[mark12_30]

I really don't think she was whining. I think Aragorn's decision to intentionally lay down his life "early" took her by surprise. As a Numenorean, he had the right to do so; but why should he? He was leaving her while he "still had some good years left". I don't think she grasped his reasons why he was leaving at that time (I'm not sure I do, either). As I understand it: he was leaving so his son could ascend the throne because he was ready, and Aragorn simply felt that it was his time to die well before he entered dotage. <P>But-- still, I can almost hear Arwen thinking, why? Why now? Why not spend more time with me? After what I sacrificed for you, can't you stay for me a little longer?<P>As to who is more beautiful: Eowyn was, Fair, fair and cold, like a morning of pale spring still touched by winter's chill. Arwen was the Evenstar, that moved Frodo to say, Even the night shall be blessed, and all it's fear removed. <P>As stated above, it depends on whether you prefer morning or evening. Some appreciate both.<P>In terms of "lying around dreaming about Aragorn"--no, that's called Osanwe, and it's a powerful tool, not romantic daydreaming. It is the same "watching" that Galadriel and Elrond use; the same that Gandalf uses, that enabled him to speak to Frodo's mind atop Amon Hen. Tolkien describes it carefully. Arwen is no less a force in the war (because she fights with her mind) than Galadriel is (who also fights with her mind.)<P>You can see Aragorn occasionally using Osanwe also; but Tolkien clearly states that Arwen and Galadriel watch from afar.<p>[ April 02, 2003: Message edited by: mark12_30 ]