merry for war with armor per Aragorn’s request. He uses the sword Tom Bombadil gave him which he already has.	Éowyn prepares Merry to be an esquire by giving him armor and a sword, which needs sharpening.
Back at Edoras, Merry again asks to go. Théoden says Merry is greater in heart than of stature.	Éomer laughs at Merry all dressed up in armor. Éowyn asks why. He does not doubt Merry’s heart, only the reach of his arm.
A rider smaller in stature asks Merry to ride along. Merry accepts, but doesn’t know the rider’s name; the rider calls himself Dernhelm.	Just before being left, Merry is swept up by a rider and is invited to come along. Merry looks at the rider and recognizes Éowyn.
Chapter IV: The Siege of Gondor
Gandalf wakes Pippin for the first day of his duties. He presents himself and asks his duties. For now, he replaces Denethor’s squire.	The next morning, Pippin presents himself, swears the oath, and kisses Denethor’s ring. He stands next to the Steward for now.
Pippin is dismissed to the armory for his gear. His helmet has a star on it.	Pippin received his gear the first day, and looks at it that night while Gandalf is in thought. His helmet has no star.
Pippin’s clothes are put away, but he is permitted to keep his Lorien cloak, though he can’t wear it during duty.	Pippin wears his cloak over his armor.
Though he is asked if he can sing, he is not commanded to do so.	Pippin is asked to sing while Denethor eats as Faramir marches back to Osgiliath.
After serving Denethor for a few hours, Pippin complains to Beregond of his duties.	Not shown in the movie.
While talking to Beregond, they hear Nazgûl. They swoop down, trying to pick off four or five horsemen riding on the ground.	The people see Nazgûl swooping down, trying to pick off over a hundred riders.
Some of the men are thrown from their horses and run on foot. Their captain turns around to help them.	The Nazgûl are successful at dismounting and (probably) killing several of the riders.
Pippin and Beregond see Gandalf ride out to rescue the riders.	Gandalf rides out to rescue the riders with Pippin sitting in front.
Pippin runs down to meet Gandalf and Faramir.	Pippin rides with Gandalf into the city, somewhat concealed by Gandalf’s cloak.
Faramir sees Pippin dressed as a guard and wonders. Gandalf explains.	Gandalf rebukes Denethor for having foreseen this doom and done nothing. Faramir sees Pippin when Gandalf folds back his cloak.
Faramir says Pippin is not the first Halfling he has seen while briefing Denethor in the Citadel. Gandalf is visibly worried about what Faramir tells Denethor.	Gandalf reads Faramir’s expression and guesses that Pippin is not the first hobbit he has seen. Gandalf asks to be told everything before they reach the Citadel. Gandalf is not present in the Citadel.
Denethor notes Faramir’s caution over revealing too much.	Not shown in the movie.
Faramir reports sending his men to Osgiliath except for his group of five.	Faramir went with his men to Osgiliath, taking Frodo with them.
Faramir asks for his father’s approval on his decisions.	Faramir declares his decision to be what he deemed right.
They discuss Boromir’s fate. Gandalf says Boromir would not have brought the Ring, etc.	Faramir says Boromir would not have brought the Ring, etc.
Denethor accuses Gandalf of folly and Faramir of madness for sending the Ring in the hands of a hobbit.	Denethor accuses Faramir of madness sending the Ring to Mordor in the hands of a witless Halfling.
Gandalf says it would have eaten at his conscience. Gandalf trusts neither Denethor nor himself with the Ring.	Not shown in the movie.
Denethor asks of Osgiliath. Faramir reports it is not strong, and they weep for Boromir and the need of a stout captain there.	Denethor will not give up Osgiliath, even though Faramir reports it is overrun.
Pippin asks about Frodo and Sam, Gollum, and Cirth Ungol. Gandalf puts things together and even thinks Pippin’s foolishness may have helped throw off the Enemy.	Not shown in the movie.
People ask Gandalf if Théoden will come; he answers in the affirmative.	People ask if Gandalf will come; he says their best defense now is courage.
Scouts report of the orcs’ activities; Gandalf leaves to help defend the outer walls of the Pelennor.	Not shown in the movie.
The men see fires on the walls of the Pelennor. Gandalf returns with wounded men and news.	Not shown in the movie.
The orcs dig trenches and paths.	The orcs stand in groups/ranks.
