Elrond: Difference between revisions

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{{Countdown}}
{{half-elf infobox
{{half-elf infobox
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Elrond 2.jpg|250px]]
| name=Elrond
| name=Elrond
| othernames=Elrond ''Peredhel'' ([[Sindarin|S]], "[[Half-elven]]")<br/>Master Elrond
| image=[[File:Tatyafinwe - Portrait of Elrond.jpg|250px]]
| titles=Lord of [[Rivendell|Imladris]]
| caption="Portrait of Elrond" by [[:Category:Images by Tatyafinwe|Tatyafinwe]]
| position=Ring-bearer of [[Vilya]]<br/>Vice-regent and herald to [[Gil-galad]]<ref name="Celeborn">{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref>
| pronun=
| othernames=''Elerondo'' ([[Quenya|Q]])<br />''Peredhel'' ([[Sindarin|S]], "[[Half-elven]]")<br/>Master Elrond
| titles=Lord of [[Rivendell]]
| position=Ring-bearer of [[Vilya]]<br/> Vice-regent of Eriador<br>Herald to [[Gil-galad]]<ref name="Celeborn">{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref>
| location=[[Lindon]]<br/>[[Rivendell]]
| location=[[Lindon]]<br/>[[Rivendell]]
| affiliation=[[White Council]]
| affiliation=[[White Council]]
| language=[[Sindarin]]<ref name="Languages">{{App|Elves}}</ref>
| language=[[Sindarin]], [[Quenya]], [[Westron]]
| birth={{FA|532}}
| birth={{FA|532}}<ref>{{WJ|Years}}, version C of the manuscript, year changed to [>532], p. 348</ref>
| birthlocation=[[Havens of Sirion]]
| birthlocation=[[Havens of Sirion]]
| rule=
| rule={{SA|1697}} - {{TA|3021}} (ruled 4765 years)
| sailedwest=[[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| sailedwest=[[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| sailedfrom=[[Grey Havens]]
| sailedfrom=[[Grey Havens]]
| age=
| age=6520
| house=House of Eärendil
| notablefor=
| house=Descended from [[House of Bëor|all]] [[House of Haleth|three]] [[House of Hador|Houses]] of the [[Edain]] and [[Elves|elven]] houses of [[House of Fingolfin|Fingolfin]] and [[Thingol]]
| heritage=[[Half-elven]] father and mother
| heritage=[[Half-elven]] father and mother
| parentage=[[Eärendil]], father<br/>[[Elwing]], mother<br/>[[Maglor]], foster father
| parentage=[[Eärendil]], father<br/>[[Elwing]], mother<br/>[[Maglor]], foster father
| siblings=[[Elros]]
| siblings=[[Elros]] (twin)
| spouse=[[Celebrían]]
| spouse=[[Celebrían]]
| children=[[Elladan]]<br/>[[Elrohir]]<br/>[[Arwen]]
| children=[[Elladan]]<br/>[[Elrohir]]<br/>[[Arwen]]<br/>[[Aragorn]], foster son
| gender=Male
| gender=Male
| height=
| height=
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| weapons=
| weapons=
| steed=
| steed=
}}{{Pronounce|Elrond.mp3|Ardamir}}
}}
<center>{{Quote|He was as noble and fair as an elf-lord, as strong as a warrior, as wise as a wizard, as venerable as a king of dwarves, and as kind as summer.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="H3">{{H|3}}</ref>}}</center>
<center>{{quote|But my memory reaches back even to the [[Elder Days]]. [[Eärendil]] was my sire, who was born in [[Gondolin]] before its [[Fall of Gondolin|fall]]; and my mother was [[Elwing]], daughter of [[Dior]], son of [[Lúthien]] of [[Doriath]]. I have seen three [[ages]] in the West of the world, and many defeats, and many fruitless victories.|Elrond in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Council of Elrond]]"}}</center>
'''Elrond''' (b. {{FA|532}}) was the Lord of [[Rivendell]] and keeper of the great elven ring [[Vilya]].
'''Elrond''' was the [[Half-elven|half-elven]] son of [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]], the father of [[Arwen]], and the Lord of [[Rivendell]] who consistently fought against [[Sauron]] throughout the Second and Third Ages. He was the twin brother of [[Elros]], who later became the first king of [[Númenor]].<ref name="Earendil">{{S|Earendil}}</ref>


==Appearance and traits==
Having been born in [[Beleriand]] towards the end of the [[First Age]], Elrond ever opposed [[Sauron]] and strove against him throughout the [[Second Age]], helping to bring about Sauron's defeat in the [[War of the Last Alliance]] as [[Gil-galad]]'s herald. Elrond inherited Gil-galad's Elven ring [[Vilya]], and during the [[Third Age]] he fought against the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] and, as a member of the [[White Council]], expelled the Necromancer from [[Dol Guldur]] (who was Sauron in another guise). Towards the end of the Third Age, he was the foster-father to [[Aragorn]] as he had been to Arathorn before him. Aragorn went on to marry Elrond's daughter Arwen. After the destruction of [[the One Ring]], Elrond sailed west with [[Gandalf]], [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], and [[Galadriel]]; their passing marked the end of the Third Age and the beginning of the [[Fourth Age|Fourth]].
Elrond is described to seem ageless, resembling neither old nor young, however one could see in his face the memories and experiences of thousands of years. He looked venerable both like an old king,a wise wizard, and an experienced warrior in his prime.


As common with other Noldorin Elves, he was dark-haired, while his eyes were grey shining like starlight. He could be seen wearing a circlet of silver.<ref name="FRMeetings">{{FR|Meetings}}</ref><ref>{{H|Rest}}</ref>
Elrond is one of the most prominent, significant and recognisable characters in [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]'s legendarium, appearing in ''[[The Hobbit]]'', ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' and ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''. He was critical to providing [[Thorin and Company]] with the information they needed to enter the [[Lonely Mountain]], and the [[Council of Elrond]] brought about the creation of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]], which ultimately resulted in the destruction of the One Ring and the final defeat of Sauron.
 
His parents were [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]]. He was thus [[Half-elven]]: Eärendil was the child of the mortal [[Tuor]] and the elf [[Idril]], while Elwing was the grandchild of [[Beren]] (a [[Men|Man]]) and [[Lúthien]] (daughter of the Elf-king [[Thingol]] and the Maia [[Melian]]). Consequently, Elrond was descended from all three tribes of the Elves ([[Vanyar]] and [[Noldor]] through Idril, [[Sindar]] through Luthien), a Maia, and all three houses of the [[Edain]] ([[House of Hador|Hador]], [[House of Haleth|Haleth]] and [[House of Bëor|Bëor]]).


==History==
==History==
===First Age===
===First Age===
Elrond was born at the [[Havens of Sirion]] late in the [[First Age]]. His parents were [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]] and had a twin brother, [[Elros]], who later became the first king of [[Númenor]].
Elros and Elrond were born in the [[Mouths of Sirion|Havens of Sirion]] during the darkest days of the First Age, when the forces of [[Morgoth]] controlled most of [[Beleriand]]. When the twins were just six years old, the [[Sons of Fëanor]], bound by their [[Oath of Fëanor|Oath]], assaulted the Havens in the [[Third Kinslaying]], since they desired the [[Silmaril]] on the [[Nauglamír]] held by Elwing. Eärendil was at sea, and Elwing escaped with the Nauglamír and jumped into the sea.<ref name="Earendil"/> [[Maedhros]] and [[Maglor]], the only Sons of Fëanor to survive the assault upon the Havens, took Elros and Elrond as captives<ref name="Earendil"/> and abandoned them in a cave with a fall of water over the entrance instead of killing them.<ref name=L211>{{L|211}}, answer to Question 4</ref> But Maglor took pity upon Elrond and Elros and rescued them, and a mutual love grew between Maglor and the young twins afterwards.<ref name="Earendil"/> Elrond was given the name "Elf of the cavern" or "star-dome" (see [[#Etymology|Etymology]]), because Elrond was found in the cave.<ref name=L211/>
[[File:Tuuliky - Little Half-elf.jpg|thumb|left|Maglor raises Elrond]]
[[File:Tuuliky - Little Half-elf.jpg|thumb|left|Maglor raises Elrond. Art by [[:Category:Images by Tuuliky|Tuuliky]]]]
When the [[Sons of Fëanor]] [[Third Kinslaying|attacked the Havens of Sirion]], Elwing was taken by [[Ulmo]]. The twins were carried off, but later found near a waterfall and they were named as such; Elrond was discovered in a cave. Taken captive by Maglor, they were subsequently raised by him. 


Following the [[War of Wrath]], because of his Half-elven heritage the [[Valar]] gave Elrond and his brother a choice whether to be counted among the kindred of Elves or of Men. Elrond chose to belong to the [[Firstborn]], while Elros chose to become mortal. Elrond subsequently remained in [[Lindon]] with [[Gil-galad]], where he became known as a healer and loremaster.
Following the [[War of Wrath]], because of his Half-elven heritage, the [[Valar]] gave Elrond and his brother a choice to be counted among the kindred of Elves or Men. Elrond chose to belong to the [[Firstborn]], while Elros chose to become mortal.<ref name="Earendil"/> Elros voyaged over the sea to Númenor following the star of Eärendil;<ref>{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref> whereas Elrond remained among the Elves and carried on the lineage of King [[Elwë]].<ref>{{PM|XII}}</ref> Elrond subsequently remained in [[Lindon]] with [[Gil-galad]], where he became known as a healer and lore-master.


