Race: Man (Dúnedain)
Sex: Male
Faction: Fellowship of the Ring
Overall Rating: 8.3
Alignment: Lawful Good
Arena Status: Active (S1)
In the sprawling tapestry of Middle-earth's legendarium, penned by the inimitable J.R.R. Tolkien, few characters cast as long and formidable a shadow as Aragorn, the Ranger of the North.
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| Aragorn by alendes, Deviant Art |
Aragorn's story is, above all, a story of hidden identity. Born as Aragorn II, son of Arathorn, his lineage traces back to Isildur, one of the ancient kings of Men. His destiny was sealed at birth, but for his protection, his true identity was obscured. He was brought up by Elrond in Rivendell and was given the name 'Estel,' meaning 'Hope,' unaware of his royal blood.
"In that hour was the hope of the Dunedain born; for the son of Arathorn took unto himself the name that was foretold for him, Elessar, the Elfstone of the house of Elendil." - The Lord of the Rings
In "The Fellowship of the Ring," Aragorn's path intertwines with Frodo and the Ring-bearer's quest. He appears first as "Strider," a Ranger cloaked in mystery, guiding and guarding the hobbits on their perilous journey. His prowess in battle, wisdom, and leadership become evident, revealing glimpses of a king.
However, Aragorn's path to kingship is not a straightforward one. It's fraught with self-doubt, internal struggle, and the burden of living up to his lineage. His romance with Arwen, an Elven princess, is a poignant subplot, reflecting the human condition's timeless themes: love, sacrifice, and destiny.
"Long have I desired to look upon the likenesses of Isildur and Anarion, my sires of old." - The Two Towers
His leadership crescendos in "The Return of the King," where Aragorn's role expands into leading armies and rallying allies. His crowning as King Elessar signals not just a personal fulfillment but the restoration of a unified kingdom.
"I am Aragorn son of Arathorn; and if by life or death I can save you, I will." - The Fellowship of the Ring
What sets Aragorn apart from a mere archetypal hero are the nuances in his character. He's at once a warrior, a healer, a lover, and a king. His journey isn't just one of self-discovery but also of self-creation. He has to become the king he was destined to be.
Tolkien's portrayal of Aragorn is multifaceted, revealing complexities that make him resonate with readers across generations. In his hands and heart, we see the embodiment of hope, courage, wisdom, and love. His connection to the natural world, his poetic speech, and his human vulnerability render him an enduring symbol of leadership and nobility in fantasy literature.
Aragorn's arc in "The Lord of the Rings" is an epic tapestry woven with threads of destiny, love, courage, and leadership. He is more than a character; he's an archetype, a symbol, and a living legend within the narrative of Middle-earth. From a ranger to a king, his journey is the realization of potential, a call to greatness answered, and a life lived with purpose and honor.
Through this blog post, we'll further explore the facets of Aragorn, delving into his lineage, his relationships, his battles, and the values he embodies. Join us as we journey through Middle-earth, following the footsteps of the king who returned.
Aragorn's Raw Power
Aragorn's raw power is a harmonious fusion of physical strength, skill in combat, and innate leadership abilities. Among the peoples of Middle-earth, he stands as a beacon of human strength, wielding the reforged sword Andúril with a mastery unmatched.
In the world of combat, Aragorn's skill with the blade is legendary. His swordsmanship is a dance, a testament to his lifelong training and natural abilities. He fought orcs, trolls, and the minions of Sauron with unrelenting strength.
"But Aragorn sprang up like a man refreshed. An elf he seemed; for now, he stood unwearied and deadly as a figure carven in enduring stone." - The Two Towers
His raw power is not merely confined to physical prowess. Aragorn's heritage imbues him with the aura of royalty and authority, a subtler form of power that allows him to command respect and wield influence. He isn't known for magical abilities or control over the elements, but his power lies in his arms, his lineage, and his destiny.
While he may not have supernatural capabilities, his physical strength and skill in combat are awe-inspiring. Aragorn's raw power manifests in his ability to stand toe-to-toe with the supernatural beings of his world, making him a formidable warrior even without magical abilities.
