Denethor

Denethor II was the twenty-sixth and last Ruling Steward of Gondor. He lived from T.A. 2983 to T.A. 3019.

Life and Reign:

Denethor was born the son of Ecthelion II, the twenty-fifth Ruling Steward, and his wife Finduilas of Dol Amroth. He was considered a man of great stature, both physically and intellectually, even before succeeding his father. He was a stern and proud leader, deeply devoted to Gondor and fiercely independent.

He took office upon his father's death in T.A. 3007. During his stewardship, Gondor faced increasing threats from Mordor as Sauron regained his strength. Denethor was a skilled military strategist and worked tirelessly to prepare Gondor for the coming war. He maintained watch over Osgiliath and sent warriors, including his son Boromir, to Rivendell seeking advice and the meaning of prophetic dreams.

Denethor possessed the Palantír of Minas Tirith, which he used to gather information and anticipate Sauron's moves. However, his use of the Palantír, while providing him with crucial knowledge, gradually warped his mind and darkened his spirit. He saw only Sauron's overwhelming power and became increasingly pessimistic about Gondor's chances of survival.

Family:

Denethor married Finduilas of Dol Amroth. She bore him two sons: Boromir and Faramir. Finduilas died young, leaving Denethor bitter and withdrawn. He favored Boromir, admiring his strength and martial prowess, while often overlooking Faramir, whom he considered less ambitious.

Role in the War of the Ring:

During the War of the Ring, Denethor struggled to hold Gondor against Sauron's onslaught. He sent Faramir to defend Osgiliath, and Faramir was gravely wounded in the retreat. Overwhelmed by grief and despair, believing Gondor was doomed, and likely further influenced by the Palantír, Denethor succumbed to madness.

Death:

In his madness, Denethor ordered his own pyre to be built within the Rath Dínen, the silent street where the Kings and Stewards of Gondor were entombed. He attempted to burn himself and his wounded son Faramir alive, believing this was the only honorable way to face defeat. He was stopped by Pippin Took and Beregond, but Denethor succeeded in taking his own life by throwing himself upon the pyre. His death marked the end of the line of Ruling Stewards of Gondor, paving the way for Aragorn's return as King.

Character:

Denethor was a complex and tragic figure. He was a proud and capable leader, burdened by the immense responsibility of protecting Gondor. His strength and intelligence were ultimately undermined by the overwhelming power of Sauron and the corrupting influence of the Palantír, leading to his despair and self-destruction. He is remembered as the last of the Ruling Stewards, whose actions, while misguided, were driven by a deep love for Gondor.