The Prancing Pony Podcast - Episode 347: Livin’ On a Prayer
Release Date: November 3, 2024
Introduction
In the twelfth minute of Episode 347, hosts Alan Sisto and Don Marshall kick off with their trademark humor, teasing a temporary division of the podcast into three separate entities due to "dissensions among the co-hosts." This light-hearted banter sets the tone for an engaging and informative episode dedicated to the intricate history of Arnor and its heirs within Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Guest Segment: Sean Verender
[02:40]
Alan Sisto welcomes Sean Verender to the North Wing, a special segment exclusive to Patreon patrons. Sean, a mechanical engineer from Exton, Pennsylvania, shares his journey into the world of Tolkien, ignited by friendships and family influence. He credits the Prancing Pony Podcast for deepening his appreciation and understanding of Tolkien's lore during the early days of the pandemic.
Notable Quote:
Sean Verender: “I think the fact that it's kind of a self-renewing resource is really what keeps me coming back.” [05:03]
Sean highlights his passion for Arthedain, one of Arnor’s successor kingdoms, and discusses his enthusiasm for attending moots and collecting the History of Middle-earth series, despite the challenging paperback editions.
Main Discussion: Arnor and the Heirs of Isildur
Geography of Arnor
[00:50]
The hosts delve into Appendix A1 of The Lord of the Rings, focusing on the northern kingdom of Arnor. They outline the geographic boundaries of Eriador, distinguishing it from the political boundaries of Arnor. Key landmarks include the Gray Flood, Great Road, and notable regions like Rudaur and Cardolan.
Notable Quote:
Don Marshall: “If you look at a map of Middle Earth, either in your book or the LordOfTheWingsProject.com right now, the map.” [16:33]
The Split of Arnor
[21:31]
Alan and Don explore the enigmatic split of Arnor into three realms—Arthedain, Rhudaur, and Cardolan—following King Earendur's decision, which remains shrouded in mystery. Drawing parallels with historical events like the succession conflicts of William the Conqueror and Louis the Pious, they speculate on the possible internal strife that led to the division.
Notable Quote:
Alan Sisto: “What was the dissension? What was it that caused them? Who knows?” [21:08]
Rise of Angmar and the Witch King
[35:05]
The discussion pivots to the emergence of Angmar, a realm founded by the Witch King, who leads forces intent on destroying the fragmented Dunedain of Arnor. The hosts emphasize Tolkien's recurring theme of unity versus division, illustrating how Arnor's fragmentation made it vulnerable to external threats.
Notable Quote:
Don Marshall: “This is a huge theme of Tolkien. This is just like we're stronger together.” [35:30]
Fall of Arthedain
[45:07]
Arthedain, the largest and most resilient of the three kingdoms, faces relentless attacks from Angmar. The tale recounts pivotal battles, the valor of leaders like Arveleg and Arafor, and the eventual downfall of Fornost, the capital of Arthedain. The preservation and subsequent loss of significant artifacts like the Palantir are also discussed.
Notable Quote:
Alan Sisto: “Now, Aragorn I lived to be 210 years old... the dignity of the kings of old was renewed in him.” [70:07]
Artifacts of Arnor
[68:00]
The conversation shifts to the history of legendary artifacts such as the Ring of Barahir, the Elendilmir (White Star), and the Scepter of Annuminas. The hosts trace their lineage, significance, and eventual roles in the broader narrative of Middle-earth, highlighting their deep-rooted connections to the line of kings and the enduring legacy of the Dunedain.
Notable Quote:
Don Marshall: “Aragorn indeed lived to be 210 years old, longer than any of his line since King Arveleg.” [70:07]
Q&A: Listener Question
Impact of Arnor’s Unity on Middle-earth’s Fate
[89:07]
Listener Haley H. from Texas poses a thought-provoking question: “If Arnor had stayed a united kingdom, could they potentially pose a threat to Sauron and Angmar? And what do you believe made them split apart?” Alan and Don engage in an insightful discussion, contemplating the strengths Arnor might have wielded had it remained unified and speculating on the internal conflicts that led to its division.
Notable Quote:
Alan Sisto: “I think we can still get the Shire. But what are the other consequences?” [94:31]
The hosts agree that unity could have bolstered Arnor's defenses against malevolent forces, potentially altering key historical events. They reflect on Tolkien’s themes of friendship, unity, and the tragic consequences of internal discord.
Conclusion
As the episode winds down, Alan and Don recap the tumultuous history of Arnor, emphasizing the resilience and legacy of the Dunedain despite their near extinction. They tease future episodes that will explore the realms of Gondor and further unravel Middle-earth’s rich tapestry.
Notable Quote:
Alan Sisto: “To the 17th, 27th power or something. Yeah.” [78:44]
Don Marshall: “It's never going to happen. It's never going to happen. That's the whole book.” [74:10]
Final Thoughts
Episode 347 of The Prancing Pony Podcast offers a deep dive into the lore of Arnor, blending thorough textual analysis with engaging discussions and humor. Whether you’re a seasoned Tolkien enthusiast or new to Middle-earth’s legends, this episode provides valuable insights into the rise and fall of one of its most pivotal kingdoms.
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