Rating Aragorn's raw power on a scale of 1-10 in comparison to all fantasy characters across all universes can be challenging due to the vast diversity of powers and abilities in the fantasy genre. However, considering his context within the human realm of Middle-earth and his standing as one of the mightiest mortal warriors of his age, we might position him at a 7.
This rating takes into consideration that Aragorn doesn't possess magical abilities, and his strength is confined to the physical and martial domain. Within his universe, he stands tall, yet in the grand scope of all fantasy universes, there are characters with god-like powers or abilities that transcend his own.
In the words of Tolkien himself, Aragorn is a hero who carries the weight of his lineage, the wisdom of his experience, and the might of his arm. The raw power in Aragorn's character lies in his unique synthesis of these elements, making him not just a great warrior but a symbol of human potential and nobility.
Aragorn's Tactical Ability
Aragorn's tactical ability is a defining trait that showcases his intellectual prowess alongside his physical strength. Throughout J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," we see Aragorn as more than just a warrior; he's a strategist and leader, able to navigate complex scenarios with wisdom and foresight.
"He is Aragorn son of Arathorn," said Legolas; "and he is descended through many fathers from Isildur Elendil's son of Minas Ithil." - The Fellowship of the Ring
His lineage as the rightful heir of Isildur grants him access to the wisdom of ages, which plays a significant role in his tactical acumen. In The Two Towers, Aragorn's decision-making during the Battle of Helm's Deep reflects a deep understanding of warfare and strategy. He not only commands his troops but also joins them on the frontline, applying his tactical insights in real-time. His choices reflect an uncanny ability to read the battlefield and adjust plans as the situation evolves.
Furthermore, Aragorn's experience as a Ranger of the North has honed his skills in survival, tracking, and guerilla warfare. This blend of abilities allows him to lead the Fellowship with adeptness, guide them through treacherous terrains, and make key decisions that greatly influence their journey.
In the grand council of Elrond, where the fate of the One Ring is decided, Aragorn's wisdom and counsel stand as a testament to his strategic thinking. His understanding of Middle-earth's geography, cultures, and politics provides a valuable insight into planning their path.
Considering all these elements, rating Aragorn's tactical ability requires a thoughtful comparison to all fantasy characters across all universes. His tactical prowess is exceptional, especially within the context of his world. However, as with his raw power, he lacks supernatural or magical enhancements to his strategies. Thus, a fair rating might place him at 8.5.
Aragorn's tactical ability goes beyond mere strategy; it's a reflection of his wisdom, his heritage, and his intimate understanding of the world around him. These elements combine to make him not just a great warrior, but a great leader, one whose tactical insights are shaped by a profound connection to the world he inhabits. His skills in this regard are perhaps best summarized by Gandalf:
"All that you say is true, Aragorn; yet the fellowship of the Ring, if that be its name, is not comprised of men alone. You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring." - The Fellowship of the Ring
Aragorn's Influence
Aragorn, the last of the line of Kings in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," wields an influence that is both subtle and profound. His influence isn't just in the realm of leadership; it extends into the mystical, for he is the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor, with a lineage that ties him to divine authority. This isn't just a claim to a physical throne; it's a spiritual legacy that commands respect and allegiance.
"Here is Aragorn, son of Arathorn, chieftain of the Dúnedain of Arnor, Captain of the Host of the West, bearer of the Star of the North, wielder of the Sword Reforged, victorious in battle, whose hands bring healing, the Elfstone, Elessar of the line of Valandil, Isildur's son, Elendil's son of Númenor. Shall he be king and enter into the City and dwell there?" - The Return of the King
Aragorn's charisma is not based solely on his appearance or speech but the essence of his character. His actions, decisions, and the way he treats others demonstrate a king's wisdom. He not only guides and leads but also heals and nurtures, as seen in his care for the wounded in the Houses of Healing.
"Then an old wife, Ioreth, the eldest of the women who served in that house, looking on the fair face of the Lord, cried aloud: 'Kingsfoil, aye! 'tis called. For it is said that when the King comes back, he will have need of it, and that it will grow well wherever he is king.'" - The Return of the King
His influence extends to creatures great and small, from kings to common soldiers, from the wise to the simple-hearted hobbits. It's a unifying force that brings together races and nations, transcending social and cultural barriers.
