November 4, 2002

Aragorn's Age and Moria
Eriol

Aragorn's longevity is due to his high lineage as a pure descendant of the Men of Númenor. These people had been blessed with long life by the Valar (the 'gods' of Middle-Earth) in reward for their support in the first war against the Dark Lord (not Sauron, his Master, Morgoth), and lived some 200 years, even when their blood was mixed with normal men. Aragorn is actually older than Théoden, being 87 at the beginning of the book. (I think Théoden is in his mid-sixties, from the Appendices -- quoting from memory, might be wrong)

Moria had a great friendship with the neighboring elven realm of Eregion, and the Dwarves never taught their language to other peoples. Since this was not a 'secret door' (compare with the door to the Lonely Mountain found by Bilbo in 'The Hobbit'), the password had to be Elvish, the language that was used by both people in their dealings. (yes, the Dwarves spoke elvish with their neighbors).

Hope this was useful, see ya!