Húrin: Difference between revisions

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{{sources}}
{{disambig-more|Húrin|[[Húrin (disambiguation)]]}}
{{disambig-more|Húrin|[[Húrin (disambiguation)]]}}
{{Edain infobox
{{Edain infobox
| image=[[Image:Antti Autio - Hurin Departs to Nirnaeth Arnoediad.jpg|250px]]
| name=Húrin
| name=Húrin Thalion
| image=[[File:Kimberly - Hurin Thalion.jpg|250px]]
| othernames=''[[Thalion]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]] "Steadfast"), ''[[Úmarth]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]] "Ill-fate")
| caption="Hurin Thalion" by [[:Category:Images by Kimberly|Kimberly]]
| pronun=
| othernames=''[[Thalion]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]]), ''[[Úmarth]]'' ([[Sindarin|S]])
| titles=[[Lord of Dor-lómin]]
| titles=[[Lord of Dor-lómin]]
| position=
| position=Head of the House of Hador
| realm=[[Dor-lómin]], [[Thangorodrim]] (imprisoned)
| location=[[Dor-lómin]], [[Brethil]], [[Gondolin]]<br/>[[Thangorodrim]] (imprisoned)
| affiliation=[[Union of Maedhros]]
| affiliation=[[Union of Maedhros]]
| language=[[Mannish]] dialect
| language=[[Mannish]] dialect, [[Sindarin]]
| birth={{FA|439}}
| birth={{FA|441}}
| birthlocation=[[Dor-lómin]]
| birthlocation=[[Dor-lómin]]
| rule={{FA|462}} - [[First Age 472|472]]
| rule={{FA|462}} - {{FA|472|n}}
| death=c. {{FA|500}}
| death={{FA|502}}
| deathlocation=[[Belegaer]] (suicide)
| deathlocation=[[Belegaer]] (suicide)
| age=61
| age=61
| notablefor=Being among the greatest mortal warriors
| house=[[House of Hador]]
| house=[[House of Hador]]
| parentage=[[Galdor of Dor-lómin|Galdor]] & [[Hareth]]
| parentage=[[Galdor (Lord of Dor-lómin)|Galdor]] & [[Hareth]]
| siblings=[[Huor]]
| siblings=[[Huor]]
| spouse=[[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]]
| spouse=[[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]]
| children=[[Túrin]], [[Urwen Lalaith]] & [[Nienor Níniel]]
| children=[[Túrin]], [[Urwen]] & [[Nienor]]
| gender=Male
| gender=Male
| height=
| height=
| hair=Blonde/Grey
| hair=Blond/Grey
| eyes=Blue<ref name="UT">{{UT|Narn}}</ref><ref name="Death">{{CH|18}}</ref>
| eyes=Blue<ref name="UT">{{UT|Narn}}</ref><ref>{{CH|18}}, p. 255</ref>
| clothing=
| clothing=
| weapons=Sword and axe
| weapons=Sword and axe
| steed=
| steed=[[Arroch]]
}}{{Pronounce|Hurin Thalion.mp3|Ardamir}}
}}
{{quote|. . . but he was shorter in stature than other men of his kin; in this he took after his mother's people, but in all else he was like Hador, his grandfather, strong in body and fiery of mood. But the fire in him burned steadily, and he had great endurance of will.|''[[The Children of Húrin]]'', [[The Childhood of Túrin]]}}
 
'''Húrin Thalion''' ("the Steadfast", "the Strong")<ref name=CH3>{{CH|3}}</ref>, was the last [[Lord of Dor-lómin]] and one of the great heroes of [[Edain|Men]] during the [[First Age]]. He was the eldest son of [[Galdor (Lord of Dor-lómin)|Galdor]] and [[Hareth]] and the older brother of [[Huor]]. He was the father of [[Túrin]], [[Urwen]] and [[Nienor]].


'''Húrin Thalion''' ("the Steadfast"), was the eldest son of [[Galdor of Dor-lómin|Galdor]] and [[Hareth]], older brother of [[Huor]], father of [[Túrin|Túrin Turambar]] and [[Nienor]], and [[Lord of Dor-lómin]]. Húrin was captured by [[Morgoth]] at the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]] and he and his kin were cursed by the Dark Lord. The curse led to some of the greatest successes and tragedies of the First Age. [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] called him the greatest warrior of men in the First Age.
Húrin was regarded as "the mightiest of warriors of mortal Men"<ref name=TS22>{{S|22}}</ref> but also known for being the titular character of the tale, ''[[Narn i Chîn Húrin (tale)|Narn i Chîn Húrin]]'', "The Tale of the Children of Húrin". In the tale he was captured by [[Morgoth]] at the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] and the Dark Lord attempted to convince him to reveal the secret location of [[Gondolin]]. He refused, and in response the Dark Lord cursed his kin and imprisoned him on [[Thangorodrim]]. He was forced to watch the curse befall his children.<ref name=CH3 /> The curse led to some of the greatest successes and tragedies of the First Age.


