Aragorn's Path to Kingship

The Lord of the Rings

Aragorn son of Arathorn rises from Ranger to King of Gondor and Arnor, fulfilling his destiny.

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The Ranger RevealedThe 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 FellowshipLeading 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 DeadThe 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 FieldsThe 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 MarriageThe 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