Why Did the Remnants of Arnor Dunedain Seek Refuge in Rivendell?

Introduction:

The remnants of the ancient northern Kingdom of Arnor, the Dunedain, have long been a subject of speculation in Tolkien's universe. This article delves into the reasons why, despite the presence of safe havens like Rivendell or the Grey Havens, the Dunedain chose to seek refuge in Imladris after the threat of Angmar was neutralized. We will explore the historical context, cultural factors, and practical considerations that led to this decision.

Historical Context and Cultural Significance

The decline of the Kingdom of Arnor during the War of the Ring was a somber chapter in the history of Middle-earth. The last chieftain of Arnor, Aranarth, and the remnant Dunedain faced a dire situation, with their ranks significantly reduced due to the ongoing battle against Angmar. Despite the absence of canonical evidence, many scholars and fans of Tolkien's works propose that the Dunedain found refuge in Imladris, the Elven realm of Rivendell, as a strategic and culturally significant choice.

The Great Armada and the Grey Havens

The last recorded landing of the Dunedain at the Grey Havens was intended to mark the end of Arnor's history, as the last King, Arvedui, had sought aid from Gondor during the cold tracks of Angmar. However, the text does not explicitly mention the presence of Aranarth at the time of the armada's arrival. It is more likely that Aranarth and the survivors took refuge in Imladris, the alpine fortress of Lord Elrond, given the cultural and familial ties between Elrond and the Numenoreans.

Heritage and Pride of the Dunedain

The ancient lineage of the Dunedain, being the descendants of the Men of Numenor, often looked back to their heritage with pride. The choice to take refuge in Rivendell, which was under the leadership of Elrond, the brother of the First King of Numenor, would have been a tribute to their Numenorean roots. This cultural affinity and the possibility of protection from the Elves made Imladris an appealing choice for the Dunedain.

Practical Considerations and Long-term Plans

Even with the protection of the Elves, the Dunedain had to consider the long-term viability of their settlement. The leaders of the Dunedain recognized that they could not remain forever in the home of another, but would eventually strive to build their own community. The Elves, while generous, could not indefinitely support a settlement of their own.

The Decline of Arnor Men

The Angmar Wars left the Dunedain severely weakened. By the time of the War of the Ring, the Dunedain could only muster a small force of thirty fighting men to aid their chieftain. A critical factor in their decision to seek refuge in Imladris was the potential for regaining their strength and rebuilding. Imladris offered not just safety but also a fertile ground for the Dunedain to re-establish themselves and rebuild their civilization.

Conclusion

For both cultural and practical reasons, the remnants of the Arnor Dunedain chose to seek refuge in Imladris after the threat of Angmar was extinguished. The strong cultural ties to Elrond and the potential for regaining their strength and rebuilding their community made Rivendell a more appealing choice than the coastal regions of Lindon. This decision allowed the Dunedain to preserve their heritage and take the first steps towards their possible resurgence in the future.

Keywords: Dunedain, Arnor, Rivendell