Théodred

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Théodred
Rohir
John Howe - Theodred.jpg
"Theodred" by John Howe
Biographical Information
PositionSecond Marshal of the Riddermark
LocationRohan
BirthT.A. 2978
Death25 February T.A. 3019 (aged 41)
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 who died in battle at the Fords of Isen during the War of the Ring.

History[edit | edit source]

Théodred was born to King Théoden and Elfhild, who died in childbirth. Because of his state as prince of Rohan, Théodred also held the title of Second Marshal of the Riddermark.

While Gríma gained more influence on the King, he considered Théodred and Éomer his chief opponents, and tried to bring the two cousins into discredit with Théoden. But their loyalty remained steadfast 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, at the expense of Théodred.

In the beginning of 3019, due to the threat of invasion by the forces of the wizard Saruman, Théodred established himself at Helm's Deep to command the military strength of the Westfold. When actual war began Théodred added to the Muster of Westfold by summoning the Muster of Edoras.[1]

Meanwhile Saruman planned to have the Prince killed. He sent forces against Rohan on February 25, T.A. 3019 with explicit orders to kill the Second Marshal at all costs.

Théodred 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 he himself attempted to man the eyot in the midst of the river. Then a van came and with unexpected speed soon took control of the eastern end of the fords; the fiercest of Saruman's warriors and Orc-men abandoned the rest of the battle and directed their full might around the Prince. As Grimbold came to his defence, Théodred was hewn down by a great orc-man, whom Grimbold slew.

Elfhelm arrived to his support and they lifted the body. Théodred still breathed, only long enough to speak his last words.[2] The news of Théodred's death caused Erkenbrand of Westfold to assume command of the West-mark. With no descendants or siblings, this made his cousin, Éomer, heir to the throne of Rohan.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

Théodred's name is probably taken from the Anglo-Saxon words þēod ("folk", "people", "nation") and rǣd ("counsel").[3]

Genealogy[edit | edit source]

 
 
 
 
Thengel
2905 - 2980
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elfhild
d. 2978
 
Théoden
2948 - 3019
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THÉODRED
2978 - 3019
 
 


Portrayal in adaptations[edit | edit source]

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 dying. His burial is shown in the extended edition. Théodred was played by Paris Howe Strewe.

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

Théodred's age is more accurate to the book. While his riders defend the Fords of Isen against the Dunlendings, the Prince leads a small party into Dunland to scout for potential threats, where they encounter the Grey Company led by Halbarad. After helping the Rangers, Théodred returns to the Gap of Rohan where he sets up a daring plan to attack Isengard. The First Battle of the Fords of Isen happens much as described in the book, with the player fighting side-by-side with Grimbold as they carve a path through the Uruks to reach the Prince, only to arrive too late. His sword, which is recovered by Elfhlem, is subsequently used by Éowyn in her confrontation with the Witch-King.

References