The Last King in 'The Lord of the Rings': A Closer Look

When discussing heroes and kings in J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece, 'The Lord of the Rings,' it is easy to get swept away by the overwhelming presence of virtuous and noble rulers. Almost every member of the royal lineage, from Elves to Dwarves, and even human kings, are portrayed as brave, loyal, and dedicated to their people. However, a closer examination reveals that these esteemed characters are indeed rare exceptions in the expansive narrative world of Middle-earth.

Throughout the epic, the reader encounters numerous well-meaning and concerned rulers who lead their respective peoples with valiance and wisdom. Characters such as Théoden, Aragorn, éomer, Thorin, Dáin II, and Brand of Dale are celebrated for their bravery and leadership. Even ancient kings like Elendil, Gil-galad, Isildur, and Meneldil are remembered for their heroic deeds.

The Royalists of Middle-earth

Tolkien’s keen interest in the royalist tradition is evident in his portrayal of these characters. Each of them plays a pivotal role in the struggle against Sauron, the ultimate evil in the story. However, these noble leaders are an exception rather than the rule. The few kings and rulers who exhibit negative traits are often nameless, much like Saruman, Denethor, and the Great Goblin of the Misty Mountains. While Sauron himself aspires to be a god-king, he is never referred to as a king by the other characters in the novel.

The Not-So-Great Kings

The only kings in 'The Lord of the Rings' who are not ideal are the ones who are nameless or have a negative connotation. The King of the Dead and the Witch-king of Angmar, known as the Morgul King, are foreboding figures who serve as barriers and obstacles to the protagonists. The King of the Dead, however, serves Aragorn, which might complicate his negative portrayal. Mentioned nameless kings who are enslaved by Sauron further cloud the narrative's depiction of leadership.

Tolkien’s Royalist Bias

One of the most significant criticisms of Tolkien’s writing style is his apparent royalist bias. While this can be considered a legitimate political and aesthetic preference, it does make his narrative less relatable and authentic. Tolkien himself was a staunch royalist and monarchist, which influenced his extensive work in the realm of literature, including the 'Lord of the Rings' series.

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Role of Kingship

It is important to note that kings, whether they are great or not, play a crucial role in the fabric of 'The Lord of the Rings.' Their actions and decisions significantly impact the fate of Middle-earth. While Tolkien’s royalist perspective provides an inspiring and noble vision of leadership, the absence of negative traits in depicted kings makes the narrative slightly less convincing from a real-world perspective.

Ultimately, the story of 'The Lord of the Rings' is rich with tales of valor and sacrifice, and the kings who populate the world of Middle-earth are just as important as the heroes and villains. J.R.R. Tolkien’s lasting legacy continues to inspire readers and writers alike, reminding us of the enduring power of myth and legend.