In The Fellowship of the Ring, Gandalf mentions that Saruman is breeding the Uruk-Hai to possess the traits of "orcs and goblin men" without the two races' weaknesses.

The Argonath, also known as The Gates of Argonath or The Pillars of Kings, is comprised of two enormous statues carved in the likenesses of Isildur and Anárion, standing upon either side of the River Anduin. Each of the two figures bears a crown and a helm, with an axe in its right hand and its left hand raised in a gesture of warning to the enemies of Gondor.

Boromir dislikes the idea of destroying the One Ring, as he believes it could be used to defeat Sauron once and for all, to save Gondor, and return it to its former glory. He tried to convince Frodo to give him the Ring, and when this fails, tries to take it by force. But he redeems himself shortly thereafter, giving his life to protect Merry and Pippin.

Frodo tries to set off on his own, afraid the Ring will corrupt his companions. As he rows across the river, Sam appears and swims out after him, insisting he has promised Gandalf he will look after Frodo. After Sam nearly drowns, Frodo accepts his presence, and together they continue their journey through the hills of Emyn Muil.