Théoden

Théoden was the seventeenth King of Rohan in J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy epic, The Lord of the Rings. He was the son of Thengel and Morwen Steelsheen and is a prominent figure in The Two Towers and The Return of the King.

Théoden ruled Rohan from T.A. 3019, initially as a strong and wise leader. However, in his later years, he fell under the insidious influence of his advisor, Gríma Wormtongue, who was secretly in the service of Saruman. This manipulation weakened Théoden both physically and mentally, leaving him a shadow of his former self and Rohan vulnerable to Saruman's designs.

Gandalf the White, along with Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli, arrived in Edoras and healed Théoden of Wormtongue's poison and Saruman's influence. Revitalized and freed from the spell, Théoden rallied his people and led the Rohirrim to war against Saruman at the Battle of Helm's Deep, achieving a crucial victory.

Subsequently, Théoden led his riders to the aid of Gondor during the War of the Ring, fulfilling the ancient oath between the two kingdoms. He fought valiantly at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, where he was mortally wounded by the Witch-king of Angmar. Before his death, he was able to bid farewell to his niece, Éowyn, and his nephew, Éomer, naming Éomer as his successor.

Théoden's reign and his transformation from a weakened, manipulated king to a courageous warrior are a significant part of the narrative. He embodies themes of leadership, resilience, and the struggle against evil. His death marked the end of an era for Rohan but also paved the way for a new and stronger leadership under Éomer. His body was brought back to Rohan and buried in the royal tombs at Edoras. He is remembered as Théoden the Renewed, a king who rose from despair to lead his people to victory.