The recently released artwork of The Lord of the Rings' Aragorn by Wizards of the Coast's “It’s Tough To Be A Hobbit” - Elijah Wood Reacts To Magic: The Gathering & Lord Of The Rings Collaboration
Unpacking The Controversy Of Magic: The Gathering's Aragorn
Wizard's Magic: The Gathering has endeavored to demonstrate diversity by re-conceiving characters to represent people across all races and cultures. However, the recent decision to make the fictional figure Black, revealed through a tweet from the official Magic: The Gathering , erupted in a seething clash among fans of Tolkien's original masterpiece. There were several arguments on social media following the official release of the card; the primary argument was that Aragorn's origin needed to be taken into consideration. Critics and bigoted fans argued that Aragorn is descended from Númenoreans, who are predominately fair-skinned; it is essential to note that J.R.R. Tolkien's works are not devoid of people of other ethnicity and orientations.
Despite the conflicting opinions, there are sound rationales for why Aragorn's portrayal in the game is reasonable. Firstly, Magic: The Gathering is a fantasy world with distinct lore and history, without the same conventions as Tolkien's Middle-earth. Secondly, the decision to make Aragorn Black is a commendable attempt to foster inclusion and remains true to the original work. However, MTG's take on Aragorn brings a fresh perspective, enhancing the lore and providing players with a hero who stands apart in a sea of similar characters. Easterlings and Haradrim have been shown to have a range of skin tones, suggesting that Tolkien imagined a mixed race of people in Middle-earth, even in Numenor.
Understanding Aragorn's Heritage In LOTR & MTG
Aragorn's lineage as a scion of Isildur is an essential aspect of his character. As a member of the royal bloodline, Aragorn is heir to the throne of Minas Tirith and lays a legitimate claim to the title of King. This ancestry is significant because Isildur was the one who severed the hand of Sauron and obtained the One Ring during the War of the Last Alliance. Isildur's legacy is tied to the history of Middle-earth, meaning Aragorn's heritage is more than just a matter of his bloodline, but also of his destiny and fate. This connection to Isildur's legacy is fundamental to the lore of MTG and adds profundity to the game's narratives.
The significance of Isildur's legacy in Wizards' Magic: The Gathering's lore cannot be overstated. Isildur was a central figure of the Dunedain race of men in the history of Middle-earth, and his impact has far-reaching consequences. The One Ring, which he cut from Sauron's hand, has been a driving force in the events of MTG narratives. The fact that Aragorn is a descendant of Isildur means he has a unique role in the game regardless of any other interpretations; this tie to the past is a vital aspect of Aragorn's character and adds depth to the vast world of MTG, but it doesn't necessarily have any bearing on his skin tone. Even if Isildur was fair-skinned, roughly 3,000 years before Aragorn rises to prominence, more than enough time for the lineage's complexion to change.
As fans of Magic: The Gathering hope to engage with the new Aragorn card, they will identify the hidden potential of his heritage. His abilities highlight his accomplished mastery in combat, inspiring and leading his allies into battle. Aragorn is a tremendous force on the battlefield, thanks to his tenacity and experience. Beyond the game's mechanics, players will be enthralled by Aragorn's story and the importance of one's ancestry, sacrifice, and the inevitability of destiny. His story serves as a reminder that a person's fate can shape their path, but their decision defines who they are. It is imperative to note that although his skin color has changed, the fundamentals are not lost.
Embracing The Creative Re-Imagining Of Aragorn
Character re-imagining is often met with skepticism, but it is important to that MTG's Aragorn was not intended to replace the original but to offer a fresh perspective. By embracing this creative re-imagining of the character, fans can be a part of both worlds and equally enjoy the best of it - the familiarity of a cherished character, and the excitement of discovering a new adventure in MTG. By pioneering a transformative era of inclusivity that will shape the future of games for years, it is impossible to ignore the impact this choice has had on the MTG community, regardless of sentiment pertaining to the new card.
MTG's "controversial" Aragorn should not be viewed as a misstep by any who deems themselves a fan of Tolkien's world, but rather a testament to the game's ability to embrace diversity. By staying true to the essence of the character while incorporating elements that fit within the general context of MTG, the creators have demonstrated their commitment by providing players with an engaging gaming experience. So, players should acknowledge the endeavor that went into crafting a character that perfectly fits the ever-evolving world of Magic. Even Tolkien's famous words, "One Ring to rule them all," encourage unity and inclusivity, highlighting the fact that Magic: The Gathering's "controversial" Aragorn actually does make sense.
Source: Magic: The Gathering/Twitter