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Aragorn, or Aragorn II Elessar was a ranger from a clan known as the Dúnedain of the North and the heir of Isildur and the throne of Gondor. He was known in the wild as Strider, especially by the men in Bree. Therefore he is accounted as one the of the Captains of the West, leader of the free peoples. In time he would fulfil his destiny and become King of the reunited Kingdom of Gondor and Arnor as well as wed the daughter of Elrond, Arwen Evenstar.
History[]
Aragorn is a direct descendent of the Faithful Numenoreans from the line of Elendil. Because he is a Numenorean, he is related distantly to Elrond through Elros. Aragorn was born in the year TA 2931 to the Ranger Arathorn and his wife Gilraen.[1] When he was only young, Arathorn was killed by a hill-troll, leaving Aragorn without a father. Aragorn would be fostered by Elrond in Rivendell, not aware of his parentage for years.
Aragorn would join the Rangers of the North and become a strong fighter. He would meet the King of the Woodland Realm, Thranduil, during his time with the Dúnedain and the Elven King would see great skill and potential in the young man.[2] Aragorn would also befriend Gandalf the Grey at some point, becoming friends for life.
Aragorn served for some years with Thengel, King of Rohan as well as Steward Ecthellion II of Gondor, fighting many enemies in the south. He would meet Arwen in Lothlórien and they fell in love.[3]
Following the Battle of Five Armies, Thranduil recommended his son Legolas go north and find Aragorn.[2] Legolas met Aragorn soon after and became a trusted companion of his.[4]
Aragorn never forgot his ancestry nor his destiny, but he hoped rather to avoid such a future. Instead he hid his true identity and went only by the name Strider. His real name was revealed only to a few, as he was evidently hunted by the servants of Sauron. He travelled far and wide, slaying all fell beasts and all those who served Sauron.[5]
"Strider" in the Prancing Pony.
Strider meets the Hobbit[]
"You draw far too much attention to yourself Mr... Underhill!" - Aragorn scolds Frodo for making a scene
At the start of the War of the Ring, Gandalf evidently told Aragorn to keep a lookout for Frodo Baggins and the other Hobbits, knowing that Aragorn could be trusted in the matter concerning the One Ring. Under the guise of Strider, he watched the Hobbits closely from a corner at the Inn. When Frodo asked the Landlord who Strider was, the Landlord ominously declared Strider was a ranger and a very dangerous man, but with some measure of respect. Eventually, when Pippin became drunk and revealed Frodo's real name, Frodo panicked and attempted to stop him, gaining the attention of Aragorn. When Frodo slipped and the ring was launched into the air, Aragorn reacted with alarm as he recognised it as the One Ring. The ring landed on Frodo's finger and he vanished, causing an alarm. When the Hobbit reappeared, Aragorn seized him and sharply upbraided him for drawing too much attention to himself. He hauled Frodo to his room immediately, where at last he threw back his hood. He asked Frodo if he was afraid. The Hobbit confessed that he was, and Aragorn declared that he knew who was hunting Frodo. When Aragorn heard intruders he immediately drew his sword against Sam, Merry and Pippin as they burst into his room. He complimented Sam for having a stout heart, but he ordered the Hobbits to stay with him as the Ringwraiths were preparing to attack Bree. Aragorn watched the Nazgûl stormed the inn and raided the Hobbit's bedroom. But the Wraiths found the beds had merely been stuffed with pillows, to which they shriek in anger. The Hobbits were awoken by the commotion, and Aragorn revealed that the wraiths were once great Kings of Men, until they accepted rings of power from Sauron. One by one they fell under his influence and became the Nazgûl.[5]
Aragorn faces the Ringwraiths with fire.
Battle on Weathertop[]
"This was the great watchtower of Amon-Sul" - Aragorn beholds the ancient war tower
The ranger immediately escorted the Hobbits out of Bree and took them into the wild. The Hobbits were uncertain about Strider, as they didn't yet know who he really was, but Frodo believed that Aragorn was actually an ally. When Sam asked about their destination, Strider revealed that they were headed for Rivendell, much to Sam's sudden delight. Strider soon learnt the peculiar ways of the Hobbits; he was most astonished to hear Pippin declare that Hobbits always have a second breakfast. Eventually Aragorn led them to Weathertop, Amon-Sûl in the Elvish tongue. He told the Hobbits to stay put while he scouted the area. But the Nazgûl attacked Weathertop in his absence and Frodo was wounded. Aragorn returned just in time however with a flaming brand. Aragon dueled with five of the Nazgul, easily out sparring them and setting them on fire. When Aragorn saw the Witch-King of Angmar, he threw the fire brand into the Morgul Lord's unseen face. The Morgul Lord shrieked with pain and fled.[5]
Aragorn is caught off his guard by Arwen.