Gandalf and Denethor discuss battle strategy with Pippin in attendance. Denethor seems to already know everything Gandalf says. Rohan would be useful now.	Denethor feels betrayed that Rohan has not come, even though he did not want aid.
The men see the Pelennor fields slowly overtaken and Faramir’s men fighting. Denethor releases a small cavalry led by the Prince of Dol Amroth. Gandalf again fights the Nazgûl.	Not shown in the movie.   Instead Denethor sends troops led by Faramir on a suicide mission to re-take Osgiliath while he eats.
The Nazgûl stay out of bowshot of the men defending the city.	The Nazgûl swoop down and attack the men and the trebuchets.
The Prince of Dol Amroth returns bearing Faramir’s body, found upon the field.	Faramir’s horse returns from Osgiliath dragging Faramir behind him.
Denethor retreats to a secret room, only to return looking deathly.	Denethor sees the armies surrounding Minas Tirith and calls for everyone to flee before Gandalf whacks him and takes over command.
The walls of Minas Tirith are described to be similar to Orthanc.	The walls of Minas Tirith are made of stone, much like the rest of the city.
The catapults throw fiery missiles over the first wall, then the heads of the fallen soldiers. The missiles land between the first and second walls.	The catapults throw only the heads of the fallen Gondor soldiers. Later, stones are thrown that hit walls on the second and third circles. Fiery missiles are launched at night.
Denethor weeps for his dying son. His line has failed and his hope wanes. He thinks the Enemy has regained the Ring. He stays near Faramir.	Denethor weeps for his dead son. His declares his line has failed and then succumbs to madness.
Gandalf takes command of the city at Denethor’s permission for his subjects to follow the Grey Fool while Denethor attends to Faramir.	Gandalf takes command of the city after Denethor descends into madness and commands the men to flee. He hits Denethor with his staff several times.
Denethor regrets sending Faramir to battle. Pippin suggests Gandalf’s help, but is refused by Denethor.	While walking to the House of the Dead, Denethor reflects on his position, and says there is no hope for men.
Messengers report news to Denethor. He despairs and decides to burn himself with Faramir.	Pippin returns from the lower levels and watches from the edge of the Citadel, only to find Denethor heading for his pyre.
Denethor says, “Better to burn sooner than late, for burn we must.”	Denethor says, “Better to die sooner than late, for die we must.”
Denethor says Faramir is already burning and the house of his spirit crumbles.	Denethor says Faramir is already burning as he is laid upon the altar.
Denethor releases Pippin from his service and sends for his servants. Pippin refuses to be released.	Denethor releases Pippin from his service just before Faramir is to be burned while Pippin tries to convince Denethor that he is not dead
Coverlets are laid upon Faramir as he is born away. Denethor follows them, bending on a staff.	Faramir is carried with no covering of any kind. Denethor leads them to the Houses of the Dead.
Denethor commands a porter to unlock the door. He silently swings it open.	Denethor throws open the door, making an audible clank.
Denethor and Faramir are laid side-by-side. Denethor asks for wood and oil.	Denethor asks for wood and oil before either one is laid down.
Pippin deduces that Faramir needs medicine, not tears and needs to find Gandalf. He tells the servants to proceed slowly and to wait for Gandalf.	Pippin recognizes that Faramir is alive and needs medicine after Denethor thinks him dead. Pippin goes to find Gandalf after he is dismissed from service.
Pippin meets Beregond and tells of Denethor’s madness and asks for help in stopping Faramir’s death.	Pippin runs to find Gandalf and asks for his help to stop Faramir’s death.
The Black Captain appears, riding a horse and trampling the fallen. He commands Grond (the battering ram) to swing.	Grond is called for by an orc leader after another ram has failed.
The Lord of the Nazgûl enters Minas Tirith through the gate. Gandalf commands him to leave and go back.	The Lord of the Nazgûl enters Minas Tirith by flying over the wall on his fell beast, hindering Gandalf’s ascent to the top level. Gandalf confronts him while riding Shadowfax.
The Lord removes his hood; a steel crown is seen, but no head. A cock crows as Rohan’s horns are heard.	The Lord wears a black, spiked helmet. He shatters Gandalf’s staff in much the same way Saruman’s was. No cock is heard.
Chapter V: The Ride of the Rohirrim
Merry lies on the ground feeling useless and is mistaken for a tree-root. He hears the drums of the wild men.	Merry talks with a hopeless Éowyn. His courage inspires her, even though he’s a hobbit and feels useless and wishes to be a knight of Rohan.
