Théodred

From Tolkien Gateway
Revision as of 18:13, 22 November 2014 by Sage (talk | contribs)
"...It is a long tale..." — Aragorn
This article or section needs expansion and/or modification. Please help the wiki by expanding it.
Théodred
Rohir
Theodred.jpg
Biographical Information
PositionSecond Marshal of the Riddermark
LocationRohan
BirthT.A. 2978
Death25 February T.A. 3019 (aged 40)
First Battle of the Fords of Isen
Family
HouseHouse of Eorl
ParentageThéoden and Elfhild
Physical Description
GenderMale
GalleryImages of Théodred

Théodred (T.A. 2978-3019) was the only son and heir of King Théoden of Rohan. His mother, Elfhild, died in childbirth.

History

Théodred held the title of Second Marshal of the Riddermark.

While his father's health began to fail and Gríma gained more influence, Gríma considered Thhéodred and Éomer his chief opponents. He tried to bring them into discredit with Théoden, but their steadfast loyalty even in his apparent dotage. Gríma therefore tried to play them one against the other in the mind of Théoden, representing Éomer as ever eager to increase his authority, while Saruman planned to have the Prince killed.

Indeed, Saruman's forces attaced Rohan on February 25, T.A. 3019 with explicit orders to kill the Second Marshall at all costs.

Théodred's was warned by his scouts of a mustering of troops at the Gate of Isengard and he reinforced the approaches. He passed over the Isen with the main strength of his cavalry to overthrow Saruman's apparent army before it was fully prepared. He scattered the vanguard, but then discovered the main host prepared for assault and ordered a retreat while the rearguard under Grimbold had to turn and drive back their pursuers.

Retreating, he appointed Grimbold in command of the western bank garrison while himself attempted to man the eyot in the midst of the river. Then a van came with unexpected speed and soon took control of the eastern end of the fords. Then the fiercests of Saruman's warriors and Orc-men directed their full might surrounding the Prince, neglecting the rest of the battle. Grimbold came to his defense, Théodred was hewn down by a great orc-man. Grimbold slew him when Elfhelm arrived to his support.

When they stooped to lift the body, they found that Théodred still breathed; but he lived only long enough to speak his last words.[1] The news of Théodred's death caused Erkenbrand of Westfold to assume command of the West-mark. With no siblings, this made his cousin, Éomer, heir to the throne of Rohan.

Etymology

Théodred's name is probably taken from the Anglo-Saxon words þēod ("folk", "people", "nation") and rǣd ("counsel").[2]

Portrayal in Adaptations

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers:

Théodred is portrayed younger than he was in the book. His death is a major event early in the movie, whereas, in the book, it has all happened by the time the Three Hunters come to Rohan. He is brought heavily wounded albeit barely alive to Edoras and tended by Éowyn before expiring. His burial is shown in the extended edition. Théodred was played by Paris Howe Strewe.
The Lord of the Rings Online - Théodred.png

2011: The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard:

Théodred appears in Rise of Isengard and The Prince of Rohan, the fourth and fifth book of Allies of the King.

References