===Second Age===
===Second Age===
A fair being calling himself [[Annatar]], emmissary of the Valar, came seeking entrance to Lindon during the Second Age. Elrond and Gil-galad sensed that he was not what he seemed, and denied him. They were correct, as proven in the later [[War of the Elves and Sauron]]. Elrond led Elves from [[Lindon]] in [[Sack of Eregion|battle to defend Eregion]]. With them, and other Elves who fled the destruction of [[Eregion]], he established Imladris in {{SA|1697}}.<ref>{{App|SA}}</ref>
A fair being calling himself [[Annatar]], emissary of the Valar, came seeking entrance to Lindon during the Second Age. Elrond and Gil-galad sensed that he was not what he seemed, and denied him. They were correct, as proven in the later [[War of the Elves and Sauron]].  
[[File:Anke Eißmann - Gil-galad sends Elrond to aid Celebrimbor.jpg|thumb|''Gil-galad sends Elrond to aid Celebrimbor'' by [[Anke Eißmann]]]]
In {{SA|1695}}, Gil-galad sent Elrond to aid Eregion. Elrond's forces came too late and proved too small to defend Eregion. While Sauron sent most of his army west to attack Lindon, he left a strong detachment behind to contain Elrond. In [[Second Age 1697|two years]], Eregion [[Sack of Eregion|was laid waste]] and Elrond, along with the surviving Noldor, ran the risk of being overun, when [[Dwarves|Durin's folk]] of [[Khazad-dûm]] attacked Sauron's rear guard, turning Sauron's attention to these new foes. This allows Elrond and the remaining Noldor to flee far north. There, he established the stronghold of [[Rivendell|Imladris]].<ref name=UTC>{{UT|Concerning}}</ref><ref>{{App|SA}}</ref>
 
Many more refugees joined Elrond's host as Sauron ravaged Eriador during the course of the war. By {{SA|1700}}, Imladris, despite being [[First Siege of Imladris|besieged]], was the only part of [[Eriador]] not under Sauron's control. It was liberated by [[Gil-galad]]'s and [[Tar-Minastir]]'s forces. After Sauron's defeat, a Council was held at that time, establishing that Imladris should be maintained as an Elvish stronghold, and appointing Elrond as Gil-galad's vice-regent in Eriador, passing the Ring [[Vilya]] to him.<ref>{{UT|6}}</ref>


Many more refugees joined Elrond's host as Sauron ravaged Eriador during the course of the war. By {{SA|1700}}, Imladris, despite being [[First Siege of Imladris|besieged]], was the only part of [[Eriador]] not under Sauron's control.  It was liberated by [[Gil-galad]]'s and [[Tar-Minastir]]'s forces. After Sauron's defeat, a Council was held at that time, establishing Elrond as Gil-galad's vice-regent in Eriador and that Imladris should be maintained as an Elvish stronghold.<ref>{{UT|6}}</ref>
Elrond marched with Gil-galad and [[Elendil]] during the [[War of the Last Alliance]], serving as Gil-galad’s herald. He was present during the [[Battle of Dagorlad|last battle]] of that war, witnessing the deaths of Gil-galad and Elendil. When [[Isildur]] cut [[the One Ring]] from Sauron’s hand at the conclusion of the battle, he and [[Círdan]] advised Isildur to destroy the Ring, but Isildur refused their counsel. Elrond subsequently returned to Rivendell, which prospered in the coming years with the aid of the Ring of Air, [[Vilya]], that Elrond had received from Gil-galad.  
[[File:Prologue Elves.jpeg|thumb|Elrond next to Gil-galad in battle.]]
Elrond marched with Gil-galad and [[Elendil]] during the [[War of the Last Alliance]], serving as Gil-galad’s herald. He was present during the [[Battle of Dagorlad|last battle]] of that war, witnessing the deaths of Gil-galad and Elendil. At the conclusion of that battle, when [[Isildur]] cut [[the One Ring]] from Sauron’s hand he and [[Círdan]] advised Isildur to destroy the Ring, but Isildur refused their counsel. Elrond subsequently returned to Rivendell, which prospered the coming years with the aid of the Ring of Air, [[Vilya]], that Elrond had received from Gil-galad.


It has been argued that following Gil-galad’s death, Elrond had the right to become High King of the Noldor, but he never claimed the title. Indeed, after the Second Age ended, there were very few Noldor left in Middle-earth for there to be a king over them.
It has been argued that, following Gil-galad’s death, Elrond had the right to become High King of the Noldor, but he never claimed the title. Indeed, after the Second Age ended, there were very few Noldor left in Middle-earth for there to be a king over.{{fact}}


===Third Age===
===Third Age===
Following Isildur's death, Elrond received the shards of [[Narsil]], which he preserved for many years. He began his long tradition of fostering the heirs of Isildur by helping to raise Isildur's son [[Valandil (King of Arnor)|Valandil]], who had been left in Rivendell during the War of the Last Alliance.  
Following Isildur's death, Elrond received the shards of [[Narsil]], which he preserved for many years. He began his long tradition of fostering the heirs of Isildur by helping to raise Isildur's son [[Valandil (King of Arnor)|Valandil]], who had been left in Rivendell during the War of the Last Alliance.  


In {{TA|109}}, Elrond married [[Celebrían]], the daughter of [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]]. Their first children, the twins [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], were born in {{TA|130|n}}, and their daughter [[Arwen]] in {{TA|241|n}}.  
In {{TA|109}}, Elrond married [[Celebrían]], the daughter of [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]]. Their first children, the twins [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], were born in {{TA|130|n}}, and their daughter [[Arwen]] in {{TA|241|n}}.<ref name="AppB2"/>


During the late reign of [[Arveleg I]], [[Second Siege of Imladris |Rivendell was besieged by Angmar]]. After an incursion by [[Angmar]] into Eriador in {{TA|1409}}, the Elvenfolk of Rivendell joined those of Lindon in subduing the power of the [[Witch-king]] for many years.<ref name="North">{{App|North}}</ref>
During the late reign of [[Arveleg I]], [[Second Siege of Imladris |Rivendell was besieged by Angmar]]. After an incursion by [[Angmar]] into Eriador in {{TA|1409}}, the Elvenfolk of Rivendell joined those of Lindon in subduing the power of the [[Witch-king]] for many years.<ref name="North">{{App|North}}</ref>


Centuries later, when the Northern Kingdom fell, Elrond took the other heirlooms of Arnor (the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]] and the [[Ring of Barahir]]) into his keeping, holding them for the one who would eventually be able to reclaim the throne of [[Arnor]].
Centuries later, when the Northern Kingdom fell, Elrond took the other heirlooms of Arnor (the [[Sceptre of Annúminas]] and the [[Ring of Barahir]]) into his keeping, holding them for the one who would eventually be able to reclaim the throne of [[Arnor]].


Elrond along with others of the [[Wise]] were joined by the [[Wizard]] [[Gandalf]] who was sent by the Valar from the West. As they decided, Gandalf invaded [[Dol Guldur]]. The Necromancer withdrew and the [[Watchful Peace]] begun. In {{TA|2463}} the Wise formed the [[White Council]] with the Wizard [[Saruman]] as its head.
Elrond, along with others of the [[Wise]], was joined by the [[Wizards|Wizard]] [[Gandalf]], who was sent by the Valar from the West. As they decided, Gandalf invaded [[Dol Guldur]]. The Necromancer withdrew and the [[Watchful Peace]] began. In {{TA|2463}}, the Wise formed the [[White Council]] with the Wizard [[Saruman]] as its head.
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|The White Council attacks Dol Guldur]]
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|''Dol Guldur'' by [[Angus McBride]]]]
Elrond would be separated by his wife when taken by [[Orcs]]; their sons rescued her but Elrond was unable to heal her. She had to leave for the [[West]] in {{TA|2510|n}}.
Elrond was later separated from his wife when she was taken by [[Orcs]]. Their sons rescued her, but Elrond was unable to heal her mentally, and she decided to leave for the [[Uttermost West|West]] in {{TA|2510|n}}.


In {{TA|2851}} the White Council met to decide on whether to act on Gandalf's discovery of the identity of the [[Necromancer]] as Sauron, but [[Saruman]] dissuaded the others.
In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met to decide whether to act on Gandalf's discovery of the identity of the [[Necromancer]] as Sauron, but [[Saruman]] dissuaded the others from acting upon Gandalf's revelation.


In {{TA|2933}}, Elrond took [[Aragorn]] as his foster-son in Rivendell, and had Arwen live in [[Lothlórien]] with her Grandmother.
In {{TA|2933}}, Elrond took [[Aragorn]] as his foster-son in Rivendell, and had Arwen live in [[Lothlórien]] with her grandmother.


Elrond named Aragon ''[[Estel]]'' ("Hope") and concealing his heritage from him until he came of age. When Aragorn became an adult, Elrond gave him the [[Ring of Barahir]] and the shards of Narsil, foreseeing that Aragorn might be the one to claim the thrones of Gondor and Arnor. When Aragorn fell in love with Arwen, Elrond revealed to him that Arwen shared the choice of the Half-elven, and that one or the other of them would ultimately be parted from her forever. Elrond insisted that Arwen could not marry Aragorn until he became king of both Gondor and Arnor.
Elrond named Aragorn ''[[Estel]]'' ("Hope") and concealed his heritage from him until he came of age. When Aragorn became an adult, Elrond gave him the [[Ring of Barahir]] and the shards of Narsil, foreseeing that Aragorn might be the one to claim the thrones of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]]. When Aragorn fell in love with Arwen, Elrond revealed to him that Arwen shared the choice of the Half-elven, and that one or the other of them would ultimately be parted from her forever. Elrond insisted that Arwen could not marry Aragorn until he became king of both Gondor and Arnor.
[[File:The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey - Elrond and Thrór's Map.jpg|thumb|Elrond examines [[Thrór's Map]].]]
[[File:The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey - Elrond and Thrór's Map.jpg|thumb|Elrond examines [[Thrór's Map]] in ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'']]
In {{TA|2941}} Elrond welcomed [[Thorin and Company]] into his home, the [[Last Homely House]] before the wild, in [[Rivendell]]. On midsummer eve - the night before the [[Dwarves]], [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and [[Gandalf]] continued on their journey eastward - Elrond examined the swords which they had found in the trolls' cave. He read the runes and revealed that [[Thorin|Thorin's]] sword was called [[Orcrist]], the "Goblin-cleaver", and that Gandalf sword was named [[Glamdring]], the "Foe-hammer". He told them that they were [[Elves|Elven]] swords from the ancient city of [[Gondolin]], long ago destroyed. He then looked at [[Thrór's Map]] and found that there were [[moon-letters]]. From the moon of that midsummer eve he could read the words, 'five feet high the door and three may walk abreast'; and 'stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks and the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day will shine upon the keyhole'. This information proved vital for Bilbo and the Dwarves to enter the [[Lonely Mountain]] through its secret entrance.<ref name="H3"/>
In {{TA|2941}}, Elrond welcomed [[Thorin and Company]] into his home, the [[Rivendell|Last Homely House]] before the wild. On Midsummer's Eve - the night before the [[Dwarves]], [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and [[Gandalf]] continued on their journey eastward - Elrond examined the swords which they had found in the trolls' cave. He read the runes and revealed that [[Thorin|Thorin's]] sword was called [[Orcrist]], the "Goblin-cleaver", and that Gandalf's sword was named [[Glamdring]], the "Foe-hammer". He told them that they were [[Elves|Elven]] swords from the ancient city of [[Gondolin]], destroyed long ago. He then looked at [[Thrór's Map]] and found that there were [[moon-letters]]. From the moon of that midsummer's eve he could read the words: 'five feet high the door and three may walk abreast' and 'stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks and the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day will shine upon the keyhole'. This information proved vital for Bilbo and the Dwarves to enter the [[Lonely Mountain]] through its secret entrance.<ref name="H3">{{H|3}}</ref>