Merry sees a council between Théoden, Éomer, and Ghân-buri-Ghân. They agree to assist one another.	Not shown in the movie.
Ghân shows Théoden a back road to Minas Tirith.	Not shown in the movie.
They find the messengers of Gondor dead, their message apparently never received.	No messenger was sent to announce Rohan’s coming.
Before reaching Minas Tirith, Théoden organizes the leaders’ attack plans: Éomer down the center, Elfhelm to the right after they pass the wall, and Grimbold to the left.	After making their presence known with horns outside of Minas Tirith, Théoden organizes the leaders’ attack plans: Éomer down the left, Gamling down the center, Grimbold to the right after he passes the wall.
Merry rides behind Dernhelm.	Merry rides in front of Dernhelm/Éowyn
Théoden ends his speech with the words, “Ride now, ride now! Ride to Gondor!”	Théoden ends his speech with the words, “Ride now, ride now! Ride for ruin and the world’s ending!” He hits his sword upon the foremost spears, and cries, “Forth Eorlingas!”
Chapter VI: The Battle of the Pelennor Fields
The Lord of the Nazgûl leaves the gate of Minas Tirith when Rohan arrives.	The Lord of the Nazgûl flies away from Gandalf when Rohan arrives.
The Haradrim with their mûmakil are set as an outer defense. Their purpose is to rape and sack the city.	The Haradrim with their mûmakil are used as soldiers and warriors.
The Haradrim are thrown into battle after the Lord of the Nazgûl is killed.	The Haradrim come to Pelennor with the intent to fight.
Rohan attacks the mûmakil with heavy losses and little success.	Rohan’s horses won’t go near the mûmakil
Théoden’s horse is hit with an arrow, and falls upon the king.	The Lord of the Nazgûl’s flying steed grabs the king’s horse and throws him, causing the horse to land upon Théoden.
The Lord of the Nazgûl wears a steel crown upon an unseen head. Fiery eyes can be seen.	The Lord of the Nazgûl wears a black, spiked helmet.
Dernhelm’s horse throws its riders when the Nazgûl comes. Merry cowers.	A falling oliphaunt makes Dernhelm’s horse throw its riders.
Dernhelm commands the Nazgûl to leave the dead in peace.	After the Nazgûl commands his fell beast to feast upon Théoden, Dernhelm threatens to kill the Nazgûl.
The Nazgûl Lord threatens to deal a punishment worse than death. Dernhelm continues to resist.	Not shown in the movie.
The Nazgûl Lord proclaims no living man may hinder him.	After breaking Dernhelm’s arm with a mace attack, the Nazgûl Lord proclaims no man can kill him.
Dernhelm reveals himself to be Éowyn, a woman. She commands him to leave or she will smite him.	Dernhelm reveals himself to be Éowyn just before stabbing him.
The fell beast screams, jumps, and lunges upon Éowyn. She deals one swift stroke, decapitating the beast.	The steed lunges as Éowyn dodges. He deals three hacking strokes that decapitate the beast.
The Nazgûl Lord hits Éowyn with a mace attack. Her shield and arm are broken.	Éowyn dodges several attacks by the Nazgûl before he lands a hit. Her shield and arm are broken.
As the Nazgûl readies to kill Éowyn with his mace, the back of his knee is stabbed by Merry.	As the Nazgûl holds Éowyn by the throat, the back of her knee is stabbed by Merry.
Merry cries Éowyn’s name; she stabs the Nazgûl; the crown rolls away and his robes are empty. Éowyn falls upon the empty cloak.	Éowyn reveals herself and stabs the Nazgûl. His helmet and gauntlets writhe and shrivel as he falls dead. Éowyn falls to her knees.
Merry says his goodbyes to the king. Théoden forgives Merry’s disobedience. He doesn’t know Éowyn is close by.	Éowyn says her goodbyes to the King. Their conversation is reminiscent of the one in Meduseld.
The mûmakil (elephants) march forth on the battlefield. Éomer is recognized as king. He sees Éowyn and is speechless.	Rohan deals with the mûmakil before Théoden’s death. Éomer finds Éowyn and wails in despair as Aragorn watches.
After a moment of despair over Éowyn’s death, Éomer cries, “Death! Ride, ride to ruin and the world’s ending!”	Théoden cries, “Ride now! Ride now! Ride, ride to ruin and the world’s ending!” this before the opening charge to Minas Tirith.
