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{{disambig-two|the King of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]|[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]|[[Aragorn I]]}}
{{disambig-two|the King of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]|[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]|[[Aragorn I]]}}
{{arnorian
{{arnorian infobox
| image=[[Image:John Howe - Elessar (Battlefields boardgame).jpg|250px]]
| image=[[File:John Howe - Elessar.jpg|250px]]
| name=Aragorn II
| name=Aragorn
| othernames=[[Aragorn|Aragorn II]], [[Thorongil]], Strider ([[Aragorn#Names and titles|see more below]])
| pronun=
| position=[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and King of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]
| othernames=Aragorn II, [[Elessar]], [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]], [[Thorongil]] (''[[Aragorn#Names and titles|see below]]'')
| birth=[[March 1]], {{TA|2931}}
| titles=[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]<br/>King of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]
| rule={{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|120}}
| position=[[Rangers of the North|Ranger]]
| death={{FoA|120}} (210 years old)
| location=[[Rivendell]]<br/>[[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Westron]], [[Sindarin]] and [[Quenya]]
| birth=[[1 March]] {{TA|2931}}
| birthlocation=[[Eriador]]
| rule={{TA|2933}} - {{TA|3019|n}} (Chieftain)<br/>{{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|120}} (King)
| death={{FoA|120}}
| deathlocation=[[Gondor]]
| age=210
| notablefor=
| house=[[House of Isildur]]
| parentage=[[Arathorn II]] and [[Gilraen]]
| siblings=
| spouse=[[Arwen]]
| children=[[Eldarion]], at least two daughters
| gender=Male
| gender=Male
| parentage=[[Arathorn II]] & [[Gilraen]]
| height=6'6<nowiki>''</nowiki> (198cm)<ref name="RC">{{HM|RC}}, p. 229</ref>
| spouse=[[Arwen|Arwen Undómiel]]
| hair=Dark, flecked with grey<ref name="Sign">{{FR|Sign}}</ref>
| children=[[Eldarion]], at least two daughters
| eyes=Grey<ref name="Sign"/>
}}{{Pronounce|Aragorn Elessar.mp3|Ardamir}}
| clothing=High leather boots, dark-green cloak<ref name="Sign"/>
| weapons=[[Andúril]]
| steed=[[Roheryn]] and [[Hasufel]]
}}
 
<center>{{quote|Tall as the sea-kings of old, he stood above all that were near; ancient of days he seemed and yet in the flower of manhood; and wisdom sat upon his brow, and strength and healing were in his hands, and a light was about him.|''[[The Return of the King]]'', [[The Steward and the King]]}}</center>
<center>{{quote|Tall as the sea-kings of old, he stood above all that were near; ancient of days he seemed and yet in the flower of manhood; and wisdom sat upon his brow, and strength and healing were in his hands, and a light was about him.|''[[The Return of the King]]'', [[The Steward and the King]]}}</center>
'''Aragorn''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈaraɡorn]}}; [[Third Age]] March 1, 2931 – [[Fourth Age]] 120, aged 210 years<ref>{{HM|AB}}.</ref>) was the son of [[Arathorn II]] and [[Gilraen]]. He was a [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and a direct descendant through many generations of [[Isildur]], the last [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of both [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Aragorn would become the greatest man of his time, leading the [[Dúnedain|Men of the West]] against [[Sauron]]'s forces, helping to destroy [[the One Ring]], and reuniting the [[Reunited Kingdom|Kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor]].  
'''Aragorn II''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈaraɡorn]}}; 1 March [[Third Age]] {{TA|2931|n}} – [[Fourth Age]] {{FoA|120|n}}, aged 210 years<ref>{{HM|AB}}.</ref>) was the son of [[Arathorn II]] and [[Gilraen]]. He was a [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]] and a direct descendant through many generations of [[Isildur]], the last [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of both [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Aragorn would become the greatest [[Men|Man]] of his time, leading the [[Dúnedain|Men of the West]] against [[Sauron]]'s forces, helping to destroy [[the One Ring]], and reuniting the [[Reunited Kingdom|Kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor]].  


==History==
==History==
===Early Life===
===Early Life===
At his birth, he received the name Aragorn from his father as "a name used in the House of the Chieftains". But his grandmother, Ivorwen, noted with foresight that Aragorn would one day wear on his breast a green stone; from this would come his royal name ''Elessar'' ([[Quenya]] for "Elfstone"), and he would be a healer and a renewer.
Aragorn was born in {{TA|2931}} to the Chieftain Arathorn, and received the name Aragorn. But his grandmother, [[Ivorwen]], noted with foresight that Aragorn would one day wear on his breast a green stone.


When Aragorn was two years old, his father was slain when an [[Orcs|Orc]] arrow pierced his eye. As was the tradition of his people, Aragorn was fostered in [[Rivendell]] by [[Elrond]]. By Elrond's order, his identity was kept secret, as he feared he would be slain like his father and grandfather. Aragorn was named '''''[[Estel]]''''' ([[Sindarin]] for "Hope") instead, and was not told about his heritage until he came of age in {{TA|2951}}.
A legend says that the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] had brought [[Elfstone|such a stone]] from [[Valinor]]. He gave the Elessar to the [[Elves|Elven]] Lady [[Galadriel]], and remarked prophetically that she would pass it to another, who will also be called Elessar.<ref>{{UT|6}}</ref> From this would come his royal name ''Elessar'' ([[Quenya]] for "Elfstone"), and he would be a healer and a renewer.  


Elrond revealed to "Estel" his true name and ancestry in 2951, when Aragorn was twenty years old, and delivered to him the heirlooms of his House: the shards of [[Narsil]] and the [[Ring of Barahir]]. The next day, in the woods of Rivendell, Aragorn met and fell in love with [[Arwen]], daughter of Elrond, who had newly returned from [[Lothlórien]].
When Aragorn was two years old, his father was slain when an [[Orcs|Orc]] arrow pierced his eye. As was the tradition of his people, Aragorn was fostered in [[Rivendell]] by [[Elrond]] as if he was his own son. By Elrond's order, his identity was kept secret, as he feared he would be slain like his father and grandfather. Aragorn was named '''''[[Estel]]''''' ([[Sindarin]] for "Hope") instead.  During his life in Rivendell he accompanied the sons of Elrond, [[Elrohir]] and [[Elladan]], on their journeys. <ref name="A1v">{{App|A1v}}</ref>
[[Image:Stephen Hickman - Aragorn and Arwen.jpg|thumb|200px|left|''Aragorn and Arwen'' by [[Stephen Hickman]]]]
[[File:Stephen Hickman - Aragorn and Arwen.jpg|thumb|left|[[Stephen Hickman]] - ''Aragorn and Arwen'']]
Elrond revealed to "Estel" his true name and ancestry when he returned from a journey with Elrohir and Elladan in {{TA|2951}}, when Aragorn was twenty years old; as part of this revelation, he delivered to him the heirlooms of [[House of Isildur|his House]]: the shards of [[Narsil]] and the [[Ring of Barahir]]. Later, Aragorn met and fell in love with [[Arwen]], daughter of Elrond, who had newly returned from [[Lothlórien]].<ref name="A1v"/>


===Life as a Ranger===
===Life as a Ranger===
Aragorn took up his proper name as Aragorn II, sixteenth of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, and went into [[The Wild]].
Estel took up his proper name as Aragorn, sixteenth of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, and after he took leave of his mother and Elrond he went into [[The Wild]].<ref name="A1v"/> In {{TA|2953}} he was not present in Rivendell for the last meeting of the [[White Council]]. Aragorn met [[Gandalf|Gandalf the Grey]] in {{TA|2956}}, and they became great friends.<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> At Gandalf's advice he started to become interested in [[the Shire]] and became known as '''''Strider''''' in this region.
In [[Third Age 2953|2953]] he was not present in Rivendell for the last meeting of the [[White Council]]. Aragorn met [[Gandalf|Gandalf the Grey]] in [[Third Age 2956|2956]], and they became great friends. At Gandalf's advice he started to become interested in [[the Shire]], and became known around the area as '''''Strider'''''.
[[File:Catherine Chmiel - Ecthelion,Thorongil and Boromir study.jpg|thumb|200px|right|[[Catherine Karina Chmiel]] - ''"Thorongil" with Ecthelion II'']]
[[Image:Catherine Chmiel - Ecthelion,Thorongil and Boromir study.jpg|thumb|200px|right|"Thorongil" with [[Ecthelion II]], by [[Catherine Karina Chmiel]]]]
From {{TA|2957}} to {{TA|2980}} Aragorn took great journeys, serving in the armies of King [[Thengel]] of [[Rohan]], and [[Steward]] [[Ecthelion II]] of Gondor.<ref name="TA"/> Many of his tasks weakened [[Sauron]] and his allies, which during the [[War of the Ring]] helped the West survive. His name in Gondor and Rohan was '''''Thorongil''''' (Sindarin for "Eagle of the Star"), and became one of Ecthelion II's most important advisers. He warned Ecthelion of the [[Corsairs of Umbar]], who threathened the [[Southern Fiefs]] and was eventually allowed by Ecthelion to attack [[Umbar]]. He led a [[Surprise Attack on Umbar|Surprise Attack on the Havens of Umbar]] with a few Gondorian ships, destroying many of their ships and slaying its lord with only few casualties. After his return in [[Pelargir]] he crossed the [[Anduin]] and left Gondor to travel into the far East and South "exploring the hearts of men good and evil" and learning about the "plots and devices" of the servants of the Dark Lord.<ref>{{App|A1ivS}}</ref>
From [[Third Age 2957|2957]] to [[Third Age 2980|2980]] Aragorn took great journeys, serving in the armies of King [[Thengel]] of [[Rohan]], and Steward [[Ecthelion II]] of Gondor. Many of his tasks weakened [[Sauron]] and his allies, which during the [[War of the Ring]] helped the West survive. His name in Gondor and Rohan was '''''Thorongil''''' (Sindarin for "Eagle of the Star"), and with a few Gondorian ships he led a [[Surprise Attack on Umbar|Surprise Attack on the Havens of Umbar]], destroying many of their ships and slaying its lord. He later left Gondor to travel into the far East and South "exploring the hearts of men good and evil" and learning about the "plots and devices" of the servants of the Dark Lord. Later in 2980 he was in [[Lothlórien]], and there once again met Arwen. He gave her the heirloom of his House, the [[Ring of Barahir]], and Arwen pledged her hand to him in marriage.