Reuniting with Arwen[]
"Why do you fear the past? You are Isildur's Heir, not Isildur himself. You are not bound to his fate" - Arwen attempts to console Aragorn
Seeing that Frodo had been stabbed by a Morgul-blade, Aragorn resolved to get the Hobbit to Rivendell as quickly as possible, knowing that such a wound would turn Frodo into a wraith. While travelling, Aragorn and Sam searched for a healing plant known as the Athelas. Aragorn was lightly teased by Arwen as she crept up on him, noting "What's this, a ranger caught off his guard?" Aragorn took Arwen to Frodo. He managed to help Frodo with the Athelas plant, but Arwen knew they had to get him to her father, Lord Elrond, immediately. Aragorn was reluctant to let Arwen ride alone with Frodo, but Arwen declared she is not afraid. Aragorn warned her to ride swiftly. Arwen safely brought Frodo to Rivendell, where he was healed by Lord Elrond. In time Aragorn brought the other three Hobbits to Rivendell as well, where they managed to find some rest for a while. In his free time Aragorn red up ancient lore in the House of Elrond, where he encountered Boromir of Gondor. He watched Boromir closely as the man discovered the shards of Narsil lying nearby. After Boromir accidentally dropped the broken sword, Aragorn carefully retrieved it and put it back on its resting place. Arwen came to him and reminded Aragorn that he was his own man, not Isildur. Aragorn still felt that the shadow of his ancestor lay on him, and therefore the "same weakness". But Arwen assured him otherwise. The two of them then spent time reminiscing over their memories of each other. She reaffirmed her love for him and declared she is ready to accept a mortal life with him. As a token of this, she gave him the Evenstar.[5]
Aragorn during the Council of Elrond.
Council of Elrond[]
"You have my sword" - Aragorn joins the Fellowship
Aragorn was summoned to attend the Council of Elrond to decide the fate of the ring. When Boromir suggested using the ring as a weapon, Aragorn counseled that no-one could wield it as it responded only to Sauron himself. Boromir was at first disrespectful, which earned him a sharp reprimand from Legolas as the Elf told Boromir that Aragorn was the Heir of Elendil and therefore the rightful King of Gondor. Aragorn was touched by Legolas defending him, but in the end he grew uncomfortable with the reminder and told Legolas to sit down.
The council soon descended into quarrelling over the ring, given the seemingly impossible task of trying to destroy it. Aragorn himself stayed out of the arguing, but he was moved by the bravery of Frodo when the latter volunteered to bear the ring to Mordor. After Gandalf joined Frodo, Aragorn declared that he would protect Frodo to his life's end, much to the Wizard's approval. Legolas, Gimli, Boromir and the other three Hobbits followed suit, becoming the Fellowship of the Ring.
The Ring goes South[]
On the morning of departing Rivendell, Aragorn visited the grave of his mother, Gilraen. Elrond visited him and advised that Gilraen knew her son would be haunted all his life but would never escape his fate. Elrond said that the sword of Elendil could be reforged anew, but only Aragorn could wield it. Again Aragorn was reluctant to take such power, but Elrond reminded him that he is the last of the royal line. Elrond also told him that he was unwilling to leave Arwen to die in Middle-earth. Eventually Aragorn conceded and attempted to convince Arwen to leave for the Undying Lands, but she rejected this counsel.
The Fellowship departed Rivendell and headed southwards. Aragorn assisted Boromir in training the Hobbits Merry and Pippin how to fight with a sword. When Boromir accidentally injured Pippin, the Hobbits manage to take him down, much to the amusement of Aragorn. But he was alarmed when Legolas spotted the crows of Saruman spying on them. Gandalf resolved to lead them through Caradhras, but they were waylaid by a ferocious storm conjured by Saruman. Aragorn stateed that they could not use the gap of Rohan, as it drew nigh to Isengard. At length the Fellowship decided to go through Moria at the decision of Frodo.
Aragorn, Legolas and Boromir prepare for the oncoming onslaught of Moria Orcs.
The Mines of Moria[]
"Do not disturb the water!" - Aragorn warns the Hobbits
At the gates of Moria, Aragorn sadly let Bill the pony loose, knowing he couldn't be brought into the mines. Out of boredom, Pippin and Merry threw stones into the water, but Aragorn told them to desist, fearing that something was lurking in the lake. Sure enough, when the gates of Moria were opened, a monster called the Watcher in the Water emerged and attempted to kill Frodo. Aragorn and Boromir waded in to cut off the Watcher's tentacles. Aragorn cut the arm holding up Frodo, after which they fled into the mines. The scuffle between the Fellowship and the Watcher left the Fellowship trapped in the mines, the entrance completely caved in.