Théoden and Éowyn are borne into the city. Merry follows them. The prince of Imrahil is surprised at Éowyn, and organizes her care.	Not shown in the movie.
While footmen of Gondor continue to fight orcs, Rohan is aided by other horsemen. More forces of the Enemy approach from the north.	Not shown in the movie.
As the ships of the Corsairs appear, the men of Gondor retreat. Éomer resolves to make a last stand.	As the ships of the Corsairs appear, an orc lieutenant complains of their tardiness.
Éomer says a verse, ending with: Now for wrath, now for ruin and a red nightfall!	Théoden says, “Now for wrath, now for ruin and a red dawn!” before the mounted charge out of Helm’s Deep’s keep.
A standard breaks on the foremost ship with a white tree. Aragorn, the Dúnedain, Legolas, Gimli, and sons of Elrond jump out.	Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli jump out, much to the surprise of the orcs.
Many thousands of men from southern Gondor jump out to strengthen the forces.	Many thousands of dead men come forth to fight for Gondor.
Éomer and Aragorn meet up on the battlefield.	Not shown in the movie.
Chapter VII: The Pyre of Denethor
Pippin asks for Gandalf’s help at the first gate after Rohan arrives and the Nazgûl Lord leaves.	Pippin asks for Gandalf’s help in between the first and second gate before Rohan arrives. He is present when Gandalf confronts the Lord of the Nazgûl.
Gandalf weighs the cost of helping Faramir vs. the other lives that might be lost.	Gandalf rides to the seventh circle without hesitation. Pippin rides with him.
Gandalf tells Prince Imrahil to take command in the Lord’s absence.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf and Pippin discover Beregond missing and the porter slain.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf dismounts Shadowfax, telling him to return to the stables.	Gandalf stays mounted on Shadowfax during the entire ordeal.
Gandalf commands Beregond and the other guards fighting him to stay this madness.	Gandalf commands Denethor and his servants to stay this madness after bursting through the door.
Denethor emerges from the Hall, commanding his servants to slay Beregond. Gandalf springs toward Denethor and disarms him.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf attempts to persuade Denethor against burning themselves using words.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf rushes in, leaps upon the yet unlit table Faramir lies on, picks Faramir up, and carries him out.	Gandalf knocks Denethor off of the burning wood with a spear. Pippin rolls Faramir off and puts out the flames in Faramir’s clothes.
Still in a dream, Faramir calls for his father.	Faramir opens his eyes just as Denethor is catching on fire.
Denethor tells Gandalf to not take his son from him as he is being carried away.	Denethor tells Pippin to not take his son from him as Pippin puts out some flames. Denethor assaults Pippin.
Denethor despairs; Gandalf tells Denethor he cannot order his death like a heathen and encourages him to come help people in the city.	Not shown in the movie.
Denethor picks up a Palantír. He mocks Gandalf’s hope, saying the West has failed.	Not shown in the movie.
Denethor knows of Gandalf’s plans; he accuses Gandalf of using him as a shield against Mordor while trying to supplant him; he will not bow to a Ranger from the north.	This conversation took place when Gandalf first stood before Denethor with Pippin.
Denethor wishes for the past and accuses Gandalf of stealing the love of his knights and his son.	Not shown in the movie.
After setting the table ablaze, Denethor leaps upon it and breaks his staff of Stewardship. He bows down, still holding the Palantír.	Shadowfax knocks Denethor onto the already burning table. After seeing Faramir awake, Denethor runs out and sprints off of the edge of the court in flames.
Gandalf commands the servants to bear Faramir to the Houses of Healing and gives Beregond the keys.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf, Pippin, and Beregond discuss Denethor’s folly in using the Palantír.	Not shown in the movie.
Chapter VIII: The Houses of Healing
Merry follows Théoden’s body into the city. He takes a wrong turn and thinks he has entered a tunnel leading to a tomb until Pippin shows up.	Pippin searches the battlefield until he finds Merry under a fallen orc.
Pippin accompanies Merry to the Houses of Healing.	Pippin tells Merry that he will watch over him.
Pippin sends word with Bergil of Merry’s condition and whereabouts. Gandalf comes in search of them.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf tends to the wounded. A healer wishes for a king who can help. Gandalf goes in search of Aragorn.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn deems the time unripe to enter the city and stays outside of the walls.	Not shown in the movie.
