Things of Middle-earth
Underking of Rohan
Type: Miscellaneous
Description:
A title of office used in Rohan after the War of the Ring, roughly corresponding to the former military rank of First Marshal of the Mark:
It is recorded that... when Éomer reordered his realm, Erkenbrand was made Marshal of the West-mark, and Elfhelm Marshal of the East-mark, and these titles were maintained, instead of Second and Third Marshal.... In time of war a special appointment was made to the office of Underking: its holder either ruled the realm in the King's absence with the army, or took command in the field if for any reason the King remained at home. In peace the office was only filled when the King because of sickness or old age deputed his authority; the holder was then naturally the Heir to the throne, if he was a man of sufficient age. But in war the Council was unwilling that an old King should send his Heir to battle beyond the realm unless he had at least one other son.
Unfinished Tales, Part 3, Ch 5, The Battles of the Fords of Isen: Appendix
Contributors: Elena Tiriel 21Mar05