How did Tolkien describe the Balrog?
In Tolkien’s Elvish language Sindarin, Balrog means “demon of might”. After Sauron, Balrogs were the most powerful and most terrifying of his servants. They are fire spirits, but also shrouded in darkness. Most of the Balrog died in the Great Battle, but a few survived by hiding in the depths.
Why is the Balrog in Moria?
The balrogs were Morgoth’s most loyal servants. They existed to enforce his will. Without him, they had no motivations of their own. With no new orders to follow, our balrog went to sleep in Moria for over five thousand years.
Why do people think Balrogs have wings?
Yes, they have wings. It says so, right there in the text: its wings were spread from wall to wall. However, its wings were apparently formed of shadow, not solid flesh. But the Balrog itself is a creature of shadow; a solid form cloaked in a darkness that follows it and responds to its will.
Did Tolkien’s Balrog really have wings?
Tolkien’s language leaves some room for speculation. The first quote seems to describe a Balrog covered in shadow that appears winglike, and is later ‘spread.’ However, the second quoted passage seems to indicate that this Balrog had actual wings that were spread from wall to wall.
Did Balrogs ever fly?
Balrogs were never exactly described as flying in any of Tolkien’s works, including the “winged speed” language quoted above. Furthermore, at least two Balrogs fell to their ruin, apparently wingless:
Did the Balrog of Khazad have wings?
The first quote seems to describe a Balrog covered in shadow that appears winglike, and is later ‘spread.’ However, the second quoted passage seems to indicate that this Balrog had actual wings that were spread from wall to wall. The most common reference for winged Balrogs is the ‘vast wings’ language in “The Bridge of Khazad-dûm”.