Éomer is told Éowyn is alive and with the steward. Denethor’s death is revealed.	Éomer apparently realizes that Éowyn is alive and watches her in the Houses of Healing.
Aragorn enters the Houses of Healing as the captain of the Dúnedain of Arnor, but not as king.	Aragorn enters the Houses of Healing and heals Éowyn’s arm (supposedly with athelas, though it just looks like water).
Pippin calls Aragorn Strider; Aragorn names all his names.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn enters the Houses of Healing and asks for herbs. Ioreth, the healer, says she will look for it	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf offers to assist Ioreth in looking for Kingsfoil, even to Lossarnach; Shadowfax will show her the meaning of haste.	Gandalf asks Shadowfax to show him the meaning of haste when departing from Edoras with Pippin.
An herb-master enters, questioning Kingsfoil’s virtue. Bergil brings Kingsfoil; Aragorn boils it.	Not shown in the movie.
Faramir opens his eyes and asks what the king commands.	Faramir opens his eyes while Denethor is burning.
Aragorn expounds on the condition of Éowyn’s body and personality. Éomer says her condition started long before Aragorn arrived.	Not shown in the movie. However, some of what he says is kind of said by Wormtongue to Éowyn just after Théodred’s death.
Gandalf blames some of Éowyn’s unhappiness on Wormtongue. He wonders what she has spoken to the darkness, etc.	Wormtongue told Éowyn she was like a spring clinging to winters chill. He wonders what she has spoken to the darkness, etc.
Aragorn tells Éomer that Éowyn loves her brother, and that it is but a shadow and a thought that she loves Aragorn.	Aragorn tells Éowyn that it is but a shadow and a though that she loves him just before he leaves for the Paths of the Dead.
Aragorn heals Éowyn and they talk of Théoden’s fall.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn also heals Merry, who seems to be more himself soon after waking up.	Not shown in the movie.
Merry wants to smoke, but reflects upon Théoden’s last words. Aragorn encourages him to smoke.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn says there is no pipeweed in Minas Tirith and predicts the herb-master’s actions.	Not shown in the movie.
Pippin discovers Merry’s pack under the bed, complete with Longbottom Leaf.	Merry gave the last of the Longbottom Leaf to Pippin just before Gandalf took him to Minas Tirith.
Aragorn leaves instructions with the House warden for Merry, Éowyn, and Faramir. He heals along with Elrond’s sons throughout the night, and then returns to his tent outside.	Not shown in the movie.
Chapter IX: The Last Debate
Legolas and Gimli are glad to see the hobbits alive. They comment on the state Minas Tirith is in and want to improve it.	Not shown in the movie.
Prince Imrahil directs Legolas and Gimli to the Houses of Healing. Legolas delivers a message from Aragorn.	Not shown in the movie.
While looking at gulls, Gimli brings up the Paths of the Dead. Legolas tells the tale.	The Paths of the Dead were shown in real time, instead of being retold after the battle.
Legolas tells of how Aragorn took command of the dead army, and how both friend and enemy fled from them.	Aragorn is shown challenging the Corsairs with his dead army. Legolas fires a warning shot tipped by Gimli.
After defeating the fleet of Umbar, Aragorn declares their oaths fulfilled; the king breaks his spear, and they all vanish.	After defeating the orcs and Haradrim at Minas Tirith, Aragorn declares their oaths fulfilled, against the will of Gimli. The dead vanish.
After the dead have departed, men from the southern side of Gondor flock to Aragorn to fight. Legolas’s tale ends.	Not shown in the movie. Aragorn brings the dead to Minas Tirith.
Aragorn, Gandalf, Éomer, Imrahil, and the sons of Elrond take council in a tent outside the city.	Aragorn, Gandalf, Éomer, Legolas, and Gimli take council in the throne room of the Citadel in Minas Tirith.
Gandalf expounds on what Denethor saw in the Palantír. They barely won this battle, but they have no more hope of victory in strength of arms.	Gandalf says Sauron suffered a defeat, but is regrouping; 10,000 orcs stand between Frodo and Mt. Doom. Éomer says they cannot achieve victory in strength of arms.
Gandalf counsels against rebuilding and waiting for the next attack.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf says if Sauron regains the Ring, he would have swift and complete victory.	Aragorn says they would know if Sauron had the Ring while Gandalf laments sending Frodo to his death.
