Unraveling the Identity of the True King

Among the many outstanding characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, Frodo the Fellowship, and the Lord of the Rings films, Boromir and Aragorn stand out as figures with a unique destiny entwined within the narrative. Throughout the tale, the question of who would have claimed the throne to become the King of Gondor if Boromir managed to survive the Battle of the Pelennor Fields remains a subject of intrigue.

The Enduring Legacy of Aragorn

Aragorn, the rightful heir and the chosen son of Isildur and Elrond's daughter Arwen, emerges from the shadows of the North to reveal himself as the long-lost heir. In both the books and the films, his journey is marked by extraordinary moments of valor and sacrifice. The final moments of Boromir in the film, where he calls out to Aragorn, My king, echo the poignant suggestion that he had accepted Aragorn as his rightful successor. This moment is almost pivotal, asking the question of whether Boromir would have fought to claim the throne for Aragorn if fate had granted him another hour of life.

The Influence of Boromir on Aragorn

Boromir's fate has a significant impact on Aragorn's mindset and the outcome of the war. In both the book and the film, there is a sense of mutual respect and understanding between the two characters. Boromir's journey from a champion of Gondor to a desirer of the Ring reveals his potential as a man capable of becoming a great king. His journey and his ultimate decision to join the enemies of Gondor highlight the internal struggle of a man torn between his human desires and his duty. Meanwhile, Aragorn, representing the hope of Gondor, is driven by a sense of duty and destiny to restore the lineage of Isildur.

The Debate: King Boromir or King Aragorn?

The potential for Boromir to ascend the throne if he had survived brings to light a thought-provoking debate. Could Boromir, with his military prowess and leadership skills, have emerged as a worthy king? Would his past mistakes and the influence of Saruman have clouded his judgment, leading to a path of darkness?

On one hand, Boromir's character shows his genuine aspirations to uphold the values of Gondor and protect his people. The respect he shows Aragorn, even in his last moments, suggests that he would not have preferred overthrowing or challenging Aragorn for the throne. Instead, Boromir’s acceptance of Aragorn’s guidance might indicate a willingness to align his leadership with the same principles as Aragorn, ensuring the continuation of the rightful ruler.

The Implications of Boromir's Death

Boromir's death, though tragic, ultimately strengthens the foundation for Aragorn's role as the king. His adherence to the rules and his moral code, even in the face of overwhelming temptation, underscore the qualities necessary for a king. Furthermore, Boromir's ultimate choice to die rather than submit to the Ring's influence further cements Aragorn's position. Aragorn, who is often portrayed as a man of destiny and honor, is given an opportunity to fulfill his role without the fear of betrayal, making him a more solid and convincing king.

A Different Path for Gondor

Imagining Boromir as king would have led to a significantly different path for Gondor. With Boromir's leadership, Gondor might have taken a more militant and forceful approach in resisting Sauron, possibly without the moral and strategic wisdom that Aragorn brings. The absence of Aragorn's leadership and counsel could have led to a more rigid and possibly less nuanced approach to the quest for the destruction of the Ring, potentially leading to greater losses and fewer allies.

However, with Boromir's genuine compassion and sense of duty, Gondor might have managed to successfully resist the forces of darkness through a combination of military might and strategic intelligence. Boromir's potential as a king would be a testament to his personal growth and the strength of his character, suggesting that he could have led Gondor to a peaceful and prosperous future. However, Aragorn, with his lineage and the wisdom of the Elven counsel, would have provided a more stable and balanced ruler.

The Conclusion: A Hatred That Never Needed to Be Felt

Ultimately, the depiction of Boromir as a man of contradiction highlights the potential for growth and redemption. His death serves to remind us of the tragedy of loss and the importance of the choices we make. Aragorn's role as the rightful ruler may have felt destined through the books and films, but the story of Boromir's potential and the respect he shows Aragorn adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Had Boromir survived, the path for Gondor and the quest for the Ring would have taken a different and perhaps, in some ways, a more peaceful turn.

Final Thoughts

While the question of who would have been King of Gondor if Boromir had survived is purely hypothetical, this speculation invites us to reflect on the themes of destiny, leadership, and the impact of personal growth on one's legacy. It is a question that enriches our understanding of the rich tapestry of characters and their journeys in Middle-earth.