The Aftermath of the War of the Ring: Thranduil's Fate and Legacy in Middle-earth

After the events of The Lord of the Rings (LOTR), Thranduil, the Elf-lord and King of the Woodland Realm of Mirkwood, remained in power, overseeing a period of healing and transition in the world of Middle-earth. While J.R.R. Tolkien did not provide extensive details about Thranduil's fate following the defeat of Sauron, his reign and legacy continued to have a significant impact on the Elves of Mirkwood.

Continued Reign

Thranduil continued to rule Mirkwood, overseeing the reconstruction and healing of his realm after the devastation caused by Sauron's forces. The defeat of Sauron brought about a resurgence of peace and prosperity in the region. This time of stability allowed Thranduil to focus on the governance of his people and the restoration of his kingdom.

Elven Departure

As the Third Age drew to a close, many Elves began to leave Middle-earth for the Undying Lands. While Thranduil and his people were likely affected by this migration, he himself is not explicitly mentioned as leaving Middle-earth in Tolkien's writings. It is possible that Thranduil chose to stay, leading his people through this period of transition. His decision to remain would have been a significant factor in the continued survival of the Woodland Realm.

Legacy

Thranduil's legacy continued through his son, Legolas, who was one of the few Elves who made the journey to the Undying Lands, departing Middle-earth alongside Frodo, Gandalf, and Bilbo at the end of the Third Age. This departure marked a significant moment for the Elves of Middle-earth, symbolizing the end of their dominion in the world. For his son, Thranduil's choice to stay behind likely set the stage for Legolas to embrace the call of the sea, culminating in his own voyage to the Undying Lands.

Cultural Impact

Thranduils reign would have had lasting cultural impacts on the Elves of Mirkwood as they adapted to a new era without the constant threat of Sauron. The peace that followed allowed for the continuation of their traditions, arts, and lore. The Woodland Realm thrived under Thranduil's rule, and the Elves of Mirkwood were able to preserve their unique identity and way of life during a period of great upheaval in the lands of Middle-earth.

Strife Amongst the Elves

While Thranduil chose to stay in Mirkwood, it is important to consider the cultural and political context of his decision. Oropher, Thranduil's father, was a part of the Sindar nobility that left Doriath after its ruin, following the fall of Melkor. This move away from the Noldor in Valinor was a significant statement of the Sindar's desire to remain in Middle-earth. Oropher's people mixed and mingled with the Silvan elves, who were known for their love of nature and their traditions that contrasted with the more formal and disciplined ways of the Noldor.

Tolkien's notes suggest that Oropher's people had no desire to leave Middle-earth and were not merged with the other Sindar of Beleriand, which the Noldor exiles had dominated. This explains why Thranduil did not have strong ties to the Noldor, particularly the noble Elven families like that of Elrond and Galadriel. Thranduil's decision to stay in Mirkwood and his pride in his Sindarin heritage likely influenced his desire to remain in Middle-earth.

It is also worth noting that while Legolas eventually left for the Undying Lands, this decision came later in his life, after he had spent a significant amount of time building his legacy in Mirkwood. His choice to sail to the Undying Lands was likely influenced by his encounters with the Noldor, particularly those of his kin, such as Celeborn, who became his closest advisor after Sauron's defeat.

In conclusion, Thranduil's fate and legacy offer a fascinating glimpse into the complex politics and cultural dynamics of Middle-earth. While his specific post-War of the Ring narrative remains largely untold, his continued rule over Mirkwood and the influence of his son's decision to leave for the Undying Lands provide a rich tapestry of intrigue and continued relevance in the world of Tolkien's creation.