Théoden

Son of Thengel, seventeenth King of Rohan, the last of the Second Line of kings, ruled during the time of the War of the Ring. He was born in the year 2948 of the Third Age, and was killed in battle on 15 March 3019 at the age of 71, having reigned for 39 years.

When his sister and brother-in-law died, he adopted their children Éomer and Éowyn as his own. When Théoden's only son Théodred was killed in battle, leaving him with no heir, he appointed Éomer his heir.

Saruman, using Gríma Wormtongue as his agent, reduced Théoden to a feeble old man. Gandalf was able to break the spells laid upon him and convince Théoden to fight against the forces of Saruman. Théoden surprised his men by leading his armies into battle himself. After fighting at Helm's Deep and witnessing the breaking of the staff of Saruman, Théoden led the Rohirrim in their Ride to Gondor's aid. Confronted by the Lord of the Nazgûl, Théoden's horse Snowmane throws him, fatally wounding him. He does not know that as he lies dying, Éowyn and Merry kill the Witch-king, putting an end to Théoden's bane.