The Reasons Behind Aragorn’s Father Not Becoming King

One of the most intriguing aspects of the The Lord of the Rings saga is the mystery surrounding Aragorn’s lineage and the reasons his father, Arathorn II, did not become the king of Gondor and Arnor. This article delves into the complex political situation during the time of Arathorn, the fractured lines of kingship, and the ultimate rise of Aragorn to fulfill his destiny.

Background on Arathorn II

Arathorn II was the son of Gilraen and Arathorn I, and his ascension to the Chieftain of the Dúnedain came after the tragic death of his father in battle. Unlike the line of kings that ruled Gondor and Arnor, Arathorn II was not the heir to the throne in these territories due to the division and subsequent decline of Arnor. However, his delayed and untimely death due to orc attacks when Aragorn was but two years old changed the course of history.

Isildur’s Heirs: The Path Forward

Isildur, the elder son of Elendil, was indeed the direct heir to the throne of Gondor and Arnor. Following the defeat of Sauron, Elendil and Anarion perished, leaving Isildur to lead Gondor while his unnamed nephew, Meneldil, ruled over Arnor. Further succession led to Valandil, who succeeded Meneldil as the king of Arnor.

Isildur’s Tragic End

Isildur’s final moments were marked by a tragic ambush in the Gladden Fields during his return journey to Arnor. The Holy Ring, Narsil, broke under the weight of Elendil, but its fragments were carried back to Arnor by Isildur’s loyal squire. Isildur’s death saw the succession of his heirs, leading to the division of power between Gondor and Arnor.

The Fractured Line of Kings

The line of kings in Gondor and Arnor had been significantly affected by internal strife and external threats. The kingdom of Arnor, particularly, fell to ruin long before Arathorn II's time. This fragmentation meant that Arathorn II, as the Chieftain of the Northern Dúnedain, was not a part of the royal succession lines.

Political Precedents and Challenges

The rise of Aragorn as the rightful king of Gondor and Arnor is not merely a tale of destiny. It is a product of complex political maneuvers and the remnants of the House of Hurin. Many centuries prior, the Northern branch of the royal family faced a coup détat orchestrated by the House of Hurin and its allies, which essentially blocked any claim to the throne from the Northern line. Despite his lineage, Arathorn II did not challenge this political reality, understanding the need for unity and stability in the face of constant dangers.

Conclusion

The story of Aragorn's father, Arathorn II, is a testament to the intricate web of political and familial ties that shaped Middle-earth. It is a narrative of tragedy, political maneuvering, and the ultimate triumph of prophecy and destiny. Understanding these historical and political contexts provides a deeper insight into the saga of The Lord of the Rings.