Content Warning: The following article contains spoilers for the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
The Rings of Power premiered this year and told an epic story that expanded the beloved world originally created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The show has definitely revitalized interest in the Lord of the Rings franchise, particularly in the legendary and award-winning trilogy that chronicles Frodo’s journey to Mordor.
Along the way, Frodo is supported (and sometimes betrayed) by members of the Fellowship of the Ring, one of whom is Boromir. The valiant soldier of Gondor is known across Middle-earth for his heroic deeds and unprecedented accomplishments, but he also has weaknesses and flaws. There are numerous memes that sum up his different aspects, relationships, and important actions in the trilogy.
One Does Not Simply Walk
When Boromir is summoned to the meeting in Rivendell, he's appalled to learn that they plan on destroying instead of using the One Ring. What's worse, one of them needs to bring it to Mordor to be able to disintegrate the powerful tool. This suggestion inspires Boromir's now-iconic line about how "one does not simply walk into Mordor." He continues by explaining how "there is evil there that does not sleep."
The popular meme format is recognizable even for those who are not familiar with the franchise. Fans, know, however, that Bormir's line is a reflection of his own experiences fighting alongside Gondor's soldiers. They've had to push back Sauron's forces on their own, which is a history that influences Boromir's personality.
He Needs No King
One of the best rivalries in LotR begins when Legolas introduces Aragorn as the “heir to the throne of Gondor,” while also demanding Boromir’s allegiance to “Isildur’s heir.” This prompts one of Boromir’s iconic lines, as he retorts by saying that “Gondor has no king” and “needs no king.”
A humorous meme references the tense moment, which also highlights Boromir’s tendency to be stubborn and narrow-minded. He refuses to even consider Aragorn’s potential role in Gondor, as he’s set in his ways and believes his father’s work as the Steward is more than enough at that point.
Not Too Persuasive
Boromir isn’t fooling anyone when he tries to make a case for treating the Ring as “a gift to the foes of Mordor.” He asks why they shouldn’t use it and wield its power for themselves, but Aragorn is quick to retort and remind him that no one can use it.
A gut-busting meme recreates Boromir’s argument, which only further convinces Aragorn that they should destroy the Ring. Men like Boromir are known for their thirst for power, after all, which Aragorn knows all too well.
Such A Little Thing
During their arduous journey toward the Pass of Caradhras, Boromir gets a chance to grab the Ring when Frodo accidentally loses his necklace. For a moment, it seems to be taking hold of Boromir, who wonders why they “should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing.”
A witty meme captures this strange side of Boromir, who doesn’t seem to be able to grasp the full extent of the power and danger that the Ring could bring to his people and to all of Middle-earth. He even pretends to “care not” for it when he finally hands it to Frodo, which underscores his more devious side.
An Unlikely Friendship
They may be among the bravest characters in LotR, but the hobbits still find themselves getting underestimated by those around them more than once – Boromir is no exception. He’s clearly unhappy that Merry, Pippin, and Sam will be accompanying them to Mordor, as they’re more of a burden than necessary help.
An amusing meme highlights a change in perception for Boromir, who soon befriends the hobbits. He even spars with Merry and Pippin in a memorable and heartwarming scene. Little does he know that this bond and his honor will soon push him to defend them to the death from the Uruk-hai.
Boromir To His Frodo
There’s no denying that Boromir isn’t exactly the most moral character in the trilogy, as even those who aren’t fans of the franchise may be familiar with his disappointing betrayal. An already-fleeing Frodo is convinced to pursue his journey alone when Boromir tries to take the Ring from him, leading to a stressful fight.
A funny meme emphasizes the way this treachery has been associated with Boromir’s character. When compared to someone as loyal as Sam, Boromir really does end up looking like a dishonorable member of the Fellowship.
The Favorite Son
A huge part of Boromir’s arc in the trilogy is his relationship with his immediate family – his father and the Steward of Gondor, Denethor II, and his younger brother, Faramir. Boromir is perceived by his father as the more successful and worthy heir, with Faramir never really able to live up to that standard.
A comedic meme pokes fun at the unequal love and support Boromir and Faramir get from their father. Plus, the pressure from Denethor undoubtedly influences Boromir’s controversial decision to try to hurt Frodo to get the Ring.
Give Them A Moment
Everyone is understandably devastated after Gandalf’s unexpected (supposed) death in the Mines of Moria. The hobbits are especially having a hard time carrying on after seeing the Balrog take the wizard down. Aragorn knows they can’t stick around and asks Legolas to “get them up,” which makes Boromir angrily respond – “give them a moment, for pity’s sake.”
This has become a popular meme format that reflects one of Boromir’s better aspects. He’s human, so he understands what it’s like to suffer a heavy loss. He can be compassionate and empathetic, so much so that he would compromise their mission.
A Terrible Death
Boromir finally meets his demise during his battle against a group of Uruk-hai. There are too many of the scary creatures around them, and Aragorn and Legolas are fending them off somewhere away from Boromir, Merry, and Pippin. Considering their attack comes after he tried to steal the Ring, Boromir had a crucial choice to make.
A relatable meme highlights the ultimate result of his noble decision to stay and defend Merry and Pippin. His bravery is on full display during that sequence, as Boromir keeps going despite being shot with arrows multiple times.
His Heartbreaking Redemption
By the time Boromir is drawing his last breath, his character has undergone a well-written transformation. This is especially clear through his final words, which are a complete departure from his earlier statements about Gondor needing no king.
A meme captures the heartbreaking moment where Boromir tearfully tells Aragorn that he “would have followed” him. He even calls him his brother, captain, and king before dying. This is the character fans hopefully remember, as Boromir died redeeming his honor and recognizing Aragorn’s place in Gondor with their people.