Is Isildur a Nazg?l?

Debating the roles of characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's expansive universe can be a fascinating and intricate discussion. It’s a common question whether Isildur, a significant figure in Tolkien’s legendarium, is among the Nazg?l or Ringwraiths. Let's explore this idea in detail and clarify the roles and fates of Isildur and the Nazg?l within Tolkien's Middle-earth.

The Role of Isildur in Middle-earth

Isildur, a prominent leader of the Last Alliance of Elves and Men, is a key figure in Tolkien's works. He is notable for his pivotal role in cutting the One Ring from Sauron's finger, a decision that shapes the later history of Middle-earth. His fate is significant, but he remains a tragic hero, corrupted by and ultimately falling to the Ring's power. Isildur dies in an ambush of Orcs as he tries to escape with the Ring, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative. However, Isildur is not a Nazg?l; he is not one of Sauron's most feared servants.

The Nazg?l: Sauron's Ringwraiths

The Nazg?l, or Ringwraiths, were originally nine men who were gifted the Nine Rings of Power by Sauron. These rings were powerful and left their bearers under Sauron's control, making them invisible and servants to his will. After the destruction of the One Ring, the Nazg?l were thought to be destroyed, but some believe they still exist in some form. However, the destruction of the One Ring led to the deaths of the Nazg?l, a suggestion supported by Tolkien's works and letters.

Factual Evidence and Tolkien's Works

There is no textual evidence in Tolkien's writings that suggests Isildur became a Nazg?l. In fact, the scenario where Isildur would become a Nazg?l is entirely fictitious and likely from modern gaming adaptations. Games like Shadow of Mordor have taken creative liberties with Tolkien's characters, often presenting scenarios that contradict the source material. However, such depictions do not align with Tolkien’s original narrative, as the Nazg?l were destroyed along with the One Ring or became wraiths that faded into the realm of the unseen.

Historical Context and Battle Appearances

Isildur died in the Disaster of the Gladden Fields at the start of the Third Age, over a millennium before the Nazg?l began their campaigns. Therefore, it is impossible for Isildur to have been one of the Nazg?l or participate in any of their battles. There is no record of Nazg?l being defeated before the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, and Isildur was killed far too early to have any connection with the Nazg?l in the traditional sense. In Middle-earth, when Sauron was defeated, his lifeless body was taken to the East, and it would have been impossible for him to return in a form that would make him a Nazg?l.

Defining the Nature of Isildur and the Nazg?l

In Tolkien's universe, when a Man dies, his hroa (body) and fea (soul) separate; the soul goes to a place unknown to the Eldar. Sauron, having just been defeated, would need unprecedented power to overcome the will of Eru Ilúvatar and bring Isildur back to life. The mere idea of Isildur turning into a Nazg?l defies the established laws of mortality and the nature of the rings and the power they impart.

Conclusion

Isildur's fate is tragic and final. He did not become a Nazg?l; he died in an ambush of Orcs while trying to escape with the Ring. The Nazg?l were destroyed or faded into wraiths long after Isildur's death. This discussion highlights the critical differences in the characters and events of Tolkien’s Middle-earth and the creative liberties taken in modern gaming adaptations.