Literature
Did Aragorn and Legolas Know Each Other Before the Fellowship of the Ring?
Did Aragorn and Legolas Know Each Other Before the Fellowship of the Ring?
The question of whether Aragorn and Legolas knew each other before joining the Fellowship of the Ring has been a subject of much debate among Tolkien enthusiasts. While J.R.R. Tolkien's works do not explicitly answer this, we can explore the possibilities based on the information available in The Lord of the Rings.
The Meeting in Mirkwood
Aragorn’s trip to Mirkwood at least once, where he delivered Gollum to Thranduil, is a significant event that could have led to a meeting with Legolas. Given Thranduil's hospitable nature, it seems plausible that Aragorn would have been given the opportunity to dine, bathe, and rest at the Woodland Realm.
During such gatherings, it would be reasonable to assume that Legolas, as a member of the royal household, was also present. This encounter could have laid the foundation for their later cooperation during the journey.
Legolas's Role in the Gollum Affair
Legolas's involvement in the Gollum affair is another crucial point in the timeline. After Gollum's escape, Thranduil understandably sought Legolas to inform Gandalf and resolve the situation. This interaction would naturally involve Aragorn as well, given he delivered Gollum to Mirkwood in the first place.
It is common in the works of Tolkien for key characters to interact through such events. Therefore, it is highly probable that Aragorn and Legolas met during this period, setting the stage for their future collaboration within the Fellowship.
Political Context and Thranduil's Role
Thranduil's political stance during the events prior to the Fellowship of the Ring was separatist. While he was willing to house Gollum, Thranduil's policy was not to interfere with the affairs of other realms. However, his role in hosting and treating prisoners with respect suggests a level of hospitality that would allow guests like Aragorn to receive proper treatment.
It is important to note that the events portrayed in the Hobbit films, where Thranduil sends Legolas to find Aragorn, are an artist's interpretation and do not align with Tolkien's original narrative. In the books, Aragorn was much younger, and Thranduil's primary concern was the escape of Gollum.
Conclusion
Based on the information provided in The Lord of the Rings, it is highly probable that Aragorn and Legolas did know each other before joining the Fellowship of the Ring. Their meeting would have likely occurred during Aragorn’s delivery of Gollum to Thranduil and the subsequent Gollum affair. This interaction would have helped establish their trust and cooperation, leading to their future alliance within the Fellowship.
While we can only speculate, the established timeline and characters' interactions in Tolkien's narrative provide a strong foundation for their known history.