During that same year, the [[White Council]] assailed [[Dol Guldur]] and rid [[Mirkwood]] of the Necromancer's presence.<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref> Upon Bilbo and Gandalf's return to Rivendell, Elrond and the grey wizard discussed this and the events of the Lonely Mountain. They both agreed that it would be better if the Necromancer were banished from the world altogether.<ref name="H19">{{H|19}}</ref>
During that same year, the [[White Council]] assailed [[Dol Guldur]] and rid [[Mirkwood]] of the Necromancer's presence.<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref> Upon Bilbo and Gandalf's return to Rivendell, Elrond and the grey wizard discussed this and the events of the Lonely Mountain. They both agreed that it would be better if the Necromancer were banished from the world altogether.<ref name="H19">{{H|19}}</ref>


The White Council last met in {{TA|2953}}, when Gandalf expressed his concerns that the One Ring was Bilbo's ring found in the [[Goblin-town]]. Saruman quieted him, insisting that the Ring has been swept out to sea.
The White Council last met in {{TA|2953}}, when Gandalf expressed his concerns that the One Ring was Bilbo's ring found in the [[Goblin-town]]. Saruman quieted him, insisting that the Ring had been swept out to sea.
 
====War of the Ring====
When [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] first left the Shire with the One Ring, it was always his intention to go to Rivendell to seek the advice of Elrond. Indeed, in his letter left at Bree, Gandalf counselled him to do so. After Elrond healed Frodo of his wound sustained at [[Weathertop]], he then hosted the feast that was held when Frodo recovered.
[[File:Jenny Dolfen - Glorfindel returns to Rivendell.jpg|thumb|left|''Glorfindel returns to Rivendell'' by [[Jenny Dolfen]]]]
Elrond presided at the [[Council of Elrond]]. During that meeting, he narrated what he knew of the history of Isildur and the Ring. He identified Aragorn as the [[Heir of Isildur]], and when Frodo ultimately volunteered to carry the Ring, Elrond affirmed that decision. Elrond also appeared to have selected the members of the Fellowship other than Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], despite accepting [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] only reluctantly.


====The War of the Ring====
Later, Elrond sent his sons Elladan and Elrohir to join the [[Dúnedain]] Rangers who rode to [[Rohan]] to join Aragorn. Through Elrohir, Elrond advised Aragorn to take the [[Paths of the Dead]]. During the [[Last Debate]], Elrohir supported Aragorn’s decision to attack Mordor as a diversion to allow Frodo time to reach Mount Doom, saying that this was Elrond’s advice.  
When [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] first left the Shire with the One Ring, it was always his intention to go to Rivendell to seek the advice of Elrond.  Indeed, in his letter left at Bree, Gandalf counselled him to do so.  Elrond healed Frodo of his wound sustained at [[Weathertop]].  Elrond then hosted the feast that was held when Frodo recovered.
[[File:Michael Kaluta - Elrond Recalls the Host of Gilgalad.jpg|thumb|left|''Elrond Recalls the Host of Gil-galad'', by [[Michael Kaluta]].]]
Elrond presided at the [[Council of Elrond]]. During that meeting, he narrated what he knew of the history of Isildur and the Ring.  He identified Aragorn as the [[Heir of Isildur]], and when Frodo ultimately volunteered to carry the Ring, Elrond affirmed that decision as correct.  Elrond also appeared to have selected the members of the Fellowship other than Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], accepting [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] only reluctantly.


Later, Elrond sent his sons Elladan and Elrohir to join the [[Dúnedain]] Rangers who rode to Rohan to join Aragorn.  Through Elrohir, Elrond advised Aragorn to take the [[Paths of the Dead]].  During the [[The Last Debate|Last Debate]], Elrohir supported Aragorn’s decision to attack Mordor as a diversion to allow Frodo time to reach Mount Doom, saying that this was Elrond’s advice. Following the [[War of the Ring]], Elrond escorted Arwen to Minas Tirith for her marriage to Aragorn, and parted from her in great sorrow.
After the passing of [[Sauron]], Aragorn was crowned as [[King of the West|King]] of the new [[Reunited Kingdom]] on [[1 May]], and according to his own promise Elrond escorted Arwen to [[Lothlórien]]. They arrived on [[20 May]] and Arwen went to [[Minas Tirith]] to wed Aragorn.<ref>{{App|Chief}}</ref> He parted from her in great sorrow.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Departure at the Grey Havens.jpg|thumb|''Departure at the Grey Havens'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Departure at the Grey Havens.jpg|thumb|''Departure at the Grey Havens'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
Elrond was one of the Elves who took the [[White Ship]] to [[Valinor]] along with Frodo, Gandalf, and the other [[Ringbearer]]s. The Third Age's end is marked by Elrond’s departure.
Elrond was one of the Elves who took the [[White Ship]] to [[Valinor]] along with Frodo, Gandalf, and the other [[Ring-bearers]]. The Third Age's end is marked by their departure.


==Inspiration==
==Characteristics==
Elrond was created for ''[[The Hobbit]]''.  Subsequently he became the only character to appear in all three of ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[The Hobbit]]'', and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''.
{{Quote|He was as noble and fair as an elf-lord, as strong as a warrior, as wise as a wizard, as venerable as a king of dwarves, and as kind as summer.|''[[The Hobbit]]'', "[[A Short Rest]]"}}
Elrond seemed ageless, resembling neither old nor young. However, one could see in his face the memories and experiences of thousands of years. He looked venerable both like an old king, a wise wizard, and an experienced warrior in his prime.


In the chapter ''[[A Short Rest]]'' of ''The Hobbit'', it is said of Elrond that he “was an elf-friend — one of those people whose fathers came into the strange stories before the beginning of History, the wars of the evil goblins and the elves and the first men in the North. In those days of our tale there were still some people who had both elves and heroes of the North for ancestors, and Elrond the master of the house was their chief.  He was as noble and as fair in face as an elf-lord, as strong as a warrior, as wise as a wizard, as venerable as a king of dwarves, and as kind as summer.” Note that in this description he is not identified as an elf himself, as Tolkien had not at this stage decided that Elrond of Rivendell was the same person as Elrond the son of Eärendil.
Elrond is described as dark-haired, while his eyes were grey, shining like starlight. He could be seen wearing a circlet of silver.<ref name="meetings"/><ref>{{H|Rest}}</ref>
 
His parents were [[Eärendil]] and [[Elwing]]. He was thus [[Half-elven]]: Eärendil was the child of the mortal [[Tuor]] and the elf [[Idril]], while Elwing was the grandchild of [[Beren]] (a [[Man]]) and [[Lúthien]] (daughter of the Elf-king [[Thingol]] and the Maia [[Melian]]). Consequently, Elrond was descended from all three tribes of the Elves ([[Vanyar]] and [[Noldor]] through Idril, [[Sindar]] through Lúthien), a Maia, and all three houses of the [[Edain]] ([[House of Hador|Hador]], [[House of Haleth|Haleth]] and [[House of Bëor|Bëor]]).


