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Númenóreans

2018-04-17T03:32:29Z

173.206.83.82:

{{cleanup}}
{{disambig-two|the inhabitants of Númenor|descendants they had on [[Middle-earth]] during the [[Third Age]]|[[Dúnedain]]}}
{{people infobox
| name=Númenóreans
| image=[[File:Liz Danforth - Isildur.png|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Liz Danforth - Isildur.png|Isildur]]" by Liz Danforth
| pronun={{respell|noo|meh|noor|ee-ans}}
| othernames=Men of Westernesse
| origin=Descendants of the [[Edain]]
| location=[[Númenor]], [[Eriador]], [[Harad]], [[Umbar]], [[Pelargir]], later [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]
| affiliation=[[Eldar]]
| rivalry=[[Sauron]]
| language=[[Adûnaic]] (native tongue), [[Quenya]], [[Sindarin]]
| members=[[Elros]], [[Tar-Aldarion|Aldarion]], [[Ar-Pharazôn]], [[Elendil]], [[Isildur]]
| lifespan=up to 500 years
| distinctions=
| height=Taller than other [[Men]]
| hair=
| skin=
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
<center>{{quote|So great was the might and splendour of the Númenóreans that Sauron's own servants deserted him.|''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', [[Appendix A]]}}</center>
'''Númenóreans''' were the [[Men]] of [[Númenor]], descendants of the [[Edain]] of the [[First Age]], who were granted the island of [[Elenna]] as a dwelling place. They turned against the [[Valar]], and their island home was destroyed in the last years of the [[Second Age]].

==Origins==
The Númenóreans were descendants of the [[Edain]] of the [[First Age]], who proved themselves allies of the [[Elves]], from whom they gathered knowledge of all things surrounding them. The two races fought together against [[Morgoth]].

During that Age, unions of Elves and Men were made; [[Lúthien]] and [[Beren]] whose son, [[Dior|Dior Eluchíl]], married [[Nimloth of Doriath]] and [[Elwing]] was born. [[Idril]] and [[Tuor]], the second couple, were parents of [[Eärendil]]. Elwing and Eärendil met at the [[Havens of Sirion]] and from their union twins were born: [[Elros]] and [[Elrond]]. To the two [[Half-elven|half-elves]], the Valar gave a choice: Elros chose to join the race of men, whereas Elrond chose to join the elves.

When the [[War of Wrath|last battle]] was won by the forces of [[Valinor]], the Valar rewarded the Edain by giving them a place to dwell outside the troubled world of [[Middle-earth]]. [[Ulmo]] raised [[Elenna]], later known as the Island of [[Númenor]]. Halfway between [[Endor]] and [[Aman]], the descendants from the [[Three Houses]] established the Kingdom of Númenor in {{SA|32}} and would last and dominate all other mortal peoples throughout the entire [[Second Age]]. Elros became the first [[King of Númenor]].

==Politics==
Númenor was a monarchy. The King held the power of decision over the affairs of the state. However, there was an advisory body, the [[Council of the Sceptre]], which consisted of the Heir of the King and lords from the six regions of Númenor: [[Forostar]] (''Northlands''), [[Andustar]] (''Westlands''), [[Hyarnustar]] (''Southwestlands''), [[Hyarrostar]] (''Southeastlands''), [[Orrostar]] (''Eastlands'') and [[Mittalmar]] (''Inlands'').

There were two main political parties: Elendili or the [[Faithful]], led by the Lords of Andúnië, always loyal to the Elves. In the later years they were a small group, oppressed by the opposing [[King's Men]] who rebelled against the Valar and their ban and set dominions among the Men of Middle-earth and laid heavy tribute upon them. As their number and power increased, they forced the Elendili to move from [[Andúnië]] to the eastern side of the island, at [[Rómenna]]. [[Pelargir]] was a harbor built where the river [[Sirith]] met [[Anduin]] and it was founded by the Faithful in {{SA|2350}}.
===Rulership===
{{main|Line of Elros}}
Númenóreans from the [[Line of Elros]] had right to inherit the [[Sceptre]] and thus become Rulers of Númenor. 25 [[King of Númenor|Kings]] and [[Ruling Queen of Númenor|Queens]] descendants of Elros ascended the throne. While the Númenóreans lived around 200 years, royal kindred had double life span.

Of great importance was the [[Law of Succession in Númenor]] which established the heir to the throne. It started out as an inherited custom, which gave exclusive rights to the male descendants of Elros. Tar-Aldarion, the sixth ruler of Númenor, only had one daughter and replaced the principle of exclusive male heir with that of eldest progeny, of any gender; in {{SA|1075}} Tar-Ancalimë became the first ruling queen in the history of Númenor.

Númenóreans from the Line of Elros influenced their era in various ways:

*[[Tar-Aldarion]], a great mariner and Middle-earth explorer
*[[Tar-Ancalimë]], the first Ruling Queen of Númenor
*[[Tar-Minastir]], defeated [[Sauron]] alongside [[Gil-galad|Ereinion Gil-galad]]
*[[Ar-Belzagar]], first ruler to take an Adûnaic name
*[[Ar-Adûnakhôr]], banned the speaking of Quenya and severed relationships with the Eldar
*[[Ar-Pharazôn]], last in the line of rulers, whose kingship led directly to the [[Akallabêth|Downfall of Númenor]]

===Lords of Andúnië===
{{seealso|Lords of Andúnië}}
During the time of princess [[Silmariën]] the law of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnatic_primogeniture agnatic primogeniture] existed. She could not succeed her father as his eldest child, and her [[Tar-Meneldur|brother]] took up the [[Sceptre]]. In her honor was created the title "[[Lords of Andúnië]]", which was set upon [[Valandil (Lord of Andúnië)|Valandil]] her first son and his 18 descendants; the last one was [[Amandil]], father of [[Elendil]]. During the dark times of Númenor, the Lords were renowned for their friendship with the Eldar, and leaders of the [[Elendili]].

==History==
At the foundation of Númenor all the people held the Eldar in friendship. White ships from [[Tol Eressëa]] brought many gifts to the [[Bay of Andúnië]]: birds, flowers, and healing herbs, and a branch from [[Celeborn, White Tree|Celeborn]], the White Tree of Tol Eressëa, which grew at the court of the king of [[Armenelos]].

As the fear of death crept into the hearts of the Dúnedain, the Firstborn became envied for their immortality. [[Tar-Atanamir]] was the first to speak against the Eldar and the Ban of the Valar. Little by little the Númenóreans abandoned the use of the [[Eldarin]] tongues. It was during the time of his son, King [[Tar-Ancalimon]], that the two parties were formed, the [[Elf-friends]] and the [[King's Men]]. Ar-Adûnakhôr was the first to choose an Adûnaic name and began to persecute the Faithful, punishing all those who would speak the Elven tongues openly. In the end the Eldar came no more to the land of Númenor.

===Dominion over the Men of Middle-earth===

[[Image:Paula DiSante - Ar-Pharazon Defies.JPG|thumb|right|[[Paula DiSante]] - ''Ar-Pharazon Defies'']]
Due to the fact that the Ban of the Valar restricted them from sailing [[Undying Lands|West]], the Númenóreans began to explore the eastern part of the [[Arda|world]], reaching the shores of Middle-earth in {{SA|600}} in [[Lindon]] and met with [[Gil-galad]]. The news spread swiftly and the [[Middle Men]] in [[Eriador]] were filled with wonder. The sailors met with twelve messengers on the [[Tower Hills]].<ref>{{UT|Aldarion}}</ref>

The Númenóreans began to cultivate their new friends who were into their [[Dark Years]], grown weak and fearful, and taught them agriculture, stonecraft, smithying and their language [[Adûnaic]] but failed to recognize the [[Pre-Númenórean]] forest-folk of [[Minhiriath]] as ‘kinsmen’, and confused them with [[Men of Shadow]] because it was not related to theirs.<ref>{{PM|X}}</ref>

The Middle Men were comforted, populated the western shores. They revered the memory of the tall Sea-kings whom they remembered as gods hoping each time for their return.<ref>{{S|IV}}</ref>

More and more Númenor became a great naval power, and the [[Guild of Venturers]] established [[Vinyalondë]] (early 9th century).<ref>{{UT|Cirion}}</ref> The Pre-Númenóreans were patient until the tree-felling by [[Aldarion]] became devastating;<ref name="GC">{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref> slowly, hostility was growing, and the dark men out of the mountains were thrusting into [[Enedwaith]] in support of their kinsmen.<ref name="A">{{UT|Aldarion}}</ref>

Around that time, the Númenórean [[Drúedain]] became uneasy and urged Aldarion not to go, foreseeing the mischief to come. They did not succeed and one after another they took ships towards Middle-earth.<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}</ref>

In {{SA|820}} Vinyalondë was overthrown by great seas and plundered by hostile men. Men near the coasts were growing afraid of the Númenóreans, or were openly hostile and Aldarion heard rumours of some lord in Middle-earth who hated them. As Gil-galad warned [[Tar-Meneldur]] that this instigator was a servant of the [[Sauron|Enemy]].<ref name="A"/>

Aldarion's successors continued his works and even fought with the pre-Númenóreans<ref>{{UT|Numenor}}</ref> until they attacked and ambushed the Númenóreans when they could. They became their enemies giving no thought to husbandry or replanting. The Númenóreans wrecked the banks, the shorelines, great tracks and roads whom they drove into the forests northwards and southwards from the [[Gwathló]]<ref name="GC"/> and continued battling and destroying what lied ahead of them, pushing into [[Minhiriath]] and [[Enedwaith]], establishing themselves inland as far as the river [[Glanduin]] (the southern boundary of [[Eregion]]), beyond which pre-Númenóreans and hostile peoples lived, a remnant of the peoples that had dwelt in the vales of the White Mountains in ages past<ref>{{App|Languages}}</ref><ref name="GC"/> The natives overcame their fear of the Elves and fled from Minhiriath into the dark woods of the great [[Cape of Eryn Vorn]] (south of the mouth of [[Baranduin]]). Those from Enedwaith took refuge in the eastern mountains ([[Dunland]]).<ref name="GC"/>

[[Sauron]] recruited pre-Númenóreans and in the early second millennium he increased pressure on the West, left his stronghold in [[Rhûn]] and relocated in [[Mordor]], drawing closer to the Númenórean sphere of influence. Sauron welcomed by the natives and used the haters of Númenor as spies and guides for his raiders who caused havoc and burned their settlements. He had not enough force to assault the forts at the Haven or along the banks of the [[Gwathló]]. However his regular troops attempted to conquest Eriador, hunting and killing Middle Men and the Elves and by {{SA|1700}} had mastered all Eriador, up to the River [[Lhûn]] and besieged [[Rivendell]].<ref name="GC"/>

Eriador was already ruined by the time the Númenórean fleet was sent by king [[Tar-Minastir]]. They caught Mordor's troops in the rear and defeated them, bringing peace to the Westlands.<ref name="GC"/>

They explored the coasts of Middle-earth far southward establishing landing and trading posts that grew into cruel vice-kingdoms which left many rumours in the legends of Men, although the Eldar did not know about them<ref>{{PM|Akallabeth}}</ref> In the south they found a useful natural haven already called [[Umbar]] by the natives.

The Númenóreans founded [[Pelargir]] in {{SA|2350}} and discovered the pre-Númenóreans [[Oathbreakers|Men of the Mountains]] near [[Dunharrow]]<ref>{{HM|RK}}</ref> who eventually repented when Sauron left from Mordor and the power of Gil-galad had grown great.<ref name="Rings">{{S|Rings}}</ref>

As the shadow spread over Númenor, [[Tar-Ciryatan]] sailed to Middle-earth, bringing numerous treasures back to Númenor. Later more lands were occupied, plundered or forced to pay heavy tribute in return for the lives of their inhabitants. Towards the end of the kingdom, when their religion had changed and human sacrifices were made towards [[Morgoth|Melkor]], many of the victims were people of Middle-earth taken as prisoners. Because of these acts they were looked upon in fear, called the "Death" itself and the Men of Middle-earth trembled at the sight of a mighty Númenórean ship on the waters of [[Belegaer]]. However, the Faithful shared not the behavior of the King's Men and though they also built a port in Middle-earth, named Pelargir, it was not for the sake of plundering, but meant to be a haven far from those of the opposing party.

When the [[Elendili]] established the [[Realms in Exile]], many Men turned from evil and became subject to them even though the pre-Númenóreans were not friendly to them and never learned to distinguish between the [[King's Men]] and the [[Faithful]].<ref name="Rings"/> During this time the [[King of the Dead|King of the Mountains]] first swore allegiance to [[Isildur]] even though he and many other men were still influenced by their old allegiance to Sauron.

When Sauron returned Isildur summoned the Men of the Mountains to fulfill their oath, but they would not because they still feared Sauron. They hid in the mountains, isolated, until slowly dwindling in the barren hills they became the [[Oathbreakers|Dead Men of Dunharrow]].

===Sauron's Influence===

The only daughter of the king [[Tar-Palantir]], a friend of the Eldar who tried to restore the old ways, was [[Tar-Míriel]]. According to the [[Law of Succession in Númenor|New Law]] she had the right to inherit the throne, but her cousin Pharazôn forced her into marriage, and took the Sceptre for himself, becoming known as Ar-Pharazôn the Golden, the most proud and powerful of all the kings. He desired not only immortality as the ones before him had, but also the dominion over the entire world. For this he gathered a great fleet and opposed the greatest opponent in the path of his task: Sauron.

So mighty were the Númenóreans that the servants of Sauron fled even before the battle began and their leader was taken as a prisoner back to the island of Elenna. Through numerous lies he poisoned the mind of the king and became master of his council, changing even the religion of the Númenóreans and turning them into servants of the dark [[Morgoth]]. And because he assured Ar-Pharazôn that if he ever reached Aman he would become immortal, the last king gathered once more a great host of ships and sailed to break the Ban of the Valar.

===Downfall===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Queen Tar-Míriel and the Great Wave.jpg|thumb|left|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Queen Tar-Miriel and the Great Wave'']]

Pharazôn's attempt to reach Valinor and his previous preparations for war with the Eldar raised the anger of [[Manwë]] who sent his eagle-shaped storm clouds to Númenor. Lightning struck the land, including the temple of Melkor, where human sacrifices were made. Because Sauron himself stood in their path and was not hurt by them, the Númenóreans were deceived even more into thinking he was their rightful god.

Ar-Pharazôn sailed at the head of his fleet known as the [[Great Armament]], led by the flagship [[Alcarondas]], set course towards Valinor and reached Tol Eressëa. His pride fooled him into thinking that the inhabitants of Aman would not stand in his way, because the land was quiet and peaceful, and thus he set camp near the [[Túna]] hill. But Manwë, the Elder King, was aware of what transpired, and the Valar then laid down the Guardianship of Arda. Ilúvatar responded by catastrophically changing the shape of Arda. The Númenóreans present in Valinor were buried under the hills which fell upon them, and on the great island fire was erupted from the top of Meneltarma. The land crumbled into pieces and a great wave swept over it and buried the island at the bottom of the sea. Its people were taken by the waters, and this tragedy brought an end to the Númenórean realm, in {{SA|3319}}.

===Epilogue===
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Elendil.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Elendil in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'']]
The only ones to survive the Downfall of Númenor were Elendil and his sons, [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]], along with the few people of the Elendili. They escaped the [[Akallabêth]] with nine ships, a seedling of [[Nimloth of Númenor|Nimloth]], which Isildur had rescued the night before its destruction and the Seven [[Seeing-stones]]. Cast ashore by the storm on the western lands of Middle-earth, they founded the Númenórean realms in exile: [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Their war with Sauron continued in the lands of Middle-earth. Fighting side by side with the Elves and the [[Dwarves]] they opposed and defeated him during the [[War of the Last Alliance]].

Long after the Fall there was a belief among those who survived it that the Holy Mountain Meneltarma was not swallowed by the waters, but instead raised to be a new island of its own. The heirs of Elendil built great ships once more and set on its search, not only because they yearned for their home, but also because from that point, the top of Meneltarma, Tol Eressëa could be spotted and their hearts still desired to reach the West, against all warnings. But they never found the top of Meneltarma and their voyages served only to discover that Arda was a round world.
==Culture==
The Númenóreans were extremely skilled in arts and craft, with the forging of weapons and armour; although they were a peaceful people, their weapons, armour, and horse-riding skills could not be contested anywhere else in [[Arda]], save for the [[Valar]]. But the Númenóreans were not warmongers, hence the chief art on the island became that of ship-building and sea-craft. The Númenóreans became great mariners, exploring the world in all directions save for the westward, where the [[Ban of the Valar]] was in force. They often traveled to the shores of Middle-earth, teaching the men there the art and craft, and introduced farming as to improve their everyday lives.

The Númenóreans spoke [[Adunaic]], a [[Mannish]] language that descended from the Mannish languages spoken in [[Beleriand]]. However their forefathers, the Edain, had learned [[Sindarin]] which was passed on to Númenor. As a language of lore, it changed only a litte with the millennia. Educated Númenóreans also studied [[Quenya]], having a prestige above all other tongues.<ref>{{App|Men}}</ref>

Respected as a law was the [[Ban of the Valar]], which stated that Númenóreans should never sail West more than the limit of their sight when looking after their shores. As the fear of death filled more and more the hearts of the Númenóreans, they sailed further away from the island, until finally the last king, Ar-Pharazôn, broke the Ban in his attempt to reach [[Tol Eressëa]] out of the false belief that dwelling in that place granted immortality.
===Religion and Tradition===

Towards the middle of Mittalmar stood the Mountain [[Meneltarma]], the sacred place on which [[Ilúvatar|Eru]] was worshiped. Its flattened top was wide enough to contain a great crowd during the three yearly ceremonies ([[Erukyermë]], [[Erulaitalë]] and [[Eruhantalë]]). These took place in absolute silence while climbing its slopes. Soon after {{SA|3262}} these religious beliefs were abandoned and the worshiping of [[Morgoth|Melkor]] began. It was done in a cylindrical temple near the city of Armenelos built especially for this, and it involved sacrificing men and women over a great fire, whose first flames were lit from the [[White Tree of Tol Eressëa]].

Whenever ships sailed from Númenor, the custom of the [[Green Bough of Return]] took place. A branch from the [[Fragrant Trees|Fragrant Tree]] [[Oiolairë]] was set at the prow as a symbol of good fortune by a Númenórean woman, close relative to the captain of the ship. [[Erendis]], wife of Tar-Aldarion, refused to do so in disagreement with her husband's frequent voyages towards Middle-earth, breaking this tradition for the first time.

===Daily Life===
[[File:Ivan Ulicny - The Age of Númenor.jpg|thumb|Ivan Ulicny - ''The Age of Númenor'']]
Many of the inhabitants of Númenor were fishermen. Along with the grains cultivated in Orrostar, fish was the main food source for the Númenóreans.

The Dúnedain were skilled in riding and loved horses. They could even call them in their thoughts, if bound by friendship. Númenor had no paved roads, so that the carriages could move on them more easily. From the [[Noldor]] they learned the art of forging swords, axes, spears, knives, but mostly bows; their arrows resembled dark clouds falling upon the enemies.

The Númenóreans, were skilled in the art of husbandry, breeding great horses that roamed across the open plains in Mittalmar.

The greatest love of the Númenóreans was the sea and the building of the largest ships. Most were built at the command of Tar-Aldarion, who also established the [[Guild of Venturers]]. The ship ''[[Eämbar]]'' was their headquarters.

