Did Legolas and Aragorn Know Each Other Before Joining the Fellowship of the Ring?

The relationship between Legolas and Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings has long fascinated fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tales. Many wonder if these two characters knew each other before they formed the Fellowship of the Ring. While Tolkien does not explicitly answer this question, we can explore a few educated possibilities based on available information from the books and films.

The Gollum Incident and Its Aftermath

The most detailed account of Legolas and Aragorn's potential meeting comes from the incident involving Gollum. During his capture of Gollum in the Dead Marshes, Aragorn wasn't in the best condition. He was covered in mud and smelled foul. According to common courtesy, a noble host would offer an honored guest food, a bath, clean clothes, and rest. It is highly likely that Aragorn, having become a guest in Thranduil's hall after delivering Gollum, would have been served and shown due hospitality.

Thranduil's court often featured convivial gatherings where conversation flowed freely. Given Legolas' presence and his relationship with his father, it stands to reason that Legolas might have been there. A preponderance of evidence suggests that it was indeed Thranduil who sent his son Legolas to find Gandalf and report Gollum's escape. Legolas was well-informed about the incident, leading to the hypothesis that he had already met Aragorn in the context of the Gollum affair.

Thranduil's Diplomatic Ties

Thranduil, as the ruler of the Woodland Realm, likely facilitated diplomatic ties with neighboring regions. In the case of Gollum, Thranduil was willing to imprison and entertain a troublesome guest. Before joining the Fellowship of the Ring, Aragorn traveled to Mirkwood at least once, delivering Gollum to Thranduil. During this visit, Aragorn was accorded respect, likely becoming a familiar face to the court. Thranduil, being the protector of the woodland creatures and anticipating future guests, would have extended consideration to such travelers.

It's important to note that the sequence of events in The Hobbit movies depicting Thranduil sending Legolas to find Aragorn is categorically inaccurate. In the original story, Aragorn was approximately 20 years old when the Fellowship of the Ring was formed, not 10. At this juncture, Thranduil's policies had shifted towards cooperation with other realms, particularly given the looming threat of Sauron. The escape of Gollum caused consternation, and Legolas was dispatched as a representative of both Thranduil and the Woodland Realm to convey the importance of resolving the matter.

Conclusion

The relationship between Legolas and Aragorn before the Fellowship of the Ring was formed is subject to interpretation. While we cannot be certain from the original texts, it seems plausible that their interactions centered around the Gollum affair. The courtesy and hospitality of Thranduil would have facilitated potential meetings and a growing understanding between the two future leaders of Middle-earth.