Elrond gave his foster-son permission to marry his daughter, on the condition that he must first become king of both Gondor and Arnor, for only a king would be worthy of Arwen's hand. This may seem a harsh condition, but it should be noted that it is significantly more lenient than the closest precedent: King [[Thingol]]'s request that [[Beren]] obtain a [[Silmarils|Silmaril]] from [[Morgoth]] before marrying his daughter [[Lúthien|Lúthien]].
Later in 2980 on his return to Rivendell he entered [[Lothlórien]], and there once again met Arwen in [[Caras Galadhon]]. For one season they lived together in Lothlórien. At midsummer he gave her the heirloom of his House, the [[Ring of Barahir]], and Arwen pledged her hand to him in marriage.<ref name="A1v"/>


===War of the Ring===
Elrond gave his foster-son permission to marry his daughter, on the condition that he must first become king of both Gondor and Arnor, for only a king would be worthy of Arwen's hand. This harsh condition had a precedent: King [[Thingol]]'s request that [[Beren]] obtain a [[Silmarils|Silmaril]] from [[Morgoth]] before marrying his daughter [[Lúthien]].<ref name="A1v"/>
====Fellowship of the Ring and events preceding====
In the year [[Third Age 3001|3001]], as a now revealed [[Sauron]] continued to regain power in [[Mordor]], Aragorn began assisting [[Gandalf]] for  news of [[Gollum]]. Gandalf suspected that the ring [[Bilbo Baggins]] found near Gollum's lake was in fact [[the One Ring]]. In [[Third Age 3018|3018]] after searching intermittently over the years, Aragorn finally overtakes Gollum in the [[Dead Marshes]] and takes him to Thranduil in Mirkwood to be held captive. He then returns west where he meets with Gandalf and learns of [[Frodo Baggins]]' plan to leave the shire with the ring.


Aragorn and his [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] kept watch over the border of [[the Shire]] waiting for sight of Frodo. While staying in [[Bree]], Aragorn crossed the paths of four hobbits in [[The Prancing Pony]]. Aragorn watched as the hobbits clumsily hid their names and intentions. He watched as [[Frodo Baggins]], the leader of the party, fell from a table and disappeared as he put the ring on. Aragorn, whose name was given as Strider, seemed to show no surprise, only annoyance at Frodo’s foolish vanishing act.  He arranged for an interview that night, where he warned them of the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]] and [[Bill Ferny]], then bluntly requested that they use him as a guide. After some consideration, and a note given them by the forgetful [[Barliman Butterbur]] from Gandalf condoning him, Frodo agreed.
===Hunt for Gollum===
In the year [[Third Age 3001|3001]], as a now revealed [[Sauron]] continued to regain power in [[Mordor]], Aragorn began assisting [[Gandalf]] in his search for news of [[Gollum]]. Gandalf suspected that the ring [[Bilbo Baggins]] found near Gollum's lake was in fact [[the One Ring]]. In {{TA|3007}}, he shortly returns to [[Eriador]] where he visits his mother for the last time, she dies before that year's spring.  


Aragorn’s plan to reach Rivendell was to first head  toward [[Archet]] and bear right to [[Weathertop]]. After the [[Ambush at Weathertop]] and the wounding of Frodo, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] took over the position as leader of the Hobbits.  After a while they met [[Glorfindel]], a friend of Aragorn’s, and it was not much later that they arrived in Rivendell.
In [[Third Age 3017|3017]] after searching intermittently over the years,<ref name="TA"/> Aragorn finally overtakes Gollum in the [[Dead Marshes]] on [[1 February]]. With Gollum he travelled through the northern [[Emyn Muil]], to prevent being found by Sauron's spies, and crossed the Anduin at the [[Sarn Gebir]]. He travelled further north along the edges of [[Fangorn Forest]] and through Lothlórien,<ref name="UT">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref> where the Elves sent a message to Gandalf.<ref>{{UT|Hunt}}, Note 5</ref> He travelled alongside the Anduin to the north until he arrived at the [[Carrock]]. With the aid of the [[Beornings]] he crossed the Anduin with Gollum and entered [[Mirkwood]]. He took Gollum to [[Thranduil]] in to be held captive.<ref name="UT"/> He then returns west where he meets with Gandalf at [[Sarn Ford]] and learns of [[Frodo Baggins]]' plan to leave the shire with the Ring late September and then went to his own journey.<ref name="Strider">{{FR|Strider}}</ref>
[[Image:Inger Edelfeldt - Death of Boromir.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Aragorn at the death of Boromir, by [[Inger Edelfeldt]]]]


At the Council of Elrond Aragorn was as a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. Aragorn's intentions were to travel with the company for a while before returning to [[Gondor]] with [[Boromir]].
===War of the Ring===
When Aragorn returned to his area, the [[Elves]] who followed [[Gildor Inglorion]] told Aragorn the Black Riders had been seen, and Gandalf had been missing and there were no messages from him. Aragorn and his [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] kept watch over the border of [[the Shire]] and the [[East Road]] waiting for sight of Frodo but there were no news of them leaving [[Buckland]].<ref name="Strider"/>


Aragorn encouraged the taking of the [[Caradhras|Redhorn Pass]], which ended in disaster. He reluctantly conceded to Gandalf’s plan to pass through [[Khazad-dûm|Moria]], though his sense of foresight warned him for Gandalf.  Indeed, after Gandalf fell into the  abyss with [[Durin's Bane]], Aragorn was naturally elected leader of the company, despite some resentment by Boromir.
While staying in [[Bree]], Aragorn crossed the paths of four hobbits in [[The Prancing Pony]].  Aragorn watched as the hobbits clumsily hid their names and intentions. He watched as [[Frodo Baggins]], the leader of the party, fell from a table and disappeared as he put the ring on.  Aragorn, whose name was given as Strider, seemed to show no surprise, only annoyance at Frodo’s foolish vanishing act. He arranged for an interview that night, where he warned them of the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]] and [[Bill Ferny]], then bluntly requested that they use him as a guide.  After some consideration, and a note given them by the forgetful [[Barliman Butterbur]] from Gandalf condoning him, Frodo agreed.
[[File:Jef Murray - Amon Sûl.jpg|thumb|left|[[Jef Murray]] - ''Amon Sûl'']]
Aragorn’s plan to reach Rivendell was to first head toward [[Archet]] and bear right to [[Weathertop]].  After the ambush at Weathertop and the wounding of Frodo, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] took over the position as leader of the Hobbits. After a while they met [[Glorfindel]], a friend of Aragorn’s, and it was not much later that they arrived in Rivendell.
[[File:Darrell Sweet - The Reforging of the Sword.jpg|thumb|[[Darrell Sweet]] - ''The Reforging of the Sword'']]
After the Council of Elrond Aragorn became a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. As a preparation for his travel, the ancient shards of [[Narsil]], the heirloom of his House, were reforged after 3 millennia. Aragorn carried the Sword Reforged, and renamed it [[Andúril]].  


Aragorn again amazed the rest of the Fellowship by his apparent closeness to the people of [[Lothlórien]], and his friendship with [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]]. Even at the [[Falls of Rauros]] he was undecided, leaving it to Frodo for the final decision. For though it was obvious he wished to go to [[Minas Tirith]] with Boromir, he yet felt that it was his duty to go where the [[Ring-bearer]] chose.
Aragorn's intentions were to travel with the company for a while before returning to [[Gondor]] with [[Boromir]]. Aragorn encouraged the taking of the [[Caradhras|Redhorn Pass]], which ended in disaster. He reluctantly conceded to Gandalf’s choice to pass through [[Moria]], though his sense of foresight warned him for Gandalf.  Indeed, after Gandalf fell into the  abyss with [[Durin's Bane]], Aragorn was naturally elected leader of the company, despite some resentment by Boromir.
====Leading the Fellowship of the Ring====
Aragorn again amazed the rest of the Fellowship by his apparent closeness to the people of [[Lothlórien]], and his friendship with [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]]. At their departure, Galadriel offered him the [[Elfstone]] as a wedding gift from the family of the Elven bride to the groom, foretelling his marriage to Arwen.<ref>{{MR|P3II3}}</ref>. It was worn by Aragorn ever after and from that he later took the name '''Elessar'''.


====The early War of the Ring====
Even at the [[Rauros|Falls of Rauros]] he was undecided, leaving it to Frodo for the final decision.  For though it was obvious he wished to go to [[Minas Tirith]] with Boromir, he yet felt that it was his duty to go where the [[Ring-bearers|Ring-bearer]] chose.
After Frodo escaped him and Boromir perished, he with the remaining members of the Fellowship, namely [[Legolas]] and [[Gimli]], chose to try and save Merry and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] from the [[Uruk-hai]] that had ambushed them, forming the group that would later be known as the [[Three Hunters]].