==Characteristics==
The average Númenórean was taller than two [[Ranga]]r or 6'4". Elendil was the tallest of Men who escaped the Downfall (mentioned to be almost 2.5 [[rangar]] tall, 7'11" or 2.41 m)<ref>{{UT|Linear}}</ref>

While most Númenóreans lived around 350 years, royal kindred live 400 years. This longer lifespan resulted in an older age of adulthood: 25 years.<ref>{{UT|Aldarion}}</ref>

==Names==
In their own language, the Númenóreans were named '''Adûnâim'''.<ref>{{HM|SD}}, p. 426</ref>

The Númenóreans were also known as '''High Men'''.<ref>{{HM|PM}}, pp. 312, 427</ref><ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 101</ref> (Cf. [[Middle Men]]). They were also known as Sea-kings, Men of the Sea and Lords of the Sea<ref>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 297</ref>

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Númenóreans|Images of Númenóreans]]
*[[King of Númenor]]
*[[Black Númenóreans]]
*[[Dúnedain]]
*[[Númenor]]
*[[Akallabêth]]
{{references}}

[[Category:Edain]]
[[Category:Men]]
[[Category:Númenóreans| ]]
[[fi:Númenorilaiset]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/hommes/numenoreens]]

Black Númenóreans

2018-04-17T03:31:36Z

173.206.83.82:

{{people infobox
| name=Black Númenóreans
| image=[[File:Brian Durfee - Black Númenóreans.jpg|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Brian Durfee - Black Númenóreans.jpg|Black Númenóreans]]" by Brian Durfee
| pronun=
| othernames=
| origin=[[Númenóreans]]
| location=[[Umbar]], other southern lands
| affiliation=[[Sauron]]
| rivalry=[[Gondorians]]
| language=[[Adûnaic]]
| members=[[Herumor]], [[Fuinur]], [[Berúthiel]], [[The Mouth of Sauron]]
| lifespan=c. 350 years
| distinctions=
| height=Tall
| hair=
| skin=
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
The '''Black Númenóreans''' were [[Númenóreans|High Men]] from [[Númenor]]. They were under the [[Shadow]] like the [[King's Men]], cruel oppressors and overlords over the more primitive [[Middle Men]] of [[Middle-earth]]. As they were colonising the continent, they survived the [[Downfall of Númenor]].
==History==
The Númenóreans' power and knowledge had grown throughout the course of the [[Second Age]], and became increasingly preoccupied with the limits placed on their happiness—and eventually their power—by mortality, the purpose of which they began to question. They started fearing the [[Gift of Men]] and attempted to delay it or recall life.

This growing wish to escape death, made most of the Númenoreans envious of the immortal [[Eldar]], who they had come to physically resemble. The Eldar sought ever to remind the men of Númenor however, that death was a gift of the One God, [[Ilúvatar]], to all men, and the will of Ilúvatar could not be gainsaid.

Nevertheless, after {{SA|2221}}, when [[Tar-Ancalimon]] became [[King of Númenor]], the Númenóreans became divided. The [[King's Men]] who turned away from the [[Valar]] and the Eldar, and eventually became vulnerable to the corruption of [[Sauron]], who dominated the minds and wills of most of the Númenóreans with the [[One Ring]].<ref>{{L|211}}</ref> The powerful and elderly King [[Ar-Pharazôn]], had become frightened of old age,<ref>{{L|156}}</ref> and was persuaded by Sauron that Ilúvatar was a lie invented by the Valar, and seduced.

Some indigenous people of Middle-earth were afraid of those Númenóreans, whom they called "[[Go-hilleg]]" in their language. The "Go-hilleg" terrified those people with their ships and intended at some point to conquer the land of [[Agar]] and slay its people.<ref>{{PM|Elmar}}</ref>

Three of the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] can be considered among the first and most powerful Númenóreans who were corrupted by Sauron,<ref>{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref> 1000 years before the Downfall: they served Sauron, being enslaved to his will, having become so because of their lust for power or knowledge.

Even the colonists who had settled on the shores and seaward regions of the [[Westlands]], turned to evil, the [[Darkness]] and the black arts. These evil lords made their fortresses and dwellings in the [[South]], because of the power of [[Gil-galad]].<ref name=rings>{{S|Rings}}</ref> <ref name=window>{{TT|Window}}</ref>
===After the Downfall===
For many centuries after the Downfall, these descendants of the King's Men held onto the haven of [[Umbar]], the most northerly and famous of their realms.

When the surviving [[Faithful]] Numenoreans founded [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]], they saw their southern counterparts as renegades, calling them the Black Númenóreans.<ref>{{RK|Gate}}</ref> The Black Númenóreans held a similar hatred of Gondor after generations.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref>

Two early Black Númenórean lords from the late [[Second Age]] were [[Herumor]] and [[Fuinur]] who desired power over men of other, lesser races, and they "rose to (great) power amongst the [[Haradrim]]", the peoples neighbouring Umbar. They likely shared Sauron's defeat at the hands of the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]].

The triumph of the Last Alliance marked the decline of the Black Númenórean race and the end of their racial superiority. They dwindled swiftly or became merged with the Middle Men.<ref>{{App|A}}</ref>

[[Berúthiel|Queen Berúthiel]], wife of Gondor's King [[Tarannon Falastur]] was "a black Númenórean".<ref name=Interview>{{webcite|author=[[Daphne Castell]]|articleurl=http://www.festivalintheshire.com/journal1bdx/inttolkien.html|articlename=The Realms of Tolkien|dated=|website=[http://www.festivalintheshire.com/journal1bdx/index.html ''Festival in the Shire Journal'', Issue 1]|accessed=7 May 2012}}</ref><ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]], ''[[The Inklings (book)|The Inklings]]'', "Thursday evenings", pp. 137-8</ref> This was a loveless union, and was presumably a political accommodation: that such arrangements were possible implies the existence at that time of more Gondor-friendly Black Númenóreans than the much later Mouth of Sauron.

A Black Númenórean elite survived at least in Umbar for over a thousand years after Númenor's fall, maintaining much influence in [[Haradwaith]]. As late as Third Age 1015, for example, even after being exiled from their homeland for nearly a century, the lords that had been driven from Umbar led the [[Haradrim]] to retake Umbar.<ref>{{App|A}}</ref>

Not much is known about the Black Númenóreans after their defeat by [[Ciryaher]] in {{TA|1050}}. A "Renegade", [[The Mouth of Sauron]], had entered the service of Sauron in [[Mordor]]. He mocked the army of [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] in front of the [[Morannon]].

==Culture==
The Black Númenórean style of governing was no doubt tyrannical, and may also have involved a tradition of duumviracy, at least in Umbar. After Herumor and Fuinur there were also [[Angamaite]] and [[Sangahyando]]. Some lords were idle and lazy, they used to fight amongst themselves, until they became conquered by the wild men.<ref name=window/>

The Black Númenóreans did not use [[Westron]], but probably retained their old tongue [[Adûnaic]], speaking a dialect of it. (In [[The Notion Club Papers]], part of ''[[Sauron Defeated]]'', Arundel Lowdham cited two descendants of classical Adûnaic. One of these must have been Westron, the other the tongue of the Black Númenóreans).

==Portrayal in adaptations==
[[File:Black Númenórean.jpg|thumb|A typical Black Númenórean within the city of [[Annuminas]] (''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'').]]
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Black Númenóreans are portrayed in service of the different Lieutenants of the Enemy. The ''Angmarim'' inhabit the lands surrounding [[Carn Dum]] in [[Angmar]] and serve [[Mordirith]] and later [[Amarthiel]]. Much later, Umbarrim Númenóreans make appearance in [[Dol Guldur]] of [[Mirkwood]].

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:[[Agandaûr]], the game's main antagonist, is a Black Númenórean<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/the-game/enemies|articlename=Enemies|dated=|website=www.warinthenorth.com|accessed=15 February 2012}}</ref> as is the minor character [[Wulfrun]], lieutenant of [[Carn Dûm]].

{{references}}
[[Category:Black Númenóreans| ]]
[[de:Schwarze Númenorer]]
[[fi:Mustat númenorilaiset]]

Dale (Kingdom)

2018-04-17T00:50:04Z

173.206.83.82:

{{disambig-two|the Kingdom of Dale|the city|[[Dale]]}}
{{kingdom
| image=[[File:John Howe - Icon Dale.jpg|150px]]
| name=Kingdom of Dale
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Between [[Erebor]] and [[Carnen]]
| capital=[[Dale]]
| towns=
| regions=
| population=[[Northmen]]
| language=[[Language of Dale]], [[Westron]]
| govern1=[[King of Dale]]
| govern2=
| govern3=
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=
| event1=Founded
| event1date=After {{TA|2590}}
| event2=Destroyed
| event2date={{TA|2770}}
| event3=Re-founded
| event3date={{TA|2944}}
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}
The '''Kingdom of Dale''' was a city state in northern [[Rhovanion]] formed in the late [[Third Age]] by King [[Bard]] and populated by [[Northmen]].

== Geography ==
When it was founded the Kingdom of Dale consisted of the city of [[Dale]] and the valley of the [[River Running]] before the [[Front Gate|gates]] of the [[Lonely Mountain]].<ref>{{H|Stage}}</ref> By the time of the [[War of the Ring]] its boundaries extended far south and east of [[Lake-town]],<ref name="Meetings">{{FR|II1}}</ref> all the way to the River [[Carnen]].<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref>

==Background==
The Township of Dale was formed by the [[Northmen]] soon after the year {{TA|2590}} when [[Thrór]] brought his people back to Erebor<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> and prospered with the [[Kingdom under the Mountain]].<ref name="Party">{{H|Party}}</ref>

In {{TA|2770|n}} during the time of Lord [[Girion]]<ref>{{H|Fire}}</ref> [[Smaug]] attacked and occupied the Lonely Mountain<ref name="TA"/> and afterwards came ravaged the city eating its inhabitants; soon Dale was deserted and fell into ruin.<ref name="Party"/> [[Bard|Bard the Bowman]], a descendant Girion slew Smaug in {{TA|2941}}.
== History ==
After the [[Battle of Five Armies]] and the recovery of the riches of the former lord, Bard became quite wealthy. In {{TA|2944|n}} he used his wealth to founded the Kingdom, and he was crowned as King Bard (later known as Bard I).<ref name="TA"/>

The Kingdom benefited by the simultaneous refounding of the Kingdom under the Mountain. After King Bard died in {{TA|2977|n}} his son King [[Bain]] reigned and in {{TA|3007|n}} he was succeeded by King [[Brand]].<ref name="TA"/> As the end of the [[Third Age]] approached the growing realm extended far to the south and east of [[Lake-town|Esgaroth]].<ref name="Meetings"/>

In {{TA|3017|n}} a messenger from [[Mordor]] came to both the [[Dwarves of Erebor]] and the Kingdom of Dale.<ref>{{FR|II2}}</ref> Despite words offering [[Sauron]]'s friendship, the Dark Lord's forces began gathering beyond the Carnen. About the same time that [[Minas Tirith]] was attacked (on [[15 March]] {{TA|3019|n}}) a host of Sauron's allies crossed the river and drove Brand back into Dale. On [[17 March]] the [[Battle of Dale]] began. King Brand and King [[Dáin Ironfoot]] of the Mountain were both killed and the [[Men of Dale]] and the Dwarves were driven into the Mountain. The enemy could not take the gates and a siege began. However, when news of the fall of Sauron came the enemy forces lost heart, and on [[27 March]] the new King of Dale, [[Bard II]], and the new [[King under the Mountain]], [[Thorin Stonehelm|Thorin III Stonehelm]], burst forth and drove the enemy away.

King Bard II sent an ambassador to the crowning of King [[Aragorn|Elessar]]. The Kingdom of Dale remained independent but in friendship with [[Gondor]] and under the protection and crown of the [[King of the West]].<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Mannish realms]]

King of Rhovanion

2018-04-17T00:42:28Z

173.206.83.82:

'''King of Rhovanion''' was a title claimed by [[Vidugavia]], a prince of the [[Northmen]], in the 13th century of the [[Third Age]]. However, even if he was the most powerful of the many Northern princes, as far as we know he never truly unified all the Northmen under his claimed kingship. Vidugavia's own realm, the "[[Rhovanion|Kingdom of Rhovanion]]", was between [[Mirkwood|Greenwood]] and the [[River Running]].<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref>

[[Lord of the Éothéod]] and [[Kings of Rohan]] were descendants of the Princes and Kings of Rhovanion.

{{References}}
[[Category: Titles]]
[[fi:Rhovanionin kuningas]]

Kingdom of Rhovanion

2018-04-17T00:38:53Z

173.206.83.82:

{{kingdom
| image=
| name=Kingdom of Rhovanion
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[River Running]]
| capital=
| towns=
| regions=[[Rhovanion]]
| population=[[Northmen]]
| language=[[Westron]], northern tongue akin to "Dalish" and [[Rohirric]]
| govern1=Prince of Rhovanion
| govern2=[[King of Rhovanion]]
| govern3=
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=
| event1=Founded
| event1date=Before {{TA|490}}
| event2=Destroyed
| event2date={{TA|2510}}
| event3=
| event3date=
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}

The '''Kingdom of Rhovanion''' was a realm of [[Men]] in the [[Middle-earth]] region of [[Rhovanion]] that is rarely given specifications in [[Tolkien]]'s books.

==Summary==

The Kingdom of Rhovanion was founded by the [[Northmen]] and stretched from Mirkwood, in the west, to [[Dorwinion]], in the east. It had strong ties with the kingdom of [[Gondor]] and fought side by side in its wars against the Easterlings of [[Rhun|Rh]][[Rhûn|ûn]].

==History==

In the early [[Third Age]], a group of [[Northmen]] who were led by a 'Prince of Rhovanion' founded the Kingdom of Rhovanion sometime before the year [[TA 490]]. [[Rhovanion]] at this time referred only to the region where he and his people dwelt, a strip of land east of [[Greenwood the Great]] and south of [[Dale]] and [[Lake-town]]. It is possible that Dale and Lake-town formed part of the Kingdom before the Dwarven [[King under the Mountain|Kingdom]] in the [[Lonely Mountain]] was founded by the [[Dwarves]] of [[Durin's Folk]].The Men of Rhovanion fought with [[Gondor]] against the [[Easterlings]] of [[Rhûn]], who threatened their lands, and when these were defeated by [[Kings of Gondor|King]] [[Turambar]] of Gondor in TA 550, Rhovanion became an ally of Gondor. By TA 1200 the ruler of Rhovanion called himself the King of Rhovanion. In [[TA 1248]] [[Rómendacil II]] of Gondor destroyed all camps of the Easterlings even beyond the [[Sea of Rhûn]], and a strong alliance with Rhovanion was forged. Gondor withdrew its borders to the [[Anduin]], and ceded all the lands east of Anduin to Rhovanion. From this time onward, the name Rhovanion referred to all of [[Wilderland]].The King of Rhovanion at this time was [[Vidugavia]], and Prince [[Valacar]] of Gondor served in his army. Vidugavia's daughter [[Vidumavi]] married Valacar, and their son Vinitharya became King [[Eldacar of Gondor]] in [[TA 1432]], which led to the [[Kin-strife]] in [[TA 1437]]. Eldacar fled to Rhovanion, and with a Rhovanion army, he reclaimed his Kingdom in [[TA 1447]].

==Downfall==

In TA 1636 the [[Great Plague]] devastated Rhovanion, killing more than half its people. This left Rhovanion weakened, and in TA 1851 the [[Wainriders]] overran and enslaved Rhovanion. For 43 years Rhovanion was enslaved, but in TA 1899 Rhovanion rebelled, while Gondor attacked the Wainriders from the west. Rhovanion was freed but left extremely weakened. Many Men of Rhovanion left for Gondor, where they were welcomed as distant relatives. Some of them may have gone north to Dale and [[Lake-town]] after TA 1999 when the [[King under the Mountain|Kingdom under the Mountain]] was founded.In TA 2460 [[Sauron]] returned to [[Dol Guldur]] in southern [[Mirkwood]], although this was not learned until long after. The land gradually became more dangerous, and Rhovanion was emptied of most its people. Around TA 2510 a new group of [[Easterlings]], the [[Balchoth]], appeared, and they quickly took the old lands of Rhovanion. This was the final end of the Kingdom of Rhovanion after over two thousand years of independence.

Kingdom of Rhovanion

2018-04-17T00:38:39Z

173.206.83.82:

{{kingdom
| image=[[File:Example.jpg]]
| name=Kingdom of Rhovanion
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Lands between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[River Running]]
| capital=
| towns=
| regions=[[Rhovanion]]
| population=[[Northmen]]
| language=[[Westron]], northern tongue akin to "Dalish" and [[Rohirric]]
| govern1=Prince of Rhovanion
| govern2=[[King of Rhovanion]]
| govern3=
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=
| event1=Founded
| event1date=Before {{TA|490}}
| event2=Destroyed
| event2date={{TA|2510}}
| event3=
| event3date=
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}

The '''Kingdom of Rhovanion''' was a realm of [[Men]] in the [[Middle-earth]] region of [[Rhovanion]] that is rarely given specifications in [[Tolkien]]'s books.

==Summary==

The Kingdom of Rhovanion was founded by the [[Northmen]] and stretched from Mirkwood, in the west, to [[Dorwinion]], in the east. It had strong ties with the kingdom of [[Gondor]] and fought side by side in its wars against the Easterlings of [[Rhun|Rh]][[Rhûn|ûn]].

==History==

In the early [[Third Age]], a group of [[Northmen]] who were led by a 'Prince of Rhovanion' founded the Kingdom of Rhovanion sometime before the year [[TA 490]]. [[Rhovanion]] at this time referred only to the region where he and his people dwelt, a strip of land east of [[Greenwood the Great]] and south of [[Dale]] and [[Lake-town]]. It is possible that Dale and Lake-town formed part of the Kingdom before the Dwarven [[King under the Mountain|Kingdom]] in the [[Lonely Mountain]] was founded by the [[Dwarves]] of [[Durin's Folk]].The Men of Rhovanion fought with [[Gondor]] against the [[Easterlings]] of [[Rhûn]], who threatened their lands, and when these were defeated by [[Kings of Gondor|King]] [[Turambar]] of Gondor in TA 550, Rhovanion became an ally of Gondor. By TA 1200 the ruler of Rhovanion called himself the King of Rhovanion. In [[TA 1248]] [[Rómendacil II]] of Gondor destroyed all camps of the Easterlings even beyond the [[Sea of Rhûn]], and a strong alliance with Rhovanion was forged. Gondor withdrew its borders to the [[Anduin]], and ceded all the lands east of Anduin to Rhovanion. From this time onward, the name Rhovanion referred to all of [[Wilderland]].The King of Rhovanion at this time was [[Vidugavia]], and Prince [[Valacar]] of Gondor served in his army. Vidugavia's daughter [[Vidumavi]] married Valacar, and their son Vinitharya became King [[Eldacar of Gondor]] in [[TA 1432]], which led to the [[Kin-strife]] in [[TA 1437]]. Eldacar fled to Rhovanion, and with a Rhovanion army, he reclaimed his Kingdom in [[TA 1447]].

==Downfall==

In TA 1636 the [[Great Plague]] devastated Rhovanion, killing more than half its people. This left Rhovanion weakened, and in TA 1851 the [[Wainriders]] overran and enslaved Rhovanion. For 43 years Rhovanion was enslaved, but in TA 1899 Rhovanion rebelled, while Gondor attacked the Wainriders from the west. Rhovanion was freed but left extremely weakened. Many Men of Rhovanion left for Gondor, where they were welcomed as distant relatives. Some of them may have gone north to Dale and [[Lake-town]] after TA 1999 when the [[King under the Mountain|Kingdom under the Mountain]] was founded.In TA 2460 [[Sauron]] returned to [[Dol Guldur]] in southern [[Mirkwood]], although this was not learned until long after. The land gradually became more dangerous, and Rhovanion was emptied of most its people. Around TA 2510 a new group of [[Easterlings]], the [[Balchoth]], appeared, and they quickly took the old lands of Rhovanion. This was the final end of the Kingdom of Rhovanion after over two thousand years of independence.

Arthedain

2018-04-17T00:18:44Z

173.206.83.82:

{{kingdom
| image=
| name=Arthedain
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Western [[Eriador]]; west of [[Baranduin]] and the [[Weather Hills]]
| capital=[[Fornost Erain|Fornost]]
| towns=[[Annúminas]], [[Bree]], [[Hobbiton]]
| regions=[[The Shire]]
| population=[[Men]] and [[Hobbits]]
| language=[[Westron]]
| govern1=[[King of Arthedain]]
| govern2=
| govern3=
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=[[Arnor]]
| event1=Founded
| event1date={{TA|861}}
| event2=Abandoned
| event2date={{TA|1974}}
| event3=
| event3date=
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}
{{Pronounce|Arthedain.mp3|Ardamir}}
'''Arthedain''' was one of the three realms of the [[Dúnedain of Arnor|Dúnedain of the North]] created from the fragmentation of the kingdom of [[Arnor]]. After the death of Arnor's King [[Eärendur (King of Arnor)|Eärendur]], his sons divided the realm into the kingdoms of Arthedain, [[Rhudaur]] and [[Cardolan]].

