Rings of Power: Gil-Galad Shares The Characteristics That Made Thranduil So Hated

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The high king of Lorien, Gil-galad has very quickly become a character in the Rings of Power that many fans dislike. He is too proud, too demanding of respect that he has not earned, and too concerned with his own people to help defend the rest of the world that needs him. All of these traits are much like another elven monarch: Thranduil. There are many characteristics that these two characters have in common, that have made them some of the most hated of the Tolkien adaptations. These include things like arrogance, stubbornness, and the ability to use those around them as if they are meaningless pawns to get what they want.

From the first episode of the series, Gil-galad is set up to be the person standing in the way of the true hero (Galadriel) achieving her purpose. He looms over her, staring her down, daring her to challenge his authority as he prepares to send her away forever. This refusal to hear her out, to let her speak in case it challenges his position, is exactly the opposite of what a good Monarch should be. A good king should listen to his most loyal followers, trust their intuitions, and take on board their advice. This is especially true if, as in the case of Galadriel, it is in the best interest of not only the kingdom, but the whole world. This is reminiscent of Thranduil’s decision at first, to keep his Mirkwood warriors out of the battle for the Lonely Mountian, despite there being much more at stake than just the treasure of Erebor. A good monarch should put their people first, but not at the risk of all else.

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Instead of heading Galadriel’s misgivings, Gil-galad tries to get rid of her by sending her back to Valinor. This is a self-serving action. He wants to be