I know your face.

[malkatoj]

One of the things I've noticed along these lines is that all of these 'parent-child relationships' leave the 'child' very strong. In some cases I find this realistic, especially in the ones mentioned before.

But the one's that aren't "really" parent-child, seem to be the strongest.

In cases such as Theoden-Eowyn or Bilbo-Frodo, it makes sense that the relationship is strong. The 'parent' isn't controlling of the 'child,' which leaves the child to make his (or her) own decisions. Frodo, because of this way of upbringing, has the strength necessary to carry the Ring. Eowyn makes her own decision, even though Theoden would discourage it, to go to battle and she kills the Witch King because of that.

The thing I find strange is that in 'true' parent-child relationships, Denethor-Faramir or Elrond-Arwen, the child is still strong. This isn't to say that a parent can't make a child strong, more that the manner in which they treat the children would leave a child helpless. In reality, when a child is brought up having every decision made for him, he has a difficult time adjusting to making his own decisions. Arwen, however, makes her decision to stay with Aragorn despite her father's wishes. This is a difficult decision which is completely life changing. Faramir makes the decision to lead men in battle and has the strength necessary for that. He isn't taken down by his father's disappointment that he's still alive.

Faramir, clearly, is simply trying to prove himself. But what about Arwen? I'm curious where her strength comes from--is she just rebelling against her father, or is it because of her love?

Also, I'm curious to see what people have to say about Sam and the Gaffer.