==History==
==History==
=== Early Years ===
===Early years===
The grandson of [[Hador Lórindol]], founder of the [[House of Hador]], was raised with his younger brother Huor in the forest of Brethil. In 458, the brothers joined a war party but were seperated and trapped in the Vale of Sirion. The Vala [[Ulmo]] caused a mist to rise and the two escaped into [[Dimbar]]. From there, [[Eagles]] flew them to the gates of the hidden city [[Gondolin]]. King [[Turgon]] welcomed the brothers, remembering a prophecy that the children of Hador would aid Gondolin during its darkest hour. They remained with Turgon for a time and, after swearing an oath of secrecy, were returned to Dor-lómin sometime before 462.
[[File:Mysilvergreen - Hurin and Huor are landing in Gondolin.jpg|thumb|left|''Hurin and Huor are landing in Gondolin'' by [[:Category:Images by Mysilvergreen|Mysilvergreen]]]]
 
Húrin was born in {{FA|441}} in [[Hithlum]].<ref>{{GA|141}}, p. 51</ref> His father was [[Galdor (Lord of Dor-lómin)|Galdor]] and his grandfather [[Hador|Hador Lórindol]], founder of the [[House of Hador]].<ref>{{S|17}}</ref> His mother was [[Hareth]] of [[Brethil]] who was the daughter of [[Halmir]] the lord of the [[Haladin]].<ref name=TS18>{{S|18}}</ref> In his youth, him and his younger brother [[Huor]] were raised in the forest of Brethil by [[Haldir (Chieftain of the Haladin)|Haldir]] their uncle. In {{FA|456|n}},<ref>{{GA|161}}, p. 57</ref> the brothers joined a company of scouts but were separated from them after an [[Orc]] ambush. They were pursued to the ford of [[Brithiach]] and were saved by the Vala [[Ulmo]] who caused a mist to rise and the two escaped into [[Dimbar]]. From there, [[Eagles]] flew them to the hidden city [[Gondolin]]. King [[Turgon]] welcomed the brothers, remembering their grandfather Hador who was an [[Elf-friend]] as well as the words of Ulmo who told him to deal kindly to the House of Hador. Húrin remained with Turgon for a time until he and his brother wished to return to their people. Turgon was reluctant to let the brothers leave but the king granted their wish and the brothers swore oaths of secrecy.<ref>{{CH|1}}, pp. 35-7</ref> They returned to Dor-lómin sometime before {{FA|462|n}}.
=== Lord of Dor-lómin ===


In [[First Age 462|F.A. 462]] orcs invaded Hithlum and Galdor was slain defending the wells of [[Eithel Sirion]]. Húrin drove off the Orcs and returned to rule Dor-lómin. Two years later he married [[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]] of the [[House of Bëor]]. Their son Túrin was born shortly thereafter, followed by a daughter, Urwen. Urwen, better known as Lalaith ("Laughter"), died of the plague when she was three.
===Lord of Dor-lómin===
[[File:Steamey - Hurin.jpg|thumb|left|''Húrin'' by [[:Category:Images by Steamey|Steamey]]]]
In {{FA|462}},<ref>{{GA|170}}, pp. 59-60</ref> orcs [[Assaults on Hithlum|invaded]] Hithlum and Galdor was slain defending the fortress of [[Eithel Sirion]]. Húrin who had newly come to manhood took command and drove off the Orcs. He returned to rule as the third [[Lord of Dor-lómin]]. Two years later he married [[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]] of the [[House of Bëor]].<ref name=TS18/> Their son Túrin was born shortly thereafter, followed by a daughter, [[Urwen]]. Urwen, better known as ''[[Lalaith]]'' ("Laughter"), died of the plague when she was three.


