Aragorn and Arwen: More than kissing?

[HerenIstarion]

There were precedents: The heir of last king Arvedui must have been born 'out of wedlock'

Tale of Years, appendices to LoTR:

[T.A.]1940 Gondor and Arnor renew communications and form an alliance. Arvedui weds Fíriel daughter of Ondoher of Gondor.

HoME vol 12: The Chieftains of the Dunedain.

Aranarth. Born 1938 [T.A.], lived 168 years, died 2106

After Arvedui's death, however:

Tale of Years, appendices to LoTR:

1976 Aranarth takes the title of Chieftain of the Dúnedain. The heirlooms of Arnor are given into the keeping of Elrond.

It would have been interesting to learn how did they do it, if the communications were renewed in 1940 T.A. only. Story similar to Aragorn (as Thorongil) serving in Gondor as a mere captain in the days of his youth jumps to mind.

But apart from speculation, conclusion is, no drawbacks for children born out of wedlock

Another grave 'but': But, given the 'bodily union' as the main criterion for the marriage, it would seem logical even without evidence of Aranarth. There would have been no such thing as 'out of wedlock', having wedding confirmed and made lawfull by the act of union itself.

See also: The out-of-wedlock Child by Saulotus

As for 'would's and 'if's of your last paragraph, alatar, begging your pardon, I reckon there is no point to them

cheers

[alatar]

HerenIstarion, thanks for doing the research. As you say, if bodily union equals marriage then...just wondered what others (i.e. Elrond, the people of Gondor, etc) would think of the missing formal ceremony.

Originally Posted by HerenIstarion

As for 'would's and 'if's of your last paragraph, alatar, begging your pardon, I reckon there is no point to them

Thanks - I'm surprised that I've actually written stuff that has made a point .