==Description==
Arthedain lay primarily between the [[Lhûn]] and the [[Baranduin|Brandywine]] in northwestern [[Eriador]]. However, it also claimed the land north of the [[Great East Road]] from the [[Brandywine Bridge]] to the [[Weather Hills]].<ref name="Eriador">{{App|Eriador}}</ref> Notable features within Arthedain were the [[Hills of Evendim]], [[Lake Evendim]], [[North Downs]], [[Tower Hills]], [[Far Downs]], [[White Downs]], [[the Shire]], [[Annúminas]], and [[Fornost Erain]].<ref>{{UT|Map}}</ref>

==History==
After the tenth king of Arnor, Eärendur, died in {{TA|861}},<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> dissensions between his sons fractured the realm. Arnor was divided into Arthedain, Rhudaur and Cardolan. The line of [[Isildur]] was maintained in Arthedain, but in Rhudaur and Cardolan the line faded quickly. Arthedain retained [[Weathertop]] and [[Amon Sûl-stone|its]] ''[[Palantíri|Palantír]]'' as well as [[Annúminas-stone|two]] [[Elostirion-stone|others]], which led to contention between the three kingdoms.<ref name="Eriador"/>

When [[Malvegil]] of Arthedain became king in {{TA|1272|n}}<ref name="North">{{App|North}}</ref> [[Orcs]] began to trouble the region.<ref>{{PM|Elendil}}</ref> Around {{TA|1300}}, the [[Witch-king]] founded the kingdom of [[Angmar]] north of the [[Ettenmoors]], soon to become the foe of Arthedain.<ref name="TA"/>

After Malvegil, his son [[Argeleb I]] reclaimed lordship over all of Arnor since Rhudaur and Cardolan had no living descendants of Isildur. Rhudaur refused this claim and allied with Angmar.<ref name="Eriador"/> Argeleb I fell in battle with Rhudaur in {{TA|1356|n}}.<ref name="TA"/> His son, [[Arveleg I]], avenged his father by retaking the Weather Hills, aided by [[Lindon]] and Cardolan. However, a great host issued from Angmar in {{TA|1409}}, invading Arthedain and taking Weathertop. King Arveleg I was slain. Rhudaur was occupied by Angmar and Cardolan was ravaged.<ref name="Eriador"/>

In {{TA|1601|n}} two [[Fallohides|Fallohide]] brothers, [[Marcho]] and [[Blanco]], crossed the Brandywine with many [[Hobbits]] and, with the permission of King [[Argeleb II]], established [[the Shire]].<ref>{{FR|Hobbits}}</ref> The Hobbits and the remaining [[Men]] in Arthedain suffered losses in the [[Great Plague]] of {{TA|1636|n}}.<ref name="TA"/>

In {{TA|1974|n}}<ref name="TA"/> the Witch-king invaded Arthedain, capturing Fornost and driving most of the few Dúnedain across the Lhûn. King [[Arvedui]] held out for awhile in the [[North Downs]] until he and his guard were driven north.<ref name="Eriador"/> Although the realm of Angmar was crushed at the [[Battle of Fornost]] in {{TA|1975|n}},<ref name="TA"/> the realm of Arthedain also came to an end and its lands remained mostly empty (except for the Shire) and its people became [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]]; until the [[Reunited Kingdom|reestablishment]] of the northern kingdom under king [[Aragorn|Elessar]] at the end of the [[Third Age]].

{{references}}
[[Category:Arnor]]
[[Category:Eriador]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Mannish realms]]

[[de:Arthedain]]
[[fi:Arthedain]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/royaumes/arthedain]]

Cardolan

2018-04-17T00:11:41Z

173.206.83.82:

{{kingdom
| image=[[Image:Cardolanrotwk.jpg|250px]]
| name=Cardolan
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Southern [[Eriador]]; south of the [[East Road]] between the [[Baranduin|Brandywine]] and [[Gwathló|Greyflood]]
| capital=[[Tyrn Gorthad]]
| towns=[[Tharbad]]
| regions=
| population=[[Men]] and [[Hobbits]]
| language=[[Westron]]
| govern1=[[King of Cardolan]]
| govern2=
| govern3=
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=[[Arnor]]
| event1=Dissolution of Arnor
| event1date={{TA|861}}
| event2=Abandoned
| event2date={{TA|1636}}
| event3=
| event3date=
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}
{{Pronounce|Cardolan.mp3|Ardamir}}
'''Cardolan''' was a breakaway realm of the [[Dúnedain]] kingdom of [[Arnor]]. After the death of Arnor's King [[Eärendur (King of Arnor)|Eärendur]], his sons divided the realm into the kingdoms of [[Arthedain]], [[Rhudaur]] and Cardolan.

==Description==
The southeastern border of Cardolan followed the [[Gwathló]] and the [[Mitheithel]] to the [[Last Bridge]]. From there its boundary followed the [[Great East Road]] westward to the [[Brandywine Bridge]], and then down the [[Baranduin]] to the [[Belegaer|Sea]] and thence to the mouth of the Gwathló. However, Cardolan also claimed the land between [[Bree]] and the [[Weather Hills]].<ref name="Eriador">{{App|Eriador}}</ref> Notable features within Cardolan were the [[Old Forest]], the [[Barrow-downs]], the [[South Downs]], and the [[Greenway]].<ref>{{UT|Map}}</ref>

==History==
In {{TA|861}} Arnor's tenth King, Eärendur, died.<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> Due to dissensions between his sons the realm was split into [[Arthedain]], [[Rhudaur]] and Cardolan. While the line of [[Isildur]] continued in Arthedain, in both Rhudaur and Cardolan the line soon failed. The three kingdoms was led to strife because Arthedain held Weatherop and possessed its ''[[Amon Sûl-stone|Palantír]]'' as well as two others.<ref name="Eriador"/>

In {{TA|1050|n}} the [[Harfoots]] came into Eriador and in {{TA|1150|n}} they were joined by the [[Fallohides]].<ref name="TA"/> It is likely that some of these [[Hobbits]] settled in Cardolan.
===War with Angmar===
Around {{TA|1272|n}}<ref name="North">{{App|North}}</ref> [[Orcs]] began to trouble the region<ref>{{PM|Elendil}}</ref> and around {{TA|1300}}, the [[Witch-king]] founded the kingdom of [[Angmar]] north of the [[Ettenmoors]]. This event caused many Hobbits to move to [[Bree]].<ref name="TA"/>

No descendants of Isildur remained in Cardolan and Rhudaur and [[Argeleb I]] of Arthedain claimed lordship over all of former Arnor. Rhudaur resisted this claim and made league with Angmar.<ref name="Eriador"/> Argeleb I fell in battle with Rhudaur in {{TA|1356|n}}.<ref name="TA"/> Cardolan, and [[Lindon]], assisted his son, [[Arveleg I]], to avenge his father by pushing the enemy from the Weather Hills. For many years Arthedain and Cardolan held a frontier along the Hills, the [[East Road]] and the lower [[Hoarwell]].<ref name="Eriador"/>

However, in {{TA|1409}} a great host issued from Angmar and invaded Cardolan and took Weathertop. A remnant of the [[Dúnedain]] of Cardolan held out in the Barrow-downs and the [[Old Forest]]. The last prince of Cardolan was interred in the Barrow-downs in that year (some say that it was the tomb where [[Frodo Baggins]] was trapped during the [[War of the Ring]]).<ref name="Eriador"/>

In {{TA|1636}} those people who remained in the Barrow-downs died from the [[Great Plague]]. Angmar then sent [[Barrow-wights]] to infest and haunt the downs. Arthedain managed to reconquer the land briefly, but few people wished to live there on account of the Barrow-wights, and Cardolan was soon lost again.<ref name="Eriador"/>

===Legacy===
The region remained unpopulated even after the final fall of Arnor and destruction of Angmar ({{TA|1974|n}}<ref name="TA"/>).

On [[22 September]] {{TA|3018|n}} the [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]] entered Cardolan from the south.<ref name="TA"/> While hunting for the [[One Ring]] their chief established himself in [[Andrath]] on the Greenway and then visited the Barrow-downs. He stayed there for some days in order to rouse the [[Barrow-wights]].<ref>{{UT|Other}}</ref>

Presumably the area remained deserted until the reestablishment of the northern kingdom under king [[Aragorn|Elessar]] at the end of the Third Age.

==Etymology==
It is not known if [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] ever explained the name ''Cardolan''. The most common suggestion is that ''Cardolan'' likely is [[Sindarin]] for "red hill country". In that case, the name could be analyzed as ''[[caran|carn]]'' "red", ''[[dol]]'' "hill, mount" and ''[[-iand|an(n)]]'' "land".<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 690</ref><ref name=Clewley/>

An alternative etymology has been suggested by Roger Clewley: ''Cardolan'' deriving from [[Noldorin]] ''car'' "house", ''dolen'' "hidden, secret", and the toponymical ending ''[[-iand|-and]]'', thus meaning "place/land of
hidden houses" (a reference to the "dead entombed there").<ref name=Clewley>{{webcite|author=Roger Clewley|articleurl=http://groups.yahoo.com/group/elfling/message/36363|articlename=On the Name ''Cardolan'' (#36363)|dated=7 September 2012|website=[[Elfling]] (mailing list)|accessed=11 September 2012}}</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Arnor]]
[[Category:Eriador]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Mannish realms]]

[[de:Cardolan]]
[[fi:Cardolan]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:royaumes:cardolan]]

Sauron

2018-04-16T23:48:37Z

173.206.83.82:

{{Countdown}}
{{evil infobox
| name=Sauron
| image=[[File:Alaïs - Annatar.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Annatar" by [[:Category:Images by Alaïs|Alaïs]]
| pronun=
| othernames=[[Annatar]]<ref name="SRings"/> The Dark Lord Lord Of Earth<ref name="SIndex"/> Gorthaur the Cruel<ref name="SVala">{{S|Vala}}</ref> Mairon<ref name="PE17.1"/> Necromancer<ref name="SIndex"/> The Shadow The Enemy The Terrible'''Zigûr''' ([[Adûnaic|A]])<ref>{{HM|SD}}, "The Drowning of Anadûnê"</ref>
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Tol-in-Gaurhoth]] [[Utumno]] [[Angband]] [[Númenor]] [[Dol Guldur]] [[Mordor]]
| affiliation=[[Morgoth]]
| language=[[Black Speech]], [[Westron]]
| birth=Before the [[Music of the Ainur]]
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[25 March]] {{TA|3019}} (Physical death)
| deathlocation=[[Barad-dûr]]
| age=
| notablefor=Lieutenant to [[Morgoth]] Deceived the [[Elves]] into forging the [[Rings of Power]]; Created [[the One Ring]]; Brought about the [[Downfall of Númenor]]; Nearly conquered the whole of [[Middle-earth]]
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| race=[[Maiar|Maia]]
| gender=Male
| height=''[[Sauron#Appearance|See below]]''
| hair=''[[Sauron#Appearance|See below]]''
| eyes=
| clothing=''[[Sauron#Appearance|See below]]''
| weapons=[[The One Ring]]
| steed=
}}
<center>{{Quote|Sauron [...] was only less evil than his [[Morgoth|master]] in that for long he served another and not himself.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="SVala"/>}}</center>

'''Sauron''' ([[Quenya]], pronounced {{IPA|[ˈsaʊron]}}) was the greatest and most trusted servant of [[Morgoth]] before and during the [[First Age]]. Originally a [[Maiar|Maia]] of [[Aulë]] named "Mairon", he was ensnared by Melkor and as "Gorthaur" he became Morgoth's lieutenant in his [[Wars of Beleriand]]. From his base of [[Tol-in-Gaurhoth]], Sauron was directly responsible for the death of [[Barahir]] and later the [[Noldor]]in king [[Finrod]] during the [[Quest for the Silmaril]]. He demonstrated the ability to take the form of a wolf, a serpent, and a vampire.

After the downfall of his master, he continually strove to conquer [[Middle-earth]] throughout the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age|Third]] Ages. In the Second Age, under the guise of '''Annatar''', he deceived the [[Elves]] of [[Eregion]], who under his guidance had created the [[Rings of Power]], whilst he secretly forged [[the One Ring]] in [[Mount Doom]]. Thus Sauron became "'''[[Lord of the Ring|The Lord of the Rings]]'''". His influence corrupted the [[Númenóreans]] - leading to the destruction of [[Númenor]] - which led to [[Elendil]] founding the Realms in Exile of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]]. Elves and the [[Dúnedain]], the descendants of the Númenóreans, formed the [[Last Alliance]] and, in {{SA|3441}}, Elendil and Elven [[High King of the Noldor|High King]] [[Gil-galad]] died destroying Sauron's body. Following Sauron's defeat, Elendil's son [[Isildur]] took the One Ring.

In the Third Age, Sauron returned to Middle-earth and, as the '''Necromancer''', took the hill of [[Amon Lanc]] as his fortress of [[Dol Guldur]]; his chief servant, the [[Witch-king]], formed the realm of [[Angmar]] in the north of [[Eriador]]. Following an attack by the [[White Council]] in {{TA|2941}}, Sauron returned to his fortress of [[Barad-dûr]] in [[Mordor]]. By {{TA|3018}} [[Frodo Baggins]] was in possession of the Ring, and he was led by [[Gandalf]] as a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] in the [[Quest of the Ring]]. Whilst Sauron waged the [[War of the Ring]] against the [[Free peoples]] of Middle-earth, Frodo Baggins, [[Samwise Gamgee]] and now [[Gollum]] (who had lost the Ring to Frodo's uncle [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]]) reached Mount Doom. On [[25 March]] {{TA|3019}}, they reached Mount Doom and the Ring was destroyed. The breaking of the Ring caused Sauron's ultimate fall and resulted in the start of the [[Fourth Age]] and the [[Dominion of Men]].

==History==
===Origin===
As one of the [[Maiar]], Sauron was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> At the beginning of Time, he was amongst the [[Ainur]] who entered into [[Eä]].<ref name="SVala">{{S|Vala}}</ref> Here he became one of the Maiar of [[Aulë]],<ref name="SVala"/> and was known as '''''Mairon'''''.<ref name="PE17.1">{{PE|17}}, p. 183</ref> However, he was soon ensnared by [[Morgoth|Melkor]] and became his greatest and most trusted servant.<ref name="SRings">{{S|Rings}}</ref> Thus he came to be known as '''''Gorthaur''''' by the [[Sindar]] of [[Beleriand]] and '''''Sauron''''' by others.<ref name="SIndex">{{S|Index}}</ref>

===Years of the Trees===
After [[Morgoth|Melkor]] made his great fortress of [[Angband]] in the north-west of [[Middle-earth]], he appointed Sauron to be its commander.<ref name="SCaptivity">{{S|Captivity}}</ref> When the [[Valar]] captured Melkor at the [[Siege of Utumno]], they stormed and searched Utumno and Angband; they, however, failed to find Sauron.<ref name="SCaptivity"/>

===First Age===
[[File:Maureval - Mairon.jpg|thumb|right|Maureval - ''Mairon'']]
{{Blockquote|Sauron was become now a sorcerer of dreadful power, master of shadows and of phantoms, foul in wisdom, cruel in strength, misshaping what he touched, twisting what he ruled, lord of werewolves; his dominion was torment.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="SFingolfin">{{S|Fingolfin}}</ref>}}
With the unchaining of Morgoth and his subsequent destruction of the [[Two Trees|Two Trees of Valinor]], the [[Sun]] first rose and ushered in the awakening of [[Men]]. Leaving Sauron in command of the war, Morgoth left Angband in secret to find the second-born kindred of the [[Children of Ilúvatar]] and to corrupt them to his will.<ref name="SWest">{{S|West}}</ref>

After the fall of [[Fingolfin]], Sauron launched an attack on [[Tol Sirion]]. Utter fear descended upon [[Orodreth]] and those who defended the isle. Sauron assailed [[Minas Tirith (Beleriand)|Minas Tirith]] and turned it into a watch tower for Morgoth. Therein Sauron sat and Tol Sirion the fair became [[Tol-in-Gaurhoth]], the Isle of Werewolves.<ref name="SFingolfin"/>

Upon hearing of the deeds of [[Barahir]] and his companions, Morgoth ordered Sauron to find and kill them. [[Gorlim]], one of Barahir's companions, was captured and brought before Sauron. There Sauron promised that he would free Gorlim and his wife [[Eilinel]] in return for information. Under the terror of Sauron's eyes, Gorlim revealed everything he knew and thus the hiding place of Barahir was betrayed to the enemy. Subsequently, Sauron revealed Eilinel was dead and had Gorlim put to death.<ref name="Beren">{{S|Beren}}</ref>

[[Beren]], son of [[Barahir]], promised to avenge his father's death. He wandered [[Dorthonion]] as an outlaw and achieved great deeds that were heard far and wide. Thus Morgoth set a high price on his head and Sauron, commanding a great army of [[werewolves]] and [[fell beasts]], sought for Beren.<ref name="Beren"/>

Later, [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]], Beren, and their ten companions left [[Nargothrond]] in search of the [[Silmarils]]. Despite their being disguised as Orcs, Sauron espied them as they entered into the vale between [[Ered Wethrin]] and [[Taur-nu-Fuin (Dorthonion)|Taur-nu-Fuin]] and was suspicious as Orcs passing were supposed to report to him. He had them captured and they were brought to him. There Finrod and Sauron fought in songs of power; the strength of both was great, but Sauron was more powerful. He then stripped them of their Orc disguise but failed to discern who they were. He had them thrown into a dark pit where one by one they were devoured by a werewolf. Withstanding this horror, they refused to betray one another.<ref name="Beren"/>

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Huan Subdues Sauron.jpg|thumb|left|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Huan Subdues Sauron'']]
When all of their companions were dead, Finrod and Beren were the last who remained alive in Sauron's pit. When a werewolf went to attack Beren, Finrod Felegund used all his power to defeat it. In this he was successful. However, he was critically wounded and soon passed away. In that dark moment, [[Lúthien]] came to the bridge of [[Tol-in-Gaurhoth]] and sang. From his tower of Minas Tirith, Sauron saw Lúthien and knew that it was the famous daughter of [[Melian]] and [[Thingol]]. He desired to capture her and hand her over to Morgoth. Therefore he sent a wolf to the bridge, but it was quickly and silently slain by [[Huan]]. He sent many more and each one Huan killed. Finally, he sent [[Draugluin]], sire of the werewolves of Angband. The fight between Huan and Draugluin was fierce. Eventually Draugluin fled and, before dying, he told his master that Huan was there. Therefore Sauron took the form of a werewolf, the greatest the world had ever seen, and went towards the bridge. So great was the terror of his approach that even Huan momentarily recoiled. Sauron leaped to attack Lúthien, but she drew her magic veil over his eyes afflicting him with fatigue and blindness, then Huan sprang upon Sauron and there they fought. The force of Sauron's malice alone left Lúthien weak and nearly unconscious, and the fighting was brutal and prolonged; however, he could not subdue the hound of [[Valinor]]. He was trapped within Huan's jaws and could not break free, even when he took the form of a serpent and finally his own shape. Rather than leave his physical form, he yielded to Lúthien, giving her control of the isle in return for his release. He then took the form of a vampire and fled to [[Taur-nu-Fuin (Dorthonion)|Taur-nu-Fuin]], filling the forest with horror.<ref name="Beren"/>

After the [[War of Wrath]], with the downfall of [[Morgoth]] and the destruction of [[Thangorodrim]], Sauron adopted a fair form and repented his evil deeds in fear of the wrath of the Valar. [[Eönwë]] then ordered Sauron to return to [[Valinor]] in order to receive the judgement of Manwë. Sauron was not willing to suffer such humiliation and so he fled and hid himself in [[Middle-earth]].<ref name="SRings"/>

===Second Age===
[[File:Angel Falto - Annatar.jpg|thumb|right|Angel Falto - ''Annatar'']]

Although Sauron long knew that [[Men]] were easier to sway, he sought to bring the [[Elves]] into his service, as they were far more powerful. So after about a thousand years after the [[War of Wrath]], Sauron decided that the [[Valar]] had forgotten about [[Middle-earth]] and he once again turned to evil.<ref name="silm-rop">{{S|Rings}}</ref>

After lying hidden and increasing his power in secret, Sauron put on a fair visage, calling himself '''Annatar''', the Lord of Gifts, and in {{SA|1200}} he befriended the [[Elvish]] smiths of Eregion, counselling them in arts and magic.<ref name="lotr-toy">{{App|B}}</ref> He was never welcome in [[Lindon]] as [[Elrond]] and [[Gil-galad]] did not trust him and refused to treat with him (which included [[Galadriel]] too), although they never realised who he truly was. Elsewhere he was gladly received, especially in [[Eregion]] where the [[Elvish]] smiths learned much from him as their thirst for knowledge was great.<ref name="lotr-coe">{{FR|Council}}</ref>

Under Sauron's tutelage the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]], under the leadership of Celebrimbor, grandson of [[Fëanor]], became more skilled than anyone else, save for Fëanor himself. In the year {{SA|1500}}, when they reached the very height of their power, the Elves began the forging of the [[Rings of Power]], but Sauron knew all their secrets and in {{SA|1600}} - ten years after the completion of the Rings of Power - Sauron created [[The One Ring]] to control the bearers of the other Rings.<ref name="lotr-toy" /> For this he invested most of his own power into the Ring as he forged it.