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
The name '''Elrond''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈelrond]}}) has been translated as "Star-dome",<ref name="SoF">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]] (ed.), ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', "[[The Shibboleth of Fëanor]]"</ref> and "Vault of Heaven"<ref name="Etym">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]] (ed.), ''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'', "[[The Etymologies]]", page 384</ref> recalling the glory of [[Menegroth]] though at an earlier stage, it was supposed to mean "Elf of the Cave". His Quenya name was most likely '''Elerondo'''<ref>[[Petri Tikka]], "[http://www.geocities.com/petristikka/elvish/PE17.html Quenya words in Parma Eldalambaron 17]"</ref>, isolated from the patronymic ''Elerondiel'', "[[Arwen|daughter of Elrond]]".<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Gilson]] (ed.), "Words, Phrases and Passages in ''The Lord of the Rings''", published in [[Parma Eldalamberon]] 17 (June 2007), page 56</ref>
{{Pronounce|Elrond.mp3|Ardamir}}
In a letter from 1958, [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] explained that ''Elrond'' is a [[Sindarin]] name that he was given because he was found in a cave, and that the name is a compound of ''eld>ell'', the Sindarin term for the High-Elven exiles, and ''rond'' based on primitive Elvish ''rondo'' meaning "cavern".<ref name=L211/> In an essay that was probably written between 1959 and 1960, J.R.R. Tolkien translated the name as "Star-dome".<ref>{{WJ|Author}}, Note 26, second paragraph about Hadhodrond</ref> <ref>{{S|Index}}, entry ''Elrond''</ref> The Sindarin elements are ''[[el]]'' ("star") and ''[[rond]]'' ("a vaulted or arched roof, the heavens").<ref name=Elements>{{S|Elements}}, entries ''êl'' and ''rond''</ref> In an essay on "The Problem of Ros" that was written in 1969 or later J.R.R. Tolkien translated the name as "star-dome, noting that it was given by [[Elwing]] in memory of the [[Menelrond]], the Hall of the Throne of Elwë.<ref>{{PM|Ros}}</ref> ''Elrond'' has also been translated as "Vault of Heaven".<ref name="Etym">{{LR|Etymologies}}, p. 384</ref> In a letter from 1972, J.R.R. Tolkien wrote that the name Elrond means "The vault of stars".<ref>{{L|345}}</ref>
 
His [[Quenya]] name was most likely '''''Elerondo'''''<ref>[[Petri Tikka]], "[http://www.geocities.com/petristikka/elvish/PE17.html Quenya words in ''Parma Eldalambaron'' 17]"</ref>, isolated from the patronymic ''Elerondiel'' ("[[Arwen|Daughter of Elrond]]").<ref>{{PE|Eldarin}}, p. 56</ref>


==Genealogy==
==Genealogy==
{{familytree/start}}
<div style="overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; border: 1px solid #AAAAAA; padding: 3px; background: #EEEEEE;">{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree | CEL |y| GAL | | EAR |y| ELW |CEL=[[Celeborn]]|GAL=[[Galadriel]]|EAR=[[Eärendil]]|ELW=[[Elwing]]}}
{{familytree| FIN |y| EAW | | GLN | | THI |y| MEL | | | | | | | |FIN=[[Finarfin]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT|1230}}''</small>|EAW=[[Eärwen]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|GLN=[[Galadhon]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA}}''</small>|THI=[[Elu Thingol]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|MEL=[[Melian]]}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|.| |}}
{{familytree| | | |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| | | | | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | CBR |y| ELR | | | | ELS |ELR='''ELROND'''|CBR=[[Celebrían]]|ELS=[[Elros]]}}
{{familytree| | | GAL |y| CEL | | GLT | | LUT |y| BER | | | | | |GAL=[[Galadriel]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT|1362}}''</small>|CEL=[[Celeborn]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA}}''</small>|GLT=[[Galathil]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA}}''</small>|LUT=[[Lúthien]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT|1200}}''</small>|BER=[[Beren]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA|432}}''</small>}}
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | |:| |}}
{{familytree| | | | | |!| | | | | |!| | | |,|-|'| | | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree | ERH | | ELL | | ARW |~| ARA |ERH=[[Elrohir]]|ELL=[[Elladan]]|ARW=[[Arwen]]|ARA=[[Aragorn|Aragorn II]]}}
{{familytree| | | | | |!| | | | | NIM |y| DIO | | TUO |y| IDR | |TUO=[[Tuor]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA|472}}''</small>|IDR=[[Idril]]<br /><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|DIO=[[Dior]]<br /><small>''{{FA|470}} - {{FA|506|n}}''</small>|NIM=[[Nimloth of Doriath|Nimloth]]<br /><small>''d. {{FA|506}}''</small>}}
{{familytree| | | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | |}}
{{familytree| | | | | |!| | | | | | | ELW |~|~|y|~|~| EAR | | | |EAR=[[Eärendil]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA|503}}''</small>|ELW=[[Elwing]]<br /><small>''b. {{FA|503}}''</small>}}
{{familytree| | | | | |!| | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|.| | | | |}}
{{familytree| | | | | CLB |~|~|y|~|~| ELR | | | | | | ELS | | | |CLB=[[Celebrían]]<br /><small>''b. {{SA|300}}''</small>|ELR='''ELROND'''<br /><small>''b. {{FA|532}}''</small>|ELS=[[Elros]]<br /><small>''{{FA|532}} - {{SA|442}}''</small>}}
{{familytree| | | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | |:| | | | |}}
{{familytree| | | | | ELL | | ELO | | ARW |~|~|y|~|~| ARA | | | |ELL=[[Elladan]]<br /><small>''b. {{TA|130}}''</small>|ELO=[[Elrohir]]<br /><small>''b. {{TA|130}}''</small>|ARW=[[Arwen]]<br /><small>''{{TA|241}} - {{FoA|121}}''</small>|ARA=[[Aragorn|Aragorn II]]<br /><small>''{{TA|2931}} - {{FoA|120}}''</small>}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | | |}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | EDN | | DAU | | | | | |EDN=[[Eldarion]]<br /><small>''{{FoA|1}} - {{FoA|220|n}}''</small>|DAU=''unknown daughters''}}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}
</div>
==Other versions of the legendarium==
The name '''Elrond''' first appears in a draft for ''[[The Fall of Númenor (chapter)]]'', written about the same time as ''The Hobbit'' (before [[1937]]). There he is mentioned to be the son of [[Eärendel]], heir of the [[House of Hador]], who because of his mortal blood chose to remain in the [[Great Lands]] and became the leader of the Elves in the remnant of [[Beleriand]]. There he allied with the Faithful [[Amroth]] (a precursor of Elendil) against [[Sûr]] (Sauron).<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}</ref> In a rewrite of the same text, Elrond becomes the first [[King of Númenor]] instead, the builder of the city of Númenos, and is a mortal (which means that the text was written before ''The Hobbit'', as he appears alive, presumably immortal, there). It is Gil-galad who fights Sauron. With the conception of Elros, Tolkien added a later note that considered making Elrond stay with Gil-galad or return to Middle-earth.<ref>{{LR|P1II3}}</ref>
Elrond was then "borrowed" or imported into ''[[The Hobbit]]''. Subsequently he, along with [[Gandalf]], became one of the only characters to appear in all three of ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[The Hobbit]]'', and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''.
In the chapter "[[A Short Rest]]" of ''The Hobbit'', it is said of Elrond that he
{{blockquote|...was an elf-friend — one of those people whose fathers came into the strange stories before the beginning of History, the wars of the evil goblins and the elves and the first men in the North. In those days of our tale there were still some people who had both elves and heroes of the North for ancestors, and Elrond the master of the house was their chief.|''[[The Hobbit]]'', "[[A Short Rest]]"}}
Note that in this description he is not identified as an Elf himself, emphasizing his elf-friend (= Edain) heritage. In the subsequent fleshing out of his background, it is never mentioned that he was ever the "chief" of the people who came from "both elves and heroes of the North" (which would apply to the [[Half-elven]] or rather the [[Dúnedain of Arnor]]).


==Portrayal in adaptations==
==Portrayal in adaptations==
Line 115: Line 141:
|File:The Hobbit (1977 film) - Elrond.jpg|Elrond as portrayed in [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]
|File:The Hobbit (1977 film) - Elrond.jpg|Elrond as portrayed in [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Elrond.jpg|Elrond as portrayed in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Elrond.jpg|Elrond as portrayed in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:Elrond.jpg|[[Hugo Weaving]] as Elrond in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring - Elrond2.jpg|[[Hugo Weaving]] as Elrond in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:Elrond in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|'''Elrond''' in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Elrond.jpg|Elrond in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:LOTRO-Elrond.jpg|'''Elrond''' in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Elrond in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|Elrond in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''
|File:The Rings of Power (TV series) - Elrond.jpg|[[Robert Aramayo]] as Elrond in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]'' series
}}
}}
===Films===
===Films===
'''1977: [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]:'''
'''1977: [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]:'''
:Elrond appears in Rivendell, crowned with a ring of stars. He feeds the [[Thorin and Company|Dwarves]], and identifies [[Orcrist]] and [[Glamdring]]. He needs little time to identify the latter.He is shown with a beard, although Tolkien clearly states [[elves]] do not have beards. His voice was provided by [[Cyril Ritchard]].
:Elrond appears in [[Rivendell]], crowned with a ring of stars. He feeds the [[Thorin and Company|Dwarves]], and identifies [[Orcrist]] and [[Glamdring]]. He needs little time to identify the latter. He is shown with a beard, although Tolkien clearly states [[Elves]] do not have beards. His voice was provided by [[Cyril Ritchard]].


'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Elrond, voiced by [[André Morell]], appears at the Council of Elrond. He sits on a raised chair, and narrates the scene. Not until the Ring is brought forward does he take an active part.
:Elrond, voiced by [[André Morell]], appears at the [[Council of Elrond]]. He sits on a raised chair, and narrates the scene. Not until [[the One Ring]] is brought forward does he take an active part.


'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:Elrond appears roughly the same as in the first of [[Rankin/Bass]]' films. The premise of the film, a minstrel of Gondor who tells the tale of "Frodo of the Nine Fingers, and the Ring of Doom" at the birthday of Bilbo, allows Elrond to be a member of the audience. Because Ritchard had passed away, Rankin/Bass regular [[Paul Frees]] took over.
:Elrond appears roughly the same as in the first of [[Rankin/Bass]]' films. The premise of the film, a [[minstrel of Gondor]] who tells the tale of "Frodo of the Nine Fingers, and the Ring of Doom" at [[Bilbo Baggins]]' 129th birthday party in Rivendell, allows Elrond to be a member of the audience, and then sails west, with [[Gandalf]] and the two allowed Bilbo and [[Frodo Baggins]] (his nephew) come because of their service in Middle-earth and being friends. Because Cyril Ritchard had passed away not long after completing his work on ''The Hobbit'', Rankin/Bass regular [[Paul Frees]] took over as his voice.


