It's not just about having the power... - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Lalwendë · 09-11-2008, 03:02 AM

If you want a perfect example of how, in Tolkien's world, merely exercising your rights or your power is not the best choice, you only have to look to Aragorn.

When entering Meduseld he wants to exercise his rights and take his weapons in, but Gandalf advises him not to do this. Aragorn could do it, and he wanted to do it, but luckily he listened to Gandalf and was instead respectful.

Much later, presumably once he has learned his lessons, he is much more cautious about entering Minas Tirith and just going "Ey up! The King is back!" He waits until he can be accepted as King. What he does is basically use consensus politics. He does not just want to rule because he has won that right or has a divine right to do so, but because the people want him to. Makes for much more effective leadership.

09-11-2008, 03:02 AM	#10
Lalwendë A Mere Boggart Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: under the bed Posts: 4,737	If you want a perfect example of how, in Tolkien's world, merely exercising your rights or your power is not the best choice, you only have to look to Aragorn. When entering Meduseld he wants to exercise his rights and take his weapons in, but Gandalf advises him not to do this. Aragorn could do it, and he wanted to do it, but luckily he listened to Gandalf and was instead respectful. Much later, presumably once he has learned his lessons, he is much more cautious about entering Minas Tirith and just going "Ey up! The King is back!" He waits until he can be accepted as King. What he does is basically use consensus politics. He does not just want to rule because he has won that right or has a divine right to do so, but because the people want him to. Makes for much more effective leadership. __________________ Gordon's alive!