But the Elves were not so easily ensnared, and as soon as Sauron put on the One Ring they and Celebrimbor were aware of him, and realised they were betrayed.<ref name="lotr-coe" /> They hid their Rings from Sauron and did not use them. Sauron demanded that the other Rings be given to him, for they would not have been made without his knowledge. The Elves refused, and the War was inevitable.<ref name="silm-rop" />

In this time Sauron became known as the [[Dark Lord]] of [[Mordor]]. He raised [[Barad-dûr]], the Dark Tower, near Mount Doom; constructed the [[Black Gate]] of Mordor to prevent invasion; and raised massive armies of [[Orcs]], [[Trolls]], and Men, chiefly [[Easterlings]] and [[Southrons]]. Sauron's power reached its zenith 700 years after Mordor's creation, in the 17th century of the Second Age.

The [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] was a bloody conflict which destroyed Eregion and devastated much of Eriador. Celebrimbor was slain and his body impaled on a spike paraded at the head of Sauron's legions. The Elves were pushed back almost to the Blue Mountains, while their Dwarf allies (who had also rejected Sauron) retreated behind the walls of [[Moria]] where Sauron could not assail them. Sauron was master of almost all of Middle-earth beyond the coasts, but the [[Númenóreans]], the powerful Men descended from the line of Beren and Lúthien, who lived on the island of Númenor in the sea between Middle-earth and Valinor, responded to the Elves' call for aid and sent a relief force. The combined armies rallied and were able to defeat Sauron's armies in Eriador after heavy fighting, and the Dark Lord fled back to Mordor with little more than his own bodyguard and a handful of orcs.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Forging of the One.jpg|thumb|left|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Forging of the One'']]
As the Elves had failed him, he had decided to distribute the Rings of Power to Men and Dwarves. The Dwarves also failed him, as they proved too hardy and resistant to their corruptive power; however the nine Men were corrupted and eventually faded, being turned into the [[Nazgûl]] (Ringwraiths), his chief servants.

Nonetheless, while Sauron's subsequent power never quite matched the height it had during the War with the elves, many of his most powerful enemies' homelands had been devastated. ''Relative'' to his enemies, Sauron's empire was actually in a stronger position than it used to be. His empire continued to expand to dominate barbarian Men to the far south and east. Throughout this, Sauron remained faithful in his old allegiance, building temples to the worship of Morgoth, where human sacrifice was practised. Because of this, towards the end of the Second Age, Sauron assumed the titles of '''Lord of the Earth''' and '''King of Men'''.

This offended the arrogant [[Númenóreans]] who had already started to fall under the [[Shadow]]. The proud Númenóreans came to Middle-earth with great force of arms, and Sauron's forces fled. Realising he could not defeat the Numenoreans with military strength, Sauron allowed himself to be taken as a hostage to Númenor by King [[Ar-Pharazôn]]. There, he quickly grew from captive to adviser and was known as '''Tar-Mairon'''; he converted many Númenóreans to the worship of Morgoth, becoming High Priest of the [[Cult of Melkor]]. He had the [[White Tree]] cut down and in its place raised a great temple in which he performed human sacrifices, persecuting those who were still [[Faithful]]. Finally, he convinced the king to rebel against the Valar and attack Valinor itself, claiming they would gain immortality. [[Ilúvatar|Eru]], the supreme god, then directly intervened: Númenor was drowned under the sea, and the great navy of Númenor was destroyed.

Sauron was on Númenor in the Temple of Melkor and was caught in the ensuing [[Drowning of Númenor|flood]]. However his spirit survived, although severely weakened by the destruction, and (presumably carrying the One Ring) fled back to Middle-earth.

Sauron's spirit returned to Mordor, where he slowly rebuilt his strength during the time known as the [[Dark Years]], and he was unable to assume a fair shape. From this point on he started to rule through terror and force

Meanwhile, a few faithful Númenóreans, led by [[Elendil]], were saved from the flood, and they founded [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]] in Middle-earth. Sauron still considered them his hated enemies and he launched a pre-emptive attack on Gondor in {{SA|3429}}. These Men, led by Elendil and his sons, formed the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men|Last Alliance]] with the Elves of [[Lindon]] under the Elven-king [[Gil-galad]], and together they fought Sauron in the [[War of the Last Alliance]]. The Alliance advanced against Mordor and defeated Sauron's forces in the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and finally laid siege before [[Barad-dûr]].

The siege lasted for seven years until {{SA|3441}}, when Sauron left his fortress engaging in direct combat. Elendil and Gil-galad fought Sauron and vanquished him, but both were killed. [[Isildur]], son of Elendil, cut the One Ring from Sauron's finger and claimed it. Later, the Ring betrayed him and was lost for more than two thousand years. After his defeat in the War of the Last Alliance, Sauron had lost his ability to form a physical body for a great while.

===Third Age===
Sauron's defeat released his subjects, like the [[Easterlings]], from his tyranny, but they fell into chaos. Their tribes and kingdoms battled against each other and some withdrew to the hated west.<ref>{{UT|6b}}</ref> Weakened by his defeat and the loss of the One Ring, it is thought that he fled to the far east to regain his power and strength before returning.

It was not until c. {{TA|1000}} that Sauron could again begin to take shape. Worried by this prospect, the [[Valar]] sent five [[Maiar]] from the West to assist the peoples of Middle-earth against Sauron.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>
====Sauron's Return====
[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Sauron.jpg|thumb|right|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] - ''Sauron'' (unfinished sketch)]]
In {{TA|1050|n}} his power was enough that he began again to throw a shadow across portions of [[Middle-earth]]. Around this time he first began to inhabit southern [[Mirkwood|Greenwood the Great]], choosing the hill of [[Amon Lanc]] as a place to build the fortress of [[Dol Guldur]]. At first, [[the Wise]] thought that it was one of the [[Nazgûl]] who had returned and taken up residence in southern Greenwood.

In the following centuries, his subjects in [[Angmar]], the [[East]] and the South once more concentrated against the Realms of his ancient enemies. Kings [[Araphant]] of [[Arnor]] and [[Ondoher]] of [[Gondor]] realised that a single force was co-ordinating the attacks on both of their kingdoms and that they should work together to combat this evil. However Angmar was successful in destroying Arnor; When Angmar was also destroyed, by [[Gondor]] and the Elves, the Nazgûl gathered back in Mordor and subsequently captured [[Minas Ithil]], now renamed [[Minas Morgul]]; Sauron's final success was ending the [[Kings of Gondor|royal line]] of Gondor.
====The Watchful Peace====
The Wise feared that their enemy is active in Dol Guldur, and when [[Gandalf]] entered the fortress in {{TA|2063|n}} the power in Dol Guldur fled before him thus beginning the [[Watchful Peace]].<ref name=TA/> Leaving [[Khamûl]] in his place, Sauron fled once more to the East, corrupting the Easterlings and forging a strong alliance between their tribes, so that when he returned he was more powerful and had many Men in his service.

The Shadow on Mirkwood had lessened, but the Nazgûl had used this period to prepare for Sauron's return and the [[Uruk-hai]], a new race of Orcs was bred in Minas Morgul.

Sauron returned from the east in {{TA|2460|n}} and again took up residence in [[Dol Guldur]] as the Necromancer. His return coincided with the One Ring revealing itself and [[Sméagol]] claimed it three years later. Feeling the danger, the Wise formed the [[White Council]].<ref name=TA/>

Sauron had captured the Dwarf King [[Thráin|Thráin II]] and taken [[Ring of Thrór|one]] of the [[Seven Rings|Seven Dwarf rings]] from him. After centuries of pressing the [[White Council]] to take action against the Necromancer, [[Gandalf]] entered Dol Guldur in secret in {{TA|2850|n}} and learned that the Necromancer was Sauron. In {{TA|2851|n}}, the White Council were informed of this, and Gandalf urged an immediate attack upon the fortress, but [[Saruman|Saruman the White]] had learned of the presence of the [[The One Ring|Ruling Ring]] near the [[Gladden Fields]]; he thought best to allow Sauron to build up his strength in order to reveal its location so that Saruman could seize it himself. Following his strategy, Saruman opposed Gandalf.<ref name=TA>{{App|TA}}</ref>

By 90 years later, Sauron had his minions look around [[Anduin]] for the One Ring and Saruman, always wanting it for himself, was worrying about it. In {{TA|2941|n}} Gandalf finally prevailed upon the [[White Council]] to attack Dol Guldur, and even Saruman agreed to [[Attack on Dol Guldur|drive Sauron out]]. By that time Gondor's forces around Mordor had weakened so much, and the [[Nazgûl]] had been preparing [[Barad-dûr]] for him, so it was easy for Sauron to flee and return to his ancient stronghold. The Dark Tower was reconstructed, and Sauron declared himself openly in {{TA|2951}}. Following this, the White Council met for one last time to discuss the whereabouts of the Rings.<ref name=TA/>

From then on Sauron stayed in Barad-dûr from where he conducted his war on the [[Free peoples]]. Saruman, who was residing in [[Orthanc]], had secretly found and used the [[Orthanc-stone]]. Through the [[Ithil-stone]] away in Barad-dûr, Sauron linked with and subjugated his mind, and by {{TA|3000}} he had totally deceived and corrupted him.<ref name=TA/>

====The War of the Ring====
Sauron bred immense armies of Orcs and allied with or enslaved Men from the east and south. He adopted the symbol of a lidless eye, and he was able at that time to send out his will over Middle-earth, so that the [[Eye of Sauron]] was a symbol of power and fear.

After torturing [[Gollum]], he learned that the One Ring had been found by [[Bilbo Baggins]]. He sent his deadliest servants, the [[Nazgûl]], to [[the Shire]], only to find that both Bilbo and his nephew, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], had departed. Unbeknownst to Sauron, Frodo had, at the behest of Gandalf, joined the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] on a quest to destroy the Ring. He rallied his vast armies to conquer the resistance's strongholds, and sent the Ringwraiths to find and kill Frodo. At about this time, he also learned that [[Aragorn]], Isildur's heir, had also joined the Fellowship, and was rallying armies to defeat his.

When Saruman's army was defeated at [[Isengard]], Pippin looked into the Palantir of [[Orthanc]] and saw Sauron, who thought the Hobbit was a prisoner of Saruman. Later [[Aragorn]] used the Palantir to reveal himself to Sauron. Sauron made the premature conclusion that Aragorn had the Ring, and sent an army commanded by his strongest servant, the Witch-King of Angmar, to overthrow [[Minas Tirith]]. This battle would become known as the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].

Although Sauron lost the Battle of Pelennor Fields, the free forces of the West were greatly weakened, and Sauron still had sufficient armies in reserve to ensure military victory. He was outwitted, however, by the strategy of Gandalf, who urged the captains of the [[Free peoples]] to march against Sauron, thus diverting the Dark Lord's eye from the real threat of Frodo, the Ring Bearer, who was nearing the end of his quest to destroy the One Ring.

Frodo, however, failed at the last moment, unable to resist the power of the Ring at the place of its birth. Sauron saw Frodo as he put on the ring and, realising he had been tricked, sent the Nazgul to Mount Doom. But Gollum inadvertently saved Frodo by recovering the Ring in a desperate attempt to possess it, and then falling with it into the fire. Thus Sauron's power was unmade, and his corporeal power in Middle-earth came to an end. His spirit towered above Mordor like a black cloud, but was blown away by a [[Manwë|powerful wind]] from the [[Aman|West]]. Sauron was now permanently crippled, never to rise again, following his ancient lord Morgoth into the Void. <ref name="SVala"/> Saruman would suffer a similar fate.

==Appearance==
===Physical Form===
At first Sauron appeared as a royal and commanding figure in a strong body. He was also able to veil his power. Later however he could take only a terrible form, of a stature slightly greater than a [[Men|Man]]'s.<ref>{{L|246}}</ref>

===Eye of Sauron===
The '''Eye of Sauron''', called by many various names, was the symbol of [[Sauron]] the Dark Lord following the loss of [[the One Ring]]. This symbol was adopted to show his unceasing vigilance and piercing perception, and was displayed on the weaponry of his servants, or at least the [[orcs]].

==Etymology==
{{Transcribed|Tengwar Sauron (Quenya mode).png|Sauron|Tengwar, Quenya mode}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Sauron.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{Pronounce|Annatar.mp3|Ardamir}}
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Gorthaur.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Mairon.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
'''''Sauron''''' (pron. {{IPA|[ˈsaʊron]}})<ref group=note>''Sauron'' is pronounced "sour-on" (''sour'' as in not sweet).</ref> is a [[Quenya]] name, said to mean "the Abhorred".<ref>{{S|Index}}</ref>

Several accounts of the origin of the name ''Sauron'' were suggested in different linguistic manuscripts:
*deriving from Quenya ''[[saura]]'' ("foul, evil-smelling, putrid", from the [[Sundocarme|root]] [[THUS#Other versions|THUS]]).<ref>{{LR|Etymologies}}, p. 393 (entry THUS-)</ref>
*deriving from Quenya ''[[saura]]'' ("foul, vile"; from root [[SAWA]]). The manuscript continues saying that ''Sauron'' "could be a genuine [[Sindarin]] formation from ''[[saur]]''; but is probably from Quenya". However, this origin appears to have been rejected, as it is followed by the comment "No. [[THAW|THAW-]], cruel. ''[[Saura]]'', cruel" in the manuscript.<ref>{{PE|17}}, pp. 183-4</ref>
*deriving from the [[Primitive Quendian]] form ''Øaurond-'' (formed from the adjective ''Øaurā'' "detestable", from root [[THAW]]).<ref>{{L|297}}, p. 380</ref>
*deriving from '''''Thauron''''', which includes the [[Sindarin]] element ''[[thaur]]'' ("abominable, abhorrent"; also found in [[Sauron#Other names and titles|''Gor'''thaur''''']]).<ref>{{S|Appendix}} (entry for ''thaur'')</ref>

==Other names and titles==
'''''Gorthaur''''' ([[Sindarin]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈɡorθaʊr]}}) was a name used of Sauron by the [[Sindar]] during the [[First Age]],<ref>{{S|18}}</ref><ref>{{WJ|15}}, p. 240</ref> meaning "Terrible Dread".

In some of Tolkien's notes from the 1950s, it is said that Sauron's original name was '''''Mairon''''', "the admirable" ([[Quenya|Q]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈmaɪron]}}), "but this was altered after he was suborned by Melkor. But he continued to call himself Mairon the Admirable, or Tar-mairon 'King Excellent', until after Númenor's downfall."<ref name="PE17.1"/>

Among his many titles were the '''[[Necromancer]]''', '''the Abhorred Dread''', the '''Nameless Enemy''', the '''Cruel''',<ref>{{S|IId}}</ref> the '''Dark Lord of Mordor''' and the '''Lord of the Rings'''. The Dúnedain called him '''Sauron the Deceiver''' due to his role in the downfall of Númenor and the Forging of the Rings of Power.

In the earlier Legendarium, Thû was a name for Sauron used by Tolkien in some of earlier periods, particularly the Lay of Leithian<ref>{{LB|3|C7}}</ref>, where Thû replaced Tevildo the Cat<ref>{{LT2|I}}</ref>.

== Other versions of the Legendarium ==
Prior to the publication of ''The Silmarillion'' Sauron's origins and true identity were unclear to those without full access to Tolkien's notes. In early editions of the ''[[The Complete Guide to Middle-earth|Guide to Middle Earth]]'', Sauron is described as "probably of the Eldar elves."

Since the earliest versions of the ''Silmarillion'' legendarium as detailed in [[the History of Middle-earth]] series, Sauron has undergone many changes. The prototype of this character was '''[[Tevildo]]''', lord of the cats, who played the role later taken by Sauron in the earliest version of the story of [[Beren]] and [[Lúthien]] in ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]'', '''[[The Tale of Tinúviel]]'''. Tevildo later (but still in the ''Book of Lost Tales'' period) was transformed into '''[[Thû]]''', the Necromancer. The name was then changed to '''Gorthû''', '''Sûr''', and finally to Sauron. ''Gorthû'', in the form ''Gorthaur'' remained in ''The Silmarillion''.

===The Necromancer===
In ''[[The Hobbit]]'' the Necromancer is an obscure villainous entity mentioned fleetingly by [[Gandalf]] as one of the dangers of the wider world. He is peripheral to the plot of the book: explaining why the company takes the dangerous road though Mirkwood rather than going around, and providing a reason for Gandalf's absence for that section of the journey. Thematically the Necromancer, a truly 'terrible' force beyond the power of the main protagonists, gives the world of ''The Hobbit'' a greater level of reality which Tolkien felt was necessary for a 'fairy-tale' to ring true.<ref name="Letter17">{{L|17}}</ref>

Despite the alias it would appear that the Necromancer was always intended to stand for [[Sauron]], a figure from the very earliest phases of his [[Legendarium]] (as [[Tevildo]] in ''[[The Tale of Tinúviel]]''). Shortly after the publication of ''The Hobbit'' Tolkien wrote:
{{blockquote|Mr Baggins began as a comic tale among conventional and inconsistent Grimm's fairy-tale dwarves, and got drawn into the edge of it – so that even Sauron the terrible peeped over the edge.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="Letter19">{{L|19}}</ref>}}

However, as ''The Hobbit'' was not originally intended to be integrated with Tolkien's wider mythology the Necromancer did not necessarily need to be consistent with his [[First Age]] counterpart Sauron, rather the two were loosely linked to add an 'impression of depth' to the narrative of ''The Hobbit''. With Tolkien's decision to merge the two 'worlds' and make Sauron the central antagonist ''[[Lord of the Rings]]'' came the need to reconcile the two figures and account for his whereabouts in the millennia between the end of the First Age and his dwelling in Bilbo's Mirkwood. This was largely achieved in the ''[[Appendix B|Tale of Years]]'', with Sauron becoming a much greater figure after the fall of his master, one who arguably drove the history of the entire Second and Third Ages of Middle-earth.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Sauron in Adaptations
|width=160
|height=160
|lines=3
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Prologue.jpg|Sauron in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:LOTR-vol2-Sauron1.png|Sauron in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. II: The Two Towers]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Sauron.jpg|Sauron ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''
|File:The Eye Of Sauron.jpg|Eye of Sauron in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]''
|File:Necromancer.jpg|The Necromancer in the ''[[Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]''
|File:Lord of the Rings The Third Age - Eye of Sauron.png|Eye of Sauron in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online Shadows of Angmar - Eye of Sauron.png|Eye of Sauron in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online Shadows of Angmar - Annatar.png|[[Annatar|Antheron]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Conquest - Sauron1.png|Sauron in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]''
|File:Guardians of Middle-earth - Sauron.png|Sauron in ''[[Guardians of Middle-earth]]''
|File:The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey - Necromancer.jpg|The Necromancer in ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]''
}}
===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
: Sauron is briefly shown in the prologue sequence as a shadowy figure in a horned helmet.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Sauron is played by [[Sala Baker]] and voiced by the late [[Alan Howard]]. In these films, he is depicted as a tall armored warlord wielding a huge mace (similar to how his master [[Morgoth]] is described in ''[[The Silmarillion]]''). In the first film, he is depicted killing [[Gil-galad]] (offscreen) and then [[Elendil]] before being defeated by [[Isildur]] using his father's [[Narsil|broken sword]] to cut off the finger wearing [[the One Ring]], as well as three others on the same hand. This strangely causes his body to explode, producing a shockwave that knocks everyone on the battlefield off their feet.