'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:Elrond, played by [[Hugo Weaving]], first appears in the prologue as a commander of the army of Gil-galad in the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. A later flashback scene shows him actually taking [[Isildur]] into [[Mount Doom]], trying to persuade him to destroy the Ring. [[Círdan]] is omitted.  
:Elrond, played by [[Hugo Weaving]], first appears in the prologue as a commander of the army of [[Gil-galad]] in the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. A later flashback scene shows him actually taking [[Isildur]] into [[Mount Doom]], trying to persuade him to destroy the Ring. [[Círdan]] is omitted.  


:As in the book, Elrond heals Frodo's wound from Weathertop. Elrond then has a conversation with Gandalf, discussing the many challenges that face them. Elrond argues that the Ring cannot remain in Rivendell (in the film, Frodo appears to have thought that he would be able to leave the Ring there). He also expresses his doubts about the race of Men, and gives the first hints about Aragorn's real identity. In the Council of Elrond, Elrond himself is the one who argues that the only option is to destroy the Ring. He does not select the Fellowship, but accepts those who volunteer.
:As in the book, Elrond heals [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s wound from [[Weathertop]]. Elrond then has a conversation with [[Gandalf]], discussing the many challenges that face them. Elrond argues that the Ring cannot remain in Rivendell (in the film, Frodo appears to have thought that he would be able to leave the Ring there). He also expresses his doubts about the race of [[Men]], and gives the first hints about [[Aragorn]]'s real identity. In the Council of Elrond, Elrond himself is the one who argues that the only option is to destroy the Ring. He does not select the Fellowship, but accepts those who volunteer.


:Elrond gains two additional scenes in the Extended Edition of the movie. In the first, he talks with Aragorn beside the grave of Aragorn’s mother. Elrond encourages the reluctant Aragorn to accept his fate of becoming king. In the next scene, Elrond blesses the departing Fellowship.
:Elrond gains two additional scenes in the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (extended edition)|Extended Edition]] of the movie. In the first, he talks with Aragorn beside the grave of Aragorn’s mother. Elrond encourages the reluctant Aragorn to accept his fate of becoming [[Kings of Gondor|king]]. In the next scene, Elrond blesses the departing [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]].


'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Though he had no scenes in the book, Elrond appears mainly in conversations with [[Arwen]], whose role is also greatly expanded. In a flashback, Aragorn remembers Elrond telling him to abandon his love for Arwen, allowing her to sail to [[Valinor]]. Aragorn attempts to do this, but Arwen denies him. In another scene, Elrond persuades Arwen that she should sail to Valinor, describing what will happen if she remains and Aragorn dies. Elrond then has a telepathic communication with [[Galadriel]] discussing the [[War of the Ring|war]] that is about to start. He apparently suggests that she send an army to [[Helm's Deep]] to aid the [[Rohirrim|Men]] there, since when [[Haldir]] arrives at Helm's Deep he says that he brings "word from Elrond of Rivendell".
:Though he had no scenes in the book, Elrond appears mainly in conversations with [[Arwen]], whose role is also greatly expanded. In a flashback, Aragorn remembers Elrond telling him to abandon his love for Arwen, allowing her to sail to [[Valinor]]. Aragorn attempts to do this, but Arwen denies him. In another scene, Elrond persuades Arwen that she should sail to Valinor, describing what will happen if she remains and Aragorn dies. Elrond then has a [[ósanwe|telepathic]] communication with [[Galadriel]] discussing the [[War of the Ring|war]] that is about to start. He apparently suggests that she send an army to [[Helm's Deep]] to aid the [[Rohirrim|Men]] there, since when [[Haldir]] arrives at Helm's Deep he says that he brings "word from Elrond of Rivendell."


'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:In the final installemnt of Jackson's film series, Elrond's first scene is with Arwen, who has decided not to sail after all, but to return. Although he senses that she is dying, Elrond acknowledges her choice. At her suggestion, he has the shards of Narsil re-forged, then carries the new sword to Aragorn at [[Dunharrow]]. He finally convinces Aragorn to accept his destiny, and advises him to take the [[Paths of the Dead]]. Later, Elrond escorts Arwen to [[Minas Tirith]] for her wedding, and he finally sails to Valinor with the Ringbearers.
:In the final installment of Jackson's film series, Elrond's first scene is with Arwen, who has decided not to sail after all, but to return. Although he senses that she is dying, Elrond acknowledges her choice. At her suggestion, he has the [[shards of Narsil]] [[Andúril|re-forged]], then carries the new sword to Aragorn at [[Dunharrow]]. He finally convinces Aragorn to accept his destiny, and advises him to take the [[Paths of the Dead]]. Later, Elrond escorts Arwen to [[Minas Tirith]] for [[Aragorn]]'s coronation, and he finally sails to Valinor with the [[Ring-bearers]].


'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Hugo Weaving]] will reprise his role as Elrond.<ref name="IMCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Ian McKellen]]|articleurl=http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/110510.htm|articlename=2 Elves and another Wizard|dated=10-May-2011|website=[http://www.mckellen.com/ Ian McKellen's website]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref>
:Hugo Weaving reprises the role of Elrond.<ref name="IMCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Ian McKellen]]|articleurl=http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/110510.htm|articlename=2 Elves and another Wizard|dated=10-May-2011|website=[http://www.mckellen.com/ Ian McKellen's website]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> As in the book, he identifies Gandalf's and [[Thorin]]'s respective swords, as well as translating the [[Moon-letters|runes]] on Thorin's [[Thrór's Map|map]] in the [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|first]] film. There is an additional scene where Elrond meets with the [[White Council]]. Like [[Saruman]], Elrond is somewhat skeptical of Gandalf's claims, deeming the Quest of [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] unwise. However, he is clearly alarmed by Gandalf's revealing of the [[Morgul-knife|Morgul blade]] from [[Dol Guldur]]. Elrond is seen again in the [[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|third]] of these films where he participates in the [[Attack on Dol Guldur|battle]] of Dol Guldur, joining Saruman and Galadriel in fighting off the [[Nazgûl]].
 
===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:In this adaptation, Elrond is portrayed by [[Leif Wager]].
 
'''2022: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]'':'''
:'''September 1: ''[[A Shadow of the Past]]'':'''
::Elrond (portrayed by [[Robert Aramayo]])<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Alice Jones]]|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/amazon-the-rings-of-power-series-first-look|articlename=Amazon’s Lord of the Rings Series Rises: Inside The Rings of Power
|dated=10-February-2022|website=[https://www.vanityfair.com VanityFair]|accessed=11-February-2022}}</ref> first appears sitting in a tree at [[Lindon]], writing the exact words of the speech that [[Gil-galad]] gives later. He is alerted by an [[Elves|Elf Attendant]] of the arrival of his friend, [[Galadriel]].


===Radio series===
===Radio series===
Line 150: Line 186:


'''1968: [[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1968 radio series)]]:'''
'''1968: [[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1968 radio series)]]:'''
:In this adaptation, Elrond is voiced by [[John Pullen]].  
:In this adaptation, Elrond is voiced by [[John Pullen]]. Gandalf claims that he is not an Elf, but an Elf-friend.
 
'''1980: [[Der Hobbit (1980 German radio series)|''Der Hobbit'' (1980 German radio series)]]:'''
:Elrond is played by Friedrich W. Bauschulle.


'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Hugh Dickson]] provided the voice of Elrond in this radio series. He appears only in the episode containing the [[Council of Elrond]], and appears unintroduced. Dickson showcases great trouble with pronouncing Elvish, and especially diphtongs. Gimli is the son of "[[Glóin son of Gróin|Gloo-in]]", who fought the dragon "[[Smaug|Sma-oog]]". Legolas is the son of "[[Thranduil|Thrandoo-uhl]]".
:[[Hugh Dickson]] provided the voice of Elrond in this radio series. He first appears in the episode containing the [[Council of Elrond]], and appears unintroduced. Dickson showcases great trouble with pronouncing Elvish, and especially diphthongs. Gimli is the son of "[[Glóin|Gloo-in]]", who fought the dragon "[[Smaug|Sma-oog]]". Legolas is the son of "[[Thranduil|Thrandoo-uhl]]". He reappears in the final 2 episodes - first in the return to Rivendell warning Frodo to look out for Bilbo in the Shire one Autumn soon, and finally with Galadriel and Bilbo in the Shire before they all ride to the Grey Havens.
 
'''2001: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Elrond is provided by Matej Landl.


===Games===
===Games===
'''1982: [[The Hobbit (1982 video game)|''The Hobbit (1982 text adventure game)'']]'''
:Elrond appears at Rivendell. The player can give him the curious map to read, and he also provides the player with lunch.
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:Like his predecessor Hugh Dickson, [[Jim Piddock]] shows incredible difficulty with diphtongs. "Glau-win" and "Thrandool" dislike eachother, so too their sons.  
:Like his predecessor Hugh Dickson, [[Jim Piddock]] shows incredible difficulty with diphthongs. "Glau-win" and "Thrandool" dislike each other, so too their sons.  


'''2003: [[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (2003 video game)]]:'''
'''2003: [[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (2003 video game)]]:'''
Line 169: Line 215:


'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:Hugo Weaving once again reprises the role, serving as the narrator for both Good and Evil campaigns.
:Hugo Weaving once again reprises the role, serving as the narrator for both Good and Evil campaign.  