In [[First Age 472|F.A. 472]], the alliance known as [[Union of Maedhros]] led Elves, Dwarves, and Men to assault Morgoth in the [[Nírnaeth Arnoediad]] ("The Battle of Unnumbered Tears"). A debacle, High King Fingon and his host were seperated from the other half of the army and Fingon himself was slain by a [[Balrogs|Balrog]]. With their liege lord slain and facing a rout, Húrin and Huor convinced King Turgon to withdraw and keep the secret of Gondolin. To defend his escape, the soldiers of Dor-lómin formed a line across the [[Fen of Serech]] and were slaughtered by the forces of Morgoth. Huor was slain by an arrow through the eye, but Húrin fought on until he was buried under the weight of bodies of orcs and trolls.
In {{FA|472|n}}, the alliance known as [[Union of Maedhros]] led Elves, Dwarves, and Men to assault Angband. Húrin led his folk to join the host led by the High King [[Fingon]]. In the battle, later named the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] or Battle of Unnumbered Tears, the Union were defeated by the hosts of Morgoth. Many Elves and Men perished, including Fingon who was slain by a [[Balrogs|Balrog]]. With their liege lord slain and facing a rout, Húrin and Huor convinced Turgon to withdraw and keep the secret of Gondolin. To defend his escape, the Men of Dor-lómin formed a rearguard near the [[Pass of Sirion]] and held it giving as much time for Turgon to gather the remainder of Fingon's people and the host of Gondolin to escape. The location of Gondolin remained secret but for the Men of the Dor-lómin this was their last stand for they would not forsake the Northlands and were slaughtered by the hosts of Morgoth. By the [[Fen of Serech]], Huor was slain by an arrow through the eye, but Húrin remained steadfast crying ''[[Aurë entuluva!]]''([[Sindarin|S]]) for each foe he slew with his axe, seventy times in all. He fought until he was buried under the weight of bodies of his enemies, then [[Gothmog]] bound him and dragged him towards Angband.<ref>{{S|20}}</ref>


Captured, Húrin was brought before Morgoth and tortured for the secret of Gondolin's location. When he would not break, Morgoth cursed him and all his kin. The Dark Lord then chained Húrin to a chair high on the slopes of [[Thangorodrim]] where, through Morgoth's sorcery, he could watch the tragedies that would befall his family.
===The Curse of Morgoth===
[[File:Alan Lee - The Words of Húrin and Morgoth.jpg|thumb|right|''The Words of Húrin and Morgoth'' by [[Alan Lee]]]]
Húrin was brought before Morgoth, for he had learnt from his spies that Húrin was friends with Turgon, and was tortured for the secret of Gondolin's location. When he would not break, Morgoth cursed him and all his kin. The Dark Lord then chained Húrin to a chair high on the slopes of [[Thangorodrim]] where, through Morgoth's sorcery, he could watch the tragedies that would befall his family.<ref>{{CH|3}}, pp. 62-5</ref> However Morgoth concealed much of Túrin's deeds and what Húrin saw was contorted, lies mixed with the truth.
{{blockquote|'But upon all whom you love my thought shall weigh as a cloud of Doom, and it shall bring them down into darkness and despair. Wherever they go, evil shall arise. Whenever they speak, their words shall bring ill counsel. Whatsoever they do shall turn against them. They shall die without hope, cursing both life and death.'|''[[The Children of Húrin]]'', [[The Words of Húrin and Morgoth]]}}
For 28 years,<ref name=TS22/> Húrin watched the curse come upon Túrin and [[Nienor]], his daughter born shortly after his capture, and to those that they encounter. For instance Túrin's actions led to the [[Fall of Nargothrond|destruction]] of [[Nargothrond]], one of the last kingdoms of the Noldor. Now only Gondolin remained.


=== The Curse of Morgoth ===
===Wanderings===
After the death of his children Morgoth released Húrin, where he hoped he could further his malice. The broken man first returned to Hithlum, which was now ruled by [[Easterlings (First Age)|Easterlings]]. Finding none of his kin, he travelled with outlaws to the mountains of [[Echoriath]], searching for the entrance to Gondolin. At first Turgon refused him, but later recanted and sent Eagles to bring him to Gondolin. Húrin had already left for the Forest of Brethil, but Morgoth's curse had already ensnared Gondolin, for the Dark Lord's spies now knew the general location of the [[Gondolin|Hidden Kingdom]].<ref name=TS22/>


[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Morgoth Punishes Húrin.jpg|thumb|left|200px| ''Morgoth Punishes Húrin'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]For 28 years, Húrin watched the curse destroy his children. His daughter, [[Nienor Níniel]], was born shortly after his capture and was trapped in the doom of Túrin. Their actions also led to the destruction of [[Nargothrond]], one of the last kingdoms of the Noldor. Now only Gondolin remained.
In the Forest of Brethil he found the graves of his children. His wife, Morwen, was there and she died shortly after. After burying his wife, Húrin was taken by march-wardens to the settlement of [[Ephel Brandir]], the home of the [[People of Haleth]], with whom Túrin lived the last years of his life. Angry and grieving, he turned the People of Haleth against one another and ruined Ephel Brandir.<ref>{{WJ|Hurin}}, pp. 291-4</ref>
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Húrin Finds Morwen.jpg|thumb|right|''Húrin Finds Morwen'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
Húrin continued on to the ruins of Nargothrond, where he found the [[Petty-dwarves|Petty-dwarf]] [[Mîm]]. The petty-dwarf had betrayed Túrin years ago and in revenge Húrin slaughtered him. Mîm had claimed the treasure of Nargothrond, but Húrin recovered the [[Nauglamír]] and journeyed eastwards.<ref name=TS22/>


