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Tolkien leaves Denethor like that. Never tries to redeem him... or give us some reason to like him.

That's because he uses Theoden as contrast. Both men are leaders and warriros, past their prime, decieved into thinking they face a hopeless battle. Both have lost a son and the 'replacement' seems unsuitable. Neither likes Gandalf or the words he brings, and neither wishes to face the enemy that is coming.

The difference is, Theoden responds to Gandalf and is healed; he dies, but victoriously in battle, completely redeemed. Denethor will not listen and commits suicide. There are other parallels between the two but I'm sure you see my point! It's also hardly a coincidence, in my mind, that Eowyn marries Faramir.

JenB makes the best point of the morning... (little parade...) You are right. What a contrast. Both have lost sons, both are deceived by Sauron...

That is why I like these discussions. I learn so much.

BTW-who is it that Aragorn meets in the middle of the Battle of the Pelannor Fields, when they both lean on their swords and have a short conversation while the conflict rages around them? Is it Eomyr, Faramir, or someone else? I really like that little interlude. I hope they put it in the film.