The Dark Side of Aragorn: Uncovering His Most Controversial Actions in Lord of the Rings

Initially introduced in the wilderness as the rugged wanderer Strider, this Lord of the Rings character, also known as Aragorn son of Arathorn and elfstone among the Elves, holds the royal title of King Elessar. While Viggo Mortensen's portrayal in the film adaptation is widely praised, there are notable aspects of the character's journey and human flaws that are absent from the screen versions. These include epic adventures exclusive to the Lord of the Rings lore and depictions of typical human weaknesses.

7 Gave Up His Secret Identity Immediately

A well-known fact is that Aragorn resided in Rivendell for a significant portion of his life, but only those who have read the books are privy to the knowledge that his true identity remained concealed for most of that time. For over 20 years, Elrond ensured the safety and secrecy of the rightful heir to the Gondor throne. However, upon turning 21, Aragorn was not only informed of his lineage but also bestowed with the treasures of Elrond's household. Despite his reputation for being disciplined and wise, the revelation proved to be a shock and it only took a beautiful face to cause him to reveal the secret within 24 hours.

6 He Met Arwen And Then Left Her...

Arwen Evenstar was among the early few to discover the true identity of Aragorn. Merely a day after Elrond, her father, revealed to him that he was the heir of Isildur, Aragorn met her and carelessly disclosed this crucial information in a bid to impress her. This reckless act not only jeopardized his own safety but also put Arwen in harm's way, as the secret was meant to be kept under wraps. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Aragorn set out into the wilderness within days of the revelation and remained absent for a staggering thirty years, leaving Arwen alone and vulnerable.

5 ...And She Chooses Death For Him Anyway

Elrond's disapproval of Arwen's choice is evident in the books, particularly in the appendices. When he first confronts Aragorn, he makes it clear that he believes Arwen deserves someone better. Aragorn, on the other hand, is not very understanding of Elrond's feelings and proudly embraces his destiny as a king. He only agrees to Elrond's ultimatum of becoming king before marrying Arwen because he is certain that he will achieve it.

4 He Left To Wander The Wilds

Aragorn's absence from the last meeting of the White Council, as depicted in The Hobbit movie, was due to his engagement in the battles against Sauron in the western regions such as Gondor and Rohan. Although he was fighting the Lord of the Ring on a different front, his participation in the council could have been a wiser decision considering his future role as a king.

3 Hiding From The Hobbits

The hobbits were already on edge after their arduous journey and the wait for Gandalf only added to their anxiety. Aragorn's passive behavior, sitting in the dark corner with his pipe and observing them, seemed unnecessary. Given that he knew their identities, it was perplexing that he waited for them to make a mistake that would expose them. Unfortunately, this is precisely what occurred and to add insult to injury, Aragorn placed the blame on the weary and disoriented hobbits.

2 Misleading Éowyn

The books delve deeper into this plot point, raising questions about Aragorn's integrity. The movies offer a way out by introducing complications in his relationship with Arwen, but Tolkien doesn't let Aragorn off the hook. If Aragorn were a different person, pursuing a relationship with an enemy ruler's kin would be a shrewd political strategy; however, it doesn't change the fact that it's morally questionable. Aragorn's actions are particularly egregious given Éowyn's loneliness and isolation during this period of her life.

1 Makes Frodo Wait An Extra Week To Go Home

After the destruction of the Ring and before Frodo and his companions return to the Shire, there is a chapter dedicated to the grandeur of King Elessar's wedding and coronation. In the midst of the festivities, Frodo humbly requests permission to return home. Surprisingly, Aragorn asks him to wait a week until all the public ceremonies and meetings are over, so that he can join Frodo on part of the journey home. Despite Frodo's hardships, it may seem thoughtless for Aragorn to prioritize his image over Frodo's desire to return home.