In 499, after the death of his children, Morgoth freed Húrin. The broken man first returned to Dor-lómin, which was now ruled by Easterlings loyal to Morgoth. Finding none of his kin, he traveled with outlaws to the mountains of [[Echoriath]], searching for the entrance to Gondolin. At first Turgon refused him, but later recanted and sent Eagles to bring him to Gondolin. Húrin had already left for the Forest of Brethil, but Morgoth's curse had already ensnared Gondolin, for the Dark Lord's spies now knew the location of the [[Gondolin|Hidden Kingdom]].
Húrin reached the [[Meres of Twilight]] and was taken by the Elves who guarded the western borders of [[Doriath]] in {{FA|502}}.<ref>{{WJ|Hurin}}, p. 258</ref> He was allowed to enter [[Menegroth]], where in anger he threw the Nauglamír before King [[Thingol]] and 'thanked' him for aiding his son. Thingol's wife, [[Melian]], finally pierced through Húrin's madness and grief revealing the truth that Morgoth hid. Shamed by his actions, he picked up the Nauglamír to give to the king as a gift and memorial, then he left Menegroth no longer a thrall of Morgoth.<ref name=TS22/>


In the Forest of Brethil he found the graves of his children. His wife, Morwen, arrived shortly thereafter, but died at the mound. After burying his wife, Húrin went to the settlement of [[Ephel Brandir]], the home of the [[People of Haleth]], with whom Túrin lived the last years of his life. Angry and grieving, he turned the People of Haleth against one another and ruined Ephel Brandir.
===Death and legacy===
After leaving Menegroth, it is said Húrin, "bereft of all purpose and desire", cast himself into the [[Belegaer|Great Sea]].<ref name=TS22/>


Taking the outlaws with him, Húrin continued on to the ruins of Nargothrond, where he found the [[Petty-dwarves|Petty-dwarf]] [[Mîm]]. The petty-dwarf had betrayed Túrin years ago and in revenge Húrin slaughtered him. Mîm had claimed the treasure of Nargothrond, and Húrin gathered it to take to [[Doriath]], the last great elvish kingdom.
It could be argued, that Húrin partly sowed the seeds of the destruction of [[ruin of Doriath|Doriath]] and [[fall of Gondolin|Gondolin]] or escalated it. Furthermore Húrin's presence in Brethil led to the extinction of the [[House of Haleth]].<ref>{{WJ|Hurin}}, p. 297</ref>


Húrin was allowed to enter [[Menegroth]], the capital of Doriath, where in anger he threw the treasure before King [[Thingol]] and 'thanked' him for aiding his son. This infuriated the outlaws, who tried to take the gold back and were killed by Thingol's guards. Thingol's wife, [[Melian]], finally pierced through Húrin's madness and grief, and shamed by his actions, he left Menegroth a broken man. Húrin left the treasure, however, and the curse of Morgoth would later consume Doriath as well.
His life, and the lives of his children would become known as the ''[[Narn i Chîn Húrin (tale)|Narn i Chîn Húrin]]'', "The Tale of the Children of Húrin". It was written by the Mannish poet [[Dírhaval]] who lived in the [[Havens of Sirion]] and it was highly praised by the Eldar.<ref>{{WJ|Aelfwine}}, pp. 311-3</ref> Millennia later [[Elrond]] makes a passing reference of him to [[Frodo]] at the [[Council of Elrond]].<ref>{{FR|II2}}</ref>
 
{{blockquote|'But if you take it freely, I will say that your choice is right; and though all the mighty Elf-friends of old, Hador, and Húrin, and Túrin, and Beren himself were assembled together, your seat should be among them.’'|''[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[The Council of Elrond]]}}
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Húrin Finds Morwen.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Húrin Finds Morwen'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
 
=== Death and Legacy ===
 
Around First Age 500, Húrin reached the [[Belegaer|Great Sea]] and in despair drowned himself. His life, and the lives of his children would become the ''[[Narn i Chîn Húrin]]''


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
Húrin is [[Sindarin]] for "The Steadfast".  
{{Pronounce|Hurin Thalion.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Húrin'' is [[Sindarin]], but it is never glossed. However, in the earlier [[Noldorin]] phase of the language, the name is the combination of ''[[hûr]]'' ("vigour") + ''ind'' ("heart").<ref>{{LR|Etymologies}}, entries "ID", "KHOR"</ref>