He met [[Éomer]] in the fields of [[Rohan]], and an instant friendship formed, both feeling the honesty and lordliness of the other.  Éomer took a risk for his sake, giving him horses, with the promise that one day soon Aragorn would return to [[Edoras]].  Aragorn, tracking the Hobbits, followed into Fangorn forest, where he met the resurrected [[Gandalf|Gandalf the White]].  After the restoration of [[Théoden]], he rode to [[Helm's Deep]] to fight in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].  There he, alongside his new-found “brother” Éomer, and King Théoden, marshaled the defense against [[Saruman]]’s army.  His revealed majesty upon the battlements of the Hornburg as he waited for the dawn caused some of the [[Dunlendings|Wild men]] to pause and shudder, and he heralded the return of Gandalf with [[Erkenbrand]].
[[File:Inger Edelfeldt - Death of Boromir.jpg|thumb|200px|right|[[Inger Edelfeldt]] - ''Death of Boromir'']]
After Frodo escaped him and Boromir perished, he with the remaining members of the Fellowship, namely [[Legolas]] and [[Gimli]], chose to try and save [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] from the [[Uruk-hai]] that had ambushed them, forming the group that would later be known as the [[Three Hunters]].
 
He met [[Éomer]] in the fields of [[Rohan]], and an instant friendship formed, both feeling the honesty and lordliness of the other.  Éomer took a risk for his sake, giving him horses, with the promise that one day soon Aragorn would return to [[Edoras]].  Aragorn, tracking the Hobbits, followed into Fangorn Forest, where he met the resurrected [[Gandalf|Gandalf the White]].  After the restoration of [[Théoden]], he rode to [[Helm's Deep]] to fight in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].  There he, alongside his new-found “brother” Éomer, and King Théoden, marshaled the defense against [[Saruman]]’s army.  His revealed majesty upon the battlements of the Hornburg as he waited for the dawn caused some of the [[Dunlendings|Wild men]] to pause and shudder, and he heralded the return of Gandalf with [[Erkenbrand]].


After Pippin’s terrifying experience with the [[Orthanc-stone]], Gandalf presented it in a formal manner to Aragorn, its rightful master, who hinted that it would be used by him eventually. After the departure of Gandalf and Pippin to Minas Tirith, he rode for a while longer with Théoden, meeting up with his friend [[Halbarad]] of the North, [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], and a company of staunch and fearless Rangers. Elladan and Elrohir gave him a message from Elrond: "''The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the [[Paths of the Dead]]''". Halbarad bore a gift from the Lady Arwen – the [[Standard of Elendil]]. Aragorn knew the path set before him.
After Pippin’s terrifying experience with the [[Orthanc-stone]], Gandalf presented it in a formal manner to Aragorn, its rightful master, who hinted that it would be used by him eventually. After the departure of Gandalf and Pippin to Minas Tirith, he rode for a while longer with Théoden, meeting up with his friend [[Halbarad]] of the North, [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], and a company of staunch and fearless Rangers. Elladan and Elrohir gave him a message from Elrond: "''The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the [[Paths of the Dead]]''". Halbarad bore a gift from the Lady Arwen – the [[Standard of Elendil]]. Aragorn knew the path set before him.
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The [[Grey Company]] passed through the [[Dark Door]] and the [[Dwimorberg]], the Dead following, and coming at last to the [[Stone of Erech]], Aragorn summoned them to his aid. They drew their swords and blew their horns in answer, and swept down upon the [[Corsairs of Umbar|Corsairs]] at [[Pelargir]] drove the mariners away. Aragorn released them, and took the [[Black Ships]] north to Minas Tirith, where the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] raged. The Standard of Elendil broke forth, and his Dúnedain swept down, giving the final blow to the army of [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)|Gothmog]]. The counter-attacked army of [[Sauron]] crumbled utterly. But Aragorn did not enter the city.
The [[Grey Company]] passed through the [[Dark Door]] and the [[Dwimorberg]], the Dead following, and coming at last to the [[Stone of Erech]], Aragorn summoned them to his aid. They drew their swords and blew their horns in answer, and swept down upon the [[Corsairs of Umbar|Corsairs]] at [[Pelargir]] drove the mariners away. Aragorn released them, and took the [[Black Ships]] north to Minas Tirith, where the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] raged. The Standard of Elendil broke forth, and his Dúnedain swept down, giving the final blow to the army of [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)|Gothmog]]. The counter-attacked army of [[Sauron]] crumbled utterly. But Aragorn did not enter the city.
[[Image:Luca Michelucci - 1999 - March.jpg|thumb|175px|left|The Black ships, by [[Luca Michelucci]]]]
 
Aragorn, furling his banner, appointed [[Imrahil]] the temporary lord of the City, as the law demanded.  Eventually, however, Aragorn did come to the [[Houses of Healing]], where he tended and restored Merry, Éowyn, and [[Faramir]], in accordance with the prophecy “''The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known''”. Aragorn then left the city, hooded and cloaked, and yet the people of Minas Tirith followed him, for they had heard rumours. Yet when in the morning they saw the banner of [[Dol Amroth]], they wondered if the Return of the King had been but a dream.
Aragorn, furling his banner, appointed [[Imrahil]] the temporary lord of the City, as the law demanded.  Eventually, however, Aragorn did come to the [[Houses of Healing]], where he tended and restored Merry, Éowyn, and [[Faramir]], in accordance with the prophecy “''The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known''”. Aragorn then left the city, hooded and cloaked, and yet the people of Minas Tirith followed him, for they had heard rumours. Yet when in the morning they saw the banner of [[Dol Amroth]], they wondered if the Return of the King had been but a dream.


Aragorn held [[Last Debate|council]] with his trusted companions, namely Gandalf, Éomer, Imrahil, and Elrond’s sons – Halbarad had fallen in battle.  He agreed to draw forth the forces of [[Mordor]] for the benefit of the [[Quest of the Ring]], and so arranged matters for the [[Battle of the Morannon]].  After the Destruction of the Ring in [[Mount Doom|Orodruin]] and victory at the [[Morannon]], Aragorn returned at last in the triumphant manner that befitted his position. He was crowned at the gates of Minas Tirith, winning the hearts of the people of [[Gondor]]. Gandalf took him up the slopes of Mount [[Mindolluin]], and there Aragorn found the scion of [[Nimloth of Númenor|Nimloth]], the symbol of his mastery of the [[Reunited Kingdom]].  He wedded Arwen on Midsummer's day of 3019, and then was forced to bid his old friends farewell.  He turned back to his new kingdom as the [[Fourth Age]] dawned and the Ringbearers left the shores of Middle-earth forever.
Aragorn held [[Last Debate|council]] with his trusted companions, namely Gandalf, Éomer, Imrahil, and Elrond’s sons – Halbarad had fallen in battle.  He agreed to draw forth the forces of [[Mordor]] for the benefit of the [[Quest of the Ring]], and so arranged matters for the [[Battle of the Morannon]].  After the destruction of the Ring in [[Mount Doom|Orodruin]] and victory at the [[Morannon]], Aragorn returned at last in the triumphant manner that befitted his position. He was crowned at the gates of Minas Tirith, winning the hearts of the people of [[Gondor]].


===Reign as Elessar===
===Reign as Elessar===
Aragorn ruled the [[Reunited Kingdom]] of Gondor and Arnor until year 120 of the [[Fourth Age]]. He died after 210 years of life and 122 years of rule. His wife Arwen, now mortal, gave up her life shortly afterwards in year 121, aged 2,901.
Aragorn ruled the [[Reunited Kingdom]] of Gondor and Arnor until year 120 of the [[Fourth Age]].  
 
Some days after his coronation, Gandalf took Elessar up the slopes of Mount [[Mindolluin]], and there he found the scion of [[Nimloth of Númenor|Nimloth]], the symbol of his mastery of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]. Elrond and Arwen came to Gondor and Elrond gave Elessar the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]] signifying the Kingship of Arnor. He wedded Arwen on Midsummer's day of 3019, and then was forced to bid his old friends farewell.  He turned back to his new kingdom as the [[Fourth Age]] dawned and the Ringbearers left the shores of Middle-earth forever.
 
One of his first tasks in the re-ordering of his realm was the restoration of [[Orthanc]] and ordered the [[Orthanc-stone]] to be returned there. With this opportunity, many secrets and hoarded treasures were revealed including the [[Elendilmir]] which Saruman took from Isildur's body. Elessar received the Elemdilmir with reverence and took it with him as he established his full kingship of [[Arnor]].<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref>
 
Elessar gave his [[Steward]] Faramir the title [[Lord of Emyn Arnen]] and created him as [[Prince of Ithilien]]<ref>{{RK|Steward}}</ref>. He declared the [[Drúadan Forest]] to belong to the [[Drúedain]] and a protected enclave of his Kingdom.<ref>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> He also re-established the Great [[Council of Gondor]] whose chief councellor was the Steward<ref>{{L|244}}</ref>. He also renewed the [[Oath of Cirion]] with Éomer.


He founded the [[House of Telcontar]], and was succeeded by his son [[Eldarion]]. He also had a number of daughters, whose names were not recorded.
As for [[the Shire]], he declared it a Free Land under the protection of the Northern Sceptre and forbid Men from entering it. He appointed the [[Thain]], the [[Master of Buckland]], and the [[Mayor of Michel Delving]] Counsellors of the North-kingdom. Also he offered to the Shire the [[Westmarch|lands]] up to the [[Tower Hills|Emyn Beraid]].<ref>{{App|Later}}</ref>


Through his ancestor Elendil, Aragorn was a descendant of the [[Númenóreans]], great [[Men]] who were granted long lives by the [[Valar]]. Though [[Númenor]] was destroyed, its people lived on as the [[Dúnedain]], and like their ancestors they too were long-lived. Thus Aragorn lived to a great age, finally passing on at 210 years.
He founded the royal [[House of Telcontar]], he had a son and a number of daughters.
 
