Boromir, who is played by Sean Bean, famed for his roles in fantasy and historical fiction, has many iconic quotes in the Lord of the Rings. In fact, his character even spawned the viral “one does not simply…” meme. However, Boromir’s most important line in the films is one that everybody overlooks, and it happens shortly before his sacrificial death.

Boromir meets a tragic end in the first Lord of the Rings movie, Fellowship of the Ring, while protecting Merry and Pippin from Orcs. As Gondor’s charismatic “heir” at the time, his death was significant and had an emotional impact on the group. As a result, subsequent Lord of the Rings movies often call back to the fallen hero.

Yet, throughout all of Boromir’s appearances and memorable moments, there is one which stands out. Shortly before they are attacked by Orcs, Boromir is tempted by the One Ring, and tries to steal it from Frodo, before realizing his mistake. During his death scene, Boromir admits this, and the moment is quite significant as it shows his true character.

Boromir Admitting To His Mistake Is Arguably His Most Important Lord Of The Rings Line

Boromir Redeems Himself Before His Death

Boromir admitting his mistake is arguably his most important line in the Lord of the Rings because it shows what kind of person he is. When he is first introduced, he seems rather arrogant, as Boromir suggests a plan of wielding the ring against Sauron. Even when the fellowship is formed, Boromir has his doubts about Frodo and their plan.

It’s no secret that Boromir wants the ring to protect Gondor, and he has his moments of temptation, like on the Pᴀss of Caradhras. Yet, as the film progresses, the fellowship bond in their mission, and Boromir even defends the Hobbits mourning Gandalf. Nevertheless, in a moment of weakness, Boromir eventually tries to take the ring from Frodo by force.

When the group is suddenly attacked by Orcs, Boromir sacrifices himself before he can properly apologize to Frodo. While Boromir’s sacrifice is widely considered his most redeeming moment, his unnecessary deathbed confession is arguably more significant, as he admits to the fellowship’s remaining members that he tried to take the ring from Frodo, and he asks them to forgive him.

Boromir’s confession demonstrates he has seen the light, proving his mind is freed from the ring. Boromir didn’t have to admit that he tried to steal the ring, as the dishonorable act would’ve tarnished his name. However, as a man of honor, he had to tell the fellowship what he had done wrong, and ask that they forgive him.

BOROMIR: Frodo…where is Frodo?

ARAGORN: I let Frodo go.

BOROMIR: Then you did what I could not. I tried to take the ring from him.

ARAGORN: The ring is beyond our reach now.

BOROMIR: Forgive me, I did not see… I have failed you all.

To confess on his deathbed, showcases remorse unexpected from someone so steadfast in their mission. His admittance is important because it showcases Boromir’s newfound belief in the cause, redeeming his character, despite his previous ways of thinking. Furthermore, Boromir’s confession is elaborated on in other Lord of the Rings movies, with The Two Towers Extended Edition explaining his full motivations.

It’s Not Just The Line – It’s Who Boromir Says It To

Boromir And Aragorn Had A Complicated Relationship

The line goes beyond just asking for forgiveness for his actions from his companions, as Boromir actually speaks with Aragorn during his death. The two were like rivals for most of the journey, as there was a contest over who was the rightful heir to Gondor’s throne. In fact, at one point, Boromir even proclaims that “Gondor needs no King.”

As a result, Aragorn and Boromir had a complicated relationship during The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. However, during his death, Aragorn comforts Boromir, and the confession marks the turning point for their relationship, as Boromir comes to terms with the idea that Aragorn is the rightful King of Gondor after all, and asks his “rival” for forgiveness.

When Boromir finds out Aragorn wasn’t tempted by the ring as he “let Frodo go,” he acknowledges Aragorn’s strength. Reflecting on his own dishonorable actions in comparison, Boromir comes to the realization that “the world of Men will fall, and all will come to darkness, and my city to ruin,” as he himself was not able to resist the ring.

However, after hearing Aragorn’s conviction of saving the city of Gondor and his strength in denying the ring, Boromir realizes that Aragorn may be a better fit than him. As a result, he admits that the people of Gondor are “our people,” and that he considers Aragorn his King, making Boromir’s confession a pivotal moment of realization for him.

Boromir Seeing The Error Of His Ways Proves His Strength

Boromir Is Far Stronger In Mind Than Most

As the Steward of Gondor, Boromir is willing to do anything to help his city and his father, Denethor. In fact, it’s revealed in The Two Towers extended edition that Denethor sent Boromir to the council to claim the ring for Gondor in the first place. Explaining Rivendell’s meeting, Denethor tells him to “bring me back this mighty gift.”

When the council decides the ring must be destroyed, Boromir joins the fellowship to help them. However, there are moments when viewers see that the Lord of the Rings character wants the ring for himself, and with the added context of The Two Towers, we know that Boromir wants the ring to defend Gondor, just like his father suggested.

DENETHOR: It has fallen into the hands of the Elves. Everyone will try to claim it. Men, Dwarves, wizards. We cannot let that happen. This thing must come to Gondor. It’s dangerous, I know. Ever the Ring will seek to corrupt the hearts of lesser Men. But you, you are strong.

Yet, the One Ring corrupts the hearts of those around it, especially “the hearts of lesser Men.” Denethor didn’t think that would be his son, who he favors above all else, but Boromir was corrupted by the ring. Consequently, many consider Boromir’s character to be a physical representation of the weakness of Men in the Lord of the Rings.

On the other hand, Boromir is easily one of the best characters in the Lord of the Rings, and that is because of his “weakness.” He tried to carry out his father’s orders, and was manipulated by the ring, making him a “lesser” man. However, Boromir quickly came to his senses and rejected his actions, overcoming the ring’s power.

Therefore, Boromir seeing the error of his ways actually proves his strength, and Aragorn reinforces this, stating that “You have kept your honor.” While there are plenty of iconic moments for Boromir in the Lord of the Rings, especially in his death scene, the moment he admits his wrongs is actually somewhat underrated, and has a much deeper meaning.