Part 7/9:
The debate over Aragorn is emblematic of a broader cultural shift. Entertainment companies increasingly pursue ideological goals through their storytelling choices, sometimes at the cost of artistic integrity or fan trust. The Ring of Power series, for instance, has faced criticism for its diversification choices, despite the rich, racially diverse history of Middle-earth as depicted in Tolkien’s texts.
Many fans feel that this trend is driven more by "woke" branding and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives than by storytelling needs. The push to "reimagine" history and fiction often results in the marginalization of traditional elements and an assault on what many consider sacred or culturally significant.