:Later on, [[Saruman]] implies to [[Gandalf]] that Sauron was unable to retain his physical form and that the Eye was his astral form, a detail which is never brought up in the novel. It is unknown if Saruman was truthful with this statement, or if he was either misinformed or lying (since he was already plotting to ally with Sauron at that point).

'''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 Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
: Sauron is played and voiced by [[Benedict Cumberbatch]], under his assumed identity as the Necromancer. In these films, it is stated that the White Council does not discover he is Sauron until much later, during the events of these films, previously believing him to be a human with skills in magic. In these films, Sauron initially appears as a shadowy figure before assuming his armoured form from the previous films and projects the Eye of Sauron around his body.

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Sauron is provided by [[Felix Felton]].<ref name="RT1724">Radio Times, Volume 133, No. 1724, [[23 November|November 23]], [[1956]]</ref>

'''1968: [[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1968 radio series)]]:'''
:Sauron is mentioned only very briefly at the end; [[Gandalf]] and [[Elrond]] discuss how the "Necromancer" had been driven from his abode in the south of [[Mirkwood]].

'''1979: [[The Hobbit (1979 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''

===Video games===
'''1985: ''[[Lord of the Rings: Game One]]'':'''

'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''

'''1990: [[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (1990 video game)|''J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I'' (1990 video game)]]:'''
:Sauron is mentioned by [[Gandalf]] in the beginning of the game.

'''1993: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. II: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Sauron is mentioned in the beginning of the game, when [[Gandalf]] explains the history of [[the One Ring]].

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''

'''2003: [[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (2003 video game)]]:'''
:Sauron and the events of the south of Mirkwood are left unmentioned. However, whilst in Mirkwood, [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] has to defeat creatures that he calls "Minions of the Necromancer".

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age]]'':'''
:At the end of the game, Berethor and company (the playable characters) have to defeat the eye of Sauron by physically attacking him on top of [[Barad-dûr]].

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''

'''2005: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Tactics]]'':'''

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]'':'''

'''2008: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]'':'''

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''

'''2010: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]'':'''

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

'''2012: ''[[Guardians of Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Sauron is a "guardian".<ref name="Trailer">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caYW7d-8MIY&feature=player_embedded|articlename=''Guardians of Middle-earth'': First Official Gameplay Trailer|dated=29 June 2012|website=YT|accessed=16 July 2012}}</ref>

'''2014: ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]'''''

===Others===
'''1982-97: ''[[Middle-earth Role Playing]]'':'''
:Sauron is treated as a Mage of level 180 (level 360 if using the One Ring). Among his items are the Elf-slaying Black Sword (S. ''Mormegil''), the Gauntlet of Slaying ("Narsil's Bane"), and the Black Scale of dragonskin. Among his special powers are Domination (control over other players using the One Eye), resistance to normal weapons, and the ability to force anyone within his sight to resist fear (or otherwise becoming frozen).<ref>{{ICE|8002}}, pp. 98-102</ref><ref>{{ICE|2006}}, pp. 97-105</ref>

'''1995-8: ''[[Middle-earth Collectible Card Game]]'':'''
:The card "[http://www.tradecardsonline.com/im/selectCard/card_id/54534/cards_lang/1 Sauron]", appearing in the set ''[[Middle-earth: The Balrog|The Balrog]]'', is playable as a manifestation of the card "[http://www.tradecardsonline.com/im/selectCard/card_id/54002/cards_lang/1 The Lidless Eye]" (from the set [[Middle-earth: The Lidless Eye|''The Lidless Eye'']]), and can be used by players to enhance their general influence.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.tradecardsonline.com/im/selectCard/game_id/20/goal/|articlename=Home page for the game Middle Earth|dated=|website=[http://www.tradecardsonline.com/ Trade Cards Online]|accessed=5 January 2012}}</ref>

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Sauron|Images of Sauron]]

==External links==
*[http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/sauronname.htm A Name for the Dark Lord] by [[Helge Fauskanger]]

{{references|note}}

{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
| race=evil
| house=[[Maia]]
| died=[[25 March]] {{TA|3019}}
}}
{{seq
| pvac=None
| prev=Ring created
| list=[[Ring-bearer]]
| dates=c. {{SA|1600}} – {{SA|3441|n}}
| next=[[Isildur]]
}}
{{seq-end}}

{{Ainur}}
{{ringbearers}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:First Age characters]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Quenya names]]
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]
[[Category:Servants of Melkor]]
[[de:Sauron]]
[[fi:Sauron]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/sauron]]

Witch-king

2018-04-16T03:43:56Z

173.206.83.82:

{{footnotes}}
{{evil infobox
| name=The Witch-king of Angmar
| image=[[File:Melissa Hitchcock - The Black Captain.jpg|250px]]
| caption="The Black Captain" by [[:Category:Images by Melissa Hitchcock|Melissa Hitchcock]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Black Captain, Chief of the Nine, Lord of Minas Morgul
| titles=
| position=Lord of the [[Nazgûl]]
| location=[[Angmar]] [[Minas Morgul]]
| affiliation=[[Sauron]]
| language=[[Black Speech]], [[Westron]]
| birth=[[Second Age]]
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[15 March]], {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]]
| age=4200+
| notablefor=[[Arnor#The Fall of Arthedain|Fall of Arnor]] Establishing [[Angmar]] Fall of [[Minas Ithil]] and [[Osgiliath]] Deaths of [[Eärnur]], [[Boromir (Steward of Gondor)|Boromir]], and [[Théoden]] Stabbing [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| race=[[Númenorean]] (early) [[Nazgûl|Ringwraith]] (later)
| gender=Male
| height=Tallest of the Nazgûl
| hair=Gleaming
| eyes=
| clothing=Crown
| weapons=[[Morgul-knife]]; [[Black Breath]]; A great black mace
| steed=Black horse
| gallery=the Witch-king
}}
{{quote|In rode the Lord of the Nazgûl. A great black shape against the fires beyond he loomed up, grown to a vast menace of despair. In rode the Lord of the Nazgûl, under the archway that no enemy ever yet had passed, and all fled before his face.|"[[The Siege of Gondor]]"<ref name="Siege">{{RK|Siege}}</ref>}}
The '''Witch-king of Angmar''' was the chief of the [[Nazgûl]], King of [[Angmar]] and [[Sauron]]’s great captain in his wars. A [[Wraiths|wraith]], the Witch-king of Angmar was nearly indestructible, a terrifying warrior, and a cunning strategist.

==History==
Some time after Sauron seized the [[Rings of Power]] in the [[Sack of Eregion]], {{SA|1697}} he gave [[Nine Rings|nine of them]] to [[Men|Mannish]] kings, sorcerers and other warriors.<ref>{{S|Rings}}, p. 289</ref> With the power of their rings, the Nine achieved glory and grew wealthy, but they eventually started hating life as they were slowly drawn under Sauron’s dominion. In the end, they all became the dreadful [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]].

The one later known as the Witch-king was one of these, likely one of the unnamed three lords of [[Númenor]] to take the rings.<ref>{{S|Akallabeth}}, p. 267, Ballantine Books p. 320</ref> <ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion]], p. 20</ref> He first appeared in the histories as a Ringwraith in {{SA|2251}}. Being the most powerful of the Nazgûl, he became their chief and the most feared servant of his master Sauron.

When [[Mordor]] fell in {{SA|3441}}, the Nazgûl vanished into the shadows and were not heard of again for a long time.<ref name="appendixB">{{App|B}}</ref>

===Early Power in Angmar===
More than a thousand years later, in c. {{TA|1050|n}} of the [[Third Age]], [[Sauron]] began to rebuild his power in [[Dol Guldur]]. In c. {{TA|1300|n}} his Nazgûl also reappeared and the Witch-king established his realm, [[Angmar]], in the north.<ref name="appendixB">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix B]]</ref> His capital was [[Carn Dûm]], on the northernmost peak of the [[Misty Mountains]]. He summoned men, [[orcs]] and other creatures of evil inclination to his banner. No one knew that he was actually a servant of the long-dormant [[Sauron]] and few that he was a wraith.<ref name="AppA">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), [[Houghton Mifflin]] p. 320 </ref>

In the north, disunity plagued the [[Dúnedain]] of [[Arnor]]. They had divided into three kingdoms: [[Cardolan]], [[Rhudaur]] and [[Arthedain]], and were constantly at war with one another.<ref name="AppA">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), Houghton Mifflin p. 320 </ref> The Witch-king saw the North-kingdom of Arnor as more vulnerable than the South-kingdom of Gondor.<ref name="Malvegil">[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], [[The Heirs of Elendil]], entry for [[Malvegil]], [[HarperCollins]] p. 193-194 </ref> He played upon their opposition, sending in infiltrators and taking over the hearts of the men of that land. By {{TA|1349|n}}, the government of Rhudaur was controlled by men secretly in his service,<ref name="Malvegil">[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], [[The Heirs of Elendil]], entry for [[Malvegil]], [[HarperCollins]] p. 193-194</ref> and he secretly aided them in their wars against the other kingdoms.<ref name="Argeleb">[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], [[The Heirs of Elendil]], entry for [[Argeleb I]], [[HarperCollins]] p. 194</ref> He then struck at a time of great hostility among the three, in {{TA|1409|n}}. Rhudaur in the east fell first, and most of the Dúnedain there were hunted down and slaughtered by sorcerers.<ref name="Arveleg">[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], [[The Heirs of Elendil]], entry for [[Arveleg I]], [[HarperCollins]] p. 194 </ref> Cardolan was ravaged and the [[Tower of Amon Sûl]], held by the men of Arthedain, was placed under siege. King [[Arveleg I]] was slain and the tower was destroyed, but the coveted ''[[Amon Sûl-stone|palantír]]'' escaped in the hands of the surviving men of Arthedain and was brought to [[Fornost]].<ref name="Palantiri16">[[Unfinished Tales]], [[The Palantíri]], note 16, [[Houghton Mifflin]] p. 413 </ref>

The Witch-king continued to press the men of Arthedain, laying siege to Fornost, and he might have taken over all of Arnor in that one offensive. But [[Araphor]], the 18-year-old son of Arveleg, came to leadership and, with the help of the ancient elf [[Círdan]] of [[Lindon]], repelled the Witch-king’s forces at Fornost and the [[North Downs]].<ref name="ten">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 321-322</ref> [[Elrond]] brought an army of [[Elves]] from [[Rivendell]] and [[Lothlórien]], and the Witch-king was pushed back and subdued.

===Twilight of Angmar===
The Witch-king sat silent in Carn Dûm, rebuilding his armies and preparing for a final assault on [[Arthedain]], last of the Arnorian kingdoms. The [[Dark Plague]] came and went in {{TA|1636|n}}, taking with it the last of the Dúnedain of [[Cardolan]]. The Witch-king sent [[barrow-wights]] to inhabit the barrows in [[Barrow-downs|Tyrn Gorthad]].<ref name="ten">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 321-322</ref> In {{TA|1974|n}}, he felt that his power was sufficiently restored to begin the advance.

His attack was sudden, but not unexpected. King [[Arvedui]] sent a message to King [[Eärnil II]] of [[Gondor]] the year before, but help did not arrive in time. [[Fornost]] fell, and the Witch-king took up residence there in the palace.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref> Arvedui held out as best as he might on the [[North Downs]], but at last fled north with the treasured ''[[palantíri]]'' of [[Amon Sûl-stone|Amon Sûl]] and [[Annúminas-stone|Annúminas]]. He would not return, for he perished in a shipwreck in {{TA|1975|n}}. With him the ''palantíri'' were lost forever in the icy seas of [[Forod]]. The already-diminished North-kingdom ended, and [[Arnor]] fell.<ref name="ten">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 321-322</ref>

Meanwhile, a coalition in the south had formed. Eärnil sent his son, [[Eärnur]], north with a great fleet, all that Gondor could spare. They arrived at [[Lindon]] and joined with the folk of Círdan. Círdan summoned all that would come: surviving Dúnedain of Arnor and elves of Lindon.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref> Even a company of [[Hobbits|hobbit]] archers went to their aide.<ref name="ten">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iii), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 321-322</ref> The Witch-king had grown overconfident and, instead of staying behind his fortifications, initiated the attack. The [[Battle of Fornost]] was fought on the plain between [[Nenuial]] and the North Downs. The Witch-king may not have anticipated the strength brought against him, but for whatever reason the alliance gained the upper hand. His army began to fall back toward Fornost, but Eärnur’s magnificent horsemen struck from the north and the Witch-king was routed.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref>

He decided to flee to Angmar and the safety of Carn Dûm, but the cavalry, with Eärnur himself in the lead, overtook him. Moreover, the ranks of the allies swelled, as an army of elves from [[Rivendell]] came led by the mighty hero of old, [[Glorfindel]]. Angmar was purged of men and orcs, and all seemed lost for the Witch-king in the face of such numbers. But the Witch-king himself came at the last, robed and masked in black and riding a black horse, and attempted to kill Eärnur with his own hands. But Eärnur’s horse shied away and fled, and the Witch-king laughed. But Glorfindel came on his white horse, and faced with such power the Witch-king fled. He vanished into the shadows and no-one marked where he had gone.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref>

Eärnur wanted to pursue, but Glorfindel held him back and made his famous prophecy.

{{Blockquote|He will not return to this land. Far off yet is his doom, and not by the hand of man will he fall.|Glorfindel, ''[[The Return of the King]]'', [[Appendix A]] (iv)}}

===Lord of Minas Morgul===
The Witch-king escaped to [[Mordor]], and gathered the other Ringwraiths about him in {{TA|1980|n}}.<ref name="appendixB">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix B]]</ref> Angmar and Carn Dûm were lost, and so in {{TA|2000|n}} the Witch-king began a two-year siege of [[Minas Ithil]], eventually capturing the place and turning it into his residence. It was renamed [[Minas Morgul]], and the ''[[Ithil-stone|palantír]]'' was sent to Sauron. The Witch-king sent an aura of fear in [[Gondor]], and much of [[Ithilien]] was deserted.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref>

Eärnur succeeded his father as King of Gondor, and still held the Witch-king in especial hostility due to his humiliation at the Battle of Fornost. The year of his coronation the Witch-king sent him a taunting challenge, but [[Mardil|Mardil Voronwë]] the steward restrained Eärnur from rash action. Seven years later the challenge was repeated, and Eärnur rode with a small escort to Minas Morgul. None that rode thither ever returned, and there was no longer a King in Gondor.<ref name="eleven">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] pp. 331-332</ref>

After this the Witch-king bided his time. He and the Nazgûl built up their armies, including the terrible new orc-race of [[uruks]]. In {{TA|2475|n}} he sent them out to capture [[Osgiliath]], which they did successfully. They were driven out by [[Boromir (Steward of Gondor)|Boromir]], [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] of [[Gondor]], but Osgiliath now lay completely in ruins. Boromir went on to retake Ithilien, so that even the Witch-king feared him. But he was killed by a Morgul-wound, and so his rule was but twelve years.<ref name="twelve">[[The Lord of the Rings]], [[Appendix A]] (iv), [[Houghton Mifflin]] p. 333</ref>

===Hunt for the Ring===
Sauron declared himself openly in {{TA|2951|n}}, and sent three of his Ringwraiths to [[Dol Guldur]] (though the Witch-king was left in Minas Morgul). Then, by lucky chance, the creature [[Gollum]] was captured and interrogated. Under torture, the wretched creature revealed the tale of [[the One Ring]] and how it came to be in his possession. But from his words Sauron misunderstod that the land of the hobbits who stole the Ring was on the banks of the [[Gladden River]], whence Gollum originally came from.<ref name="thirteen">{{UT|Hunt}}, [[Houghton Mifflin]] p. 338-341</ref> Sauron sent the Nine, under the leadership of the Witch-king, invisible and uncloaked, to search for the Ring after the assault of Osgiliath.

[[Khamûl]], the Witch-king’s lieutenant, reported that he was unable to find the “[[the Shire|Shire]]” in the vales of [[Anduin]]. The Witch-king was determined to search north and west until Gollum was found, or the Shire. But plans were halted when Sauron received word of the prophecy in Gondor and the doings of the turncoat [[Saruman]], and concluded that the Wise did not yet have possession of the Ring. He sent the Ringwraiths to [[Isengard]] in the form of [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]], too late to prevent the escape of the captured wizard [[Gandalf]], but had words with Saruman. Saruman, already a traitor to both sides due to his transparent lust for the Ring, fortified himself in Isengard. The Witch-king did not have enough power with him to assault Saruman in his great fortress, but had words with him. Saruman convinced the Witch-king that Gandalf alone knew where the Shire and the Ring was, and so the Nine passed into [[Rohan]] in search of him.<ref name="thirteen"/>

They came upon the traitor called [[Gríma|Wormtongue]] and questioned him. The terrified man told them everything he knew; that Gandalf had passed through Rohan, where the Shire was, and even that Saruman had lied to them. The Witch-king spared Wormtongue’s life, foreseeing that Wormtongue would bring ruin to Saruman. He divided his wraiths into four pairs, and went with the swiftest to [[Minhiriath]]. Along the way they captured several spies of Saruman, and found to their delight charts and maps of the Shire. They sent along the spy to [[Bree]], warning them that they now belonged to Mordor, not Saruman.<ref name="thirteen"/>

They came to [[Sarn Ford]], but the [[Dúnedain]] [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] prevented them from crossing. They sent for their great captain, the chieftain [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]], who alone could well resist the wraiths, but he was away, and the Ringwraiths captured the ford and killed many of the Rangers.<ref name="thirteen"/> The Witch-king sent three Ringwraiths under Khamûl into the Shire while he went east with the others.<ref name="appendixB">{{App|B}}</ref> But they had come too late: the Ring had moved on in the hands of a hobbit, [[Frodo Baggins]].

===Pursuit of the Ring===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg|thumb|right|220px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Fire on Weathertop'']]Khamûl was unsuccessful, but brought word from the spy they had spared in Bree. The man had witnessed a vanishing act on Frodo's part, and had organized an attack on the inn. The Witch-king guessed that Frodo would head east, and sent four wraiths to [[Weathertop]], the ruins of the tower he had destroyed long ago. He went south along the [[Greenway]] and discovered nothing. Gandalf followed them, but the Witch-king let him slip ahead, and attacked him on Weathertop. Gandalf escaped at dawn, and again the Witch-king divided his force and sent four after the wizard.

The Ring walked almost right into his hands. The captain of the Dúnedain, Aragorn II, had become the guide of the hobbits, and led them to Weathertop, where they were spotted and attacked. The Witch-king advanced on Frodo, and the terrified hobbit put on the Ring, seeing them as they truly were. When Frodo resisted, and invoked the name of [[Varda|Elbereth]], the Witch-king stabbed Frodo in the shoulder. The tip of his blade broke off and sent poison through the hobbit’s veins. Then Aragorn counterattacked with flaming brands. The Witch-king departed with the other Nazgûl, believing that his objective was completed.

