The Time Between Isildur and Aragorn: A Deep Dive into Middle-earth’s History
The question of how much time elapsed between the lives of Isildur and Aragorn is central to understanding the complex history of Middle-earth. The answer, in short, is approximately 3,000 years. This significant period spans the end of the Second Age and much of the Third Age, witnessing the rise and fall of kingdoms, the struggle against Sauron, and the long, patient waiting for the return of the King. This article will delve into this crucial timeframe and explore related aspects through frequently asked questions.
Understanding the Timeline
Isildur, the son of Elendil, played a pivotal role in defeating Sauron at the end of the Second Age. However, his refusal to destroy the One Ring led to his demise shortly thereafter. Isildur was killed in an ambush by Orcs only two years into the Third Age. This is specifically marked by his death in the year 2 of the Third Age. On the other hand, Aragorn was born in the year 2931 of the Third Age. Therefore, there are exactly 2929 years between Isildur’s death and Aragorn’s birth. Adding the two years that Isildur lived into the Third Age, there is a total of approximately 3,000 years between their lives.
This immense gap in time is not merely a numerical fact but encapsulates a vast tapestry of events that shape the fate of Middle-earth and the enduring legacy of their lineage. Let’s explore the details further through frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How closely related is Aragorn to Isildur?
Aragorn is a direct descendant of Isildur, although several generations removed. He is related through Valandil, Isildur’s fourth son. Valandil’s descendants were traditionally the Kings of Arnor, not Gondor. Aragorn is considered the 39th generation descended from Isildur. This illustrates a key point: lineage matters in the context of Middle-earth, as Aragorn’s claim to the throne is largely based on his bloodline.
How many generations removed is Aragorn from Isildur?
As stated above, Aragorn II is the 39th generation descended from Isildur. This lineage includes 23 generations of the Kings of Arnor and Arthedain, starting with Valandil and ending with Arvedui. Following that, there are 15 generations of the Chieftains of the Dúnedain, beginning with Aranarth and ending with Arathorn II, Aragorn’s father.
How did Aragorn come to inherit Gondor?
Aragorn inherited Gondor through his lineage as a descendant of Isildur and ultimately Elendil. While the kings of Gondor were descended from Anárion, Elendil’s other son, their line had eventually died out, leaving the Stewardship in control of Gondor. Since Aragorn was the last in the line of the Kings of Arnor and an heir of Isildur, his claim to Gondor was also restored, marking the reunification of the kingdoms.
Did Isildur become a Nazgûl?
The idea of Isildur becoming a Nazgûl is a point of contention amongst some, and it’s primarily based on an expanded story arc in the Middle-earth: Shadow of War video game. It is not canonical in the original writings of J.R.R. Tolkien. According to the game narrative, Sauron revived Isildur with one of the Nine Rings, torturing him until his spirit was broken, thereby transforming him into a Nazgûl. The game further specifies that the ring gave Isildur the ability to raise the dead. However, in the traditional lore, Isildur dies after being shot by arrows by Orcs.
How long was the ring lost after Isildur died?
After Isildur’s death, the One Ring was lost for a significant period – for more than 2,000 years. This long absence is a testament to the ring’s power to corrupt and hide itself. It eventually resurfaced in the hands of Gollum, who possessed the ring for many years before losing it to Bilbo Baggins.
Is Isildur a descendant of Elrond?
No, Isildur is not a descendant of Elrond. While both are significant figures in Middle-earth’s history, their lineages are distinct. Isildur’s lineage is connected through Elros, the brother of Elrond, who chose to live as a man and became the first King of Númenor. Isildur’s ancestors are from Elros’s line, while Elrond is of the line of the Elves.
Why was Isildur the last king?
Isildur was not the last king. Instead, he was the last to rule both realms of Arnor and Gondor simultaneously. Following the death of his father, Elendil, and his brother, Anárion, Isildur became the High King. Upon his death, his son, Valandil, became king of Arnor, and Anárion’s son, Meneldil, became king of Gondor, thus dividing the kingdom.
Why is Aragorn called Isildur’s heir?
Aragorn is called Isildur’s heir because he belongs to the House of Isildur. This means he is a direct descendant, inheriting the right to claim the throne of the kingdom of Arnor and later the throne of Gondor. Through his ancestry, Aragorn carries the legacy and lineage of the ancient kings.
Is Aragorn actually Isildur’s heir?
Yes, Aragorn is indeed Isildur’s heir. This is repeatedly emphasized in the Lord of the Rings books, specifically referring to Aragorn as the “nine and thirtieth heir in the right line from Isildur.” His claim to kingship is based on this undeniable fact of his heritage.
Why was the line of Isildur broken?
The line of Isildur in Arnor was not truly broken, but rather fragmented. Dissension among the sons of King Eärendur led to the division of Arnor into three separate kingdoms. Amlaith, the eldest son, became the first King of Arthedain, and his descendants maintained the line of Isildur. However, the other two kingdoms, Cardolan and Rhudaur, eventually fell into decline and ceased to continue the line of kingship.
Is Boromir related to Isildur?
No, Boromir is not related to Isildur. If he were, the Stewards of Gondor would not exist. The Stewards took over rule of Gondor when the line of kings failed, while Isildur’s line continued in Arnor. Boromir is not of royal blood. Aragorn is the last living heir of Isildur until he has his son, Eldarion.
Why didn’t Isildur destroy the Ring?
Isildur’s failure to destroy the Ring stemmed from multiple factors. He felt that he was entitled to possess it as a “weregild” for the death of his father. Additionally, he was unaware of the full extent of its danger, and ultimately, nobody had the strength to destroy it where it was strongest.
How long did Isildur have the Ring before he died?
Isildur possessed the One Ring for a relatively short period, only two years, before being killed by Orcs at the Gladden Fields. This brief ownership was nonetheless significant, as it highlights the Ring’s immense power and its influence even over a great hero such as Isildur.
How did Isildur live so long?
Isildur, like other Númenoreans, was gifted with extended lifespans, although not as long as that of Elves. This was a reward granted to the Men who fought alongside the Valar against Morgoth in the War of Wrath. While not immortal, they were able to live many years past that of normal humans.
Who was king of Gondor before Isildur?
The Kings of Gondor before Isildur were primarily members of the House of Anárion. Elendil, Isildur’s father, was the first King of Arnor and the High King of the Dúnedain in exile, ruling over both realms, as well as his sons. Upon his death, Isildur took his father’s place as High King.
Conclusion
The 3,000-year gap between Isildur and Aragorn is a testament to the enduring passage of time in Middle-earth. This period saw the rise and fall of kingdoms, the slow march of history, and the patient wait for a true king to return. Aragorn, as the rightful heir of Isildur, would eventually bring the line of kings back to Gondor, restoring the ancient legacy and reshaping the destiny of Middle-earth. This intricate and interwoven narrative makes the Lord of the Rings saga so compelling.