'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
Line 175: Line 221:


==See also==
==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Elrond|Images of Elrond]]
*[[Twins]]
*[[Twins]]


{{References}}
{{References}}
 
{{seq-start}}
[[Category:House of Eärendil]]
{{seq-head
[[Category:House of Dior]]
| race=halfelf
[[Category:House of Elrond| ]]
| born={{FA|532}}
| died=Sailed west on [[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
}}
{{seq
| prev=[[Gil-galad]]
| list=[[Three Keepers|Keeper]] of [[Vilya]]
| dates={{SA|1701}} - after [[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| nvac=None
| next=Presumably, still Elrond
}}
{{seq
| prow=2
| pvac=None
| prev=Titles established
| list=Lord of [[Rivendell]]
| dates={{SA|1697}} - [[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| nvac=None
| next=Titles abandoned
| nrow=2
}}
{{seq
| list=Vice-regent of [[Eriador]]
| dates={{SA|1701}} - {{SA|3441|n}}
}}
{{seq-end}}
{{councilofelrond}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
{{lordoftheringsfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:First Age characters]]
[[Category:Half-elven]]
[[Category:Ilkorin names]]
[[Category:Noldorin names]]
[[Category:Rulers in Middle-earth]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[de:Elrond]]
[[de:Elrond]]
[[fi:Elrond]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/semi-elfes/elrond]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/semi-elfes/elrond]]
[[fi:Elrond]]

Latest revision as of 02:31, 17 March 2024

Elrond
Half-elf
Tatyafinwe - Portrait of Elrond.jpg
"Portrait of Elrond" by Tatyafinwe
Biographical Information
Other namesElerondo (Q)
Peredhel (S, "Half-elven")
Master Elrond
TitlesLord of Rivendell
PositionRing-bearer of Vilya
Vice-regent of Eriador
Herald to Gil-galad[1]
LocationLindon
Rivendell
AffiliationWhite Council
LanguageSindarin, Quenya, Westron
BirthF.A. 532[2]
Havens of Sirion
RuleS.A. 1697 - T.A. 3021 (ruled 4765 years)
Sailed west29 September, T.A. 3021 (aged 6520)
Grey Havens
Family
HouseDescended from all three Houses of the Edain and elven houses of Fingolfin and Thingol
HeritageHalf-elven father and mother
ParentageEärendil, father
Elwing, mother
Maglor, foster father
SiblingsElros (twin)
SpouseCelebrían
ChildrenElladan
Elrohir
Arwen
Aragorn, foster son
Physical Description
GenderMale
Hair colorDark[3]
Eye colorGrey[3]
ClothingGrey mantle[4]
Silver circlet[3]
GalleryImages of Elrond
"But my memory reaches back even to the Elder Days. Eärendil was my sire, who was born in Gondolin before its fall; and my mother was Elwing, daughter of Dior, son of Lúthien of Doriath. I have seen three ages in the West of the world, and many defeats, and many fruitless victories."
― Elrond in The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Council of Elrond"

Elrond was the half-elven son of Eärendil and Elwing, the father of Arwen, and the Lord of Rivendell who consistently fought against Sauron throughout the Second and Third Ages. He was the twin brother of Elros, who later became the first king of Númenor.[5]

Having been born in Beleriand towards the end of the First Age, Elrond ever opposed Sauron and strove against him throughout the Second Age, helping to bring about Sauron's defeat in the War of the Last Alliance as Gil-galad's herald. Elrond inherited Gil-galad's Elven ring Vilya, and during the Third Age he fought against the Witch-king of Angmar and, as a member of the White Council, expelled the Necromancer from Dol Guldur (who was Sauron in another guise). Towards the end of the Third Age, he was the foster-father to Aragorn as he had been to Arathorn before him. Aragorn went on to marry Elrond's daughter Arwen. After the destruction of the One Ring, Elrond sailed west with Gandalf, Bilbo, Frodo, and Galadriel; their passing marked the end of the Third Age and the beginning of the Fourth.

Elrond is one of the most prominent, significant and recognisable characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, appearing in The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales. He was critical to providing Thorin and Company with the information they needed to enter the Lonely Mountain, and the Council of Elrond brought about the creation of the Fellowship of the Ring, which ultimately resulted in the destruction of the One Ring and the final defeat of Sauron.

History[edit | edit source]

First Age[edit | edit source]

Elros and Elrond were born in the Havens of Sirion during the darkest days of the First Age, when the forces of Morgoth controlled most of Beleriand. When the twins were just six years old, the Sons of Fëanor, bound by their Oath, assaulted the Havens in the Third Kinslaying, since they desired the Silmaril on the Nauglamír held by Elwing. Eärendil was at sea, and Elwing escaped with the Nauglamír and jumped into the sea.[5] Maedhros and Maglor, the only Sons of Fëanor to survive the assault upon the Havens, took Elros and Elrond as captives[5] and abandoned them in a cave with a fall of water over the entrance instead of killing them.[6] But Maglor took pity upon Elrond and Elros and rescued them, and a mutual love grew between Maglor and the young twins afterwards.[5] Elrond was given the name "Elf of the cavern" or "star-dome" (see Etymology), because Elrond was found in the cave.[6]

Maglor raises Elrond. Art by Tuuliky

Following the War of Wrath, because of his Half-elven heritage, the Valar gave Elrond and his brother a choice to be counted among the kindred of Elves or Men. Elrond chose to belong to the Firstborn, while Elros chose to become mortal.[5] Elros voyaged over the sea to Númenor following the star of Eärendil;[7] whereas Elrond remained among the Elves and carried on the lineage of King Elwë.[8] Elrond subsequently remained in Lindon with Gil-galad, where he became known as a healer and lore-master.

Second Age[edit | edit source]

A fair being calling himself Annatar, emissary of the Valar, came seeking entrance to Lindon during the Second Age. Elrond and Gil-galad sensed that he was not what he seemed, and denied him. They were correct, as proven in the later War of the Elves and Sauron.

Gil-galad sends Elrond to aid Celebrimbor by Anke Eißmann

In S.A. 1695, Gil-galad sent Elrond to aid Eregion. Elrond's forces came too late and proved too small to defend Eregion. While Sauron sent most of his army west to attack Lindon, he left a strong detachment behind to contain Elrond. In two years, Eregion was laid waste and Elrond, along with the surviving Noldor, ran the risk of being overun, when Durin's folk of Khazad-dûm attacked Sauron's rear guard, turning Sauron's attention to these new foes. This allows Elrond and the remaining Noldor to flee far north. There, he established the stronghold of Imladris.[9][10]

Many more refugees joined Elrond's host as Sauron ravaged Eriador during the course of the war. By S.A. 1700, Imladris, despite being besieged, was the only part of Eriador not under Sauron's control. It was liberated by Gil-galad's and Tar-Minastir's forces. After Sauron's defeat, a Council was held at that time, establishing that Imladris should be maintained as an Elvish stronghold, and appointing Elrond as Gil-galad's vice-regent in Eriador, passing the Ring Vilya to him.[11]

Elrond marched with Gil-galad and Elendil during the War of the Last Alliance, serving as Gil-galad’s herald. He was present during the last battle of that war, witnessing the deaths of Gil-galad and Elendil. When Isildur cut the One Ring from Sauron’s hand at the conclusion of the battle, he and Círdan advised Isildur to destroy the Ring, but Isildur refused their counsel. Elrond subsequently returned to Rivendell, which prospered in the coming years with the aid of the Ring of Air, Vilya, that Elrond had received from Gil-galad.

It has been argued that, following Gil-galad’s death, Elrond had the right to become High King of the Noldor, but he never claimed the title. Indeed, after the Second Age ended, there were very few Noldor left in Middle-earth for there to be a king over.[source?]

Third Age[edit | edit source]

Following Isildur's death, Elrond received the shards of Narsil, which he preserved for many years. He began his long tradition of fostering the heirs of Isildur by helping to raise Isildur's son Valandil, who had been left in Rivendell during the War of the Last Alliance.

In T.A. 109, Elrond married Celebrían, the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn. Their first children, the twins Elladan and Elrohir, were born in 130, and their daughter Arwen in 241.[12]

During the late reign of Arveleg I, Rivendell was besieged by Angmar. After an incursion by Angmar into Eriador in T.A. 1409, the Elvenfolk of Rivendell joined those of Lindon in subduing the power of the Witch-king for many years.[13]

Centuries later, when the Northern Kingdom fell, Elrond took the other heirlooms of Arnor (the Sceptre of Annúminas and the Ring of Barahir) into his keeping, holding them for the one who would eventually be able to reclaim the throne of Arnor.

Elrond, along with others of the Wise, was joined by the Wizard Gandalf, who was sent by the Valar from the West. As they decided, Gandalf invaded Dol Guldur. The Necromancer withdrew and the Watchful Peace began. In T.A. 2463, the Wise formed the White Council with the Wizard Saruman as its head.

Dol Guldur by Angus McBride

Elrond was later separated from his wife when she was taken by Orcs. Their sons rescued her, but Elrond was unable to heal her mentally, and she decided to leave for the West in 2510.

In T.A. 2851, the White Council met to decide whether to act on Gandalf's discovery of the identity of the Necromancer as Sauron, but Saruman dissuaded the others from acting upon Gandalf's revelation.

In T.A. 2933, Elrond took Aragorn as his foster-son in Rivendell, and had Arwen live in Lothlórien with her grandmother.

Elrond named Aragorn Estel ("Hope") and concealed his heritage from him until he came of age. When Aragorn became an adult, Elrond gave him the Ring of Barahir and the shards of Narsil, foreseeing that Aragorn might be the one to claim the thrones of Gondor and Arnor. When Aragorn fell in love with Arwen, Elrond revealed to him that Arwen shared the choice of the Half-elven, and that one or the other of them would ultimately be parted from her forever. Elrond insisted that Arwen could not marry Aragorn until he became king of both Gondor and Arnor.

In T.A. 2941, Elrond welcomed Thorin and Company into his home, the Last Homely House before the wild. On Midsummer's Eve - the night before the Dwarves, Bilbo, and Gandalf continued on their journey eastward - Elrond examined the swords which they had found in the trolls' cave. He read the runes and revealed that Thorin's sword was called Orcrist, the "Goblin-cleaver", and that Gandalf's sword was named Glamdring, the "Foe-hammer". He told them that they were Elven swords from the ancient city of Gondolin, destroyed long ago. He then looked at Thrór's Map and found that there were moon-letters. From the moon of that midsummer's eve he could read the words: 'five feet high the door and three may walk abreast' and 'stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks and the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day will shine upon the keyhole'. This information proved vital for Bilbo and the Dwarves to enter the Lonely Mountain through its secret entrance.[14]

During that same year, the White Council assailed Dol Guldur and rid Mirkwood of the Necromancer's presence.[12] Upon Bilbo and Gandalf's return to Rivendell, Elrond and the grey wizard discussed this and the events of the Lonely Mountain. They both agreed that it would be better if the Necromancer were banished from the world altogether.[15]

The White Council last met in T.A. 2953, when Gandalf expressed his concerns that the One Ring was Bilbo's ring found in the Goblin-town. Saruman quieted him, insisting that the Ring had been swept out to sea.