He resumed the pursuit quickly, though, and found that Khamûl had been driven from the [[Last Bridge]] by his old enemy [[Glorfindel]]. The Witch-king, who only had one companion with him, was likewise unable to confront him openly. They regrouped and went south, rejoining with the other four. They managed to pick up the trail of the company of the Ring, and despite hindrance from Glorfindel and Aragorn managed to pursue Frodo alone on [[Asfaloth]]. The pursuit came to the [[Ford of Bruinen]], and there Frodo compelled the horse to stop. The Witch-king saw his defiance and laughed, breaking his sword with a movement of his hand. But the waters of the [[Bruinen]] rose at [[Elrond]]'s command, sweeping the Nine downstream.<ref name="fourteen">[[The Fellowship of the Ring]], [[Flight to the Ford]]</ref>

===War of the Ring===
[[File:Angus McBride - Gandalf facing Witch-king.gif|thumb|left|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Gandalf facing the Witch-king'']]
The Witch-king took the only surviving horse back to [[Mordor]], arriving there in December. He then sent aid to the other eight Nazgûl, and they returned in secret. In [[Minas Morgul]] they prepared for a grand invasion of [[Gondor]] at the order of their master. The Witch-king was given by Sauron added "demonic" force.<ref name="fifteen">[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Letter 210]], p. 272</ref> On 10 March {{TA|3019|n}}, the signal was given and Minas Morgul was emptied. The Witch-king rode at the head of the army in black, upon a black horse, as he had in the time of the wars of Angmar. As the Witch-king passed out of the gates of the dead city, he sensed the presence of Frodo. He was disturbed, but continued on through Ithilien.

With the Witch-king in command, [[Osgiliath]] soon fell.<ref name="Siege">{{RK|Siege}}</ref> The defeat was attributed to his superior numbers, and his terrible presence which made all hearts to quail. The [[Rammas Echor]] was breached, and the [[Pelennor Fields]] were overrun. Other wraiths he sent out mounted on [[Fell beasts]]. [[Faramir]], [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Denethor|Denethor II]]'s son, was wounded by a dart and the [[Black Breath|black breath]], but his company was saved by a sortie. Then the Witch-king laid siege to [[Minas Tirith]] itself, sending fire and the heads of the dead Gondorians into the city via catapults. Then he launched the assault.

He sent [[Grond (battering ram)|Grond]] out first, accompanying it in person so as to be the first to enter the city. Three times Grond struck the gate, empowered by the sorcery of the Witch-king. The third time the Gate shattered in a flash of fire. The Witch-king passed into Minas Tirith, but was confronted by Gandalf on [[Shadowfax]]. Gandalf forbade him entry, but the Witch-king laughed and put on a show of power.

{{Blockquote|The Black Rider flung back his hood, and behold! he had a kingly crown; and yet upon no head visible was it set. The red fires shone between it and the mantled shoulders vast and dark. From a mouth unseen there came a deadly laughter. 'Old fool!' he said. 'Old fool! This is my hour. Do you not know Death when you see it? Die now and curse in vain!' And with that he lifted high his sword and flames ran down the blade.|''[[The Return of the King]]'', [[The Siege of Gondor]]}}.

===The Fall of the Witch-king===
[[File:Nick Deligaris - Éowyn and Nazgûl.jpg|thumb|350px|Nick Deligaris - ''Éowyn and Nazgûl'']]
As Gandalf stood resolute before the Witch-king, the [[Rohirrim]] arrived. Thus he departed, mounting a fell beast and descending upon King [[Théoden]] who led the attack. [[Snowmane]], the King's horse, collapsed with a dart in the side, and Théoden was crushed beneath him. But the rider [[Dernhelm]] defied the Witch-king. The Witch-king threatened Dernhelm with a terrible death, but the rider revealed that she was a woman, [[Éowyn]], and the Witch-king remembered the words of Glorfindel. He hesitated, but then moved forward. Éowyn decapitated the fell beast, but the Witch-king rose and struck her down with his mace, breaking her shield-arm. Then the hobbit [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] stabbed him in the sinew of his leg with the [[Daggers of Westernesse|blade of Westernesse]] (though there was much pain in Meriadoc's arm afterward), as he drew back to kill the woman. Then Éowyn rose and drove her sword through where his invisible head was, and the sword broke as his crown toppled. The Witch-king gave a great and horrible wail, perishing at last.<ref name="Pelennor">{{RK|Battle}}</ref>

So the prophecy of Glorfindel was fulfilled, for the Witch-king did not fall at the hands of a man, but at the hands of [[Éowyn|a woman]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|a hobbit]]. With his defeat, and the coming of Aragorn II in the black ships, the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] was lost by Sauron.

==Names==
* Witch-king of Angmar - "Witch" most likely coming from his background in sorcery, and "king" after his establishment of the realm of Angmar in 1300.
* Witch-lord of Angmar - A variant of the above title.
* Lord of the Nazgûl
* Lord of the Ringwraiths
* Chieftain of the Ringwraiths
* Lord of the Nine Riders
* King of the Nine Riders
* Wraith-lord
* Wraith-king
* High Nazgûl
* Lord of Morgul
* Morgul-lord
* King of Minas Morgul
* Black Captain
* Captain of Despair
* [[Dwimmerlaik]]
* Lord of Carrion

==Etymology==
While in modern English ''witch'' has mostly female connotations, referring to a hag or sorceress, in middle-English ''wicche'' had no gender distinction; the preference of ''witch'' for female persons (the males referred more usually as ''wizzards'') evolved later through the centuries.

Tolkien uses the archaic, gender-unspecific meaning of the term; of course, the word [[Wizards|Wizard]] refers exclusively to the [[Maiar]] [[Istari]].

==Inspirations==
An undead witch-king named ''Þráinn'' appears in ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hrómundar_saga_Gripssonar Hrómundar saga Gripssonar]''. It is possible that this was Tolkien's source of inspiration.

The prophecy that the Witch-king would fall "not by the hand of man" and the fulfillment of the prophecy occurring as a technicality (being slain by a hobbit and a woman) bears a striking resemblance to the prophecy regarding the title character's death in Shakespeare's Macbeth, where it was foretold that Macbeth will be slain "not by man born of woman" and is then killed by Macduff, born by caesarian section. Tolkien was familiar with the play, having reputedly taken inspiration for the Last March of the Ents from the same source (See article ''[[Ents]]'' for details).

==Portrayal in adaptations ==
The Witch-king's true name is never given, and therefore among [[Tolkien fandom|Tolkien fans]], the Witch-king is often simply called ''Angmar'', after the name of the realm he founded and led. It is possible that he was one of the three [[Black Númenóreans]] Tolkien stated had become Nazgûl, or possibly [[Isilmo]], a Númenórean prince and father of Tar-Minastir. This possibility was adopted by the now defunct [[Middle-earth Role Playing]] game and [[Mithril Miniatures]] where he is named ''Er-Murazor'', a Númenórean prince and younger son of [[Tar-Ciryatan]].
<center><gallery>
File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Witch-King.jpg|<center>The Witch-king in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King - Witch-king.jpg|<center>The Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]''</center>
File:Witchking ea rotk.jpg|<center>The Witch-king from [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings online Shadows of Angmar - Witch-king 1.jpg|<center>The Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Witch-king of Angmar.png|<center>The Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''</center>
</gallery></center>
===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:The Witch-king is shown with no distinction from the other [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]; all are robed in brown and black, and none seem to be able to talk clearly.

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:The Witch-king is portrayed as a humanoid figure with no head. Red eyes glare under a golden crown. His dialogue is more or less as in the books, albeit in a strange and somewhat unfitting electronic voice. After a stab from behind by [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]], [[Éowyn]] beheads him. It is worthy of note that the Witch-king is seen with the [[Red Eye]] of [[Barad-dûr]] as his emblem and faction, rather than the grim moon of [[Minas Morgul]].

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:The Witch-king is called the "Witch-king of [[Angmar]]", the "Lord of the [[Nazgûl]]", and the "Greatest of the Nine" by [[Gandalf]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]''; however, no other mention of the kingdom of Angmar itself is made. Also, in that film, there is no mention of [[Glorfindel]]'s prophecy; there is only a claim among the enemy that "no man can kill" the Witch-king. Like the other Nazgûl, he is depicted as a humanoid figure shrouded in a hooded black robe; his only distinguishing feature is a mask-like spiked helmet with a huge mouth. His first mention is when Gandalf tells [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] while in Minas Tirith that the Dark Lord has not yet revealed his "deadliest" servant: the Witch-king, the one that "stabbed [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] on [[Weathertop]]".

:During the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], the Witch-king's army uses the ram [[Grond (battering ram)|Grond]] to break through the city gates early in the battle (after the failure of a lesser ram), and the Witch-king is not present to confront Gandalf as he is in the book. The confrontation takes place later, as Pippin and Gandalf race to the tombs to save [[Faramir]], and the Witch-king intercepts them. Unlike in the book, this meeting decisively favors the Witch-king, who breaks Gandalf's staff and throws the wizard to the ground before leaving to deal with the arrival of the [[Rohirrim]]. Gandalf's face shows obvious fear in this scene, in comparison to the resolution (for "victory or death") in the books.

:The Witch-king's destruction on the battlefield occurs with less dialogue than in the book, and the weapons used to destroy him are both mundane: Merry's sword is not a [[Daggers of Westernesse|dagger]] from the [[Barrow-downs]], but rather the Rohirric sword that [[Théoden]] had as a child.

:Eight actors are known to have played some part of the Witch-king.
# An unidentified extra portrayed the "King of Men" in the prologue. He was chosen to be the Witch-king simply because he was the smallest of the nine.
# [[Shane Rangi]] did the horse chase.
# [[Fran Walsh]] provided the "Ringwraith scream".
# Effects technician Ben Price played the Witch-king in "many scenes"<ref>http://www.decipher.com/content/2004/07/072904lotrwetaprops.html</ref>
# [[Brent McIntyre]] is officially credited as the Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. He stabbed Frodo.
# [[Lawrence Makoare]] filled the robe of the Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]''.
# [[Mark Ferguson]] filled the heavy armoured costume when Makoare felt claustrophobic.<ref>http://www.markferguson.net/articles/interview_Nautilus20.html</ref>
# [[Andy Serkis]] provided the voice of the Witch-king in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series) ]]:'''
:The Witch-king is mentioned to have been defeated years ago, and his body sealed by the "Men of the North" in a very deep and dark tomb in the "[[High Fells of Rhudaur]]". His [[wraith]], apparently summoned by the [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]], is encountered by [[Radagast]] in the ruins of [[Dol Guldur]], but the [[Wizards|Wizard]] fends him off and salvages the Witch-king's [[Morgul-knife|Morgul blade]] in the struggle.

:In the [[Attack on Dol Guldur]], The Witch-King, along with the other Nazgûl, participates by fighting [[Saruman]] and [[Elrond]], members of the [[White Council]]. In the end, he and the other Nine are driven [[Mordor]] by [[Galadriel]] and her [[Phial of Galadriel|phial]], [[Sauron|his master]] also eventually following suit.

===Radio series===
'''1956: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The Black Captain is played by [[Felix Felton]].<ref name="RT1727">Radio Times, Volume 133, No. 1727, [[14 December|December 14]], [[1956]]</ref>

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:The role of The Lord of the Nazgul, as he is always credited in this production, is expanded with material from ''[[The Hunt for the Ring]]''. He is the second speaking character in the series: he is the one who captures [[Gollum]], though he is not identified as such until the credits. [[Philip Voss]] provided the voice for The Lord of the Nazgul.

===Games===
'''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)]]:'''
:The Witch-king is shown without distinction of the other Nazgûl.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]'':'''
:The Witch-king's role and voice are similar to that of the film, but his appearance is different. An early helmet design, that had been removed from the film because it resembled [[Sauron]]'s helm too much, was used here, presumably because there was no time to make a new character model.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Witch-King is one the main "Hero" units for the Servants of Sauron, his signature ability is being able to turn Wights into Nazgûl. The evil campaign storyline shows him reclaiming Dol Guldur for Sauron.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Witch-King is a "Hero" unit for Mordor faction. He is an airborne unit riding on a Fell Beast and one of the strongest units in the game.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:In addition to his appearance from the first game, the Witch-King can now also dismount and become a landscape unit armed with a mace.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Witch-king is a non-playable character present in several scenes. His most memorable appearance takes place in the Great Barrow within the Barrow-Downs. There are also multiple references to him in quest dialogue, the most notable is that the Witch-King for whatever reason cannot return to rule [[Carn Dum]] and instead has erected a Steward named [[Mordirith]] to rule in his place, in mockery of the Stewards of Gondor.

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:In the campaign for the "Evil" side, the Witch-King is revived by other Nazgûl after Sauron reclaims The One Ring.

''''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:The Witch-king appears in a flashback of the playable characters during the prologue of the game. He and the other [[Nazgûl]] attack and destroy the [[Rangers of the North|Ranger]] camp at [[Sarn Ford]]. Shortly after he speaks with [[Agandaûr]], who explains that he has assembled an army in [[Fornost]]. The Witch-king commands him to return and attack immediately, to aid in the [[Hunt of the Ring]].<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</reF>

==See also==
*'''[[:Category:Images of the Witch-king|Images of the Witch-king]]'''
*[[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]

{{references}}

[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Featured Articles]]
[[Category:Nazgûl]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[de:Der Hexenkönig von Angmar]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/hommes/3a/nazgul/roi-sorcier]]
[[fi:Noitakuningas]]

Dwarves

2018-04-16T03:38:16Z

173.206.83.82:

{{sources}}
{{race infobox
| name=Dwarves
| image=[[File:Alarie - A bunch of dwarves.jpg|250px]]
| caption="A bunch of dwarves" by [[:Category:Images by Alarie|Alarie]]
| pronun=
| othernames=''Naugrim'' ([[Sindarin|S]]), ''Nogothrim'' ([[Sindarin|S]]).''[[Khazâd]]'' ([[Khuzdul|K]]), ''[[Hadhod]]rim'' ([[Sindarin|S]]), ''[[Casar]]i'' ([[Quenya|Q]])
| origin=Created by [[Aulë]]
| location=[[Moria|Khazad-dûm]], [[Belegost]], [[Nogrod]], [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], [[Iron Hills]], [[Orocarni]], [[Glittering Caves]], [[Grey Mountains]], [[Blue Mountains]], [[Gundabad]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=[[Elves]], [[Orcs]]
| language=[[Khuzdul]] ([[Dwarvish]]), [[Iglishmêk]] (sign language), [[Westron]]
| people='''Clans:''' [[Durin's Folk|Longbeards]], [[Firebeards]], [[Broadbeams]], [[Ironfists]], [[Stiffbeards]], [[Blacklocks]], [[Stonefoots]], [[Petty-dwarves]] '''Groups:''' [[Dwarves of Belegost|Belegost Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of Erebor|Erebor Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of Khazad-dûm|Khazad-dûm Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of Nogrod|Nogrod Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of the Blue Mountains|Blue Mountain Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of the Grey Mountains|Grey Mountain Dwarves]], [[Dwarves of the Iron Hills|Iron Hill Dwarves]]
| members=[[Durin]], [[Gimli]], [[Thorin]], [[Dáin Ironfoot]], [[Azaghâl]], [[Mîm]], [[Balin]]
| lifespan=c. 200-350 years<ref name="LOTRProjectStats">{{webcite|author=Emil Johansson|articleurl=http://lotrproject.com/statistics/#lifeexpectancy|articlename=Lord of the Rings in Statistics|website=[http://lotrproject.com/ Lord of the Rings Project]|accessed=15 April 2018}}</ref>
| distinctions=Stocky; bearded; never bald; especially hardy and loyal; notoriously stubborn
| height=
| hair=Blond, brown, black, blue, red, and (when older) grey or white
| skin=
| clothing=
| weapons=Often axes, swords, hammers, mattocks
}}
{{quote|Since they were to come in the days of the power of [[Morgoth|Melkor]], [[Aulë]] made the dwarves strong to endure. Therefore they are stone-hard, stubborn, fast in friendship and in enmity, and they suffer toil and hunger and hurt of body more hardily than all other speaking peoples; and they live long, far beyond the span of Men, yet not forever.|[[The Silmarillion]], "[[Of Aulë and Yavanna]]"}}
The '''Dwarves''', or '''''[[Khuzd|Khazâd]]''''' in their own tongue, were beings of short stature, often friendly with [[Hobbits]] although long suspicious of [[Elves]]. They were typically blacksmiths and stoneworkers by profession, unrivaled in some of their arts even by the Elves.

While there were several tribes (Houses) of the Dwarves, the most prominent was that of the [[Durin's Folk|Longbeards]].

==History==
===Origin===
Unlike Elves and [[Men]], the Dwarves are not counted among the [[Children of Ilúvatar]]. Their creator was [[Aulë#Names and etymology|Mahal]], known as [[Aulë]] the Smith. Aulë created the Seven [[Fathers of the Dwarves]], from whom all other Dwarves are descended, deep beneath an unknown mountain somewhere in [[Middle-earth]]. However, Aulë did not have the divine power to grant independent life to any creation, and the dwarves were bound to his will. [[Ilúvatar]] came and reprimanded Aulë, who confessed his desire to create more living things, but in repentance lifted his hammer to destroy the dwarves. Even as the blow was about to land, the dwarves cowered and begged for mercy, as Ilúvatar had taken pity and given true life to the creations of his child, including them in His plan for [[Arda]]. However, Ilúvatar did not wish them to wake before the [[Elves]], whom he intended to be the first-born. Ilúvatar granted the Dwarves life, and therefore they are known as the Adopted Children of Ilúvatar, but he bade Aulë lay them to sleep in their chamber deep beneath the mountain, and they were to awake after the [[Awakening of the Elves]].<ref name=S2>{{S|2}}</ref>

[[File:BFME2 - Dwarf 4.jpg|thumb||Dwarves as portrayed in [[The Battle for Middle-earth II]] game.]]
The Seven Fathers awoke in their places in pairs with their wives, though [[Durin|Durin I]] had awoken alone. The seven different groups of Dwarf-folk originated in the locations where the Seven Fathers of the Dwarves first awoke.<ref>{{PM|XNotes}}</ref><ref>{{PM|X}}</ref>

The seven clans of the Dwarves were:

* [[Longbeards]], Durin's Folk, originally from [[Gundabad]].
* [[Firebeards]] and [[Broadbeams]], originally from [[Mt. Dolmed]].
* [[Ironfists]] and [[Stiffbeards]], originated in the [[Orocarni]].
* [[Blacklocks]] and [[Stonefoots]], originated in the [[Orocarni]].

Durin settled in the caves above [[Kheled-zâram]] which later became the greatest of Dwarf realms, [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]]. Therefore the halls of the Longbeards were not located near the halls of another Dwarf-kingdom.

There was also an eighth group of Dwarves that was not a separate member from these seven kindreds, but composed of exiles from each: the [[Petty-dwarves]], who were hunted like animals to the point of extinction by the [[Elves]] in the First Age.

===First Age===
The Dwarves for many years did not know any other folk, until Firebeards and Broadbeams had their first meeting with the [[Elves]] in [[Beleriand]] in the year {{YT|1250|n}} of the [[Years of the Trees]]. From that time on there was friendship between the [[Sindar]] and the Dwarves, and they began exchanging knowledge and creating ring-mails and many other works; the [[Dwarves of Nogrod]] were unmatched in Middle-earth in smithing. They delved the caves of [[Menegroth]], and adopted the [[cirth|writing]] of [[Daeron]]. It was the Dwarves who told the Sindar about [[Orcs]] attacking their Elven kin on the other side of the mountains, which prompted King [[Thingol]] to begin a build up of arms which the Dwarves made for him.

Later on a great army of Orcs attacked the Elves, but in the [[First Battle of Beleriand]] were defeated and fled. Those that got away ran south right into an army of Dwarves who issued from Mount Dolmed and destroyed them.

After the [[Return of the Noldor]], [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]] desired to settle himself in the [[Caves of Narog]] and the Dwarves of the Ered Luin aided him and gave him the dwarven name ''Felak-gundu'' (''[[Felagund]]''). They eventually made for him the [[Nauglamír]]. This necklace without equal contained one of the [[Silmarils]], and sparked jealousy and conflicts over its true ownership. These initial conflicts receded by the beginning of the Second Age, but were rekindled to a new intensity by the discord sown by [[Sauron]]. They eventually created a rivalry and mistrust between Elves and Dwarves that endured to the end of the Third Age, when [[Gimli]] the Dwarf bridged the distance between the two races by developing a deep admiration for lady [[Galadriel]] and forming a strong friendship with [[Legolas]] the Elf.

