4 ms·
“What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!' Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without
by ISL 12y ago
“What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!'
Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. And he has been well rewarded, Frodo. Be sure that he took so little hurt from the evil, and escaped in the end, because he began his ownership of the Ring so. With Pity.”
- afarrell 12y agoA warm sentiment to be sure, but wonder if it also applies to the orcs marching across the Pelennor, whom you know are intending or enslaved to deal death. Do they also deserve pity and mercy? If not, then why do mosquitos?
- ISL 12y agoIn the quote above, Gandalf only advises that one should not strike without need. In the cases of both mosquitoes and orcs, it's not at all clear that xenocide is requisite to ensure the safety of humans or the many dwellers of Middle Earth.