Aragorn remained silent throughout their journey, but he was called to action once more when Pippin dislodged a rotting carcass into the mines. A horde of Goblins attacked the party, in which Aragorn slayed many of them. When the Cave Troll arrived and bore down on Frodo, Aragorn speared the troll in the abdomen. But the troll swatted him aside, knocking him out. When he recovered he is astonished to find that Frodo survived being speared by the troll, and he discovered Frodo's Mithril vest.
Aragorn and the others were forced to flee when the Balrog of Morgoth was awakened. The Fellowship fled down the stairs of Khazad-dum, where they encountered a gap in the stairway. Aragorn threw some members across, except for Gimli who proudly said "Nobody tosses a Dwarf!" At one point Aragorn and Frodo were left trapped on one side of the stairway due to the viaduct breaking apart. But using some quick thinking, Aragorn used their weight to topple the collapsing stairway to the other side. He later witnessed Gandalf duelling the Balrog and was dismayed when the Wizard is dragged into the abyss.
Lothlorien[]
Aragorn assumed leadership of the Fellowship. After they escaped the mines, Aragorn allowed himself only a moment to grieve before he urged the others to move on. Boromir argued they needed more time to grieve, but Aragorn stressed that Orcs patrol the lands and they must reach the Woods of Lothlórien. In the woods he encountered Haldir, the captain of the guard. Haldir was reluctant to let them enter at first, but Aragorn persuaded him to let the Fellowship pass through.
Aragorn meets with Haldir
The company was received by Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel. The Elf Queen told them to rest, but Aragorn found that Boromir was fretting over the fate of his nation. Aragorn recalled how he had visited the White City long ago. For the first time however, Boromir fully acknowledged Aragorn as his kinsman and potential ruler, foretelling that they should both return to Minas Tirith one day. The following day, Galadriel gave the Fellowship gifts to aid them on the road ahead. Celeborn warned Aragorn about Uruk-hai bearing the white hand of Saruman, and he gave him an Elvish dagger to aid him. Galadriel had a last word with Aragorn, where they discussed the fate of Arwen. Galadriel again reminded Aragorn that the time had come for him to decide whether he would take up the mantle of his forefathers or fall into darkness. After this she bid him farewell, foretelling that they should not meet again.
Aragorn led the company down the river Anduin. During their travel on the river, Boromir discovered that Gollum was following them. Aragorn was already aware, knowing that he had tracked them since Moria. Boromir suggested that they should go to Minas Tirith, arguing that they would find rest and reprieve. Aragorn simply said that the strength of men could not aid them. Boromir became angry, arguing that Aragorn had no faith in his own kin and was actively shirking his title. But Aragorn was not fooled, as he perceived that Boromir's real intent was to bring the ring to Gondor. Therefore he sharply warned Boromir "I will not lead the ring within a hundred leagues of your city!"
Breaking of the Fellowship[]
"I would have gone with you to the end, into the very fires of Mordor" - Aragorn says farewell to Frodo
After they reached the Falls of Rauros, Aragorn told the Fellowship they would approach Mordor from the north. Gimli was disgruntled by the thought of travelling through the sharp rocks of Emyn Muil and afterwards the stinking marshlands of Dagorlad. Aragorn simply stated "That is our road", after he sternly told Gimli he should get used to it. Legolas was uneasy as he sensed the approaching Uruk-hai, and he urged Aragorn to lead the Fellowship away immediately. But the Fellowship soon noticed that Frodo had disappeared, along with Boromir, much to Aragorn's suspicion.
Arargorn tracked Frodo down after the Hobbit had fled from Boromir. Frodo recoiled from Aragorn, fearing that the ranger would attempt to take the ring in turn. Aragorn promised not to harm him, but Frodo held out the ring saying "Would you destroy it?!" Aragorn beheld the One Ring, hearing its voice calling to him. Although he seemed intrigued, at length he simply closed Frodo's hand over it. In refusing the ring, Aragorn did the exact opposite to what his forefather Isildur did.
Aragorn fights the hordes of Uruk-hai
Aragorn sadly lamented how he would have followed Frodo to Mount Doom. Frodo was saddened too, and he told Aragorn to look after the others. Aragorn saw Frodo's sword glowing blue and he told the Hobbit to flee. Aragorn confronted the approaching Uruk-hai and cut them down. Aragorn desperately tried to reach Boromir after he heard the horn of Gondor. He arrived just in time to knock Lurtz over before he could shoot Boromir in the face. A fierce fight broke out between them, until at last Aragorn cut off Lurtz' head.
