Why Arwen Chose the Undying Lands

Arwen, a character from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, faces a poignant decision that shapes the fate of the Elves in Middle-earth. In the original narrative, Arwen and Aragorn's journey to the Undying Lands follows a long and significant period where their love matures and is tested. Let's explore this beautifully poignant moment and the reasons behind Arwen's decision to leave Middle-earth for the Undying Lands.

The Decision Arwen Faces

Arwen, the daughter of Elrond, finds herself between the choice of staying in Middle-earth with Aragorn, who is mortal, or going to the Undying Lands, a realm where Elves achieve a form of immortality. This choice is deeply intertwined with Arwen's love for Aragorn and her role as the representative of the last line of the elves in Middle-earth. Her departure is more than just a personal choice; it marks the end of the elvish age and a significant milestone in the narrative.

Timeline and Background

Arwen's path to making her decision was not immediate and sudden. The story of Arwen and Aragorn's journey is detailed in The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen, found in Appendix A of The Return of the King. Their story begins long before the events of the main trilogy, showcasing their deep bond and mutual understanding.

Aragorn, after many hard adventures, entered Lothlórien when he was about forty years old. During his stay, he was welcomed by Galadriel, the Lady of Lothlórien. During this time, Arwen, Galadriel's grand-daughter, saw Aragorn in his white attire and fell deeply in love with him. This leads to a period of wandering and bonding on the undying grass, culminating in the plighting of troth at Cerin Amroth.

During this time, Arwen looked into the West and reconciled herself to the idea of sharing a mortal life with Aragorn once he became King. This resolution symbolizes her acceptance of fate and the bond between her and Aragorn.

The Impact of Elrond's Influence

Elrond, while concerned about his daughter, did not try to dissuade her from her decision. Instead, he supported her choice, understanding it to be a testament to Aragorn's worth. Aragorn had proven himself through countless trials, showing himself to be a just and worthy leader with a noble lineage. His foster father, Elrond, had instilled in him the values that made him a suitable partner for Arwen.

It is a possibility that earlier in their relationship, Arwen had faced a struggle with her choice. However, by the time of the events in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, her decision was clear. Arwen had chosen to stand by Aragorn, embracing the hope for humanity and the future of Middle-earth.

How the Movies Adapted the Story

The films took liberties with the original narrative, creating a more dramatic internal conflict for Arwen. By portraying her making a difficult choice only after events in the trilogy, the movies added a layer of tension and emotional depth that aligns with modern storytelling conventions. However, the original narrative provides a richer and more realistic portrayal of their relationship and Arwen's decision.

Conclusion

Arwen's choice to go to the Undying Lands is a profound moment that encapsulates themes of love, sacrifice, and the passage of time. Her decision, while not an immediate one, is rooted in a deep and enduring bond with Aragorn and a recognition of the changing tides of Middle-earth. This choice, made within the context of a long and complex narrative, offers a powerful lesson about the importance of loyalty, love, and hope.

For a deeper dive into the story, the original narrative is described in Appendix A of The Return of the King, which can be found with detailed annotations and insights into the rich tapestry of Middle-earth's history and its characters.