Why Did Rohan Support Gondor During the Siege of Minas Tirith in The Lord of the Rings?

In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the relationship between Rohan and Gondor is complex and deeply rooted in shared history, loyalty, and a common enemy - Sauron and his forces. This article delves into the reasons why Rohan chose to support Gondor during the Siege of Minas Tirith, despite Gondor's absence during the Siege of Helms Deep. We will explore these themes through historical alliances, shared enemies, the urgency of the situation, and moral responsibilities.

Shared Enemy

The kingdoms of Rohan and Gondor faced a common existential threat from Sauron and his armies. The orc forces attacking Minas Tirith were the same forces that threatened Rohan. This shared enemy fostered a sense of urgency and solidarity between the two kingdoms. The urgency of this situation underscored the need for unified resistance against Sauron.

Historical Alliance

Rohan and Gondor have a longstanding alliance rooted in the oath of allegiance taken by the éothéod, the ancestors of the Rohirrim, to aid Gondor in times of need. This historical bond played a crucial role in motivating Rohan to come to Gondor's aid. The deep-seated sense of loyalty and duty kept the promise of aid alive for centuries, ensuring that Rohan's response to Gondor's call was swift and unwavering.

The Call for Aid

During the Siege of Minas Tirith, Gondor sent out a call for help. The signal of the beacons was lit, calling for aid from Rohan. This urgent message demonstrated the dire situation Gondor was in, highlighting the desperate need for support. The call to action sparked a sense of urgency and obligations, prompting Rohan's quick response.

Leadership of Théoden

King Théoden of Rohan was inspired by Gandalf and motivated by a sense of duty to aid his allies. Gandalf's wisdom and Théoden's sense of responsibility played a significant role in rallying the Rohirrim. The urgency of the situation at Minas Tirith compelled Théoden to act decisively, recognizing that the fall of Gondor would also endanger Rohan. His leadership was instrumental in securing Rohan's support for Gondor.

The Context of Helms Deep

During the Siege of Helms Deep, Rohan was isolated and unable to call for Gondor's assistance in the same way. Gondor was also preoccupied with its own struggles. While Gondor did not send aid, Rohan was still able to defend itself against Saruman's forces, albeit with great difficulty. This isolation and the preoccupation of Gondor with its own defenses explain why Rohan did not receive aid during the Siege of Helms Deep.

Moral Responsibility

The Rohirrim felt a moral obligation to fight against the forces of darkness. Théoden recognized that the fate of Middle-earth depended on the cooperation of free peoples against Sauron, leading him to rally his people for the battle at Minas Tirith. This moral conviction was a driving force behind Rohan's decision to support Gondor.

In summary, Rohan's support for Gondor during the Siege of Minas Tirith was driven by a shared urgency against a common enemy, historical ties, the call for aid, and a deep sense of moral responsibility. These factors united Rohan and Gondor in their struggle against Sauron's forces, exemplifying the strength of their alliance and the importance of mutual aid in times of peril.