The ranger found that Boromir had already been shot three times. Boromir apologied and confessed that he tried to take the ring from Frodo. Aragorn conforted Boromir, swearing that he would not let the White City fall, regardless of what strength was in his blood. Boromir acknowledged Aragorn as his leader and King before he passed away. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli set Boromir adrift in one of the Elvish boats. Aragorn was later fitting the vambraces previously worn by Boromir, as a reminder of his promise to defend the White City.
Legolas resolved to go after Frodo and Sam, but although they were close by, Aragorn felt that they can no longer aid Frodo. Gimli felt the Fellowship had failed, but Aragorn believed they could still hold true. Therefore he declared they would hunt down the Uruk-hai and rescue Merry and Pippin. Enlightened by this, Legolas and Gimli followed after him.
The plains of Rohan[]
"Rohan, home of the Horse Lords" - Aragorn enters Rohan
Aragorn Legolas and Gimli ran on foot across the plains of Rohan, where they encountered some recent tracks left by the Uruk-hai. Aragorn discovered Pippin's Elven brooch, and hastened his pursuit. Legolas perceiveed that they were headed for Isengard, where Aragorn knew that Saruman intended to interrogate them.
The next time the three hunters were seen, they encountered the Riders of Rohan. Initially they hid from them, but Aragorn recognised them as allies and called out "Riders of Rohan, what news from the mark?" Immediately however the riders encircled them and held them at spear point. Éomer was hostile at first, given recent events with Saruman. Aragorn declared they are allies of Théoden. However Éomer revealed that Théoden had been bewitched by Saruman, weakening the leadership of Rohan. He also revealed that the Uruk-hai had been destroyed, but no sign of the Hobbits. Aragorn was dismayed, but Éomer gave him two horses to aid them. After this, the riders departed.
Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli investigate the pile of dead Uruks.
Aragorn and the others investigated the burning carcasses, where they found one of the belts owned by Merry. Aragorn believed they are dead and kicked an Uruk helmet in sheer anger. When he cooled off, he discovered Hobbit tracks leading away from the battle, right into Fangorn forest nearby.
The White Rider[]
"It cannot be! You fell?" - Aragorn beholds the return of Gandalf
In the shade of Fangorn Forest, Aragorn found strange tracks. Before long Legolas warned him that someone was watching them, saying "The White Wizard approaches..." Aragorn believeed that Saruman had come to attack them and warned his comrades not to let him speak, lest they should fall under a spell. Immediately they turned to fight the newcomer, but the White Wizard overpowered them. Aragorn's sword burst into flames, which burned him and forced him to drop the weapon.
Blinded by the light emanating from the Wizard, Aragorn demanded to know who he was. The Wizard stepped forward and it was none other than Gandalf, restored to life. Aragorn was overwhelmed to see the Wizard alive, upon which Gandalf recounted how he slew the Balrog and was sent back to complete his task. With hope renewed, Gandalf told Aragorn that the Hobbits were safe and they were needed elsewhere; war was coming to Rohan.
Aiding Rohan[]
"The defenses have to hold"
"They will hold"
Gandalf and Aragorn prepare to aid Rohan
At Edoras, Araogrn and his companions were forced to disarm before entering to see the King. When Grima Wormtongue set his thugs on them, Aragorn and the others knocked them out cold. Gandalf broke Saruman's spell over King Théoden. The King recovered and he immediately had Wormtongue thrown out of his hall and he tried to execute the traitor. Aragorn intervened, reasoning that enough blood had been spilled on Grima's account. Théoden was stunned by this, but Aragorn knelt before him out of respect.
Aragorn with Gandalf, Legolas and Gimli in Edoras.
Back inside the hall, Théoden spoke about how he was reluctant to participate in any more fighting. Aragorn pointed out that war was coming to him one way or another. Théoden angrily reminded him that he, Théoden, is the King. Therefore he resolved to lead his people to Helm's Deep.
Gimli grumbled that Rohan was running scared of the enemy. Aragorn believed there was good reason to choose Helm's Deep, knowing of its immense strength. But Gandalf feared that they would be trapped and encircled, so the Wizard advised Aragorn to defend Rohan at all costs. The Wizard left Edoras to find Éomer and his army, telling Aragorn he would return at the first light of the fifth day.
Aragorn encountered Éowyn while she was practicing with a sword. Drawing his dagger, he locked blades with her when she turned (not knowing he was there). Surprised, Aragorn noted that she had some skill with a blade. Éowyn responded by manoeuvring his blade away from her.
She explained that she yearned for battle, fearing that she would remain deed-less while she watched everyone else fight from afar. Aragorn named her a shield-maiden of Rohan, foretelling that she would not remain inactive for long. This gained her interest and respect.
While travelling with the king and the people of Rohan towards Helm's Deep, Aragorn learned how Théoden had raised his niece after the death of her father. The ranger overheard Gimli talking to Éowyn about how to distinguish Dwarven women, where Aragorn muttered to Eowyn "It's the beards!", much to her amusement.
