The Men in ‘The Lord of the Rings’

The Lord of the Rings is one of the most popular fantasy stories ever told. Whether you’re talking about the books or the films, both were and are huge successes. All thanks to J. R. R. Tolkien, who created a deep, detailed, and wondrous world for us to enjoy. The world of Middle Earth can feel so real, you can sometimes forget that it’s not. Between the various lands and kingdoms, the detailed history, the different races and their cultures, the different languages, Middle Earth feels truly lived in. Another important aspect that gives life to this world, is of course it’s characters. In particular, it’s male characters.

Of course there are multiple brilliant and strong female characters, but this article aims to focus on the men. The reason for this is to highlight what good male role models in pop culture should be. Role models for boys and men to aspire to be, and traits in men that girls and women should look for.

One of the greatest strengths of the men in The Lord of the Rings, is their vulnerability and openness when it comes to their emotions. They cry with and for each other. They hug each other as an expression of friendship and brotherly love. They even kiss on occasion. These men do not fall victim to the trope that all men need to be tough, cold or distant to be considered manly. They also do not ridicule or belittle each other for expressing their emotions. They acknowledge when they have fears or doubts, rather than lying to themselves or others. Overall, the men of Middle Earth are emotionally well rounded, not hiding or burying what they feel. This is an important message for boys and men, that it’s okay to feel these things, and it’s okay to express them.

Another wonderful quality these men have is loyalty. They are loyal to each other, to their home, and their mission. Throughout the story, these men stand by each other. They come to each other’s aid in battle. They do their best to rescue their companions from danger. The different races in Middle Earth usually do not come together, do not help each other. When Middle Earth, and all of its people are threatened by Sauron and the One ring, they put aside their differences. They pledge themselves to Frodo, and to the mission of destroying the ring. This is another great lesson for men and boys. To be loyal to friends and family, to stand by them in times of trouble. To be loyal to your home, and the world you live in. To stand against those who would destroy it, or seek to harm those you care about.

Possibly the most admirable thing about these men is the way they treat women. Whether they are their sisters, daughters, love interests, or superiors, they are all treated with respect and kindness. They are never looked down upon, or treated as lesser than the men in their lives. They are admired and appreciated for their skills, talents, and intellect. They are seen as equals, worthy of respect, positions of power, and love. The men and women of Middle Earth are a prime example of equality between the sexes. The women fight to protect who and what they love, and the men don’t begrudge them or resent them for it.

In a world where most male characters are simply variations on the same archetypes, the men of Middle Earth are wonderfully refreshing. They are a shining example of deep, thoughtful, mature male characters. These are the kinds of role models boys and men need. The traits they possess are the kinds of traits girls and women should look for in the men in their lives.