In the [[Elder Days]], the original form of the name was ''Chúrind'' (hard initial '''ch''' and audible '''d''' on the end) and presumably Húrin Thalion was called like that during his lifetime.
==Other names==
''[[Thalion]]'' is simply Sindarin for "Steadfast, Strong".<ref>{{S|Appendix}}, entry ''thalion''</ref>


''Húrin'' is the later form as it evolved until the [[Third Age]] when it was adopted by [[Húrin (disambiguation)|other individuals]] who took it as a name; and that is how this ancient name was referred in the [[Quenta Silmarillion]].
When Túrin dwelt in Nargothrond, Húrin was indirectly called by him '''''[[Úmarth]]''''',<ref>{{CH|10}}, p. 159</ref> meaning "Ill-fate".<ref>{{S|Appendix}}, entry ''[[amarth]]''</ref>
 
[[Thalion]] means "Hardened".
 
==Other versions of the legendarium==
''[[The Silmarillion]]'' states that Húrin died at the age of 65. In [[The Grey Annals]] this was amended to 66 - in accordance with the genealogies in ''[[The War of the Jewels|War of the Jewels]]'' - but [[Christopher Tolkien]] did not adopt the change into the published text.


== Genealogy ==
== Genealogy ==
 
<div style="overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; border: 1px solid #AAAAAA; padding: 3px; background: #EEEEEE;">
<br>
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree | | | BRE | | | | HAL | | HAD | BRE=[[Bregolas]]|HAL=[[Halmir]]|HAD=[[Hador Lórindol]]}}
{{familytree | | | BRE | | | | HAL | | HAD | BRE=[[Bregolas]]|HAL=[[Halmir]]|HAD=[[Hador|Hador Lórindol]]}}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| | | |!|}}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| | | |!|}}
{{familytree | BEL | | BAR | | HAR |y| GAL | BEL=[[Belegund]]|BAR=[[Baragund]]|GAL=[[Galdor of Dor-lómin]]|HAR=[[Hareth]]}}
{{familytree | BEL | | BAR | | HAR |y| GAL | BEL=[[Belegund]]|BAR=[[Baragund]]|GAL=[[Galdor (Lord of Dor-lómin)|Galdor of Dor-lómin]]|HAR=[[Hareth]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.|}}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.|}}
{{familytree | | | | | MOR |y| HUR | | HUO | | |MOR=[[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]]|HUR='''HÙRIN THALION'''|HUO=[[Huor]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | MOR |y| HUR | | HUO | | |MOR=[[Morwen|Morwen Eledhwen]]|HUR='''HÚRIN THALION'''|HUO=[[Huor]]}}
{{familytree | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | TUR | | LAL | | NIE | | | | TUR=[[Túrin|Túrin Turambar]]|LAL=[[Lalaith (daughter of Húrin)|Urwen Lalaith]]|NIE=[[Nienor Níniel]]}}
{{familytree | | | TUR | | URW | | NIE | | | | TUR=[[Túrin]]|URW=[[Urwen]]|NIE=[[Nienor]]}}
{{familytree | | | |L|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|J| | | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | |L|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|J| | | | | | |}}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}
<br>
</div>
{{sequence
 
  |prev=[[Galdor of Dor-lómin|Galdor]]
==Other versions of the legendarium==
|next=none (abandoned)
In ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', his name was '''Úrin'''.<ref>{{LT1|Index}}, entry ''Úrin''</ref>
|list=3rd [[Lord of Dor-lómin]]<br>{{FA|462}} – [[First Age 472|472]]
 
In earlier versions Húrin suffers a different fate after departing Doriath. In the ''Lost Tales'', Úrin returns to [[Hísilómë]] (Hithlum), later dies and his shade seeks [[Mavwin]] (Morwen) and together lament over their children.<ref>{{LT2|II}}, pp. 115-6</ref> This also occurs in the ''[[Sketch of the Mythology]]'' except Húrin is not a shade.<ref>{{SM|2}} 14, p. 32</ref>
 
In [[Concerning ... 'The Hoard']] instead of going Nargothrond alone and leaving with only the Nauglamír, "Húrin gathered a great company of violent outlaws, and they came to Nargothrond and slew Mim, and carried off a great part of the dragon-treasure.". When he (and the outlaws) then goes to Doriath, he casts all the treasure "before the feet of King Thingol in a proud gesture of scorn". Though Thingol "answered with patience and courtesy", "Húrin laughed in contempt and went out, unmolested, into the night."
 