She later attempted to make some stew, which is obviously a bad brew given Aragorn's horrified reaction to tasting it. Before he could throw it away, Éowyn asked him how Théoden's grandfather remembered Aragorn, even though that was some time ago. Aragorn confirmed as much, where Éowyn deduced that the ranger was older than he looks. Aragorn admitted that he was 87 years old, to her astonishment. She realised that he is was of the Dunedain, blessed with the long life of the Númenóreans. She encouraged him to eat before she left him alone.
Fall from the Cliff[]
Aragorn recalled the morning before he left Rivendell. After that, Aragorn remembered how Elrond asked him to let Arwen leave Middle-earth. Eowyn asked him about the jewel around his neck and immediately asked which maiden gave him such a jewel. Aragorn replied that the lady in question is "...sailing to the Undying Lands with all that is left of her kin".
Aragorn during the Warg attack.
The host from Edoras was soon ambushed by a pack of Warg riders sent by Saruman. Aragorn rode into battle alongside Théoden. He barely managed to save Gimli from being mauled by a Warg when he speared the beast in the chest. Arargorn himself was knocked off his horse, only to be hauled up onto the Warg of Sharku, leader of the warg riders. Aragorn headbutts him, but falls off the saddle and is dragged along the ground. He manages to stab Sharku with his Elvish dagger, but the warg continued running mindlessly until it ran off a cliff with Aragorn still stuck to it.
The ranger fell and landed in the river, floating down-stream, barely alive. He envisioned Arwen before waking up on the shore. The horse Brego found him and bore him away to safety. While making the lone trip to Helm's Deep, Aragorn saw an enormous host of Uruk-hai from afar. Knowing that they are heading for Helm's Deep, Aragorn rode there urgently.
Helm's Deep[]
"It is an army breed for a single purpose: to destroy the world of Men. They will be here by nightfall" - Aragorn warned Théoden of the approaching host
The people of Rohan were overjoyed to see Aragorn alive, not least Legolas, Gimli and Éowyn. But Aragorn went immediately to warn the King. Théoden was astonished to hear the host was at least ten thousand strong. Knowing that battle is now inevitable, Théoden decided to fight and orders the fortification of the fortress. He believed that they would outlast them, having fought many battles in his life, but Aragorn warned him that this was not like before. Theoden angrily confronted him, asking what more could he possibly do. Aragorn suggested calling for aid. Théoden believed all the old alliances were dead, reacting harshly at the very mention of calling for Gondor's aid.
Later on, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli saw how some of the villagers were being armed just to make up the numbers. Legolas despaired as they were woefully unprepared. Becoming frustrated with the lack of hope, Aragorn sharply said "Then I shall die as one of them!" The ranger later met Haleth, son of Háma, who was also in despair. Aragorn was soft towards the youngster, and assured Haleth "There is always hope". Aragorn solemnly armed himself for battle and reconciled with Legolas after their conflict earlier.
Aragorn during the Battle of Helm's Deep.
Battle of the Hornburg[]
The ranger was filled with hope when a host of Galadhrim Elves arrived to join them, lead by Haldir himself. Aragorn gave Haldir a warm embrace before they returned to the keep. He oversaw the Elven host and ordered them to loose their arrows on the Uruk-hai as the hose of ten thousand arrived outside the fortress. Before long ladders were thrown onto the wall, and the ranger found himself locked in combat with the Uruk Beserkers. But disaster struck when the Uruk-hai used blasting power to destroy the wall of Helm's Deep. Aragorn was thrown from the wall after the explosion, but he recovered quickly enough to lead the Elven contingency force against the invading Uruk-hai.
Eventually, the siege became so straight that they were forced to retreat. The main gate was almost broken open, so Aragorn took Gimli through a secret passage to ambush the Uruks from behind. The gap was wide however, so Gimli was forced to ask Aragorn "Toss me". Aragorn was surprised by this development, so he complied and threw Gimli across the gap. Aragorn and Gimli defended the gate, allowing Théoden and his men to fix it. Before long however they were forced to draw back, so Legolas threw them a rope and hauled them to safety.
Aragorn prepares to ride out to meet the Uruks one last time.
The last defenders were holed up in the keep. Théoden believed they had lost, but Aragorn reminded him of his earlier words that the fortress would never fall while men defended it. The ranger instructed Gamling to lead the women and children out of the secret passage. After this he encouraged Théoden to ride out and meet the enemy head on. As the sun rose, Aragorn remembered Gandalf's words and knew the Wizard would arrive soon. Théoden agreed and they mounted their horses. Riding out into the Uruk-hai, Aragorn finally saw Gandalf arriving at the crest of the hill. The Wizard had brought Éomer and an army of riders to aid them. With their intervention, the Uruk-hai were overwhelmed and the survivors flee. Later on Éowyn was overjoyed to see that Aragorn had survived.
