The Plain of the Hags
A barren wasteland ruled by ancient sisters of shadow and malice, beholden to none.
The Plain of the Hags is a desolate, windswept expanse located in the Upper Land, near the Sarangrave Flat and the Defiles, serving as the domain of three ancient sisters: Clave, Fleshharrower, and a third who remains unnamed in the text but is collectively referred to as the Hags of the Plain. This barren territory is a place of corruption and shadow, reflecting the twisted nature of its inhabitants who are independent, malevolent beings serving no master—including Lord Foul—and pursuing their own inscrutable purposes.
- Inhabitants
- Three Hags (sisters): Clave, Fleshharrower, and an unnamed third; collectively the Hags of the Plain
- Affiliation
- Independent, malevolent, not aligned with Lord Foul
Lore & Background
Throughout the Chronicles, this region serves as a formidable barrier encountered by Covenant and his company on their journey. The Hags attempt to manipulate travelers using illusions and fear, hoping to turn them against their own purpose. Ultimately, the Plain represents the petty malevolence that thrives in the shadow of greater darkness, waiting for an opportunity to undermine the forces of truth—but the Hags are not part of Lord Foul's forces, acting solely for themselves.
In Their Own Story
The wind here did not blow; it whispered secrets that made bones ache. Thomas walked alone across the gray dust, feeling eyes upon him from the mist-shrouded horizon. There were no trees, only jagged rocks that seemed to lean toward him like accusing fingers. Somewhere in the fog, a cackle echoed—not of joy, but of hunger. He tightened his grip on the staff, knowing this flat hell was not meant for men who believed in healing.
Reader's Guide
Geographically, the Plain is a vast, level stretch of gray earth devoid of vegetation or water sources. It sits adjacent to the treacherous Wastes and serves as a gateway toward the Mountains of the Moon. The terrain is intentionally hostile, designed by dark magic to disorient anyone attempting passage without protection. Ecologically, nothing natural survives here. Any plant life that might take root withers instantly under the influence of the Hags' corruption. The only inhabitants are the three sisters and their spectral servants, who patrol the edges of the mist. There is no wildlife to hunt or gather, making survival purely a test of endurance. Magically, the Plain distorts perception and amplifies doubt. Travelers often feel an overwhelming sense of isolation or paranoia. This location is significant in the plot as it forces protagonists to confront their internal fears before facing external enemies. It stands as a checkpoint where the will of the hero is tested against ancient, petty malice.
Did You Know?
- The Hags are named Clave, Fleshharrower, and a third unnamed sister; collectively they are known as the Hags of the Plain.
- This region was a primary obstacle during Covenant's journey in The Illearth War.
- The landscape reflects the twisted psychology of its rulers, remaining barren and hostile.
- The Hags are not defeated in the series and are not directly connected to Lord Foul's power, acting independently and malevolently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Plain of the Hags located in The Land?
This desolate expanse lies in the northern wastes, acting as a grim buffer zone between the civilized territories and the treacherous Mountains of the Moon.
Who rules over the Plain of the Hags?
The domain is the ancestral home of the three Hags—Enitharmon and her two sisters—who serve as ancient agents of chaos and shadow.
What does the terrain of the Plain look like?
It is a barren, windswept wasteland filled with mist and magical distortions that reflect the twisted nature of its inhabitants.
Why is this location significant to the story's plot?
The plain serves as a formidable barrier where critical battles often take place, influencing the final fate of the world against the Lord of Darkness.
What happens to the Plain after the Hags are defeated?
Following the downfall of the three sisters, the region is left abandoned and ruined, stripped of its former malevolent power.