Things finally came to a head between the forces of Morgoth and the Elves, Men, and Dwarves in the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]. The Dwarves fought for the [[Union of Maedhros]]

In early [[Second Age]] most of the [[Firebeards]] and [[Broadbeams]] houses migrated to [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]] from their cities in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were ruined during the sinking of Beleriand.

===Second Age===
The Dwarves had little participation in most of the important events involving the other races. However their friendship with the Elves perhaps became more close than ever; the Dwarves of [[Moria]] maintained close connections to the [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]] of [[Eregion]]; the [[Doors of Durin]] of Moria were built to facilitate the communication between the two people, and was constructed jointly by both races.

When Eregion was sacked by [[Sauron]]'s forces, the Dwarves assailed them from behind however it was too late to stop him from conquering all [[Eriador]].<ref name="UTGalad">{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref>
[[File:Liz Danforth - Annatar and the Seven Rings.png|thumb|[[Liz Danforth]] - ''Annatar and the seven rings'']]
When "[[Annatar]]" distributed the Rings of Power, he gave [[seven Rings|seven]] to Dwarf Lords in order to subdue and control them. However, they did not have the same effect as they did over Men. Dwarves did not shift into the [[wraith-world]] and in fact resisted domination. The Rings only augmented their greed and ability to create riches.

At the end of the Age, very few Dwarves participated in the [[War of the Last Alliance|great War]], with some joining the side of [[Sauron]]. Some of the [[Dwarves of Moria]] joined the great host of the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]].<ref name=rings>{{S|Rings}}</ref>

===Third Age===

[[File:Angus McBride - Dwarves.jpg|thumb|left|[[Angus McBride]] - ''The Dwarves are upon You!'']]
In [[Third Age 1980]], after centuries of greedy digging for ''[[mithril]]'' and other minerals, the Dwarves woke a [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]] that was sleeping in the deeps of the Misty Mountains since the First Age. The Dwarves fled Khazad-dum, which from then on was called ''Moria'', which means "Black pit".

Most of Durin's folk left for the [[Grey Mountains]] in the North, while some followed the new king, [[Thráin I]], who briefly went to [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] in {{TA|1999}}. For more than 300 years the [[Dwarves of the Grey Mountains]] prospered until the Dragons in the far North started to gain strength. Some fled to the [[Iron Hills]], while most followed the new king [[Thrór]] to Erebor to start a new [[Kingdom under the Mountain]]. There, they prospered for over 200 years until the dragon [[Smaug]] descended in {{TA|2770}}. The King and his company went in exile South, while most of the survivors went to the Iron Hills.

Durin's folk settled in [[Dunland]], and in {{TA|2790}} King Thrór traveled North to Moria where he was killed by the [[Orcs|Goblin]] king [[Azog]]. Thrór's son [[Thráin|Thráin II]] (who had received the Last of the Seven Rings from his father before his departure) summoned all the Houses of Dwarves to war. Thus began the [[War of Dwarves and Orcs]], in which the Dwarves destroyed all the Goblin strongholds in the [[Misty Mountains]] culminating to the great [[Battle of Azanulbizar]] where all the dwarven clans united. The Goblin hosts issuing from Moria were strong and relentless until the arrival of fresh [[Dwarves of the Iron Hills]]. The Battle ended with the victory of Dwarves, but at great cost. The Dwarven clans however were unwilling to repopulate Moria. Thráin therefore came to the [[Blue Mountains]] and established his realm there.

[[File:Angelo Montanini - Dori.jpg|thumb|[[Angelo Montanini]] - ''Dori'']]
The Wizard [[Gandalf]] was instrumental into helping Thráin's son Thorin in reclaiming the Kingdom of Erebor. Thorin gathered around him [[Thorin and Company|twelve dwarves]], mostly from his own line, and was joined by [[Gandalf]] and [[Bilbo Baggins]]. The [[Quest of Erebor]] ended with the death of [[Smaug]]. After a quarrel with the Men and Elves over the unguarded hoard, the Dwarves - assisted by those from the [[Iron Hills]] - united with the Men and Elves to fight the attacking Goblins and Wargs, in what was called the [[Battle of Five Armies]], where Thorin was killed.

[[Gimli]] son of Glóin joined the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] as a representative of the Dwarves and befriended [[Legolas]] during the [[War of the Ring]].

===Fourth Age===
Not much is known about the Dwarves in the [[Fourth Age]]. After the [[War of the Ring]], [[Gimli]] brought a part of Durin's Folk from Erebor to the Glittering Caves behind Helm's Deep and founded a colony there. Subsequently, Gimli went on many travels with his friend Legolas, and History lost track of their fate. Through their friendship and influence, the feud between the two races that had lasted for millennia finally ended, shortly before the departure of the last Elves from Middle-earth. It is rumored that Gimli and Legolas eventually boarded a ship that sailed down the river Anduin, out to sea and across to Valinor in the year {{FoA|120}}. Gimli would thus have become the only Dwarf to ever be permitted to cross to the Undying Lands.

[[Durin VII]] (the Last), retook Moria and brought Khazad-dûm back to its original splendor, and the Longbeards lived there till the "world grew old and the days of Durin's race ended".

==Nature==
They were 4.5 - 5 feet (1.35 - 1.52 m) tall and their more distinctive characteristic was their beard which they have from the beginning of their lives, male and females alike; and which they shave only in shame.<ref name=wj13>{{WJ|13}}</ref>

As creations of Aulë, they were attracted to the substances of Arda and crafts. They mined and worked precious metals throughout the mountains of Middle-earth, but had a tendency toward gold lust, and committed their share of rash and greedy acts. Among these was the dispute over the [[Nauglamír]], which led to the slaying of Elu [[Thingol]] and stirred up the initial suspicion between Elves and Dwarves to open hatred.<ref name=rings/>

Dwarves generally lived far from the sea and avoided getting on boats, as they disliked the sound of the ocean and were afraid of it.<ref name=S10>{{S|10}}</ref>
===Hardiness===
The Dwarves were created by Aulë to be strong, resistant to fire and the evils of Morgoth. They were hardier than any other race, secretive, stubborn, and steadfast in enmity or loyalty.

Despite their short stature, they were known for their strength and endurance in battle, as well as their fury, particularly when avenging their fallen kin, and for being some of the greatest warriors in all of Middle-earth. They fought valiantly in many wars and battles over the Ages holding axes.<ref name=wj13/> They are among the fiercest and most elite armies in Middle-Earth, especially the [[Dwarves of the Iron Hills]].

Sickness was almost unknown to the Dwarves, as they were immune to human diseases.<ref name=PMAiv/>

They were generally less corruptible than Men. When Sauron attempted to enslave the Free Folk of Middle-earth using the [[Rings of Power]], the Elves completely resisted his power (indeed, his hand had never sullied the [[Three Rings]]), while the [[Nine Rings]] utterly corrupted the Men who bore them into the [[Ringwraiths]]. In contrast, the Dwarves were sturdy and resistant enough that Sauron was not able to dominate them using the [[Seven Rings]]. At most, the Seven Rings sowed strife among the Dwarves and filled their wearers with an insatiable greed for gold, but they did not turn them into wraiths subservient to the Dark Lord, and he considered his plan to have failed. Sauron was furious at the Dwarves' resistance, spurring his drive to recapture the Seven Rings from them.

Another example was [[Gimli]], who, while [[Saruman]] used the power in his voice and the [[Rohirrim]] were spell-bound by his magic, Gimli was unmoved and commented that Saruman's words cannot be trusted, causing Saruman to be angered enough to lose his charm.<ref>{{TT|Voice}}</ref>

===Lifespan===
The lifespan of Dwarves was varied depending on their ancestry. The Longbeards were particularly long-lived, but by the Third Age their lifespan was diminished and they lived, on average, 250 years. Until they were around 30 years of age, Dwarves were considered too young for heavy labor or war (hence the slaying of Azog by [[Dain Ironfoot]] at age 32 was a great feat). By the age of 40, Dwarves were hardened into the appearance that they would keep for most of their lives. Between the approximate ages of 40 and 240, most Dwarves were equally hale and able to work and fight with vigor. They took on the appearance of age only about ten years before their death, wrinkling and greying rapidly, but never going bald. Occasionally they would live up to 300 years of age, and [[Dwalin]] reached the rare lifespan of 340 years (comparable to a Middle Man living to 100).<ref name=PMAiv>{{PM|Aiv}}</ref>

Although Dwarves did not suffer from diseases, corpulence could affect them. In prosperous circumstances, many grew fat by the age of 200 and became physically inept.<ref name=PMAiv>{{PM|Aiv}}</ref>

==Culture and family==
The Dwarves' numbers, although they sometimes flourished, often faced periods of decline, especially in periods of war. The slow increase of their population was due to the rarity of [[Dwarf-women]], who made up only about a third of the total population. Dwarves seldom wedded before the age of ninety or more, and rarely had so many as four children. They took only one husband or wife in their lifetime, and were jealous, as in all matters of their rights. The number of Dwarf-men that married was actually less than a third, for not all the Dwarf-women took husbands; some desired none, some wanted one they could not have and would have no other. Many Dwarf-men did not desire marriage because they were absorbed in their work.<ref name=AppA3>{{App|A3}}</ref><ref name=PMAiv/>

Dwarf-women seldom walked abroad, and that only in great need. When they did travel, they were so alike Dwarf-men in voice, appearance, and garb that it was hard for other races to tell them apart. They were likewise seldom named in genealogies, joining their husbands' families. The only Dwarf-woman named in Tolkien's legendarium is [[Dís]], sister of Thorin Oakenshield, who was given a place in the records because of the gallant deaths of her sons, Fíli and Kíli. The scarcity of women, their rare mention, and their identical looks with the males, coupled with the Dwarves' secretive culture, led many to mistakenly believe that Dwarves were born out of stone, and upon death they returned to that stone.<ref name=AppA3/><ref name=PMAiv/>

Dwarves are fiercely devoted to their parents and children. In their desire for their children to grow up hardy and enduring, they may treat them harshly, but they will protect them at all costs. Dwarves resent injuries to their children and to their parents more than injuries to themselves.<ref name=PMAiv/>

==Religion==
The Dwarves loved and revered the Vala Aulë.<ref name=S10/><ref name=S2>{{S|2}}</ref>

Of old the Elves believed that the Dwarves would have no future in [[Arda Unmarred]], but the Dwarves themselves held to a promise that Ilúvatar would hallow them and adopt them as his Children. They maintained that after death Aulë (Mahal) cared for them, gathering them to the [[Halls of Mandos]] with the other Children of Ilúvatar, though in halls set apart. It is said that after the Last Battle they will work alongside Aulë in the remaking of Arda.<ref name=S2/>

==Language==
The Dwarven language was created by Aulë, and was called [[Khuzdul]]. It was a strange language to Elves and Men, and few non-Dwarves learned it, because it was difficult, and the Dwarves kept it secret, preferring to communicate in the languages of their neighbors. Only one Khuzdul phrase was well known to outsiders: the ancient battle cry, going back to at least the First Age: "''Baruk Khazâd! Khazâd ai-mênu!''", which means "Axes of the Dwarves! The Dwarves are upon you!". The Dwarves taught Khuzdul carefully to their children, as a learned language, not a cradle-tongue, and thus the language changed very little over the ages, unlike those of other races.
The Dwarves also devised a secret language of gestures to communicate between themselves in silence, the ''[[iglishmêk]]''.<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}}, p. 395</ref>

==Names==
The Dwarves called themselves the ''[[Khazâd]]'', the name Aulë gave them; this is adapted as '''''[[Hadhod]]'''rim'' in [[Sindarin]], and '''''[[Casar]]'''i'' in [[Quenya]]. Casari was the common word for Dwarves among the [[Noldor]], but the [[Sindar]] usually called them ''Naugrim'' or ''Nogothrim'', the Stunted People.<ref>{{App|F2}}</ref>

An epithet for the Dwarves in [[Quenya]] was ''Auleonnar'', meaning "offspring of Aule".<ref>{{HM|PM}}, p. 391</ref>

In their dealings with people of other races, the Dwarves did not reveal their true names, rather adopting new names in other languages (the [[petty-dwarves]] were an exception). During the Third Age, the Longbeards used [[northern Mannish]] names in public.

==Inspiration==
Almost all the names of the Dwarves of Middle-earth are taken from the Old Norse [[Völuspá]].

According to Tolkien, the "real 'historical'" plural of ''dwarf'' is ''dwarrows'' or ''dwerrows''. He once referred to ''dwarves'' as "a piece of private bad grammar" (''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien|Letters]]'', 17), but in Appendix F to ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' he explains that if we still spoke of ''dwarves'' regularly, English might have retained a special plural for the word ''dwarf'' as with ''man''. The form ''dwarrow'' only appears in the word ''Dwarrowdelf'', a name for [[Moria]]. Tolkien used ''Dwarves'', instead, which corresponds with ''Elf'' and ''Elves'', making its meaning more apparent. The use of a different term also serves to set Tolkien's Dwarves apart from the similarly-named creatures in mythology and fairy-tales.

The enduring popularity of Tolkien's books, especially ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]],'' has led to the popular use of the term ''dwarves'' to describe this race in fantasy literature. Before Tolkien, the term ''dwarfs'' (with a different spelling) was used, as seen in ''Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs''. In fact, the latter spelling was so common that the original editor of ''The Lord of the Rings'' "corrected" Tolkien's ''dwarves'' to ''dwarfs'' (''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'', 138).

==Other versions of the Legendarium==
In the earliest versions of Tolkien's Middle-earth mythology (see: ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'') the dwarves were evil beings created by [[Morgoth|Melkor]].

In an earlier version of the legendarium it is hinted that the Dwarves do not know about Ilúvatar, or that they disbelieve his existence, but later writings contradict that suggestion.<ref name="#">{{LT2|IV}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Dwarves|Images of Dwarves]]

==External links==

*"[http://lingwe.blogspot.se/2013/02/did-tolkien-coin-plural-dwarves.html Did Tolkien coin the plural “dwarves”?]" by [[Jason Fisher]]

{{references}}
{{Dwarvenclans}}
[[Category:Dwarves| ]]
[[Category:Races]]
[[de:Zwerge]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/nains/nains]]
[[fi:Kääpiöt]]

Orocarni

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{{location infobox
| name=Orocarni
| image=
| caption=
| pronun=
| othernames=Red Mountains, Mountains of the East
| location=Far east of [[Middle-earth]]
| type=Mountain range
| description=
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Dwarves]] of the other four Houses, [[Dark Elves]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=
}}
The '''Orocarni''' (also called the '''Red Mountains''') was a mountain range in the far north-east of [[Middle-earth]] made by the [[Valar]] after [[Morgoth|Melkor]] destroyed the [[Two Lamps]].<ref name=SMA4>{{SM|A4}}, p. 256</ref>

==Geography==
On the western slopes of the Orocarni grew the ''[[Wild Wood]]'', and near a great waterfall of a river that flowed into the Inland [[Sea of Helcar]] lay the bay of [[Cuiviénen]], where the first [[Elves]] woke.<ref>{{S|1}}</ref><ref>{{MR|Annals}}, p. 77, notes §41</ref> At their northern edge, the Orocarni came close to the [[Iron Mountains|Ered Engrin]],<ref name=SMA4/> similar to [[Blue Mountains|Ered Luin]] in the far north-west.

The four [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] clans who lived in the East resided in the Orocarni. The distance between their mansions in the East and the [[Misty Mountains]], specifically [[Gundabad]], was said to be as great or greater than that of Gundabad's distance from the [[Blue Mountains]] in the West.<ref>{{PM|Dwarves}}, p. 301</ref>

{{references}}

[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Mountain ranges]]
[[Category:Quenya locations]]

[[de:Orocarni]]
[[fi:Orocarni]]

Elves

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173.206.83.82:

{{sources}}
{{race infobox
| name=Elves
| image=[[File:Ted Nasmith - At Lake Cuiviénen.jpg|250px]]
| caption="At Lake Cuiviénen" by [[Ted Nasmith]]
| pronun=
| othernames=People of the Stars, Firstborn, Elder Children of Ilúvatar
| origin=Firstborn of the [[Children of Ilúvatar|Children]] of [[Ilúvatar]]
| location=[[Cuiviénen]], [[Tirion]], [[Taniquetil]], [[Formenos]], [[Alqualondë]], [[Tol Eressëa]], [[Doriath]], [[Falas]], [[Hithlum]], [[Ossiriand]], [[Vinyamar]], [[Nargothrond]], [[Gondolin]], [[Edhellond]], [[Mouths of Sirion]], [[Isle of Balar]], [[Lindon]], [[Eldalondë]], [[Eregion]], [[Belfalas]], [[Lothlórien]], [[Rivendell]], [[Mirkwood]] and [[Ithilien]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=[[Orcs]], [[Dwarves]]
| language=Various [[Elvish]] languages, most notably [[Quenya]] and [[Sindarin]]; [[Westron]]
| people=[[Vanyar]], [[Noldor]], [[Teleri]], [[Sindar]], [[Nandor]], [[Silvan Elves|Silvan]], [[Falmari]], [[Avari]]
| members=[[Ingwë]], [[Thingol]], [[Finwë]], [[Fëanor]], [[Fingolfin]], [[Gil-galad]], [[Galadriel]], [[Finrod]], [[Sons of Fëanor]], [[Lúthien]], [[Fingon]], [[Turgon]], [[Idril]], [[Maeglin]], [[Círdan]], [[Celeborn]], [[Celebrimbor]]
| lifespan=[[Arda]]'s existence; near immortality
| distinctions=
| height=Tall
| hair=Blond, black, brown, red, and occasionally silver
| skin=Pale to tan
| clothing=
| weapons=Typically swords and bows
}}
The '''Elves''' (''[[Quendi]]'') were the first of the races of the [[Children of Ilúvatar]], known also as the [[Firstborn]] for that reason. The Elves are distinguished from the other two races, the [[Men]] and the [[Dwarves]], especially by the fact of their near immortality.

==History==

===Awakening===
{{main|Awakening of the Elves}}

[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Dawn of the Firstborn Elves.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Dawn of the Firstborn Elves'']] About the same time that [[Varda]], Queen of the [[Valier]], ended her labours in creating the [[Stars]], the Elves awoke beside the lake [[Cuiviénen]]. The first things they saw were the stars, and henceforth they adored them. The first sound they heard was the flowing of water, and henceforth they loved water as well.

They made speech then, and called themselves the ''[[Quendi]]''. [[Morgoth|Melkor]] was the first to be aware of them, and he caused evil spirits to go about among them. When one or a small group wandered abroad, they would often vanish. It is believed that Melkor may have created [[Orcs]] with the elves he captured.

[[Oromë]], the Huntsman of the [[Valar]], happened upon them when he heard their singing far-off. He was amazed to see them, and called them the ''Eldar'', "People of the Stars".

===Sundering===
{{main|Sundering of the Elves}}

[[File:Anke Eißmann - Oromë espies the first Elves.jpg |thumb|right|250px|[[Anke Eißmann]] - ''Oromë espies the first Elves'']] Though at first the Quendi were afraid of Oromë, the noblest among them saw that he was no dark horseman, as the lies of Melkor claimed. He had the light of [[Aman]] in his eyes and face, and they were drawn to him.

After spending a while among the Quendi, Oromë returned to [[Valinor]] and took council with the other Valar and Valier. At the counsel of [[Ilúvatar]], [[Manwë]], King of the Valar, decided that they must go to war against Melkor to protect the Quendi from him. After a great battle and [[Siege of Utumno]], which reshaped the earth itself, Melkor was bound and cast into the prison of [[Mandos]]. Then the Valar, pleased with the outcome, summoned the Elves to Valinor, seeking fellowship with them.