Return to Edoras[]
The members of the Fellowship journeyed to Isengard, where they finally reunited with Pippin and Merry and the Ents had taken down Saruman's defenses. They also confronted Saruman, who spoke to them from the tower of Orthanc. Saruman refused to believe that Aragorn would ever become the King of Gondor, scorning him as an exiled ranger. Aragorn did not rise to the bait and answered nothing. Saruman was eventually killed by Wormtongue.
At Edoras, he had a brief moment with Éowyn, where she gave him a chalice to drink from. Later on he encountered Éowyn while she recovered from a strange dream; a wall of water overtaking a fair land. This is of course was what happened to Númenor, the land where Elendil and Isildur came from. Aragorn was intrigued, knowing full well the story of Númenor, but he comforted Éowyn and coaxed her back to sleep.
Outside, Aragorn found that Legolas was uneasy, sensing the Eye of Sauron was roaming the land. When Legolas suddenly sensed Sauron's presence within the halls of Edoras itself, the two of them ran back inside to investigate. Aragorn found that Sauron had manifested through the Palantir, which Pippin was holding. Aragorn bore the Palantir away, but the Eye of Sauron wore Aragorn down. Gandalf threw a blanket over it, cutting off his presence.
After speaking to Pippin about what he saw, Gandalf revealed that Sauron would soon attack Minas Tirith. Théoden was reluctant to come to their aid, seeing as Gondor did not aid Rohan in the battle of the Hornburg. Aragorn declared he would warn them, but Gandalf counceled him not to, as he quietly warned Aragorn "You must come to Minas Tirith by another road. Follow the river, and look to the Black Ships...". Aragorn seemed to understand that Gandalf was referring to the paths of the dead, which only the King of Gondor could tread.
Dunharrow[]
"Sauron will not have forgotten this sword of Elendil. The blade that was broken... shall return to Minas Tirith" - Aragorn beholds Anduril
Gandalf took it on himself to ride to Minas Tirith. To ensure Rohan aided Gondor, Gandalf had Pippin light the war beacon above the white city. The beacons lit up along the mountain ranges, until Aragorn saw it at Edoras. Immediately he burst into the courtroom and declared the beacons were lit, signalling that Gondor called for aid. Théoden was stunned to hear it, but remembering Aragorn's deeds at Helm's Deep, Théoden declared "And Rohan will answer! Muster the Rohirrim!"
The host from Edoras rode to the encampment at Dunharrow. Théoden expressed disappointment however that his forces weren't as large as he had hoped, and Aragorn was worried. Théoden assured him more would arrive soon, but Aragorn noticed that the horses were uneasy in the shadow of the mountain. Aragorn stareed down the path leading into the mountain, where he briefly saw the King of the Dead staring back at him
Later that night, Aragorn was troubled by visions of Arwen on her deathbed and the Evenstar shattering into pieces. Aragorn awoke with his dagger drawn, only to find that he had been summoned to Théoden's tent. There the King left him with a hooded stranger. The stranger revealed himself; it was Lord Elrond. He advised Aragorn that Arwen had denied Valinor and become mortal. With her life now bound to the fate of Middle-earth, Elrond counselled that Aragorn was outnumbered and needed more men. Aragorn said "There are none", but Elrond answered "There are those who dwell in the mountain..."
Aragorn was in disbelief, noting that the traitors answered to no one, but Elrond countered that they answer to the King of Gondor, upon which he revealed a mighty sword to Aragorn: "Anduril, Flame of the West, forged from the shards of Narsil". Aragorn was awestruck by the weapon, where Elrond urged him to take up his long awaited title. Finally, Aragorn accepted his destiny as the Heir of Elendil.
Paths of the Dead[]
"I summon you to fulfill your oath" - Aragorn faces the King of the Dead
Aragorn prepareed to depart. Éowyn begged him not to leave, admitting her love for him. Aragorn acknowledged her, but knowing that Arwen had denied Valinor, declines Éowyn. He tried to leave the camp unnoticed, only to be intercepted by Legolas and Gimli, who refused to let him go alone. Bemused, Aragorn accepted their companionship and they headed down the dark mountain path.
At the gates of the mountain pass, the horses bolted and fled before they could even enter. Aragorn was not afraid of death and entered in first. Navigating the paths, they encountered ghosts and a pile of skulls. When they came upon the tomb of the King of the Dead, the dead King revealed himself and asked who they were. Aragorn said he was there to claim their allegiance. The King of the Dead summoned an army of ghosts and tried to attack Aragorn. But Aragorn was able to block the dead King's sword. The dead King was stunned, realising that Aragorn was indeed the Heir of Elendil. Aragorn grabbed his throat, saying that the line had been remade.