Gandalf deduces that Aragorn has shown himself to Sauron as well as Andúril through the Palantír.	Aragorn does this after the debate and plans are made as a way of making Sauron take the bait.
Gandalf lays the facts out and deduces others. Sauron’s doubt is growing.	Shown, but somewhat truncated.
Gandalf calls for keeping Sauron’s eye off of his true peril by drawing out his armies as a diversion.	Aragorn comes up with this plan. Gimli is excited for their low odds of survival.
They discuss how many to take and how many to leave behind to guard the city, and how long it will take.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn has organized more forces to arrive, and his plans to fix the gate.	Not shown in the movie.
Imrahil laughs at the irony of the situation and wonders what Sauron will do and think.	Not shown in the movie.
Chapter X: The Black Gate Opens
Merry is in no condition to fight and is left behind to heal while the others go to the Black Gate.	Merry doesn’t seem to be injured at all and goes with everyone to the Black Gate. Pippin must be a better healer than Aragorn.
The vanguard proclaims Aragorn King and repairs the head of the statue of the king at the Cross-roads.	Not shown in the movie.
Gandalf quickly rejects a suggestion to go through the Morgul Vale rather than the Black Gate.	Not shown in the movie.
An ambush by the enemy is ambushed and defeated too easily.	Not shown in the movie.
The Nazgûl fly overhead.	Not shown in the movie.
Aragorn releases those who are fearful to go back.	Not shown in the movie.
The Mouth of Sauron wears a skull-like mask, with flame in its nostrils and eye sockets.	The Mouth of Sauron wears a helmet that covers everything but his mouth.
He declares himself to be the Mouth of Sauron.	He says his master, Sauron the great, bids them welcome. He smiles.
He mocks Aragorn’s green stone, calling it a piece of elvish glass. He says it takes more than that to make a king.	He recognizes Aragorn as Isildur’s heir, and says it takes more than a broken elvish blade to make a king.
Aragorn doesn’t answer the Mouth of Sauron, but holds his gaze. The Mouth declares that as a herald and ambassador, he may not be assailed.	Gandalf answers The Mouth of Sauron with commands to disband the armies and depart the land.
Gandalf says that the Mouth of Sauron is not in danger, and accuses him of insolence, but declares all the servants of Mordor to be in danger.	Not shown in the movie.
The Mouth mocks Gandalf, calling him old greybeard, and asks if he is the spokesman.	The Mouth of Sauron only calls him old greybeard.
The Mouth of Sauron has one of his guards show Sam’s sword, Frodo’s mail, and a grey elven cloak.	The Mouth of Sauron show’s Frodo’s mail. He is alone.
Pippin springs forward with a cry of grief. The Mouth declares it vain to try to deny they have seen these tokens before.	Pippin cries Frodo’s name and Merry says, “No!” Gandalf commands them silent.
The Mouth accuses them of conspiracy and tells them that Frodo shall endure many pains.	The Mouth tells of how much pain Frodo endured in past tense, implying that Frodo is dead.
Gandalf asks the Mouth for the terms for the return of Frodo.	Frodo is assumed to be dead.
Gandalf rejects the terms and mocks Sauron’s brand of haggling, but takes back the sword and clothing.	The Mouth of Sauron throws the mail to Gandalf.
The Mouth rides back towards the Gate as it opens.	The Mouth is beheaded by Aragorn and cannot ride any longer.
Orcs pour out of the Gate and from the nearby mountains. The vanguard is completely surrounded. The trolls come after the melee begins.	Orcs and trolls pour out of the Gate and surround the vanguard. Aragorn gives an inspirational speech to the men.
Pippin wishes for Merry and understands Denethor’s despair. The vanguard waits until the orcs attack them to fight.	Aragorn hears Sauron’s tempting voice before saying, “For Frodo!” He leads the charge to attack the orcs.
Pippin slays a troll-chief while defending Beregond. The troll falls on him.	Aragorn fights a troll and is knocked down. The troll attempts to crush Aragorn with its foot.
Pippin hears Gandalf say, “The eagles are coming!” He thinks of Bilbo’s tail before passing out.	After Gandalf sees a moth, Pippin says, “The eagles are coming!”

Introduction

The Fellowship of the Ring:      Book 1                     Book 2

The Two Towers:                        Book 3                     Book 4

The Return of the King:             Book 5                     Book 6

Overall Changes and Additions