I’m thinking about working on this design… honest
My fellow Tolkien freaks on TORN have reminded me of a few things…
Gandalf is the only father figure at the begining of the story. He leaves the action forcing Aragorn to take over leadership/fatherhood of the Fellowship. Frodo, in turn, with Sam, to strike out on his own.
Examine the contrast between Theoden and Denethor (I’m quoting Kimi of TORN here….)”The healed Theoden is a loving and perceptive father of his foster-children, and the father of his country. He heartens his warriors by leading them himself. He has lost his only child, but he acts as a father to all who need it. “As a father you shall be to me!” Merry tells him in the book.
A strong contrast with Denethor who treats Faramir so cruelly, and spooks Pippin.
Elrond was Aragorn’s foster-father, and can surely be given some credit for raising a “son” capable of resuming the throne.”
OK, there’s a Masters Thesis here somewhere….
discuss…
Well . . . if you go back to the Hobbit you have Gloin, father of Gimli. Also, Legolas’ father Thranduil is described in the Hobbit . . . Something could be said about passing along honor and loyalty to their sons (though Thranduil did it a long time ago . . . when do Elves reach maturity anyway? 18? 118?)
But, you’re right, there is a stunning lack of Father figures in the books (and movies). Gandalf is wise and knowing. Aragorn protective. Theodon accepting and loving (though a bit blinded by his own ideals at times).
However, you have to remember Elrond. He’s a full-fledged father in the books, as Arwen is the fruit of his Elven loins.
And, oddly, you could go back to Sam whose Journey allows him to become a father, and probably a damn fine one at that. Of all the characters, Sam learns and gains the most in the books, the least of which would be Rose and Elanore.
Saruman could be viewed as the betraying Step Father, ala Claudius in Hamlet. Gandalf, at least at one point, viewed him as a fatherly type, least of all because of his position on the Wizard’s Council. He certainly portrayed that visage. Gandalf seeks his council and advice and is betrayed.
So, if you look at parental themes in the books and movies, both Frodo and Aragorn are orphan heros. Plus, who’s the mommy? Galadrial? I’m sure Gimli wouldn’t mind nuzzling up to her and calling her Mommy . . .
Oops. Went too far. Again.