King Elessar died after 210 years of life and 122 years of rule and was succeeded by his son [[Eldarion]]. His wife Arwen, now mortal, gave up her life shortly afterwards in year 121, aged 2,901.


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
The name '''Aragorn''' is [[Sindarin]] but has long been without a clear etymology. It clearly contains the first element ''[[ar]]-/[[aran]]'' which appears in the names of the [[Kings of Arthedain]] and [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain]] meaning "royal", but the second element obviously is a [[lenition|lenited]] word *''corn'' or *''gorn'' of unclear meaning.
{{Pronounce|Aragorn Elessar.mp3|Ardamir}}
 
The name '''''Aragorn''''' is [[Sindarin]], meaning '''"Revered King"''', from ''[[aran]]'' ("king") and ''[[gorn|(n)gorn]]'' ("dreaded, revered").<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 113</ref>
The [[Quenya]] form ''Ara'''corno'''''<ref name="WP">{{PE|17}}, page 71.</ref> supports the Sindarin form *''corn''


However in "Words, Phrases & Passages in ''The Lord of the Rings''", a late 1950's manuscript by Tolkien published only recently, contains the most clear, and apparently final, thoughts of Tolkien indicate the name means '''"Revered King"''', from ''[[aran]]'' "king" and ''[[gorn|(n)gorn]]'' "dreaded, revered"<ref>{{PE|17}}, page 113.</ref>.
This clear etymology from Tolkien was not revealed until the publication in 2007 of "Words, Phrases & Passages in ''The Lord of the Rings''", a late 1950s manuscript. Before that, several theories were proposed:
*[[Ruth S. Noel]] and several others proposed  "King of the Tree",<ref>[[Ruth S. Noel]], ''[[The Languages of Tolkien's Middle-earth]]'', p. 114</ref> but Tolkien specifically said that this was not the case.<ref>{{L|347}}</ref>
*[[David Salo]] deduces "Having Kingly Valor"<ref>[[David Salo]], ''[[A Gateway to Sindarin]]'', p. 341</ref> from Tolkien's cryptic "'Kingly Valour' (for so is that name interpreted)".<ref>{{PM|Foreword}}, p. xii</ref> This is still the most often cited etymology; Robert Ireland's ''[[A Tolkien Dictionary]]'' gives the variation "Royal Zeal".<ref>Robert Ireland, ''[[A Tolkien Dictionary]]'', [http://www.quicksilver899.com/Tolkien/LOTR/LOTR_AC.html The Lord of the Rings A-C].</ref>
*[[Carl F. Hostetter]] proposed the meanings "King of the Globe" or "King of the Hill" in his analysis of the [[King's Letter]].<ref>[[Carl F. Hostetter]], "The 'King's Letter': An Historical and Comparative Analysis", [[Vinyar Tengwar 31|''Vinyar Tengwar'' 31]], p. 18</ref>


Before that, other theories existed:
The [[Quenya]] form of ''Aragorn'' was '''''Aracorno'''''.<ref name="WP">{{PE|17}}, p. 71</ref>  
*[[Ruth S. Noel]] and several others proposed  "King of the Tree"<ref>[[Ruth S. Noel]], ''[[The Languages of Tolkien's Middle-earth]]'', page 114.</ref>, but [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] specifically said that this was not the case<ref>''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'', [[Letter 347]].</ref>.
*[[David Salo]]  deduces "Having Kingly Valor" <ref>[[David Salo]], ''[[A Gateway to Sindarin]]'', page 341.</ref> from Tolkien's cryptic "'Kingly Valour (for so is that name interpreted)"<ref>''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', Foreword, page xii.</ref>. This is still the most often cited etymology; Robert Ireland's ''[[A Tolkien Dictionary]]'' gives the variation "Royal Zeal"<ref>Robert Ireland, ''[[A Tolkien Dictionary]]'', [http://www.quicksilver899.com/Tolkien/LOTR/LOTR_AC.html The Lord of the Rings A-C].</ref>.
*[[Carl F. Hostetter]] proposed the meanings "King of the Globe" or "King of the Hill" in his analysis of the [[King's Letter]]<ref>[[Carl F. Hostetter]], "The 'King's Letter': An Historical and Comparative Analysis", [[Vinyar Tengwar 31]], page 18.</ref>.


===Names and titles===
===Names and titles===
* Aragorn II - Aragorn's name as [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]. He was likely named after [[Aragorn I]].
* '''Aragorn II''' - Aragorn's name as [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]. He was likely named after [[Aragorn I]].
* [[Thorongil]] - [[Sindarin|S]] "Eagle of the Star", a pseudonym used in [[Gondor]] and [[Rohan]].  Pronounced {{IPA|[θoˈroŋɡil]}}.
* [[Thorongil]] - [[Sindarin|S]] "Eagle of the Star", a pseudonym used in [[Gondor]] and [[Rohan]].  Pronounced {{IPA|[θoˈroŋɡil]}}.
* Elessar - [[Quenya|Q]] "Elfstone", Aragorn's name as a king. Despite popular use as such, Aragorn was never known as "Aragorn Elessar", "Aragorn II Elessar" or "[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|King Aragorn]]".  Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈlesːar]}}.
* '''Elessar''' - [[Quenya|Q]] "Elfstone", Aragorn's name as a king. Despite popular use as such, Aragorn was never known as "Aragorn Elessar", "Aragorn II Elessar" or "[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|King Aragorn]]".  Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈlesːar]}}.
* Edhelharn - The [[Sindarin]] equivalent of Elessar, used in the King's Letter<ref>''[[Sauron Defeated]]'', The Epilogue, page 128 and following.</ref>. Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈðel.harn]}}.
* [[Envinyatar|''Envinyatar'', the Renewer]]
* '''Edhelharn''' - The [[Sindarin]] equivalent of Elessar, used in the King's Letter.<ref>{{SD|XI2}}, p. 128ff</ref>  Pronounced {{IPA|[eˈðel.harn]}}.
* [[Elfstone]] - The [[Westron|Common Speech]] version of the previous two.  
* [[Elfstone]] - The [[Westron|Common Speech]] version of the previous two.  
* [[Estel]] - [[Quenya|Q]].  Usually glossed as "Hope", the concept ''estel'' more widely means "hope, trust, a temper of mind, steady fixed in purpose, and difficult to dissuade and unlikely to fall into despair or abandon its purpose".  Pronounced {{IPA|[ˈestel]}}.
* [[Estel]] - [[Quenya|Q]].  Usually glossed as "Hope", the concept ''estel'' more widely means "hope, trust, a temper of mind, steady fixed in purpose, and difficult to dissuade and unlikely to fall into despair or abandon its purpose".  Pronounced {{IPA|[ˈestel]}}.
* [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] - A sobriquet given by the men of [[Bree]]. Aragorn used it mockingly.
* [[Strider (Aragorn)|Strider]] - A sobriquet given by the men of [[Bree]]. Aragorn used it mockingly.
* [[Wingfoot]] - A honorary name given by [[Éomer]] after the pursuit of the [[Uruk-hai]] through the [[Eastemnet]].  
* '''Wingfoot''' - A honorary name given by [[Éomer]] after the pursuit of the [[Uruk-hai]] through the [[Eastemnet]].<ref>{{TT|III2}}</ref>
* [[Telcontar]] - A [[Quenya]] form of "Strider", this was the name of Elessar's Royal House. It was not used independently.  Pronounced {{IPA|[telˈkontar]}}.
* [[Telcontar]] - A [[Quenya]] form of "Strider", this was the name of Elessar's Royal House. It was not used independently.  Pronounced {{IPA|[telˈkontar]}}.
* [[Heir of Isildur|Isildur's Heir]] - A poetic address, as he was the heir of [[Isildur]].  
* [[Heir of Isildur|Isildur's Heir]] - A poetic address, as he was the heir of [[Isildur]].  
* The Dúnadan - "[[Dúnedain|Man of the West]]", a name given by [[Bilbo Baggins]] when their friendship evolved.  
* '''The Dúnadan''' - "[[Dúnedain|Man of the West]]", a name given by [[Bilbo Baggins]] when their friendship evolved.  
* Longshanks - another, though less frequently used, sobriquet in Bree, ascribed to [[Bill Ferny]]. The legs of the [[Bree-landers|Bree-men]] were shorter than the legs of the [[Dúnedain]].
* '''Longshanks''' - another, though less frequently used, sobriquet in Bree, ascribed to [[Bill Ferny]]. The legs of the [[Bree-landers|Bree-men]] were shorter than the legs of the [[Dúnedain]].
* Arakorno - A rare Quenya form of Aragorn, which only appeared in a discussion about the words for Quenya "and"<ref name="WP"/>Pronounced {{IPA|[ˌaraˈkorno]}}.
* '''Arakorno''' - A rare Quenya form of Aragorn, which only appeared in a discussion about the words for Quenya "and".<ref name="WP"/> Pronounced {{IPA|[ˌaraˈkorno]}}.


