Would Legolas or Aragorn Have Taken the Ring if Frodo Had Not Split from the Fellowship?

In the Lord of the Rings series, the journey to destroy the One Ring is fraught with moral and physical challenges. One pivotal moment occurs during the journey of the Fellowship of the Ring when Boromir tries to steal the ring from Frodo, leading to Frodo's choice to leave the group. This decision leaves many wondering which character might have followed if Frodo had stayed. Would Legolas or Aragorn have succumbed to the temptation of the ring when no one else did? Let's explore the motivations and character traits that could have led to such a decision.

Understanding the Ring's Influence and Dwarven Resistance

Many argue that characters like Gimli might have been the next to try and take the ring if Frodo had not left. However, it is essential to recognize that dwarves possess a natural resistance to the harmful influence of the One Ring. In fact, Sauron's power over the dwarves wearing the rings was once limited when he still had the One Ring. Gimli's strong will and character likely would have kept him from succumbing to the ring's power. Therefore, it is more plausible that characters with weaker moral fortitude would have taken the ring next.

Legolas: The Rational and Resolute

Legolas, an elf of high station and great wisdom, might have been next in line to consider taking the ring. As the journey progresses, Legolas becomes increasingly aware of the weight and consequences of the ring. By the time they approach the end of their journey, Legolas might have felt the ring's call, drawing him further away from his home and the elves' sanctuary.

The seagulls, a symbol of the sea and Middle-earth's end, begin to call to him, subtly hinting at the ring's influence. This could have made Legolas more susceptible to the ring's allure, especially as he faces the melancholy of leaving Middle-earth behind. With the ring's manipulation, he might have believed that only he was capable of destroying it. However, Legolas's rational and resolute nature likely would have ultimately kept him from taking the ring, as he would have recognized the true evil it represents.

Aragorn: The Burden of Leadership

Aragorn, with his complex and multifaceted personality, might have been the next to consider taking the ring if Frodo had not. His motivations are deeply intertwined with both his duty to reclaim his birthright as the King of Gondor and his love for Arwen, one of the Maia, a being of immense power and integrity.

The pressures of time and the responsibilities he feels to his people would have grown as the journey continued. The moral and ethical weight of the ring would have become more pressing, especially as the fellowship's numbers dwindled. Aragorn's desire to protect his kin, coupled with the knowledge that only he could fulfill his destiny, might have pushed him to consider the ring's power. However, Aragorn's loyalty and sense of duty likely would have prevented him from taking the ring, knowing that he had to preserve his integrity and honor.

Merry and Pippin: The Plaintive Duo

The young hobbits, Merry and Pippin, are known for their cheerful and optimistic nature. However, as their journey progresses and the stakes grow higher, their resolve might crack under the pressure. Merry, in particular, might have been more susceptible to the ring's influence as he begins to doubt the group's ability to complete their mission.

Each member of the fellowship has their own reasons and motivations for wanting to destroy the ring, and their individual journeys define their characters. However, their collective experiences and the shared burden of their quest foster a sense of unity and purpose. While Merry might have shown the first signs of wavering, it is Sam who remains unwavering in his resolve, willing to give up the ring to protect it.

Conclusion

The journey of the fellowship is not just about the path to Mount Doom but also about the internal battles each character faces. Frodo's decision to leave the group, despite the temptation of the ring, is a testament to his strength and dedication. However, as the journey progresses, others might have been tempted to take the ring if Frodo had stayed. Whether it would have been Legolas, Aragorn, or the hobbits, the moral dilemma and the temptation of power would have remained a constant.