Aragorn and the oath-breakers
He urged them to fulfill their oath, promising to set them free if they do so. At first the dead King laughed at him and they all vanished. Then the crypt broke open and an avalanche of skulls fell on them. Barely escaping the mountain, Aragorn was dismayed when he saw the black ships on the river. But the King of the Dead suddenly reappeared and declared "We fight!"
Return of the King[]
Aragorn intercepted the Corsairs of Umbar. When he warned them not to enter Gondor, they refused, so he set the King of the Dead and oath-breakers on them. Having taken the ships, Aragorn returned at last to Minas Tirith.
Aragorn leads the Army of the Dead at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
With his arrival, the Battle of the Pelennor Fields ended swiftly. During this battle, Aragorn killed the Orc leader, Gothmog.
With the Orc, Haradrim and Easterling forces destroyed, the men of the dead stood before Aragorn outside Minas Tirith and the King urged Aragorn to fulfil his oath. Gimli mentioned it wasn't a good idea, knowing they would be useful in the oncoming battles but Aragorn honored his part of the pledge and fulfilled their oath, allowing them to finally disappear into death and rest.
After the battle, Aragorn was tasked with healing the wounded, namely Éowyn, Merry and Faramir. Eventually he summoned the leaders of the west to the throne room for a final meeting. Gandalf warned that though Suaron had suffered a defeat, he still had a contingency force waiting in Mordor, which was currently blocking Frodo's path to Mount Doom. Aragorn however believed that they could draw them away if they gather their strength and march on the Black Gates. For Aragorn knew that they could not win by military force, but it would clear the way for Frodo to destroy the One Ring.
Confronting the Dark Lord[]
Aragorn confronts the Eye of Sauron through the Palantir.
"I bid you stand, Men of the West!" - Aragorn prepares to battle Sauron's army
To ensure the plan worked, Aragorn directly challenged Sauron through the Palantir of Orthanc. Under the pretense of claiming the One Ring, Aragorn showed the Dark Lord the very sword which cut the ring from his hand. Sauron was enraged; in retaliation he showed a vision of Arwen on her deathbed. Aragorn was horrified, and as he stepped away, in a trance he dropped the Evenstar, which shatters. Nevertheless, the plans succeeded, as Sauron believed that Aragorn had evidently claimed the One Ring and intended to wield it. Therefore the Dark Lord sent his forces to the Black Gate, clearing the way for Frodo and Sam to get to Mount Doom.
The Host of the West marched on the Black Gate, where they were initially greeted by the Mouth of Sauron. The Mouth claimed that Frodo was dead, revealing the Hobbit's Mithril vest as proof. Impatient with the taunting, Aragorn rode up to the Mouth and beheaded him in a fit of rage, refusing to believe the words the enemy had told them. The gates opened and all of the hosts of Mordor advanced. Aragorn delivered a final speech to the Men of the West, bidding them stand and fight until the last man.
Aragorn at the Black Gate.
Sauron called out to Aragorn from his dark tower, which sent the Heir of Elendil into a trance. But when he turned to Gandalf, he said "For Frodo" and charged at the orcs. The entire army followed him into battle. At first they managed to hold their ground valiantly, but eventually Aragorn was locked in battle with an armoured troll. As the fighting progressed, the troll knocked Aragorn to the ground. When the troll stepped on him, Aragorn responded by stabbing its foot with the dagger. The troll backed off briefly, but it suddenly retreated when the Eye of Sauron screeched in rage. Realising that the One Ring had been destroyed, Aragorn watched with amazement as Barad-dûr collapsed and the Eye of Sauron exploded, breaking the opening lands of Mordor. However he was dismayed when Mount Doom erupted, thinking that Frodo and Sam had perished. It was not so however, as the Hobbits escaped the volcano and were recovered by Gandalf and the Great Eagles soon after.
Coronation[]
"This day does not belong to one man, but to all. Let us together rebuild this world that we may share in the days of peace" - Aragorn is crowned King of Gondor and Arnor
At Minas Tirith, Aragorn was happily reunited with Frodo and the other members of the Fellowship. At the coronation, Aragorn arranged for Gandalf to place the crown on his head. After this, King Aragorn spoke to his subjects and heralded a new era of peace. Then he uttered the words that his forefather Elendil spoke of old when he arrived in Middle-earth. "Et Eärello Endorenna utúlien. Sinome maruvan ar Hildinyar tenn' Ambar-metta!"
In the common tongue, this was rendered as "Out of the Great Sea to Middle-earth I am come. In this place will I abide, and my heirs, unto the ending of the world."
Newly coronated King Elessar of Gondor finally weds Arwen.