== See also ==
* ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''
* ''[[The Wanderings of Húrin]]''
 
{{references}}
{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
| name=Húrin
| race=edain
| house=[[House of Hador]]
| born={{FA|441}}
| died={{FA|502}}
}}
}}
== See Also ==
{{seq
* [[:Category:Images of Húrin|Images of Húrin]]
| prow=2
* [[The Children of Húrin]]
| pvac=
{{references}}
| prev=[[Galdor (Lord of Dor-lómin)|Galdor]]
* ''[[The Children of Húrin]]'', passim
| list=6th Head of the [[House of Hador]]
* ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of Túrin Turambar]]
| dates={{FA|462}} - {{FA|472|n}}
* ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of the Coming of Men into the West]]
| next=''Heir apparent: [[Túrin]]''
* ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', [[Narn i Chîn Húrin]]
| nvac=None
* ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part 2]]'', [[Turambar and the Foalókë]]
| nrow=
* ''[[The War of the Jewels]]'', [[The Wanderings of Húrin]]
}}
{{seq
| list=3rd [[Lord of Dor-lómin|Lord]] of [[Dor-lómin]]
| dates={{FA|462}} - {{FA|472|n}}
| next=''Realm occupied by the [[Easterlings (First Age)|Easterlings]]''
| nvac=None
}}
{{seq-end}}
 
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hurin}}
[[Category:Characters in The Book of Lost Tales]]
[[Category:Characters in The Children of Húrin]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:First Age characters]]
[[Category:House of Hador]]
[[Category:House of Hador]]
[[Category:House of Haleth]]
[[Category:Lords of Dor-lómin]]
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hurin}}
[[Category:Noldorin names]]
[[Category:Rulers in the Great Lands]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[de:Húrin Thalion]]
[[de:Húrin Thalion]]
[[fi:Húrin]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/hommes/1a/peuple_de_hador/hurin]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/hommes/1a/peuple_de_hador/hurin]]
[[fi:Húrin]]

Latest revision as of 16:29, 24 June 2023

"Who told you, and who sent you?" — Gandalf
This article or section needs more/new/more-detailed sources to conform to a higher standard and to provide proof for claims made.
The name Húrin refers to more than one character, item or concept. For a list of other meanings, see Húrin (disambiguation).
Húrin
Adan
Kimberly - Hurin Thalion.jpg
"Hurin Thalion" by Kimberly
Biographical Information
Other namesThalion (S), Úmarth (S)
TitlesLord of Dor-lómin
PositionHead of the House of Hador
LocationDor-lómin, Brethil, Gondolin
Thangorodrim (imprisoned)
AffiliationUnion of Maedhros
LanguageMannish dialect, Sindarin
BirthF.A. 441
Dor-lómin
RuleF.A. 462 - 472
DeathF.A. 502 (aged 61)
Belegaer (suicide)
Notable forBeing among the greatest mortal warriors
Family
HouseHouse of Hador
ParentageGaldor & Hareth
SiblingsHuor
SpouseMorwen Eledhwen
ChildrenTúrin, Urwen & Nienor
Physical Description
GenderMale
Hair colorBlond/Grey
Eye colorBlue[1][2]
WeaponrySword and axe
SteedArroch
GalleryImages of Húrin
". . . but he was shorter in stature than other men of his kin; in this he took after his mother's people, but in all else he was like Hador, his grandfather, strong in body and fiery of mood. But the fire in him burned steadily, and he had great endurance of will."
The Children of Húrin, The Childhood of Túrin

Húrin Thalion ("the Steadfast", "the Strong")[3], was the last Lord of Dor-lómin and one of the great heroes of Men during the First Age. He was the eldest son of Galdor and Hareth and the older brother of Huor. He was the father of Túrin, Urwen and Nienor.

Húrin was regarded as "the mightiest of warriors of mortal Men"[4] but also known for being the titular character of the tale, Narn i Chîn Húrin, "The Tale of the Children of Húrin". In the tale he was captured by Morgoth at the Nirnaeth Arnoediad and the Dark Lord attempted to convince him to reveal the secret location of Gondolin. He refused, and in response the Dark Lord cursed his kin and imprisoned him on Thangorodrim. He was forced to watch the curse befall his children.[3] The curse led to some of the greatest successes and tragedies of the First Age.

History[edit | edit source]

Early years[edit | edit source]

Hurin and Huor are landing in Gondolin by Mysilvergreen

Húrin was born in F.A. 441 in Hithlum.[5] His father was Galdor and his grandfather Hador Lórindol, founder of the House of Hador.[6] His mother was Hareth of Brethil who was the daughter of Halmir the lord of the Haladin.[7] In his youth, him and his younger brother Huor were raised in the forest of Brethil by Haldir their uncle. In 456,[8] the brothers joined a company of scouts but were separated from them after an Orc ambush. They were pursued to the ford of Brithiach and were saved by the Vala Ulmo who caused a mist to rise and the two escaped into Dimbar. From there, Eagles flew them to the hidden city Gondolin. King Turgon welcomed the brothers, remembering their grandfather Hador who was an Elf-friend as well as the words of Ulmo who told him to deal kindly to the House of Hador. Húrin remained with Turgon for a time until he and his brother wished to return to their people. Turgon was reluctant to let the brothers leave but the king granted their wish and the brothers swore oaths of secrecy.[9] They returned to Dor-lómin sometime before 462.

