Strong Female Characters In The Elf Arwen

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Every fan likes to praise the so-called ‘strong female characters’ in fiction, whether they’re wielding pistols in an action movie or twin daggers in a fantasy movie. These characters are often seen as the ‘solution’ to the damsel-in-distress trope because they can defend themselves, all while making sassy comments. But people should not praise these characters as feminist icons. While feminism seeks equal representation and appreciation for feminine and masculine qualities, film and television writers portray strong female characters as redeemable only for their masculine qualities, namely physical prowess. This comes from the misconception that since men are biologically stronger, then “masculine traits produce a strong character” (Stenberg …show more content…

Unlike Éowyn, she never rides into battle but she shows her strength in other ways. Throughout the series she has an established relationship with Aragorn, a Ranger and heir to the throne of Gondor. One of her most important decisions in the story is when she gives up her immortality as an elf to stay by Aragorn’s side. At first glance this may seem submissive and weak for her to give up such a great gift for a man. But further context proves this is a poignant decision as well as a meaningful sacrifice. By relinquishing mortality, Arwen also symbolizes “a bridge between the Third Age and the Fourth” (Enright 98) through which the elves of Middle Earth relinquish their dominion. The Lord of the Rings takes place during a time where many of the elves of Middle Earth are leaving the land to journey to the afterlife. And by giving up her immortality Arwen steps into a more feminine role, especially because she later decides to have children (Stenberg 3). Since she has given up her chance to pass into the afterlife, she is able to give this opportunity to Frodo, the main protagonist who has suffered major trauma during the events of the book. Arwen also gives him a pendant that will “bring [him] aid” (Tolkien 974) whenever he suffers from trauma. These actions helps to bring renewal and fertility back to a land torn apart by war. Her decision is one of healing, similarly to Éowyn’s.Once again Tolkien’s writing of women shows that femininity is a sign of peace, healing, and

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