==Family tree==
==Family tree==
Line 122: Line 155:
{{familytree | | | ART |y| GIL |!| | | | | |ART=[[Arathorn II]]|GIL=[[Gilraen]]}}
{{familytree | | | ART |y| GIL |!| | | | | |ART=[[Arathorn II]]|GIL=[[Gilraen]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | ARA |y| ARW | | | | |ARA='''ARAGORN II'''|ARW=[[Arwen]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | ARA |y| ARW | | | | |ARA='''ARAGORN '''|ARW=[[Arwen]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | ELD | | SDS | | | | |ELD=[[Eldarion]]|SDS=''several sisters''}}
{{familytree | | | | | ELD | | SDS | | | | |ELD=[[Eldarion]]|SDS=''several sisters''}}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}
==Other versions of the legendarium==
==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earliest unpublished versions of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' (see ''[[The History of The Lord of the Rings]]''), the character that later became Aragorn was called '''''[[Trotter]]''''' instead of Strider, and was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] instead of a [[Men|Man]]. He had wooden feet, because he had once traveled to Mordor and been tortured there.
In the earliest unpublished versions of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' (see ''[[The History of The Lord of the Rings]]''), the character that later became Aragorn was called '''''[[Trotter]]''''' instead of Strider, and was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] instead of a [[Men|Man]]. He had wooden feet, because he had once traveled to Mordor and been tortured there.
Line 132: Line 166:
<center><gallery>  
<center><gallery>  
File:WiMe-Aragorn&Frodo VS Nazgul-1-.png|<center>''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''</center>
File:WiMe-Aragorn&Frodo VS Nazgul-1-.png|<center>''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''</center>
Image:Strider from Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]''</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Strider.jpg|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]</center>
Image:Aragorn from Rankin-Bass' The Return of the King.jpg|<center>''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King]]''</center>
File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Aragorn.jpg|<center>[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]</center>
Image:Aragorn grimace.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]''</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Aragorn.jpg|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]</center>
Image:Aragorn Anduril viv lotr.JPG|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]''</center>
File:Aragorn Anduril viv lotr.JPG|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]</center>
Image:Aragorn LOTRO.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''</center>
File:Aragorn LOTRO.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''</center>
File:2011-12-23 00061.jpg|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''</center>
File:LEGO Aragorn poster.png|<center>Aragorn as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''</center>
</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


'''1955: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Godfrey Kenton]].
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Godfrey Kenton]].


'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[John Hurt]]. Some critics have accused this character of looking too much like a [[wikipedia:Stereotypes_of_Native_Americans|stereotype of a Native American]].
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[John Hurt]]. Some critics have accused this character of looking too much like a [[wikipedia:Stereotypes_of_Native_Americans|Native American stereotype]].


'''1979: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|Mind's Eye's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Tom Luce]].
:The voice of Aragorn is provided by [[Tom Luce]].


Line 151: Line 187:
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Theodore Bikel]].
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Theodore Bikel]].


'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Robert Stephens]].
:Aragorn was voiced by [[Robert Stephens]].  For his early scenes, according to [[John McAndrew]] (Pippin) Stephens adopted an accurate Bristol accent to help suggest the disguise Strider adopted in Bree.


'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''
'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''
Line 158: Line 194:


'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:Aragorn is played by [[Viggo Mortensen]], though originally, [[Stuart Townsend]] was cast in the role. Townsend was deemed too young. Mortensen had just two weeks to train for his first scene, the standoff with the [[Nazgûl]] at [[Weathertop]]. Mortensen portrays Aragorn full of self-doubt; a change that was presumably made to fit him in the modern "anti-hero" jacket.
:Aragorn is played by [[Viggo Mortensen]], though [[Stuart Townsend]] was originally cast in the role. Townsend was deemed too young. Mortensen had just two weeks to train for his first scene, the standoff with the [[Nazgûl]] at [[Weathertop]]. Mortensen portrays Aragorn full of self-doubt. Jackson explained that this was to give him a character development arc.


'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:[[Daran Norris]] provided the voice of Aragorn.  
:[[Daran Norris]] provided the voice of Aragorn, who is one of the three playable characters.


'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Aragorn's part is this film is largely similar to the events in book. The most significant difference being that in the book, their was no [[Wargs|Warg]] attack on the party traveling to Helm's Deep and Aragorn did not fall down a cliff.
:Aragorn's part is this film is largely similar to the events in book. The most significant difference is that, in the book, there was no [[Wargs|Warg]] attack on the party traveling to Helm's Deep and Aragorn did not fall down a cliff.
 
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''
:Aragorn is one of the three playable characters.


'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|Peter Jackson's The Return of the King]]'':'''
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|Peter Jackson's The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Aragorn shows great trouble over the choice whether or not he should become king, whereas in the book, there is no doubt of his purpose to return as the king from the very first time his lineage is revealed.
:Aragorn shows great trouble over the choice whether or not he should become king, whereas in the book, there is no doubt of his purpose to return as the king from the very first time his lineage is revealed.
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Aragorn is a playable character, his storyline is dubbed "Path of a King". He journey through Paths of the Dead with Legolas and Gimli, later they fight on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate.
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Free People side. He is present in Lothlorien, Battle of Hornburg and Siege of the Minas Morgul.
'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, he also accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode.
'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Aragorn is now the Hero for the Men of the West faction.


'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Aragorn is a non-playable character, who the player first meets at [[the Prancing Pony]] and later in the story in [[Rivendell]].
:In the Prologue, Aragorn saves Men/Hobbit characters from brigands, but is forced to leave soon, as he has to intercept Frodo in Bree. Later arriving at the Prancing Pony, the characters meet him again and help him looking in surrounding area for Hobbits, who did not arrive in time. When player returns, Aragorn and the Hobbits already departed, and their next meeting is in Rivendell, where Aragorn entrusts the player with defense of the North while the Fellowship is gone. Later, in [[Lothlórien]], Aragorn is seen residing in [[Caras Galadhon]]


'''See also:''' <br>[http://dare.ubvu.vu.nl/bitstream/1871/10975/1/Aragorn_Final.pdf "Aragorn Seen Through Different Media"] by [[Connie Veugen]], comparing the introduction of Strider in Ralph Bakshi's film, the radio play, Peter Jackson's film and [[Vivendi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|video game]] of ''The Fellowship of the Ring.
'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:Aragorn is a playable hero available in several missions.
 
'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:Aragorn is an important character of the game, and is mentioned as one of the much honored heroes of the [[War of the Ring]] in the introduction of the game.<ref name="Prologue">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</ref>
:He is a friend of two of the game's main characters, [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]] and [[Andriel]]. Aragorn had met [[Andriel]] during his visits at [[Rivendell]],<ref name="Backstory Andriel">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/heroes/backstory#elfAnchor|articlename=Elven Character: Andriel's History|dated=|website=War in the North|accessed=25 December 2011}}</ref> while he had met Eradan, when he served as Ranger at Sarn Ford. Aragorn was impressed by his skills and bravery, and taught him much about tracking. Eradan was a companion of Aragorn on many of his journeys. Aragorn trusted Eradan much, though he never told him what the reason was behind the protection of [[the Shire]].<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/heroes/backstory#dunedainAnchor|articlename=Human Character: Eradan's History|dated=|website=War in the North|accessed=24 December 2011}}</ref>
 
:Eradan, Andriel and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] meet Aragorn in the Prancing Pony to warn him, on Halbarad's request, after the Nazgûl attacked and defeated the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] at [[Sarn Ford]], and entered the Shire. They also tell him about an conservation between the Witch-king and [[Agandaûr]], which the three heroes overheard shortly after the attack. Agandaûr summoned the [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] and assembled an army in [[Fornost]], which plans to aid the Nazgûl in their search to [[the One Ring]]. Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, to stop Agandaûr and his army.<ref name="Prologue"/> While Eradan, Andriel, Farin, [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] stopped Agandaûr's army,<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Chapter 1: Fornost''</ref> Aragorn met with [[Frodo Baggins]] and left Bree.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs'', Bree</ref>
 
'''2012: ''[[Lego|Lego The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
:A mini figure of Aragorn is included in the [[Lego#Sets|sets]] '''Attack at Weathertop''', '''The Battle of Helm's Deep''', '''The Battle at the Black gate''', and '''The Pirate ship ambush'''.<ref name="2012 sets">{{webcite|author=Calisuri|articleurl=http://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/02/12/53563-more-lord-of-the-rings-lego-details-from-toy-fare-2012/|articlename=More Lord of the Rings LEGO Details from Toy Fare 2012|dated=12 February 2012|website=TORN|accessed=18 February 2012}}</ref>
 
'''See also:''' <br>[http://dare.ubvu.vu.nl/bitstream/1871/10975/1/Aragorn_Final.pdf "Aragorn Seen Through Different Media"] by [[Connie Veugen]], comparing the introduction of Strider in Ralph Bakshi's film, the 1981 BBC radio play, Peter Jackson's film and [[Vivendi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|video game]] of ''The Fellowship of the Ring.


