Strider the Ranger is back - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Birdland · 10-10-2003, 07:31 AM

Mmmmm, perhaps. I always thought of the Thain as more the head of whatever militia the Shire may have had. He kept no standing army, and though his advise may have been sought, he made no laws, nor passed out rulings or punishments on the citizens. And unlike a king, I imagine he spent his share of time down at the local pub.

As for acknowledging the King of Arnor, Hobbits did ask his permission when seeking to establish their own country, but after that you get the feeling they were left to their own devices, at least within their borders.

No, Hobbits really don't seem to be much into this whole "King" business, all in all. Even Merry, who loved and admired King Theoden, did so because he just liked Theoden, not because he was a mighty warrior or powerful ruler.

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10-10-2003, 07:31 AM	#14
Birdland Ghastly Neekerbreeker Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: the banks of the mighty Scioto Posts: 1,751	Mmmmm, perhaps. I always thought of the Thain as more the head of whatever militia the Shire may have had. He kept no standing army, and though his advise may have been sought, he made no laws, nor passed out rulings or punishments on the citizens. And unlike a king, I imagine he spent his share of time down at the local pub. As for acknowledging the King of Arnor, Hobbits did ask his permission when seeking to establish their own country, but after that you get the feeling they were left to their own devices, at least within their borders. No, Hobbits really don't seem to be much into this whole "King" business, all in all. Even Merry, who loved and admired King Theoden, did so because he just liked Theoden, not because he was a mighty warrior or powerful ruler.