Marielle
Well-Known Member
Last week we spent some time musing why Isildur called the Ring "an heirloom of the North Kingdom" rather than "mine". Could this be evidence that Isildur is unaware of the great rings' tendencies to prolong mortal life? As a king, he would naturally consider his important possessions -- his scepter, for example -- as heirlooms; his for a time, by right and by destiny, but not his forever. Even a jealous monarch is also protective of the rights of his future heirs.
Even if he is unaware of his looming "immortality" (and I think he is), there is a mark of ... if not humility, then noble perspective, perhaps? ... in calling the Ring an heirloom. He is asserting the rights of his Line, not himself, over the thing. Granted, it's an evil, terrible thing he shouldn't want anything to do with it, but at least he is not yet looking totally inwards in regards to it.
Even if he is unaware of his looming "immortality" (and I think he is), there is a mark of ... if not humility, then noble perspective, perhaps? ... in calling the Ring an heirloom. He is asserting the rights of his Line, not himself, over the thing. Granted, it's an evil, terrible thing he shouldn't want anything to do with it, but at least he is not yet looking totally inwards in regards to it.