==Titles==
==Titles==
{{seq-start}}
{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
{{seq-head
| race=gondorian
| race=arnorian
| house=[[House of Telcontar]]<small><br/>Continuation of the senior branch of the [[House of Isildur]]</small>
| house=[[House of Telcontar]]<small><br/>Continuation of the senior branch of the [[House of Isildur]]</small>
| born=[[March 1]], {{TA|2931}}
| born=[[1 March|March 1]], {{TA|2931}}
| died={{FoA|120}}
| died={{FoA|120}}
}}
}}
{{seq
{{seq
| prow=2
| prev=[[Arathorn II]]
| prev=[[Arathorn II]]
| list=[[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]
| list=16th [[Chieftains of the Dúnedain|Chieftain of the Dúnedain]]
| dates={{TA|2933}} – T.A. 3019
| dates={{TA|2933}} – {{TA|3019|n}}
| next=Position abolished
| next=Position abolished
| nvac=None
| nvac=None
}}
{{seq
| list=39th [[Heir of Isildur|Heir]] of [[Isildur]]
| dates={{TA|2933}} - {{FoA|120}}
| next=[[Eldarion]]
}}
}}
{{seq
{{seq
| prev=[[Gandalf]]
| prev=[[Gandalf]]
| list=Leader of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| list=Leader of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| dates=[[January 15]] - [[August 22]], {{TA|3019}}
| dates=[[15 January|January 15]] - [[22 August|August 22]], {{TA|3019}}
| next=Position abolished
| next=Position abolished
| nvac=None
| nvac=None
Line 199: Line 268:
| pvac=Vacant
| pvac=Vacant
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärnur]]''', 969 years earlier
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärnur]]''', 969 years earlier
| list=[[Kings of Gondor|King of Gondor]]
| list=34th [[Kings of Gondor|King of Gondor]]
| dates=T.A. 3019 – Fo.A. 120
| dates={{TA|3019}} {{FoA|120}}
| next=[[Eldarion]]
| next=[[Eldarion]]
| nrow=4
| nrow=4
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{{seq
{{seq
| pvac=Vacant
| pvac=Vacant
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärendur]]''', 2,158 years earlier
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Eärendur (King of Arnor)|Eärendur]]''', 2,158 years earlier
| list=[[Kings of Arnor|King of Arnor]]
| list=11th [[Kings of Arnor|King of Arnor]]
| dates=T.A. 3019 – Fo.A. 120
| dates={{TA|3019}} {{FoA|120}}
}}
}}
{{seq
{{seq
| pvac=Vacant
| pvac=Vacant
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Isildur]]''', 3,017 years earlier
| prev=Last held by:<br/>'''[[Isildur]]''', 3,017 years earlier
| list=[[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]
| list=1st [[High King of the Dúnedain|High King]] of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]
| dates=T.A. 3019 – Fo.A. 120
| dates={{TA|3019}} {{FoA|120}}
}}
}}
{{seq
{{seq
Line 220: Line 289:
| prev=New title
| prev=New title
| list=Head of the [[House of Telcontar]]
| list=Head of the [[House of Telcontar]]
| dates=T.A. 3019 – Fo.A. 120
| dates={{TA|3019}} {{FoA|120}}
}}
}}
{{seq-end}}{{northernline}}
{{seq-end}}{{northernline}}
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==See also==
==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Aragorn|Images of Aragorn]]
*[[:Category:Images of Aragorn|Images of Aragorn]]
*[[Timeline of Aragorn II|Timeline of Aragorn]]
*[[Timeline of Aragorn]]
{{references}}
{{references}}
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Chieftains of the Dúnedain]]
[[Category:Chieftains of the Dúnedain]]
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[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[de:Aragorn II.]]
[[de:Aragorn II.]]
[[fa:آراگورن دوم]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/hommes/3a/dunedain/dunedain_du_nord/aragorn_ii]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/hommes/3a/dunedain/dunedain_du_nord/aragorn_ii]]
[[fi:Aragorn II]]
[[fi:Aragorn II]]

Revision as of 16:05, 1 December 2014

This article is about the King of Gondor and Arnor. For the Chieftain of the Dúnedain, see Aragorn I.
Aragorn
Arnorian
John Howe - Elessar.jpg
Biographical Information
Other namesAragorn II, Elessar, Strider, Thorongil (see below)
TitlesChieftain of the Dúnedain
King of the Reunited Kingdom
PositionRanger
LocationRivendell
Gondor and Arnor
AffiliationFellowship of the Ring
LanguageWestron, Sindarin and Quenya
Birth1 March T.A. 2931
Eriador
RuleT.A. 2933 - 3019 (Chieftain)
T.A. 3019 - Fo.A. 120 (King)
DeathFo.A. 120 (aged 210)
Gondor
Family
HouseHouse of Isildur
ParentageArathorn II and Gilraen
SpouseArwen
ChildrenEldarion, at least two daughters
Physical Description
GenderMale
Height6'6'' (198cm)[1]
Hair colorDark, flecked with grey[2]
Eye colorGrey[2]
ClothingHigh leather boots, dark-green cloak[2]
WeaponryAndúril
SteedRoheryn and Hasufel
GalleryImages of Aragorn
"Tall as the sea-kings of old, he stood above all that were near; ancient of days he seemed and yet in the flower of manhood; and wisdom sat upon his brow, and strength and healing were in his hands, and a light was about him."
The Return of the King, The Steward and the King

Aragorn II (S, pron. [ˈaraɡorn]; 1 March Third Age 2931Fourth Age 120, aged 210 years[3]) was the son of Arathorn II and Gilraen. He was a Chieftain of the Dúnedain and a direct descendant through many generations of Isildur, the last High King of both Arnor and Gondor. Aragorn would become the greatest Man of his time, leading the Men of the West against Sauron's forces, helping to destroy the One Ring, and reuniting the Kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor.

History

Early Life

Aragorn was born in T.A. 2931 to the Chieftain Arathorn, and received the name Aragorn. But his grandmother, Ivorwen, noted with foresight that Aragorn would one day wear on his breast a green stone.

A legend says that the Wizard Gandalf had brought such a stone from Valinor. He gave the Elessar to the Elven Lady Galadriel, and remarked prophetically that she would pass it to another, who will also be called Elessar.[4] From this would come his royal name Elessar (Quenya for "Elfstone"), and he would be a healer and a renewer.

When Aragorn was two years old, his father was slain when an Orc arrow pierced his eye. As was the tradition of his people, Aragorn was fostered in Rivendell by Elrond as if he was his own son. By Elrond's order, his identity was kept secret, as he feared he would be slain like his father and grandfather. Aragorn was named Estel (Sindarin for "Hope") instead. During his life in Rivendell he accompanied the sons of Elrond, Elrohir and Elladan, on their journeys. [5]

Stephen Hickman - Aragorn and Arwen

Elrond revealed to "Estel" his true name and ancestry when he returned from a journey with Elrohir and Elladan in T.A. 2951, when Aragorn was twenty years old; as part of this revelation, he delivered to him the heirlooms of his House: the shards of Narsil and the Ring of Barahir. Later, Aragorn met and fell in love with Arwen, daughter of Elrond, who had newly returned from Lothlórien.[5]

Life as a Ranger

Estel took up his proper name as Aragorn, sixteenth of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, and after he took leave of his mother and Elrond he went into The Wild.[5] In T.A. 2953 he was not present in Rivendell for the last meeting of the White Council. Aragorn met Gandalf the Grey in T.A. 2956, and they became great friends.[6] At Gandalf's advice he started to become interested in the Shire and became known as Strider in this region.

Catherine Karina Chmiel - "Thorongil" with Ecthelion II

From T.A. 2957 to T.A. 2980 Aragorn took great journeys, serving in the armies of King Thengel of Rohan, and Steward Ecthelion II of Gondor.[6] Many of his tasks weakened Sauron and his allies, which during the War of the Ring helped the West survive. His name in Gondor and Rohan was Thorongil (Sindarin for "Eagle of the Star"), and became one of Ecthelion II's most important advisers. He warned Ecthelion of the Corsairs of Umbar, who threathened the Southern Fiefs and was eventually allowed by Ecthelion to attack Umbar. He led a Surprise Attack on the Havens of Umbar with a few Gondorian ships, destroying many of their ships and slaying its lord with only few casualties. After his return in Pelargir he crossed the Anduin and left Gondor to travel into the far East and South "exploring the hearts of men good and evil" and learning about the "plots and devices" of the servants of the Dark Lord.[7]

Later in 2980 on his return to Rivendell he entered Lothlórien, and there once again met Arwen in Caras Galadhon. For one season they lived together in Lothlórien. At midsummer he gave her the heirloom of his House, the Ring of Barahir, and Arwen pledged her hand to him in marriage.[5]

Elrond gave his foster-son permission to marry his daughter, on the condition that he must first become king of both Gondor and Arnor, for only a king would be worthy of Arwen's hand. This harsh condition had a precedent: King Thingol's request that Beren obtain a Silmaril from Morgoth before marrying his daughter Lúthien.[5]

Hunt for Gollum

In the year 3001, as a now revealed Sauron continued to regain power in Mordor, Aragorn began assisting Gandalf in his search for news of Gollum. Gandalf suspected that the ring Bilbo Baggins found near Gollum's lake was in fact the One Ring. In T.A. 3007, he shortly returns to Eriador where he visits his mother for the last time, she dies before that year's spring.

In 3017 after searching intermittently over the years,[6] Aragorn finally overtakes Gollum in the Dead Marshes on 1 February. With Gollum he travelled through the northern Emyn Muil, to prevent being found by Sauron's spies, and crossed the Anduin at the Sarn Gebir. He travelled further north along the edges of Fangorn Forest and through Lothlórien,[8] where the Elves sent a message to Gandalf.[9] He travelled alongside the Anduin to the north until he arrived at the Carrock. With the aid of the Beornings he crossed the Anduin with Gollum and entered Mirkwood. He took Gollum to Thranduil in to be held captive.[8] He then returns west where he meets with Gandalf at Sarn Ford and learns of Frodo Baggins' plan to leave the shire with the Ring late September and then went to his own journey.[10]

War of the Ring

When Aragorn returned to his area, the Elves who followed Gildor Inglorion told Aragorn the Black Riders had been seen, and Gandalf had been missing and there were no messages from him. Aragorn and his Rangers kept watch over the border of the Shire and the East Road waiting for sight of Frodo but there were no news of them leaving Buckland.[10]

While staying in Bree, Aragorn crossed the paths of four hobbits in The Prancing Pony. Aragorn watched as the hobbits clumsily hid their names and intentions. He watched as Frodo Baggins, the leader of the party, fell from a table and disappeared as he put the ring on. Aragorn, whose name was given as Strider, seemed to show no surprise, only annoyance at Frodo’s foolish vanishing act. He arranged for an interview that night, where he warned them of the Black Riders and Bill Ferny, then bluntly requested that they use him as a guide. After some consideration, and a note given them by the forgetful Barliman Butterbur from Gandalf condoning him, Frodo agreed.

Jef Murray - Amon Sûl

Aragorn’s plan to reach Rivendell was to first head toward Archet and bear right to Weathertop. After the ambush at Weathertop and the wounding of Frodo, Merry took over the position as leader of the Hobbits. After a while they met Glorfindel, a friend of Aragorn’s, and it was not much later that they arrived in Rivendell.