Lord of Dor-lómin[edit | edit source]

Húrin by Steamey

In F.A. 462,[10] orcs invaded Hithlum and Galdor was slain defending the fortress of Eithel Sirion. Húrin who had newly come to manhood took command and drove off the Orcs. He returned to rule as the third Lord of Dor-lómin. Two years later he married Morwen Eledhwen of the House of Bëor.[7] Their son Túrin was born shortly thereafter, followed by a daughter, Urwen. Urwen, better known as Lalaith ("Laughter"), died of the plague when she was three.

In 472, the alliance known as Union of Maedhros led Elves, Dwarves, and Men to assault Angband. Húrin led his folk to join the host led by the High King Fingon. In the battle, later named the Nirnaeth Arnoediad or Battle of Unnumbered Tears, the Union were defeated by the hosts of Morgoth. Many Elves and Men perished, including Fingon who was slain by a Balrog. With their liege lord slain and facing a rout, Húrin and Huor convinced Turgon to withdraw and keep the secret of Gondolin. To defend his escape, the Men of Dor-lómin formed a rearguard near the Pass of Sirion and held it giving as much time for Turgon to gather the remainder of Fingon's people and the host of Gondolin to escape. The location of Gondolin remained secret but for the Men of the Dor-lómin this was their last stand for they would not forsake the Northlands and were slaughtered by the hosts of Morgoth. By the Fen of Serech, Huor was slain by an arrow through the eye, but Húrin remained steadfast crying Aurë entuluva!(S) for each foe he slew with his axe, seventy times in all. He fought until he was buried under the weight of bodies of his enemies, then Gothmog bound him and dragged him towards Angband.[11]

The Curse of Morgoth[edit | edit source]

The Words of Húrin and Morgoth by Alan Lee

Húrin was brought before Morgoth, for he had learnt from his spies that Húrin was friends with Turgon, and was tortured for the secret of Gondolin's location. When he would not break, Morgoth cursed him and all his kin. The Dark Lord then chained Húrin to a chair high on the slopes of Thangorodrim where, through Morgoth's sorcery, he could watch the tragedies that would befall his family.[12] However Morgoth concealed much of Túrin's deeds and what Húrin saw was contorted, lies mixed with the truth.

'But upon all whom you love my thought shall weigh as a cloud of Doom, and it shall bring them down into darkness and despair. Wherever they go, evil shall arise. Whenever they speak, their words shall bring ill counsel. Whatsoever they do shall turn against them. They shall die without hope, cursing both life and death.'
The Children of Húrin, The Words of Húrin and Morgoth

For 28 years,[4] Húrin watched the curse come upon Túrin and Nienor, his daughter born shortly after his capture, and to those that they encounter. For instance Túrin's actions led to the destruction of Nargothrond, one of the last kingdoms of the Noldor. Now only Gondolin remained.

Wanderings[edit | edit source]

After the death of his children Morgoth released Húrin, where he hoped he could further his malice. The broken man first returned to Hithlum, which was now ruled by Easterlings. Finding none of his kin, he travelled with outlaws to the mountains of Echoriath, searching for the entrance to Gondolin. At first Turgon refused him, but later recanted and sent Eagles to bring him to Gondolin. Húrin had already left for the Forest of Brethil, but Morgoth's curse had already ensnared Gondolin, for the Dark Lord's spies now knew the general location of the Hidden Kingdom.[4]

In the Forest of Brethil he found the graves of his children. His wife, Morwen, was there and she died shortly after. After burying his wife, Húrin was taken by march-wardens to the settlement of Ephel Brandir, the home of the People of Haleth, with whom Túrin lived the last years of his life. Angry and grieving, he turned the People of Haleth against one another and ruined Ephel Brandir.[13]

Húrin Finds Morwen by Ted Nasmith

Húrin continued on to the ruins of Nargothrond, where he found the Petty-dwarf Mîm. The petty-dwarf had betrayed Túrin years ago and in revenge Húrin slaughtered him. Mîm had claimed the treasure of Nargothrond, but Húrin recovered the Nauglamír and journeyed eastwards.[4]

Húrin reached the Meres of Twilight and was taken by the Elves who guarded the western borders of Doriath in F.A. 502.[14] He was allowed to enter Menegroth, where in anger he threw the Nauglamír before King Thingol and 'thanked' him for aiding his son. Thingol's wife, Melian, finally pierced through Húrin's madness and grief revealing the truth that Morgoth hid. Shamed by his actions, he picked up the Nauglamír to give to the king as a gift and memorial, then he left Menegroth no longer a thrall of Morgoth.[4]

