I'll focus mainly on the judgement he makes with Beren and Luthien since besides that (and the matter with the Dwarves) I think he was a good king, though not the best.
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Originally Posted by skip spence
But once Beren realised that Luthien was coming along with him no matter what, don't you think it was a tad irresponsible taking her to the very court of Morgoth, from where she was not likely to ever return; and the Dark Lord apparently had intentions with her that went beyond slaying or imprisoning her. Would it not have been wiser, and less selfish and stubborn, to forsake the quest altogether and live with Luthien in the woods as she suggested, or simply accept Thingol's no? Perhaps he would soften in time (after all, which father can resist a pouting daughter, determined to have her way).
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No, I don't think it was irrisponsible at all, I think it would have been foolish to try anything but his best to try and get it. As for forsaking the quest, Beren gave his word that he would get it, this sadly has lost its meaning in todays world, but a man's word is his bond. How could we view Beren as the great heroe he is if he turned tale and ran away with a king's daughter if it was the "smart thing to do?"
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Like I said, Melian's aid can't really be held against him. Does a leader have to do everything himself to be considered great? He also had capable wardens such as Beleg and Mablung, doing a lot to keep Doriath safe. Did that make Thingol less great?
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I do not think that it makes his leadership any less, but I do think that it makes him less great if he solely relies upon the power of others to protect his kingdom. What great deads has Thingol ever done on the battlefield to earn the rank as a great king (and I truly am asking that as a question not as a retoricle question)? If a king does not fight, especially in those days, for his people what right does he have to lead them?