Darrell Sweet - The Reforging of the Sword

After the Council of Elrond Aragorn became a member of the Fellowship of the Ring. As a preparation for his travel, the ancient shards of Narsil, the heirloom of his House, were reforged after 3 millennia. Aragorn carried the Sword Reforged, and renamed it Andúril.

Aragorn's intentions were to travel with the company for a while before returning to Gondor with Boromir. Aragorn encouraged the taking of the Redhorn Pass, which ended in disaster. He reluctantly conceded to Gandalf’s choice to pass through Moria, though his sense of foresight warned him for Gandalf. Indeed, after Gandalf fell into the abyss with Durin's Bane, Aragorn was naturally elected leader of the company, despite some resentment by Boromir.

Leading the Fellowship of the Ring

Aragorn again amazed the rest of the Fellowship by his apparent closeness to the people of Lothlórien, and his friendship with Celeborn and Galadriel. At their departure, Galadriel offered him the Elfstone as a wedding gift from the family of the Elven bride to the groom, foretelling his marriage to Arwen.[11]. It was worn by Aragorn ever after and from that he later took the name Elessar.

Even at the Falls of Rauros he was undecided, leaving it to Frodo for the final decision. For though it was obvious he wished to go to Minas Tirith with Boromir, he yet felt that it was his duty to go where the Ring-bearer chose.

Inger Edelfeldt - Death of Boromir

After Frodo escaped him and Boromir perished, he with the remaining members of the Fellowship, namely Legolas and Gimli, chose to try and save Merry and Pippin from the Uruk-hai that had ambushed them, forming the group that would later be known as the Three Hunters.

He met Éomer in the fields of Rohan, and an instant friendship formed, both feeling the honesty and lordliness of the other. Éomer took a risk for his sake, giving him horses, with the promise that one day soon Aragorn would return to Edoras. Aragorn, tracking the Hobbits, followed into Fangorn Forest, where he met the resurrected Gandalf the White. After the restoration of Théoden, he rode to Helm's Deep to fight in the Battle of the Hornburg. There he, alongside his new-found “brother” Éomer, and King Théoden, marshaled the defense against Saruman’s army. His revealed majesty upon the battlements of the Hornburg as he waited for the dawn caused some of the Wild men to pause and shudder, and he heralded the return of Gandalf with Erkenbrand.

After Pippin’s terrifying experience with the Orthanc-stone, Gandalf presented it in a formal manner to Aragorn, its rightful master, who hinted that it would be used by him eventually. After the departure of Gandalf and Pippin to Minas Tirith, he rode for a while longer with Théoden, meeting up with his friend Halbarad of the North, Elladan and Elrohir, and a company of staunch and fearless Rangers. Elladan and Elrohir gave him a message from Elrond: "The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the Paths of the Dead". Halbarad bore a gift from the Lady Arwen – the Standard of Elendil. Aragorn knew the path set before him.

Return of the King

A little while later Aragorn took his companions and his rangers and set out for Dunharrow, departing from the King’s company. His course was clear: to take the Paths of the Dead, to summon the Dead Men. In Dunharrow, he met the lady Éowyn, who had fallen in love with him. After making it clear that he could not accept her love, he turned towards the evil road with the dawn.

The Grey Company passed through the Dark Door and the Dwimorberg, the Dead following, and coming at last to the Stone of Erech, Aragorn summoned them to his aid. They drew their swords and blew their horns in answer, and swept down upon the Corsairs at Pelargir drove the mariners away. Aragorn released them, and took the Black Ships north to Minas Tirith, where the Battle of the Pelennor Fields raged. The Standard of Elendil broke forth, and his Dúnedain swept down, giving the final blow to the army of Gothmog. The counter-attacked army of Sauron crumbled utterly. But Aragorn did not enter the city.

Aragorn, furling his banner, appointed Imrahil the temporary lord of the City, as the law demanded. Eventually, however, Aragorn did come to the Houses of Healing, where he tended and restored Merry, Éowyn, and Faramir, in accordance with the prophecy “The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known”. Aragorn then left the city, hooded and cloaked, and yet the people of Minas Tirith followed him, for they had heard rumours. Yet when in the morning they saw the banner of Dol Amroth, they wondered if the Return of the King had been but a dream.

Aragorn held council with his trusted companions, namely Gandalf, Éomer, Imrahil, and Elrond’s sons – Halbarad had fallen in battle. He agreed to draw forth the forces of Mordor for the benefit of the Quest of the Ring, and so arranged matters for the Battle of the Morannon. After the destruction of the Ring in Orodruin and victory at the Morannon, Aragorn returned at last in the triumphant manner that befitted his position. He was crowned at the gates of Minas Tirith, winning the hearts of the people of Gondor.

Reign as Elessar

Aragorn ruled the Reunited Kingdom of Gondor and Arnor until year 120 of the Fourth Age.

Some days after his coronation, Gandalf took Elessar up the slopes of Mount Mindolluin, and there he found the scion of Nimloth, the symbol of his mastery of the Reunited Kingdom. Elrond and Arwen came to Gondor and Elrond gave Elessar the Sceptre of Annúminas signifying the Kingship of Arnor. He wedded Arwen on Midsummer's day of 3019, and then was forced to bid his old friends farewell. He turned back to his new kingdom as the Fourth Age dawned and the Ringbearers left the shores of Middle-earth forever.

One of his first tasks in the re-ordering of his realm was the restoration of Orthanc and ordered the Orthanc-stone to be returned there. With this opportunity, many secrets and hoarded treasures were revealed including the Elendilmir which Saruman took from Isildur's body. Elessar received the Elemdilmir with reverence and took it with him as he established his full kingship of Arnor.[12]

Elessar gave his Steward Faramir the title Lord of Emyn Arnen and created him as Prince of Ithilien[13]. He declared the Drúadan Forest to belong to the Drúedain and a protected enclave of his Kingdom.[14] He also re-established the Great Council of Gondor whose chief councellor was the Steward[15]. He also renewed the Oath of Cirion with Éomer.

As for the Shire, he declared it a Free Land under the protection of the Northern Sceptre and forbid Men from entering it. He appointed the Thain, the Master of Buckland, and the Mayor of Michel Delving Counsellors of the North-kingdom. Also he offered to the Shire the lands up to the Emyn Beraid.[16]

He founded the royal House of Telcontar, he had a son and a number of daughters.

King Elessar died after 210 years of life and 122 years of rule and was succeeded by his son Eldarion. His wife Arwen, now mortal, gave up her life shortly afterwards in year 121, aged 2,901.

Etymology

The name Aragorn is Sindarin, meaning "Revered King", from aran ("king") and (n)gorn ("dreaded, revered").[17]

This clear etymology from Tolkien was not revealed until the publication in 2007 of "Words, Phrases & Passages in The Lord of the Rings", a late 1950s manuscript. Before that, several theories were proposed:

  • Ruth S. Noel and several others proposed "King of the Tree",[18] but Tolkien specifically said that this was not the case.[19]
  • David Salo deduces "Having Kingly Valor"[20] from Tolkien's cryptic "'Kingly Valour' (for so is that name interpreted)".[21] This is still the most often cited etymology; Robert Ireland's A Tolkien Dictionary gives the variation "Royal Zeal".[22]
  • Carl F. Hostetter proposed the meanings "King of the Globe" or "King of the Hill" in his analysis of the King's Letter.[23]

The Quenya form of Aragorn was Aracorno.[24]

Names and titles

  • Aragorn II - Aragorn's name as Chieftain of the Dúnedain. He was likely named after Aragorn I.
  • Thorongil - S "Eagle of the Star", a pseudonym used in Gondor and Rohan. Pronounced [θoˈroŋɡil].
  • Elessar - Q "Elfstone", Aragorn's name as a king. Despite popular use as such, Aragorn was never known as "Aragorn Elessar", "Aragorn II Elessar" or "King Aragorn". Pronounced [eˈlesːar].
  • Envinyatar, the Renewer
  • Edhelharn - The Sindarin equivalent of Elessar, used in the King's Letter.[25] Pronounced [eˈðel.harn].
  • Elfstone - The Common Speech version of the previous two.
  • Estel - Q. Usually glossed as "Hope", the concept estel more widely means "hope, trust, a temper of mind, steady fixed in purpose, and difficult to dissuade and unlikely to fall into despair or abandon its purpose". Pronounced [ˈestel].
  • Strider - A sobriquet given by the men of Bree. Aragorn used it mockingly.
  • Wingfoot - A honorary name given by Éomer after the pursuit of the Uruk-hai through the Eastemnet.[26]
  • Telcontar - A Quenya form of "Strider", this was the name of Elessar's Royal House. It was not used independently. Pronounced [telˈkontar].
  • Isildur's Heir - A poetic address, as he was the heir of Isildur.
  • The Dúnadan - "Man of the West", a name given by Bilbo Baggins when their friendship evolved.
  • Longshanks - another, though less frequently used, sobriquet in Bree, ascribed to Bill Ferny. The legs of the Bree-men were shorter than the legs of the Dúnedain.
  • Arakorno - A rare Quenya form of Aragorn, which only appeared in a discussion about the words for Quenya "and".[24] Pronounced [ˌaraˈkorno].

Family tree

Eärendil
 
Elwing
 
Galadriel
 
Celeborn
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elros
 
Elrond
 
Celebrían
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kings of Númenor
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lords of Andúnië
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elendil
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Isildur
 
Anárion
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kings of Arnor
 
Kings of Gondor
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kings of Arthedain
 
Ondoher
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Arvedui
 
Fíriel
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chieftains of the Dúnedain
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Arathorn II
 
Gilraen
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ARAGORN
 
Arwen
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Eldarion
 
several sisters
 
 
 
 


Other versions of the legendarium

In the earliest unpublished versions of The Lord of the Rings (see The History of The Lord of the Rings), the character that later became Aragorn was called Trotter instead of Strider, and was a Hobbit instead of a Man. He had wooden feet, because he had once traveled to Mordor and been tortured there.