Taking all these facets into consideration, and acknowledging that Aragorn's influence is not just in the physical realm but also in the spiritual and historical dimensions of Middle-earth, a rating of 9.5 would seem fitting. His is an influence that shapes not just the events but the very destiny of Middle-earth, grounded in both divine authority and a profound human connection. His influence is so integral to the storyline that it is a defining force in "The Lord of the Rings," one that resonates with readers across time and space.
Aragorn's Resilience
Aragorn's resilience is a core aspect of his character, representing not only his physical endurance but also his mental fortitude. Throughout "The Lord of the Rings," Aragorn encounters numerous trials that test his strength and willpower, and he consistently perseveres.
Physically, Aragorn's endurance is legendary. In "The Two Towers," during the pursuit of the Uruk-hai who have captured Merry and Pippin, Aragorn and his companions run tirelessly for days on end. Gimli remarks, "Dwarves too can go swiftly, and they do not tire sooner than Orcs. But it will be a long chase: they have a long start." To which Aragorn replies, "Yes, nineteen score of strides, growing swiftly less. There are ways that we may shorten the road and perhaps escape the snows. Yet great weariness is on me—or I would trust to Aragorn; but lesser men have other powers, and time to use them." This moment underscores not just his physical stamina but his understanding of his own limits and those of others.
Aragorn's resilience is also seen in his unbreakable will. He faces the long-awaited destiny of becoming the King of Gondor, a burden that he bears with grace and fortitude. The doubts and fears don't deter him from his path; they shape him into a wise and compassionate leader.
"Thus we meet again, though all the hosts of Mordor lay between us," he said. "Did I not say so at the Hornburg?" - The Return of the King
He bears wounds, losses, and defeats without losing his sense of purpose or his commitment to his friends and the greater good of Middle-earth. His ability to bounce back from physical injuries and emotional traumas is a key element of his leadership and heroism.
In comparison to all fantasy characters across all universes, Aragorn's resilience is indeed remarkable. He doesn't possess supernatural healing abilities or magical protections, yet his determination, physical stamina, and emotional strength place him among the most resilient characters. Considering these aspects, a rating of 8.5 seems fitting. Aragorn's resilience is not just about enduring hardships but also about growing, adapting, and leading through them, making him a character whose resilience resonates across different dimensions of his being.
Aragorn's Versatility
Aragorn's versatility as a character in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" shines through various aspects of his abilities and roles. His skill set ranges from leadership and healing to combat proficiency and wilderness survival, displaying a wide array of competencies.
As a trained Ranger, Aragorn's fighting skills are unmatched. Whether wielding a sword or a bow, he excels in combat scenarios. During the Battle of Helm's Deep, he demonstrates his mastery over different weapons, making him a formidable warrior. "Two had already fallen to his sword, smiting with an axe. Now he raised his sword."
Aragorn is also known as 'Strider' and 'Elfstone,' signifying his healing abilities. In "The Return of the King," he uses the 'hands of a king' to heal Éowyn, Merry, and others. "The hands of the king are the hands of a healer, and so shall the rightful king be known."
As the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor, Aragorn's leadership skills are unmatched. He can rally men, Elves, and Dwarves to his cause, leading them through battle and hardship. His speech before the Black Gate exemplifies his ability to inspire: "I see in your eyes the same fear that would take the heart of me."
Aragorn's expertise in tracking and wilderness survival is apparent throughout the series. He can navigate through dangerous terrains, track creatures, and find sustenance where others cannot. His knowledge of the lands helps the Fellowship many times.
Aragorn's wisdom and charisma allow him to negotiate and build alliances. His ability to unite different races and factions showcases his versatility as a diplomat.
In comparison to other fantasy characters, Aragorn's versatility is a defining feature, setting him apart from many. While he does not wield grand magical powers or control elements, his wide-ranging skills make him a unique character. His adaptability to different challenges and situations warrants a rating of 8 on the scale.
