Aragorn's Path to Kingship
The Lord of the RingsAragorn son of Arathorn rises from Ranger to King of Gondor and Arnor, fulfilling his destiny.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The Ranger Revealed

The Ranger Revealed
Meeting at the Prancing Pony
Aragorn, known as Strider, meets Frodo and the hobbits in Bree. He proves his identity through Gandalf's letter and becomes their protector.
The Journey to Rivendell
He leads the hobbits through the wilderness, defending them from the Nazgûl. His skill and knowledge of the land become evident.
The Heir of Isildur
At Rivendell, Elrond reveals Aragorn's true lineage as the heir of Isildur and the future King. Aragorn takes up his heritage, accepting the responsibility.
Leading the Fellowship

Leading the Fellowship
After Gandalf's Fall
After Gandalf's fall in Moria, Aragorn becomes the de facto leader of the Fellowship. He guides them through Lothlórien and down the Anduin.
The Decision at Parth Galen
At Parth Galen, Aragorn faces the choice of pursuing Frodo or going to Minas Tirith. He decides to follow the captors of Merry and Pippin, setting aside his own desire to go to Gondor.
The Hunt for the Hobbits
Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli track the orcs across Rohan, meeting Éomer and the Rohirrim. This leads to the re-forging of his sword, Andúril, and his claim to kingship.
The King of the Dead

The King of the Dead
The Paths of the Dead
Aragorn, using the guidance of Elrond and the prophecy of Malbeth, takes the Paths of the Dead. He summons the Oathbreakers to fulfill their oath and fight against Sauron.
The Grey Company
He is joined by the Dúnedain of the North, including his kinsmen. Together they pass through the mountain and emerge at Erech, with the Dead following.
The Liberation of Pelargir
Aragorn leads the Dead to capture the Corsair ships at Pelargir, freeing the coastal lands. He then sails up the Anduin to the Harlond, arriving at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.
The Battle of the Pelennor Fields

The Battle of the Pelennor Fields
Arrival at the Harlond
Aragorn arrives with the captured fleet, unfurling the standard of the King. His appearance turns the tide of the battle, rallying the Rohirrim and the men of Gondor.
The Slaying of the Witch-king
Though not directly involved, Aragorn's presence inspires Éowyn to kill the Witch-king. Aragorn leads the final charge against the Haradrim and Easterlings.
Victory and Leadership
After the battle, Aragorn is hailed as the King. He enters Minas Tirith as a healer, using his kingly hands to cure the wounded. His claim is accepted by the people.
The Coronation and Marriage

The Coronation and Marriage
The Crowning in Minas Tirith
Aragorn is crowned King Elessar by Gandalf, with the crown of Gondor. He takes the name Elessar and begins his reign.
The Wedding of Aragorn and Arwen
On Midsummer's Day, Aragorn marries Arwen, the Evenstar of her people. Their union symbolizes the union of Elves and Men and the beginning of the Fourth Age.
The Legacy of the King
Aragorn rules wisely for 122 years, restoring Gondor and Arnor. He leads the Reunited Kingdom and becomes a legendary figure in the history of Middle-earth.
October 30, T.A. 3018, at Bree
December 25, T.A. 3018 – February 26, T.A. 3019
March 8–11, T.A. 3019
March 15, T.A. 3019
May 1, T.A. 3019 – Midsummer, T.A. 3019