Portrayal in adaptations

1955: The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series):

The voice of Aragorn is provided by Godfrey Kenton.

1978: The Lord of the Rings (1978 film):

The voice of Aragorn is provided by John Hurt. Some critics have accused this character of looking too much like a Native American stereotype.

1979: The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series):

The voice of Aragorn is provided by Tom Luce.

1980: Rankin/Bass' The Return of the King:

Aragorn was voiced by Theodore Bikel.

1981: The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series):

Aragorn was voiced by Robert Stephens. For his early scenes, according to John McAndrew (Pippin) Stephens adopted an accurate Bristol accent to help suggest the disguise Strider adopted in Bree.

1988: J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth:

Aragorn is a playable character. He has brown hair and is bearded, he bears a golden sword.

2001: Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring:

Aragorn is played by Viggo Mortensen, though Stuart Townsend was originally cast in the role. Townsend was deemed too young. Mortensen had just two weeks to train for his first scene, the standoff with the Nazgûl at Weathertop. Mortensen portrays Aragorn full of self-doubt. Jackson explained that this was to give him a character development arc.

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game):

Daran Norris provided the voice of Aragorn, who is one of the three playable characters.

2002: Peter Jackson's The Two Towers:

Aragorn's part is this film is largely similar to the events in book. The most significant difference is that, in the book, there was no Warg attack on the party traveling to Helm's Deep and Aragorn did not fall down a cliff.

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game):

Aragorn is one of the three playable characters.

2003: Peter Jackson's The Return of the King:

Aragorn shows great trouble over the choice whether or not he should become king, whereas in the book, there is no doubt of his purpose to return as the king from the very first time his lineage is revealed.

2003: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game):

Aragorn is a playable character, his storyline is dubbed "Path of a King". He journey through Paths of the Dead with Legolas and Gimli, later they fight on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate.

2003: Sierra's War of the Ring:

Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Free People side. He is present in Lothlorien, Battle of Hornburg and Siege of the Minas Morgul.

2004: The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth:

Aragorn is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, he also accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode.

2006: The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II:

Aragorn is now the Hero for the Men of the West faction.

2007: The Lord of the Rings Online:

In the Prologue, Aragorn saves Men/Hobbit characters from brigands, but is forced to leave soon, as he has to intercept Frodo in Bree. Later arriving at the Prancing Pony, the characters meet him again and help him looking in surrounding area for Hobbits, who did not arrive in time. When player returns, Aragorn and the Hobbits already departed, and their next meeting is in Rivendell, where Aragorn entrusts the player with defense of the North while the Fellowship is gone. Later, in Lothlórien, Aragorn is seen residing in Caras Galadhon

2009: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest:

Aragorn is a playable hero available in several missions.

2011: The Lord of the Rings: War in the North:

Aragorn is an important character of the game, and is mentioned as one of the much honored heroes of the War of the Ring in the introduction of the game.[27]
He is a friend of two of the game's main characters, Eradan and Andriel. Aragorn had met Andriel during his visits at Rivendell,[28] while he had met Eradan, when he served as Ranger at Sarn Ford. Aragorn was impressed by his skills and bravery, and taught him much about tracking. Eradan was a companion of Aragorn on many of his journeys. Aragorn trusted Eradan much, though he never told him what the reason was behind the protection of the Shire.[29]
Eradan, Andriel and Farin meet Aragorn in the Prancing Pony to warn him, on Halbarad's request, after the Nazgûl attacked and defeated the Rangers at Sarn Ford, and entered the Shire. They also tell him about an conservation between the Witch-king and Agandaûr, which the three heroes overheard shortly after the attack. Agandaûr summoned the Orcs of the Misty Mountains and assembled an army in Fornost, which plans to aid the Nazgûl in their search to the One Ring. Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, to stop Agandaûr and his army.[27] While Eradan, Andriel, Farin, Elladan and Elrohir stopped Agandaûr's army,[30] Aragorn met with Frodo Baggins and left Bree.[31]

2012: Lego The Lord of the Rings:

A mini figure of Aragorn is included in the sets Attack at Weathertop, The Battle of Helm's Deep, The Battle at the Black gate, and The Pirate ship ambush.[32]

See also:
"Aragorn Seen Through Different Media" by Connie Veugen, comparing the introduction of Strider in Ralph Bakshi's film, the 1981 BBC radio play, Peter Jackson's film and Vivendi's video game of The Fellowship of the Ring.

Titles

Aragorn
House of Telcontar
Continuation of the senior branch of the House of Isildur
Born: March 1, T.A. 2931 Died: Fo.A. 120
Preceded by:
Arathorn II
16th Chieftain of the Dúnedain
T.A. 29333019
None
Position abolished
39th Heir of Isildur
T.A. 2933 - Fo.A. 120
Followed by:
Eldarion
Preceded by:
Gandalf
Leader of the Fellowship of the Ring
January 15 - August 22, T.A. 3019
None
Position abolished
Vacant
Last held by:
Eärnur, 969 years earlier
34th King of Gondor
T.A. 3019Fo.A. 120
Followed by:
Eldarion
Vacant
Last held by:
Eärendur, 2,158 years earlier
11th King of Arnor
T.A. 3019Fo.A. 120
Vacant
Last held by:
Isildur, 3,017 years earlier
1st High King of the Reunited Kingdom
T.A. 3019Fo.A. 120
None
New title
Head of the House of Telcontar
T.A. 3019Fo.A. 120


The Northern Line and the Heirs of Isildur
Kings of Arnor: Elendil (S.A. 3320 - 3441) · Isildur (S.A. 3441 - T.A. 2) · Valandil (T.A. 2 - 249) · Eldacar (249 - 339) · Arantar (339 - 435) · Tarcil (435 - 515) · Tarondor (515 - 602) · Valandur (602 - 652) · Elendur (652 - 777) · Eärendur (777 - 861)
Kings of Arthedain: Amlaith (861 - 946) · Beleg (946 - 1029) · Mallor (1029 - 1110) · Celepharn (1110 - 1191) · Celebrindor (1191 - 1272) · Malvegil (1272 - 1349) · Argeleb I (1349 - 1356) · Arveleg I (1356 - 1409) · Araphor (1409 - 1589) · Argeleb II (1589 - 1670) · Arvegil (1670 - 1743) · Arveleg II (1743 - 1813) · Araval (1813 - 1891) · Araphant (1891 - 1964) · Arvedui (1964 - 1975) ·
Chieftains of the Dúnedain: Aranarth (1975 - 2106) · Arahael (2106 - 2177) · Aranuir (2177 - 2247) · Aravir (2247 - 2319) · Aragorn I (2319 - 2327) · Araglas (2327 - 2455) · Arahad I (2455 - 2523) · Aragost (2523 - 2588) · Aravorn (2588 - 2654) · Arahad II (2654 - 2719) · Arassuil (2719 - 2784) · Arathorn I (2784 - 2848) · Argonui (2848 - 2912) · Arador (2912 - 2930) · Arathorn II (2930 - 2933) · Aragorn II (2933 - 3019)
Kings of Arnor: Elessar (T.A. 3019 - Fo.A. 120) · Eldarion (Fo.A. 120 onwards)
Members of the Fellowship of the Ring
Frodo · Sam · Merry · Pippin · Gandalf · Aragorn · Legolas · Gimli · Boromir

See also

References

  1. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull (eds), The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion, p. 229
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "At the Sign of the Prancing Pony"
  3. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B.
  4. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn"
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A, "The Númenorean Kings", "The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen"
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Third Age"
  7. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A, "The Númenorean Kings", "Gondor and the Heirs of Anárion", "The Stewards"
  8. 8.0 8.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The Hunt for the Ring"
  9. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The Hunt for the Ring", Note 5
  10. 10.0 10.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Strider"
  11. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "Part Three. The Later Quenta Silmarillion: (II) The Second Phase: Laws and Customs among the Eldar"
  12. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The Battles of the Fords of Isen"
  13. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "The Steward and the King"
  14. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "Many Partings"
  15. J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 244, (undated, written circa 1963)
  16. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "Later Events Concerning the Members of the Fellowship of the Ring"
  17. J.R.R. Tolkien, "Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in The Lord of the Rings", in Parma Eldalamberon XVII (edited by Christopher Gilson), p. 113
  18. Ruth S. Noel, The Languages of Tolkien's Middle-earth, p. 114
  19. J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 347, (dated 17 December 1972)
  20. David Salo, A Gateway to Sindarin, p. 341
  21. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Peoples of Middle-earth, "Foreword", p. xii
  22. Robert Ireland, A Tolkien Dictionary, The Lord of the Rings A-C.
  23. Carl F. Hostetter, "The 'King's Letter': An Historical and Comparative Analysis", Vinyar Tengwar 31, p. 18
  24. 24.0 24.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, "Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in The Lord of the Rings", in Parma Eldalamberon XVII (edited by Christopher Gilson), p. 71
  25. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Sauron Defeated, "Part One: The End of the Third Age: XI. The Epilogue: The second version", p. 128ff
  26. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The Riders of Rohan"
  27. 27.0 27.1 The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Prologue
  28. "Elven Character: Andriel's History", War in the North (accessed 25 December 2011)
  29. "Human Character: Eradan's History", War in the North (accessed 24 December 2011)
  30. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost
  31. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs, Bree
  32. Calisuri, "More Lord of the Rings LEGO Details from Toy Fare 2012" dated 12 February 2012, TheOneRing.net (accessed 18 February 2012)

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