His ability to shift roles, utilize a multitude of skills, and adapt to various challenges makes Aragorn not just a hero but a symbol of human potential, resilience, and wisdom. His character stands as a beacon of what one can achieve with determination, training, and inherent nobility, marking him as one of the most versatile characters in fantasy literature.
Aragorn's Alignment
Aragorn, also known as Strider, is a central character in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." He is introduced as a mysterious Ranger of the North but later revealed to be the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor. Aragorn's abilities span across various domains including combat, healing, leadership, wilderness survival, and diplomacy. He serves as a unifying figure, capable of rallying diverse races and factions towards a common goal.
Aragorn's journey throughout the series is marked by honor, wisdom, courage, and a strong sense of duty. He stands as a symbol of hope in the face of darkness, always adhering to a moral code even when faced with perilous situations. His actions are driven by a deep love for his people and a commitment to the greater good.
Aragorn's actions are guided by a strong sense of duty, honor, and adherence to the laws and traditions of his people. Whether it's accepting his role as the heir of Isildur or leading his troops into battle, he acts with a sense of purpose and responsibility. His commitment to the fight against Sauron, his selfless leadership, compassion towards others, and willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of Middle-earth all point towards a good alignment. His deeds consistently align with the values of goodness, kindness, and justice.
Aragorn's alignment as Lawful Good reflects his unwavering commitment to justice, order, and morality. He embodies the virtues of a true king, leading not only through authority but through empathy and wisdom. His character serves as an enduring example of leadership driven by integrity and a profound understanding of right and wrong. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Aragorn's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #11 (of 107) |
Titles & Postseason Results
| Season | Result | All Time Occurence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | Conference Tournament Champion (The Lord of the Rings) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Bid (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship 2nd Round Appearance (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Sweet 16 Appearance (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Elite 8 Appearance (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Final 4 Appearance (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Finals Appearance (#3 Seed) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Champion (#3 Seed) | 1st |
Overall Conclusion on Aragorn and Position Across Planes of Existence
Aragorn's rank at 8.3, placing him among the top 5 in our evaluation across all fantasy characters at the time of this writing, is a recognition of his exceptional abilities and virtues that make him stand out not just in the context of Middle-earth, but across various fictional universes.
Aragorn's raw power may not include overt magical abilities, but his combat prowess, strength, and agility are extraordinary. Trained by the Elves, and being a descendant of the ancient line of Númenóreans, his physical capabilities surpass those of ordinary men. He fought bravely in many battles, including Helm's Deep and the Pelennor Fields, showcasing his martial expertise.
As a leader and strategist, Aragorn demonstrated remarkable skill. His planning and execution of strategies were crucial to the success of the Fellowship and the larger war effort. His tactical acumen can be seen in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, where he led the Army of the Dead, turning the tide of the battle.
Aragorn's ability to unite disparate factions and inspire loyalty is unmatched. He rallied Men, Elves, Dwarves, and even the Army of the Dead to fight against a common enemy. His speech at the Black Gate, where he motivated his troops by saying, "A day may come when the courage of men fails, but it is not this day," embodies his influential leadership.
His resilience is evident through numerous trials and hardships. Whether facing the Nazgûl or trekking through dangerous terrains, Aragorn's determination and fortitude never wavered. He bore the weight of his destiny without succumbing to despair.
Aragorn's versatility is one of his defining characteristics. He is a skilled warrior, healer, tracker, and diplomat. His ability to adapt to different roles and challenges sets him apart. His healing hands, referred to as the "hands of a king," showcase a depth of skill beyond mere combat.
His Lawful Good alignment underscores a steadfast commitment to justice and morality. His actions consistently align with these principles, further elevating his character.
Lastly, Aragorn's impact goes beyond the narrative. He has become a symbol of leadership and heroism in popular culture. His character has been analyzed, celebrated, and emulated, adding to his enduring legacy.
Aragorn's 8.3 rating acknowledges a multifaceted character rich in depth and complexity. His strengths span across physical prowess, strategic brilliance, inspiring leadership, resilience, and adaptability. In comparing him with characters across different universes, his virtues and abilities render him as one of the most compelling and revered figures in fantasy literature. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
