The Dual Lineage of Elendil's Heirs in 'The Two Towers': Exploring the Branches of Legacy

Among the complex tapestry of The Lord of the Rings series, one particular quote from The Two Towers often confounds viewers: Saruman's statement that the line of kings was broken years ago, leaving many to wonder about the intricate branches of Elendil's heirs.

Elendil, Isildur, and the Line of Kings

The films streamline the history of Gondor, almost implying a single line of kings from Isildur onwards. However, the book delves deeper into the complexities of Elendil's descendants. Anárion, Isildur's brother, is completely absent from the film adaptation, leading to the assumption that Saruman refers to the unbroken line of Isildur and his descendants.

Saruman's Insight and the Influence of Grima

However, the context provided by the book reveals a more nuanced picture. Saruman's statement about the line of kings being broken stems from Grima's whispers, who fed him false information. Grima, a traitor to Gondor, misled Saruman about the true lineage:

“The eyes in Orthanc did not see through the armour of Théoden but Sauron has not forgotten Isildur and the sword of Elendil.”

This quote suggests that Saruman was misled into believing Aragorn claimed to be Isildur's heir rather than Anárion's. Saruman, like Sauron before the War of the Ring, was adhering to the traditional belief that the last pure-blood descendant of Anárion, Ernur, had disappeared childless in Minas Morgul in T.A. 2050. Similarly, Isildur's line was believed to have ended with Arvedui, the last king of Arthedain, in T.A. 1964.

The Forgotten Heritage of Isildur and Anárion

However, there is a deeper truth that underscores the dual heritage of those who claim the legacy of Gondor. In reality, both lines share a rich ancestral heritage. For instance, Aragorn, the future king, was a descendant of both Isildur and Anárion, albeit through different lines:

Isildur's Line: Aragorn is a descendant of Isildur's youngest son, Valandil. This connection runs deep through the histories of Gondor and Arnor. Anárion's Line: Aragorn also has ancestry tracing back to Anárion through Firiel, the daughter of King Ondoher. This line connects Aragorn to the north and what remained of the Kingdom of Arnor after its fall.

The Tapestry of Dunedain Heritage

The fragmentation of Arnor led to the emergence of the Dunedain, with the rangers as the core of this lineage. The leaders of the Dunedain, known as the Chieftains, held the key to carrying forward the legacy of Elendil's heirs:

Valandil and the Kingdom of Arnor: Valandil, who was exiled to Rivendell, managed to preserve a fragment of the heritage of Arnor. He eventually returned as a chieftain, ensuring the continuation of this noble bloodline. The Fall of Arthedain: The last king of Arthedain, falling to the Witch King, left behind a son who became part of the Dunedain. This son, over time, played a crucial role in the resurgence of the Dunedain line.

Aragorn's journey from ranger to king is thus a testament to the intricate tapestry of Elendil's heirs, blending the lines of Isildur and Anárion into a unified lineage that carries the weight of the past and hopes for the future.

Understanding the lineage of Elendil's heirs reveals the complexity of power and legacy in Middle-earth. Saruman's statement, while rooted in misdirection, highlights the often-overlooked histories and connections among these noble characters.

Key Points:

Saruman's belief in broken lines of kings was influenced by false information. Isildur and Anárion's lines intertwined through Aragorn's ancestry. Aragorn's lineage connects to both the falls of Arthedain and Arnor, aiding his quest for the throne.