War of the Ring[edit | edit source]

When Frodo first left the Shire with the One Ring, it was always his intention to go to Rivendell to seek the advice of Elrond. Indeed, in his letter left at Bree, Gandalf counselled him to do so. After Elrond healed Frodo of his wound sustained at Weathertop, he then hosted the feast that was held when Frodo recovered.

Glorfindel returns to Rivendell by Jenny Dolfen

Elrond presided at the Council of Elrond. During that meeting, he narrated what he knew of the history of Isildur and the Ring. He identified Aragorn as the Heir of Isildur, and when Frodo ultimately volunteered to carry the Ring, Elrond affirmed that decision. Elrond also appeared to have selected the members of the Fellowship other than Frodo and Sam, despite accepting Merry and Pippin only reluctantly.

Later, Elrond sent his sons Elladan and Elrohir to join the Dúnedain Rangers who rode to Rohan to join Aragorn. Through Elrohir, Elrond advised Aragorn to take the Paths of the Dead. During the Last Debate, Elrohir supported Aragorn’s decision to attack Mordor as a diversion to allow Frodo time to reach Mount Doom, saying that this was Elrond’s advice.

After the passing of Sauron, Aragorn was crowned as King of the new Reunited Kingdom on 1 May, and according to his own promise Elrond escorted Arwen to Lothlórien. They arrived on 20 May and Arwen went to Minas Tirith to wed Aragorn.[16] He parted from her in great sorrow.

Departure at the Grey Havens by Ted Nasmith

Elrond was one of the Elves who took the White Ship to Valinor along with Frodo, Gandalf, and the other Ring-bearers. The Third Age's end is marked by their departure.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

"He was as noble and fair as an elf-lord, as strong as a warrior, as wise as a wizard, as venerable as a king of dwarves, and as kind as summer."
The Hobbit, "A Short Rest"

Elrond seemed ageless, resembling neither old nor young. However, one could see in his face the memories and experiences of thousands of years. He looked venerable both like an old king, a wise wizard, and an experienced warrior in his prime.

Elrond is described as dark-haired, while his eyes were grey, shining like starlight. He could be seen wearing a circlet of silver.[3][17]

His parents were Eärendil and Elwing. He was thus Half-elven: Eärendil was the child of the mortal Tuor and the elf Idril, while Elwing was the grandchild of Beren (a Man) and Lúthien (daughter of the Elf-king Thingol and the Maia Melian). Consequently, Elrond was descended from all three tribes of the Elves (Vanyar and Noldor through Idril, Sindar through Lúthien), a Maia, and all three houses of the Edain (Hador, Haleth and Bëor).

Etymology[edit | edit source]

In a letter from 1958, J.R.R. Tolkien explained that Elrond is a Sindarin name that he was given because he was found in a cave, and that the name is a compound of eld>ell, the Sindarin term for the High-Elven exiles, and rond based on primitive Elvish rondo meaning "cavern".[6] In an essay that was probably written between 1959 and 1960, J.R.R. Tolkien translated the name as "Star-dome".[18] [19] The Sindarin elements are el ("star") and rond ("a vaulted or arched roof, the heavens").[20] In an essay on "The Problem of Ros" that was written in 1969 or later J.R.R. Tolkien translated the name as "star-dome, noting that it was given by Elwing in memory of the Menelrond, the Hall of the Throne of Elwë.[21] Elrond has also been translated as "Vault of Heaven".[22] In a letter from 1972, J.R.R. Tolkien wrote that the name Elrond means "The vault of stars".[23]

His Quenya name was most likely Elerondo[24], isolated from the patronymic Elerondiel ("Daughter of Elrond").[25]

Genealogy[edit | edit source]

Finarfin
b. Y.T. 1230
 
Eärwen
b. Y.T.
 
Galadhon
b. F.A.
 
Elu Thingol
b. Y.T.
 
Melian
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Galadriel
b. Y.T. 1362
 
Celeborn
b. F.A.
 
Galathil
b. F.A.
 
Lúthien
b. Y.T. 1200
 
Beren
b. F.A. 432
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nimloth
d. F.A. 506
 
Dior
F.A. 470 - 506
 
Tuor
b. F.A. 472
 
Idril
b. Y.T.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elwing
b. F.A. 503
 
 
 
 
 
Eärendil
b. F.A. 503
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Celebrían
b. S.A. 300
 
 
 
 
 
ELROND
b. F.A. 532
 
 
 
 
 
Elros
F.A. 532 - S.A. 442
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elladan
b. T.A. 130
 
Elrohir
b. T.A. 130
 
Arwen
T.A. 241 - Fo.A. 121
 
 
 
 
 
Aragorn II
T.A. 2931 - Fo.A. 120
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Eldarion
Fo.A. 1 - 220
 
unknown daughters
 
 
 
 
 

Other versions of the legendarium[edit | edit source]

The name Elrond first appears in a draft for The Fall of Númenor (chapter), written about the same time as The Hobbit (before 1937). There he is mentioned to be the son of Eärendel, heir of the House of Hador, who because of his mortal blood chose to remain in the Great Lands and became the leader of the Elves in the remnant of Beleriand. There he allied with the Faithful Amroth (a precursor of Elendil) against Sûr (Sauron).[26] In a rewrite of the same text, Elrond becomes the first King of Númenor instead, the builder of the city of Númenos, and is a mortal (which means that the text was written before The Hobbit, as he appears alive, presumably immortal, there). It is Gil-galad who fights Sauron. With the conception of Elros, Tolkien added a later note that considered making Elrond stay with Gil-galad or return to Middle-earth.[27]

Elrond was then "borrowed" or imported into The Hobbit. Subsequently he, along with Gandalf, became one of the only characters to appear in all three of The Silmarillion, The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings.

In the chapter "A Short Rest" of The Hobbit, it is said of Elrond that he

...was an elf-friend — one of those people whose fathers came into the strange stories before the beginning of History, the wars of the evil goblins and the elves and the first men in the North. In those days of our tale there were still some people who had both elves and heroes of the North for ancestors, and Elrond the master of the house was their chief.
The Hobbit, "A Short Rest"

Note that in this description he is not identified as an Elf himself, emphasizing his elf-friend (= Edain) heritage. In the subsequent fleshing out of his background, it is never mentioned that he was ever the "chief" of the people who came from "both elves and heroes of the North" (which would apply to the Half-elven or rather the Dúnedain of Arnor).

Portrayal in adaptations[edit | edit source]

Elrond in Adaptations
Elrond as portrayed in The Hobbit (1977 film)  
Elrond as portrayed in The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)  

Films[edit | edit source]

1977: The Hobbit (1977 film):

Elrond appears in Rivendell, crowned with a ring of stars. He feeds the Dwarves, and identifies Orcrist and Glamdring. He needs little time to identify the latter. He is shown with a beard, although Tolkien clearly states Elves do not have beards. His voice was provided by Cyril Ritchard.

1978: The Lord of the Rings (1978 film):

Elrond, voiced by André Morell, appears at the Council of Elrond. He sits on a raised chair, and narrates the scene. Not until the One Ring is brought forward does he take an active part.

1980: The Return of the King (1980 film):

Elrond appears roughly the same as in the first of Rankin/Bass' films. The premise of the film, a minstrel of Gondor who tells the tale of "Frodo of the Nine Fingers, and the Ring of Doom" at Bilbo Baggins' 129th birthday party in Rivendell, allows Elrond to be a member of the audience, and then sails west, with Gandalf and the two allowed Bilbo and Frodo Baggins (his nephew) come because of their service in Middle-earth and being friends. Because Cyril Ritchard had passed away not long after completing his work on The Hobbit, Rankin/Bass regular Paul Frees took over as his voice.

2001: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring:

Elrond, played by Hugo Weaving, first appears in the prologue as a commander of the army of Gil-galad in the War of the Last Alliance. A later flashback scene shows him actually taking Isildur into Mount Doom, trying to persuade him to destroy the Ring. Círdan is omitted.
As in the book, Elrond heals Frodo's wound from Weathertop. Elrond then has a conversation with Gandalf, discussing the many challenges that face them. Elrond argues that the Ring cannot remain in Rivendell (in the film, Frodo appears to have thought that he would be able to leave the Ring there). He also expresses his doubts about the race of Men, and gives the first hints about Aragorn's real identity. In the Council of Elrond, Elrond himself is the one who argues that the only option is to destroy the Ring. He does not select the Fellowship, but accepts those who volunteer.
Elrond gains two additional scenes in the Extended Edition of the movie. In the first, he talks with Aragorn beside the grave of Aragorn’s mother. Elrond encourages the reluctant Aragorn to accept his fate of becoming king. In the next scene, Elrond blesses the departing Fellowship.

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers:

Though he had no scenes in the book, Elrond appears mainly in conversations with Arwen, whose role is also greatly expanded. In a flashback, Aragorn remembers Elrond telling him to abandon his love for Arwen, allowing her to sail to Valinor. Aragorn attempts to do this, but Arwen denies him. In another scene, Elrond persuades Arwen that she should sail to Valinor, describing what will happen if she remains and Aragorn dies. Elrond then has a telepathic communication with Galadriel discussing the war that is about to start. He apparently suggests that she send an army to Helm's Deep to aid the Men there, since when Haldir arrives at Helm's Deep he says that he brings "word from Elrond of Rivendell."

2003: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King:

In the final installment of Jackson's film series, Elrond's first scene is with Arwen, who has decided not to sail after all, but to return. Although he senses that she is dying, Elrond acknowledges her choice. At her suggestion, he has the shards of Narsil re-forged, then carries the new sword to Aragorn at Dunharrow. He finally convinces Aragorn to accept his destiny, and advises him to take the Paths of the Dead. Later, Elrond escorts Arwen to Minas Tirith for Aragorn's coronation, and he finally sails to Valinor with the Ring-bearers.

2012-14: The Hobbit (film series):

Hugo Weaving reprises the role of Elrond.[28] As in the book, he identifies Gandalf's and Thorin's respective swords, as well as translating the runes on Thorin's map in the first film. There is an additional scene where Elrond meets with the White Council. Like Saruman, Elrond is somewhat skeptical of Gandalf's claims, deeming the Quest of Erebor unwise. However, he is clearly alarmed by Gandalf's revealing of the Morgul blade from Dol Guldur. Elrond is seen again in the third of these films where he participates in the battle of Dol Guldur, joining Saruman and Galadriel in fighting off the Nazgûl.

Television[edit | edit source]

1993: Hobitit:

In this adaptation, Elrond is portrayed by Leif Wager.

2022: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power:

September 1: A Shadow of the Past:
Elrond (portrayed by Robert Aramayo)[29] first appears sitting in a tree at Lindon, writing the exact words of the speech that Gil-galad gives later. He is alerted by an Elf Attendant of the arrival of his friend, Galadriel.

Radio series[edit | edit source]

1955: The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series):

The part of Elrond is voiced by Garard Green.[30]

1968: The Hobbit (1968 radio series):

In this adaptation, Elrond is voiced by John Pullen. Gandalf claims that he is not an Elf, but an Elf-friend.

1980: Der Hobbit (1980 German radio series):

Elrond is played by Friedrich W. Bauschulle.

1981: The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series):

Hugh Dickson provided the voice of Elrond in this radio series. He first appears in the episode containing the Council of Elrond, and appears unintroduced. Dickson showcases great trouble with pronouncing Elvish, and especially diphthongs. Gimli is the son of "Gloo-in", who fought the dragon "Sma-oog". Legolas is the son of "Thrandoo-uhl". He reappears in the final 2 episodes - first in the return to Rivendell warning Frodo to look out for Bilbo in the Shire one Autumn soon, and finally with Galadriel and Bilbo in the Shire before they all ride to the Grey Havens.

2001: Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series):

The voice of Elrond is provided by Matej Landl.

Games[edit | edit source]

1982: The Hobbit (1982 text adventure game)

Elrond appears at Rivendell. The player can give him the curious map to read, and he also provides the player with lunch.

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game):

Like his predecessor Hugh Dickson, Jim Piddock shows incredible difficulty with diphthongs. "Glau-win" and "Thrandool" dislike each other, so too their sons.

2003: The Hobbit (2003 video game):

In a short cutscene between the levels "Roast Mutton" and "Over Hill and Under Hill", Elrond is briefly mentioned. An artful image on a manuscript can be seen, while the narrator explains Elrond examined the map and the swords.

2006: EA's The Battle for Middle-earth II:

In an alternative, northern War of the Ring, Rivendell is the main base of operations for Glóin and Glorfindel. As such, Elrond is the source of missions and advice, and serves as the narrator throughout the game (Hugo Weaving reprises the role). Elrond is a playable character during the assault on Dol Guldur.

2007: The Lord of the Rings Online:

Elrond is a non-playable character and can be found in the library of the Last Homely House in Rivendell. During the Elven Prologue set hundreds of years before the War of the Ring he participates in a battle in the refuge of Edhellion, in northern Ered Luin. Elrond is heavily involved in the game original storyline and the characters are frequently bidden to return to him after uncovering troubling signs of the Enemy or achieving notable victories.

2009: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest:

Hugo Weaving once again reprises the role, serving as the narrator for both Good and Evil campaign.

2011: The Lord of the Rings: War in the North:

Early in the game Elrond sends his sons, Elladan and Elrohir, to scout Fornost.[31] He later interacts with main characters in Rivendell, guiding them on their path of defeating Argandaur.

See also[edit | edit source]

References

  1. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn"
  2. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "Part Three. The Wanderings of Húrin and Other Writings not forming part of the Quenta Silmarillion: V. The Tale of Years", version C of the manuscript, year changed to [>532], p. 348
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Many Meetings"
  4. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "The Grey Havens"
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath"
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 211, (dated 14 October 1958), answer to Question 4
  7. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Akallabêth: The Downfall of Númenor"
  8. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Peoples of Middle-earth, "XII. The Problem of Ros"
  9. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn"
  10. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Second Age"
  11. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn"
  12. 12.0 12.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Third Age"
  13. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A, "The Númenorean Kings", "The Realms in Exile", "The Northern Line: Heirs of Isildur"
  14. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, "A Short Rest"
  15. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, "The Last Stage"
  16. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Chief Days from the Fall of Barad-dûr to the End of the Third Age"
  17. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, "A Short Rest"
  18. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "Part Four. Quendi and Eldar: Author's Notes to Quendi and Eldar", Note 26, second paragraph about Hadhodrond
  19. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Index of Names", entry Elrond
  20. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Appendix: Elements in Quenya and Sindarin Names", entries êl and rond
  21. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Peoples of Middle-earth, "XII. The Problem of Ros"
  22. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Lost Road and Other Writings, Part Three: "The Etymologies", p. 384
  23. J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 345, (dated 30 November 1972)
  24. Petri Tikka, "Quenya words in Parma Eldalambaron 17"
  25. J.R.R. Tolkien, "Words, Phrases and Passages in Various Tongues in The Lord of the Rings: Eldarin Roots and Stems", in Parma Eldalamberon XVII (edited by Christopher Gilson), p. 56
  26. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Lost Road and Other Writings, "Part One: II. The Fall of Númenor, (ii) The first version of The Fall of Númenor"
  27. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Lost Road and Other Writings, "Part One: II. The Fall of Númenor, (iii) The second version of The Fall of Númenor"
  28. Ian McKellen, "2 Elves and another Wizard" dated 10 May 2011, Ian McKellen's website (accessed 23 December 2011)
  29. Alice Jones, "Amazon’s Lord of the Rings Series Rises: Inside The Rings of Power" dated 10 February 2022, VanityFair (accessed 11 February 2022)
  30. Radio Times, Volume 129, No. 1674, December 9, 1955
  31. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Inner Wards
Elrond
Born: F.A. 532 Died: Sailed west on 29 September, T.A. 3021
Preceded by:
Gil-galad
Keeper of Vilya
S.A. 1701 - after 29 September, T.A. 3021
None
Presumably, still Elrond
None
Titles established
Lord of Rivendell
S.A. 1697 - 29 September, T.A. 3021
None
Titles abandoned
Vice-regent of Eriador
S.A. 1701 - 3441


Attendees of the Council of Elrond
Aragorn · Bilbo Baggins · Frodo Baggins · Boromir · Elrond · Erestor · Galdor · (Samwise Gamgee) · Gandalf · Gimli · Glóin · Glorfindel · Legolas
The Hobbit film series
Source material: The Hobbit · The Lord of the Rings
Films An Unexpected Journey (extended editionThe Desolation of Smaug (extended edition) · The Battle of the Five Armies (extended edition)
Music An Unexpected Journey (Special Edition) · The Desolation of Smaug (Special Edition) · The Battle of the Five Armies (Special Edition) · "Song of the Lonely Mountain" · "I See Fire" · "The Last Goodbye"
Tie-in books An Unexpected Journey Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2013 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: Creatures & Characters · The World of Hobbits
The Desolation of Smaug Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2014 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: Cloaks & Daggers · Smaug: Unleashing the Dragon · Activity Book · Sticker Book · Ultimate Sticker Collection
The Battle of the Five Armies Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2015 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: The Art of War · Activity Book
Video games Kingdoms of Middle-earth · Armies of The Third Age · Lego The Hobbit
Characters Bilbo · Thorin · Gandalf · Balin · Fíli · Kíli · Dwalin · Dori · Nori · Ori · Óin · Glóin · Bifur · Bofur · Bombur · Smaug · Radagast · Elrond · Galadriel · Saruman · Azog · Bolg · Thranduil · Legolas · Tauriel · Bard · Bain · Tilda · Sigrid · Master of Lake-town · Alfrid · Dáin Ironfoot · Necromancer · Bert · William · Tom · Beorn · Thráin · Thrór · Goblin King · Gollum · Frodo
The Lord of the Rings film series
Source material: The Hobbit · The Lord of the Rings
Films The Fellowship of the Ring (extended editionThe Two Towers (extended edition) · The Return of the King (extended edition)
Music The Fellowship of the Ring (The Complete Recordings) · The Two Towers (The Complete Recordings) · The Return of the King (The Complete Recordings) · "May It Be" · "Gollum's Song" · "Into the West"
Tie-in books Official Movie Guide · The Making of the Movie Trilogy · Complete Visual Companion · Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic · There and Back Again: An Actor's Tale · Weapons and Warfare · The Art of The Lord of the Rings · Sketchbook
The Fellowship of the Ring Visual Companion · The Art of The Fellowship of the Ring
The Two Towers Visual Companion · Photo Guide · The Art of The Two Towers
The Return of the King Visual Companion · The Art of The Return of the King
Video games The Two Towers · The Return of the King · The Third Age · Tactics · Conquest · Aragorn's Quest · Lego The Lord of the Rings
Characters Frodo · Bilbo · Gandalf · Sam · Merry · Pippin · Gandalf · Aragorn · Boromir · Legolas · Gimli · Elrond · Galadriel · Théoden · Éomer · Éowyn · Saruman · Sauron · Witch-king · Denethor · Faramir · Gollum · Gríma · Treebeard · Celeborn · Haldir · Lurtz · Sharku · Grishnákh