Death and legacy[edit | edit source]

After leaving Menegroth, it is said Húrin, "bereft of all purpose and desire", cast himself into the Great Sea.[4]

It could be argued, that Húrin partly sowed the seeds of the destruction of Doriath and Gondolin or escalated it. Furthermore Húrin's presence in Brethil led to the extinction of the House of Haleth.[15]

His life, and the lives of his children would become known as the Narn i Chîn Húrin, "The Tale of the Children of Húrin". It was written by the Mannish poet Dírhaval who lived in the Havens of Sirion and it was highly praised by the Eldar.[16] Millennia later Elrond makes a passing reference of him to Frodo at the Council of Elrond.[17]

'But if you take it freely, I will say that your choice is right; and though all the mighty Elf-friends of old, Hador, and Húrin, and Túrin, and Beren himself were assembled together, your seat should be among them.’'
The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, The Council of Elrond

Etymology[edit | edit source]

Húrin is Sindarin, but it is never glossed. However, in the earlier Noldorin phase of the language, the name is the combination of hûr ("vigour") + ind ("heart").[18]

Other names[edit | edit source]

Thalion is simply Sindarin for "Steadfast, Strong".[19]

When Túrin dwelt in Nargothrond, Húrin was indirectly called by him Úmarth,[20] meaning "Ill-fate".[21]

Genealogy[edit | edit source]

 
 
Bregolas
 
 
 
Halmir
 
Hador Lórindol
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Belegund
 
Baragund
 
Hareth
 
Galdor of Dor-lómin
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Morwen Eledhwen
 
HÚRIN THALION
 
Huor
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Túrin
 
Urwen
 
Nienor
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Other versions of the legendarium[edit | edit source]

In The Book of Lost Tales, his name was Úrin.[22]

In earlier versions Húrin suffers a different fate after departing Doriath. In the Lost Tales, Úrin returns to Hísilómë (Hithlum), later dies and his shade seeks Mavwin (Morwen) and together lament over their children.[23] This also occurs in the Sketch of the Mythology except Húrin is not a shade.[24]

In Concerning ... 'The Hoard' instead of going Nargothrond alone and leaving with only the Nauglamír, "Húrin gathered a great company of violent outlaws, and they came to Nargothrond and slew Mim, and carried off a great part of the dragon-treasure.". When he (and the outlaws) then goes to Doriath, he casts all the treasure "before the feet of King Thingol in a proud gesture of scorn". Though Thingol "answered with patience and courtesy", "Húrin laughed in contempt and went out, unmolested, into the night."

See also[edit | edit source]

References

  1. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "Narn i Hîn Húrin (The Tale of the Children of Húrin)"
  2. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Children of Húrin, "The Death of Túrin", p. 255
  3. 3.0 3.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Children of Húrin, "The Words of Húrin and Morgoth"
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Ruin of Doriath"
  5. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §141, p. 51
  6. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Coming of Men into the West"
  7. 7.0 7.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"
  8. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §161, p. 57
  9. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Children of Húrin, "The Childhood of Túrin", pp. 35-7
  10. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §170, pp. 59-60
  11. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad"
  12. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Children of Húrin, "The Words of Húrin and Morgoth", pp. 62-5
  13. 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: I. The Wanderings of Húrin", pp. 291-4
  14. 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: I. The Wanderings of Húrin", p. 258
  15. 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: I. The Wanderings of Húrin", p. 297
  16. 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: II. Ælfwine and Dírhaval", pp. 311-3
  17. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Council of Elrond"
  18. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Lost Road and Other Writings, Part Three: "The Etymologies", entries "ID", "KHOR"
  19. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Appendix: Elements in Quenya and Sindarin Names", entry thalion
  20. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Children of Húrin, "Túrin in Nargothrond", p. 159
  21. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Appendix: Elements in Quenya and Sindarin Names", entry amarth
  22. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Book of Lost Tales Part One, Index, entry Úrin
  23. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Book of Lost Tales Part Two, "II. Turambar and the Foalókë", pp. 115-6
  24. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Shaping of Middle-earth, "II. The Earliest 'Silmarillion' (The 'Sketch of the Mythology')" 14, p. 32
Húrin
House of Hador
Born: F.A. 441 Died: F.A. 502
Preceded by:
Galdor
6th Head of the House of Hador
F.A. 462 - 472
None
Heir apparent: Túrin
3rd Lord of Dor-lómin
F.A. 462 - 472
None
Realm occupied by the Easterlings