The Impact of Isildur's Destruction of the One Ring with Lord Elrond

In the annals of The Lord of the Rings, the fate of the One Ring rests heavily on the hands of Isildur. Had he destroyed the Ring with Lord Elrond at the end of the Second Age, Middle-earth would have taken a significantly different trajectory. This article explores the consequences of such an alteration, focusing on key points that might have shapes the world as we know it.

Immediate Outcome: The Nullification of Sauron

The paramount effect of destroying the One Ring would have been the total nullification of Sauron's power. With the Ring's destruction, Sauron's spirit would have been permanently maimed, deprived of its formidable might. Such a severe weakening would have rendered Sauron's return to physical form and any influence over Middle-earth extremely unlikely. This would have essentially ended the existence of Sauron as a direct threat to the realm.

The Fate of Middle-earth: A New Era of Peace and Prosperity

The absence of the Ring would have precipitated a profound shift in the fate of Middle-earth. A world devoid of Sauron's looming presence would have been a tranquil and prosperous one. The kingdoms of Men, Elves, and Dwarves could have thrived without the constant specter of war and domination. This newfound stability would have allowed for the growth and prosperity of these races, potentially leading to a harmonious coexistence and the strengthening of alliances.

The Role of the Free Peoples: A Unified Front

The disappearance of Sauron's threat would have brought the Free Peoples of Middle-earth together more strongly. They would have been united in their efforts to protect their lands and promote peace. Elrond, as a renowned figure, would have played a pivotal role in these efforts. His collaboration with Isildur would have further solidified his leadership among the Elves, fostering a closer bond between Elves and Men. This unity could have provided a more robust defense against any future threats.

The Legacy of the Ring: A Corrupting Influence Erased

The destruction of the One Ring would have erased its corrupting influence on many characters, including Isildur himself. Isildur would have been compelled by the weight of the Ring's power, but with it destroyed, his downfall and subsequent tragedy could have been avoided. The absence of the Ring would have redirected the course of history, preventing the suffering and chaos it brought upon many characters.

Impact on the Third Age: A Divergent Path

The events of the Third Age would have been drastically different. Key events like the War of the Ring would never have occurred, and characters such as Frodo, Sam, Aragorn, and Gandalf would have had significantly different paths. In some cases, these characters might not have existed in the same form or roles, as their lives were intertwined with the quest to destroy the Ring.

Elrond's Pivotal Role

Lord Elrond would have played a significant role in the destruction of the Ring, alongside Isildur. This collaboration would have cemented his status as a leader among the Elves, and reinforced the bonds between Elves and Men. The strengthened alliance would have lasted well into the Third Age, allowing the two races to thrive together under the guidance of Elrond and Isildur's descendants.

In summary, the destruction of the One Ring with Elrond would have resulted in a significant shift in Middle-earth's history, leading to a much more harmonious and unified world. Free from the shadow of Sauron, the people of Middle-earth could have prospered, with the potential for lasting peace and prosperity.

However, there would have been only two possible threats left for Middle-earth - the continued threat of the Dragon Smaug and the Balrog of Morgoth hiding in Moria. While Sauron would no longer pose a direct danger, these two lesser threats still loom over the world.

The greatest threat, Sauron, would have been removed. Yet the lesser threats, such as the Balrog and the Dragon Smaug, still represent genuine dangers to the realm. This underscores the enduring challenges that the people of Middle-earth would have faced, even in a world without Sauron's direct influence.