Aragorn thanked his friend Legolas, and when Arwen arrived, Elrond willingly gave her over to Aragorn. The two embraced and kissed passionately, becoming wedded as King and Queen. But finally Aragorn payed a final thanks to the Hobbits of the Shire. When they bowed before him, the King told them "My friends... you bow to no one". Then Aragorn knelt before them and so did all the free peoples of Middle-Earth.
King of the west[]
As the King of Gondor, Aragorn ruled well with Arwen by his side. Eventually they had a son which they named Eldarion, (this was envisioned by Arwen prior to the end of the war). Aragorn ruled for a period at the start of the Fourth Age before he died peacefully.
Personality[]
In the films Aragorn is stoic and gritty, opting not to get into quarrels but to watch and observe. He is fiercely loyal and honest, and he is confident when doing the right thing.
Aragorn is not proud nor arrogant, but he does have doubt, especially in himself and his own kin. He appears to be ashamed of his ancestors. When referring to Isildur, he said "Same blood flows through my veins. Same weakness". Aragorn obviously harbors disappointment over the actions of Isildur and therefore does not wish to take up the mantle of the King of Gondor, fearing that he will become corrupted by power. Despite these doubts however, Aragorn proved himself to be stronger than Isildur, in that he refused the One Ring when presented with it, becoming the only person besides Gandalf and Galadriel to refuse it.
Aragorn also strongly believes in hope, no matter what the circumstances. As a result of his fostering in Rivendell and his friendship with Gandalf, Aragorn has great wisdom. An honourable man, he knelt before the four Hobbits as a gesture of thanks for their part in the war.
Equipment[]
- Long sword - initially Aragorn carries a long-sword throughout the trilogy, wielding it in the battles of Amon Hen and Helm's Deep.
- Anduril - the Flame of the West, this blade has a divine power within it, having been used to cut the ring from Sauron's hand. Aragorn wields this to deadly effect in the battle of Pelennor Fields and the Moranon. With this blade Aragorn hacks off thick limbs and heavy armour. It also gives him command over the Oathbreakers.
- Evenstar - an Elven jewel given to him by Arwen. Its powers are unknown but it seems to keep a strong connection between Aragorn and Arwen.
- Elven dagger - this curved blade is given to him by Celeborn. Aragorn uses it to impale Lurtz through the leg and to stab a mountain troll's foot.
- Bow and Arrow - used once in the Mines of Moria
- Ring of Barahir - an ancient ring that once belonged to the Elven Lord Finrod. It was given to Barahir and his descendants, passed down through the ages as an heirloom of Elendil's house.
King[]
- Winged Crown - Aragorn gains a shining Mithril crown with a high crest of birds' wings.
- Elendil's armour - a shining breastplate that was originally worn by Elendil during the Last Alliance.
Abilities[]
Aragorn is arguably the greatest swordsman in the world, rivaling the likes of Thranduil, Legolas and Elrond. While the Elf Lords are renowned for their precision and speed, Aragron excels in terms of sheer ferocity and prolonged swordplay. Other than this he also possess more supernatural skills, virtues that he has inherited as one of the Numenorians.
- Strength - Aragorn is in peak physical condition, even while he is 87 during the films. His blows are enough to cut through limbs and armor with relative ease.
- Speed - Aragorn's strength is matched by his astonishing speed. At point blank range he was able to knock away a dagger thrown at him by Lurtz. He also threw a spear at a Warg with great speed, killing it instantly.
- Healing - Aragorn is skilled in the use of Athelas in healing others, but he also has a more supernatural ability in restoring someone's strength. The hands of a King are often called the hands of a healer. Aragorn manages to revive Eowyn using some otherworldly power within him.
- Longevity and limited foresight - as a Numenorean, Aragorn's lifespan far exceeds normal humans. As revealed in the books, he lived to be 210. Numenorians were gifted in perceiving the thoughts of others if they focused enough.
- Command over the Oathbreakers - by virtue of being a descendant of Isildur, Aragorn is able to physically harm a ghost, briefly sparring with the King of the Dead. After the Oathbreakers fulfill their original pledge, Aragorn grants them leave.
- Expert combatant - Aragorn is proficient in swordplay, archery, daggers and even unarmed combat.
Relationships[]
Steeds
Family Allies
Enemies
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Appearances[]
Note: This list is incomplete
Canon[]
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (mentioned)- The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
- The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Non-canon[]
- The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest
| Frodo Baggins • Samwise Gamgee • Gandalf • Aragorn • Legolas • Gimli • Boromir • Meriadoc Brandybuck • Peregrin Took | |||
|---|---|---|---|
- ↑ The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - Aragorn tells Éowyn he is 87 years old.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
- ↑ The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
- ↑ The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring