The Fate of the Dunlendings After Sauron’s Defeat in The Lord of the Rings

In J. R.R. Tolkien’s epic works, particularly in The Lord of the Rings, the alliances among Men, Elves, and Dwarves stand in stark contrast to the vile forces commanded by the Dark Lord Sauron. While the narratives often highlight the central kingdoms of Gondor and Rohan, they obscure a rich tapestry of various tribes and cultures among Men within Middle-earth. Beyond these prominent nations, several other groups exist, notably the Dunlendings, whose history is woven into the fabric of conflict and revenge.

Unlike the Elves, who experienced extensive migrations and diverse languages, the Men of Middle-earth had fewer tribes yet exhibited unique characteristics. One such group, the Dunlendings, inhabited the areas southwest of the Misty Mountains, leading to long-standing conflicts with the Númenoreans during the Second Age. By the time the War of the Ring unfolded in the Third Age, the Dunlendings were driven by a fierce desire for vengeance against Gondor’s Men, stemming from historical grievances.

Why the Dunlendings Aligned with Sauron During the War of the Ring

The Dunlendings as an Oppressed Indigenous Population Manipulated by Saruman and Sauron

In the early Second Age, the ancestors of the Dunlendings thrived in Eriador, enjoying the region’s ample resources. However, the arrival of the Númenoreans around S. A.600 marked the beginning of a dominance-seeking campaign that would disrupt the Dunlendings’ way of life. The Númenoreans, initially appearing friendly, exploited the land’s timber resources, which incited resistance from the Dunlendings, ultimately forcing them to retreat to Dunland.

The resentment towards the Númenoreans persisted long after their empire’s fall and the establishment of Gondor and Arnor. By the Third Age, the formation of Rohan in T. A.2510 brought renewed conflict, as these lands were coveted by the Dunlendings. The Rohirrim’s presence further fueled animosity, making it all too simple for Saruman, Sauron’s agent, to manipulate the Dunlendings into a conflict against Rohan and Gondor.

The Fate of the Dunlendings Post-Sauron’s Defeat

An Unexpected Act of Mercy from King Théoden

Bernard Hill as King Theoden holding and looking at his sword in Lord of the Rings

Ultimately, the Dunlendings’ involvement in the War of the Ring did not significantly alter the outcome. Despite their numbers, they surrendered during the third day of the Battle of the Hornburg after Gandalf and Erkenbrand turned the tide in favor of the forces of good. Following Saruman’s defeat, the Dunlendings found themselves in a precarious position.

In Peter Jackson’s adaptation, the portrayal of the Dunlendings is somewhat limited, primarily depicting them as aggressors against Rohan. Instead of facing immediate retribution, they were met with unexpected mercy from King Théoden and Erkenbrand after their surrender. Understanding that the Dunlendings had been misled by Saruman, the Rohirrim chose compassion over vengeance, asking only for assistance in rebuilding Helm’s Deep and pledging to abandon Sauron’s influence.

The Underrated Redemption of the Dunlendings in LOTR

Their Positive Resolution Is Overlooked in the Appendices

The Lord of the Rings intricately weaves a narrative rich in themes of loss and transformation, echoing Tolkien’s own experiences with the devastating effects of war. As the tale concludes, it leaves behind a bittersweet legacy; while victory is achieved, it also marks the departure of the Elves and the waning of magic in Middle-earth.

The anticipated dawn of the Fourth Age, however, holds promise for prosperity, particularly for regions like Dunland that have long endured strife. Although their role remains minor in the broader canvas of The Lord of the Rings, the eventual redemption of the Dunlendings symbolizes an optimistic future, ripe with potential for growth and reconciliation in the post-war era.

Source & Images