At Oromë's urging, many of the Elves (especially the kindreds of [[Ingwë]], [[Finwë]], and [[Elwë]]) agreed. But others, henceforth called the [[Avari]], declared that they preferred starlight and the wide spaces of [[Middle-earth]]. So the Elves were first sundered. During the journey to [[Belegaer]], gradually the number of the Elves began to lessen as various groups dropped away. Some of the [[Teleri]] (kindred of Elwë) refused to cross the [[Misty Mountains]], and settled in [[Anduin]] under the leadership of [[Lenwë]], to be called later the [[Nandor]]. Elwë then went missing, and in dismay the rest of the Teleri remained behind, while the [[Noldor]] (kindred of Finwë) and [[Vanyar]] (kindred of Ingwë) used an island as a ship, and found at last Aman and Valinor.

After several years, Oromë returned to search for the Teleri. Some, under [[Olwë]], relented and followed. Others remained to continue to search for Elwë. Still others, under [[Círdan]], remained because in that time they had become devoted to [[Ossë]] and the Sea. Those Teleri that chose to remain were called the [[Sindar]]. Elwë, who had fallen asleep due to his enchantment with [[Melian]], returned to claim lordship and establish them in [[Doriath]]. The Noldor and some of the Teleri, however, built the great cities of [[Tirion]] and [[Alqualondë]] (respectively) in Aman. The Vanyar dwelt in [[Valmar]], for they were closest to the Valar of the kindreds.

===Exile of the Noldor===
{{main|Exile of the Noldor}}

[[File:Jenny Dolfen - The Coming of Fingolfin.jpg|thumb|right|200px|[[Jenny Dolfen]] - ''The Coming of Fingolfin'']] Melkor, having been released on the promise of good behavior, spread lies about the Valar among the Noldor. [[Fëanor]], the eldest son of Finwë and one of the greatest Elves to have ever lived, hated Melkor more than all the other Noldor, but was paradoxically one of the most influenced by his lies. He forged weapons, and his greatest works, the [[Silmarils]], captured the light of the [[Two Trees]] – and his own heart. After Melkor stole the Silmarils and killed Finwë, Fëanor stirred the Noldor to open disobedience to the Valar. In an epic journey filled with treachery, death, and deceit, the Noldor entered in to Exile, crossing over into [[Beleriand]].

===Battles of Beleriand===
{{main|Battles of Beleriand}}

There were five great battles fought in Beleriand. The [[First Battle]] was the result of an attack by Melkor on Círdan and Elwë (now known as [[Thingol]]). Though the Elves managed to resist the attack successfully, this left Melkor essentially with full reign of Beleriand. Upon the sudden and unanticipated [[Return of the Noldor]], the tables were reversed in the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]]. The third battle (“[[Dagor Aglareb]]”) occurred when Melkor tried unsuccessfully to destroy the Elves, breaking forth from [[Angband]]. This only resulted in the vigilant [[Siege of Angband]]. Morgoth was more successful in the next battle, [[Dagor Bragollach]], which ended in the deaths of many Elven princes, among them [[Fingolfin]], [[High King of the Noldor]]. The siege was broken. Several decades later, [[Maedhros]], eldest son of Fëanor, counterattacked in the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]. Although at first very successful, the tide turned against the Elves, and ended in the destruction of [[Hithlum]]. It was not half a century later that [[Gondolin]], the last real stronghold of the Noldor, was [[Fall of Gondolin|destroyed]]. [[Doriath]], the centre of the [[Sindar]]in realm, was sacked by [[Dwarves]].[[File:Ted Nasmith - Eärendil and the Battle of Eagles and Dragons.jpg|left|150px|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Eärendil and The Battle of Eagles and Dragons'']]

===Salvation===
{{main|War of Wrath}}

With the near destruction of the Elves, the last survivors were at the [[Mouths of Sirion]] and [[Isle of Balar|Balar]] and were led by Gil-galad and Círdan. Among them was [[Eärendil]], the son of [[Tuor]] and [[Idril]]. Eärendil made a miraculous voyage to [[Valinor]] to beg the pardon of the Valar. His request was granted. The Valar came across the Sea to [[Middle-earth]], and in the [[War of Wrath]] thrust Morgoth into the [[Void]] and purged Beleriand. They offered to let the Elves return with them to Valinor; some accepted, but many others, under [[Gil-galad]], chose to remain.

===Decline===

[[File:Angus McBride - Celebrimbor.gif|thumb|right|150px|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Celebrimbor'']] Though Morgoth was gone to trouble the world no longer, [[Sauron]], his greatest servant, was still there, and he made war on the remaining Elves who chose not to depart Middle-earth throughout the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age]]s.

During this time the Elves realized how [[Men]] were rising to take their place, and Sauron exploited their longing. [[Annatar]] corrupted [[Celebrimbor]], the grandson of Fëanor, to wright the [[Rings of Power]], especially the [[Three Rings]] to preserve the Elves. Annatar was a guise of Sauron who also forged a ring – [[the One Ring]]. However the Elves realised the deception and defied Sauron, who then [[War of the Elves and Sauron|waged War against them]]. In the following centuries Elves continued to heed the invitation of the Valar, desire the Sea and depart for the Undying Lands. Realms such as [[Dol Amroth]] were deserted and gave their place to Men.

It was not until the end of the Third Age that the One Ring was destroyed, marring the Three Rings at the same time. In the years that followed the last of the Elves departed across the Sea to Valinor, their mission against Sauron complete, never to return.

Well into the [[Fourth Age]] and the [[Dominion of Men]], most Elves apparently had left the [[Westlands]], with most populations remaining at least in [[Mirkwood]] and [[Lindon]]. [[Rivendell]] and [[Lothlórien]] appeared mostly abandoned around the time of [[King Elessar]]'s and [[Arwen]]'s death.<ref>{{App|Tale}}</ref>

The Elves eventually faded, as their spirits overwhelmed and consumed their bodies. At the end of the world, all Elves will have become invisible to mortal eyes, known as [[Lingerers]], except to those to whom they wish to manifest themselves.<ref>{{MR|Laws}}</ref> [[Ilúvatar]] had not revealed the role of the Elves after [[the End]].<ref>{{S|1}}</ref>

==Life and customs==
:''Main articles: ''[[Elven characteristics]], [[Elven life cycle]], and [[Elven customs]]''

Besides being considered more beautiful than men, Elves were also generally taller. Their hair colour varied; but the basic rules were that the [[Noldor]] generally had dark hair (brown or black), the [[Vanyar]] golden, and the [[Teleri]] silver or dark. Their eyes are usually described as grey.

Their lives were counted to begin at conception rather than birth, and though their minds sharpened much earlier in life than in the race of Men, their bodies grew more slowly. They were considered fully-grown at about a century. They married usually only once in their lives, and their children were often few and far-between.

Their most distinguishing characteristic from the [[Mortals|Mortal]] races was the fact that they were invulnerable to age or disease; unless they were killed by sword or sorrow, they would live to the end of the world. Unlike Men whose [[fëar]] (spirits) left Arda when their bodies died, Elves' fëar were bound to Arda until its ending. If an Elf's hröa (body) died, its fëa would be summoned to the [[Halls of Mandos]], where the Valar could re-embody the Elf in a hröa that was identical to the Elf's previous hröa. However, if an Elf committed evil acts during their lifetime and refused to repent, the Valar could delay the Elf's re-embodiment, impose conditions on it, or refuse it altogether.<ref name=P4i>{{MR|P4i}}, p. 339</ref><ref>{{PM|Last}}, pp. 380, 389</ref> An Elf could refuse the summons to Mandos or choose to remain disembodied,<ref name=P4i></ref><ref>{{PM|XI2}}, p. 334</ref> but the Elf's houseless fëa would still be unable to leave Arda.

==Arts, crafts, powers and magic==

Other races often spoke of 'Elf magic', or of objects made by Elves as if they contained enchantments. It is unclear how accurate it is to call Elvish arts and crafts 'magic' or 'enchanted'. Elves themselves only used these words when attempting to simplify or clarify how elvish-made things seemed to have a special quality that no other races were able to achieve. Powerful Elves seemed to have control over nature and the elements, their clothes seemed to shine with their own light, their blades seemed to never lose their sharpness. Less educated folks could not explain these effects, so they simply called them 'magic'.

==Major divisions==
{{familytree/start|align=center}}
{{familytree | | | | | | |QUE| | | | | | | | | | | | QUE=[[Quendi]] All Elves }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |)|-|-|-|-|-|-|.| | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | |ELD| | | || AVA| | | | | | ELD=[[Eldar]] West-elves|AVA=[[Avari]] The Unwilling }}
{{familytree | | |,|-|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | |VAN| | |NOL| | |TEL| | | | | | | | | VAN=[[Vanyar]] Fair-elves|NOL=[[Noldor]] Deep-elves|TEL=[[Teleri]] The Hindmost }}
{{familytree | | | | |,|-|-|^|-|-|.| |!| | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | |AMA| | | |EXI|!| | | | | | | | | | | AMA=Amanyar Noldor Noldor of Aman|EXI=[[Exile of the Noldor|Etyañgoldi]] Exiled Noldor }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|-|.| | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | |FAL| | |SIN| | |NAN| | | | | | FAL=[[Falmari]] Sea-elves|SIN=[[Sindar]] Grey-elves|NAN=[[Nandor]] Followers of [[Lenwë]] }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|^|-|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |LAQ| | | |SIL| | LAQ=[[Laiquendi]] Green-elves|SIL=[[Silvan Elves]] Wood-elves }}
{{familytree/end}}

The term ''quendi'' refers to all Elves; it was was created at Cuiviénen before the Elves had contact with any other race.<ref name=B>{{WJ|B}}</ref>{{rp|372}} When Oromë invited the Elves to Valinor, those who followed him on the Great Journey were called the Eldar,<ref name=B>{{WJ|B}}</ref>{{rp|374}} while those who refused were called the Avari.<ref name=S3>{{S|3}}</ref> The Eldar were divided into three clans−the Vanyar, the Noldor, and the Teleri.<ref name=S3 /> All of the Vanyar and Noldor reached Aman. Two groups of Teleri abandoned the Great Journey: the Nandor, who came to live in the [[Vale of Anduin]],<ref name=S3 /> and the Sindar, who remained in Beleriand.<ref>{{S|4}}</ref> The Nandor eventually split into the Laiquendi, who migrated into Beleriand and settled in [[Ossiriand]], and the Silvan Elves, who established realms in [[Mirkwood]] and [[Lothlórien]]. Those Teleri who completed the Great Journey and settled in Aman were called the Falmari.<ref name=S3 /> Those Noldor who later returned to Middle-earth in exile were called the ''Etyañgoldi''.<ref name=B>{{WJ|B}}</ref>{{rp|374}}

==Languages==
{{main|Elvish}}

[[File:Donato Giancola - Lore.jpeg|thumb|right|200px|[[Donato Giancola]] - ''Lore'']] Because [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] developed the Elves almost for his languages, those he developed are of special interest to many Tolkien scholars. His primary languages are [[Quenya]] and [[Sindarin]], but these have many variants and dialects as is seen in the table below. They were generally written in the [[Cirth]] and [[Tengwar]] scripts.

*'''[[Primitive Quendian]]'''
**'''[[Avarin]]'''
***'''Various Avarin languages''' (some later merged with Nandorin)
**'''[[Common Eldarin]]''' (the early language of all the [[Eldar]])
***'''[[Quenya]]''' (the language of the [[Noldor]] and the [[Vanyar]])
****''' ''Quendya'' (also ''Vanyarin Quenya'') ''' (daily tongue of the Vanyar: closest to archaic Quenya)
****''' ''Noldorin Quenya'' (also ''Exilic Quenya'') ''' (the "Elven Latin" of Middle-earth)
***'''[[Common Telerin]]''' (the early language of all the [[Lindar]])
****'''[[Telerin]]''' (the language of the [[Teleri]] who reached the [[Undying Lands]])
****'''[[Nandorin]]''' (languages of the [[Nandor]] — some were influenced by Avarin)
*****'''Original language of [[Mirkwood|Greenwood the Great]]'''
*****'''Original language of [[Lothlórien|Lórinand]]'''
****'''[[Sindarin]]''' (language of the [[Sindar]])
*****'''[[Doriathrin]]''' (dialect of [[Doriath]])
*****'''[[Falathrin]]''' (dialect of the [[Falas]] and [[Nargothrond]])
*****'''[[North Sindarin]]''' (dialects of [[Dorthonion]] and [[Hithlum]])
******'''[[Gondor Sindarin]]''' (dialect of [[Gondor]])

==Inspiration==
===Germanic influence===
In ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', a diminutive fairy-like race of elves had once been a great and mighty people who had "diminished" as Men took over the world.<ref name="bolt1" /><ref>{{HM|LT2}}</ref><ref name="Fimi">[[Dimitra Fimi]], [http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2386/is_2_117/ai_n16676591 "Mad" Elves and "elusive beauty": some Celtic strands of Tolkien's mythology] in ''Folklore'', vol. 117, iss. 2, August 2006, pp. 156–170</ref> They were influenced by the [[Wikipedia:Elf|Elves]] of Northern European mythologies, especially the god-like and human-sized ''[[Wikipedia:Light elf|Ljósálfar]]'' of Norse mythology,<ref>[[Tom Shippey]], ''[[The Road to Middle-earth]]''</ref> also appearing in medieval works such as ''[[Sir Orfeo]]'', the Welsh [[Pwyll Prince of Dyved|Mabinogion]], [[The Fall of Arthur|Arthurian romances]] and the legends of the [[Wikipedia:Tuatha Dé Danann|Tuatha Dé Danann]].<ref name="Anderson1">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] and [[Douglas A. Anderson]] (ed.), ''[[The Annotated Hobbit]]'', p. 120</ref>

Terry Gunnell also claims that the relationship between beautiful ships and the Elves is reminiscent of Njörðr and Skíðblaðni, Freyr's ship.<ref name="Articles"/>

===Celtic influence===
Tolkien expressed a dislike in Celtic legends and denied that his legendarium is "Celtic",<ref>{{HM|Bio}}, p. 26</ref> however it is believed that Celtic Mythology had a great influence on Tolkien's writings on Elves <ref>[[John Garth]], ''[[Tolkien and the Great War]]'', p. 222</ref><ref name="Articles">Terry Gunnell, "[http://www.hi.is/Apps/WebObjects/HI.woa/wa/dp?detail=1004509&name=nordals_en_greinar_og_erindi ''Tívar'' in a Timeless Land: Tolkien's Elves]" conference lecture delivered on 13 September 2002</ref> and some of the stories Tolkien wrote as their 'legends' are directly influenced by it.<ref name="Fimi"/> For example, the [[Noldor]] are based on the Tuatha Dé Danann in the ''Lebor Gabála Érenn'', and their migratory nature comes from early Irish/Celtic history.<ref name="Fimi"/> John Garth has also referenced the Tuatha Dé Danann in suggesting Tolkien was essentially rewriting Irish fairy traditions.

Tolkien also retains the usage of the Celtic and popular term 'fairy' for the same creatures.<ref>[[Marjorie J. Burns]], ''Perilous Realms: Celtic and Norse in Tolkien's Middle-earth'', p. 22</ref> The Elves are also called fair folk (based on [[Welsh]] ''Tylwyth teg'' 'the beautiful kindred' = fairies)<ref>{{HM|N}}, p. 757 cf. "Fair folk"</ref> although they are unrelated to fairies.

===Eschatology===
The larger Elves are also inspired by Tolkien's Christian theology — as representing the state of Men in Eden who have not yet "[[Wikipedia:Fall of Man|fallen]]" — similar to humans but fairer and wiser, with greater spiritual powers, keener senses, and a closer empathy with nature, freed from human limitations, immortal, with wills directly effective for the achievement of imagination and desire.<ref name="Carpenter"/>

===Fairies===
Traditional "Victorian" dancing [[fairies]] and elves appear in Tolkien's early poetry,<ref name = "bolt1">{{HM|LT1}}</ref> and have influence upon his later works<ref>[[Dimitra Fimi]], "[http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/english/working_with_english/Fimi_31_05_06.pdf Come sing ye light fairy things tripping so gay: Victorian Fairies and the Early Work of J. R. R. Tolkien]". ''Working With English: Medieval and Modern Language, Literature and Drama''. Retrieved 11/01/08</ref> in part due to the influence of a production of J.M. Barrie's ''Peter Pan'' in [[Birmingham]] in 1910<ref name="Carpenter">[[Humphrey Carpenter]], ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]''</ref> and his familiarity with the work of Catholic mystic poet, Francis Thompson<ref name="Carpenter" /> whose work Tolkien had acquired in 1914.<ref name="bolt1" />

In ''The Book of Lost Tales'' Tolkien includes both the more serious 'medieval' type of elves such as [[Fëanor]] and [[Turgon]] alongside the frivolous, "Jacobean-era" type of elves such as the [[Solosimpi]] and [[Lúthien|Tinúviel]].<ref name="Anderson1" />

Tolkien also developed the idea of children visiting [[Valinor]] in their sleep. Elves would also visit and comfort chided or upset children at night. This theme was largely abandoned.<ref>{{LT1|I}}</ref>

However after the publication of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien repeatedly expressed his misgivings concerning the undesirable associations of the name "elf" like those of ''A Midsummer Night's Dream'', the Victorian notions of fairies or mischievous imps, the imaginations of Michael Drayton or the fanciful beings with butterfly wings.

He proposed that in [[translations of The Lord of the Rings|translations]] the "oldest available form of the name" be used for more elevated notions of beings "supposed to possess formidable magical powers in early Teutonic mythology" ([[OED]] viz. the [[Old English]] ''ælf'', from Proto-Germanic ''*albo-z''). Tolkien warned against associations to the debased English notion of ''elfin'' and suggested that Germans would not translate his Elves as ''Elf, elfen'', words which might retain the undesirable images.

He rather suggested words such as ''Alp, Alb'', historically the more normal form and true cognate of English ''elf''.<ref>{{HM|N}}, p. 756, s.v. "Elven-smiths".</ref>

== See also ==
* '''[[:Category:Images of Elves|Images of Elves]]'''
{{references}}
{{elves}}
[[Category:Elves]]
[[Category:Races]]
[[de:Elben]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/elfes/elfes]]
[[fi:Haltiat]]

Ithilien

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{{cleanup}}
{{kingdom
| image=[[File:Mark Fisher - Ithilien.png|250px]]
| name=Ithilien
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Between [[Anduin]] and [[Ephel Dúath]]
| capital=[[Minas Morgul|Minas Ithil]] (before {{TA|2002}}) [[Emyn Arnen]] ([[Fourth Age]])
| towns=[[Henneth Annûn]]
| regions=[[North Ithilien|North]] and [[South Ithilien|South]]
| population=[[Gondorians]], [[Rangers of Ithilien]], [[Elves of Mirkwood|Elves from Mirkwood]]
| language=[[Westron]], [[Gondor Sindarin]]
| govern1=[[King of Gondor]], later Kings of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]
| govern2=[[Stewards of Gondor]]
| govern3=[[Prince of Ithilien]]
| currency=
| holiday=
| precededby=
| event1=Founded
| event1date={{SA|3320}}
| event2=Deserted
| event2date={{TA|2901}}
| event3=Reclaimed
| event3date={{TA|3019}}
| event4=
| event4date=
| event5=
| event5date=
| followedby=
}}

'''Ithilien''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[iˈθiljen]}}) was a region and fiefdom of [[Gondor]].

==History==
Historians in [[Gondor]] believed that, in the [[First Age]], the [[Drúedain|Woses]] reached the region and were the first to cross the [[Anduin]] (probably near [[Cair Andros]]).<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}</ref>

Old records preserved in [[Gondor]] indicate that the name ''[[Arnen]]'' was once used for the larger part of the region during the [[Second Age]].<ref>{{VT|42a}}, p. 17</ref>
[[File:Matěj Čadil - Minas Ithil.jpg|thumb|left|Matěj Čadil - ''Minas Ithil'']]
When [[Elendil]] and his sons founded the [[Realms in Exile]], Ithilien took its name after his son, [[Isildur]]. Of old its chief city was ''Minas Ithil'', the Tower of the Moon. It was briefly captured by [[Sauron]] in {{SA|3429}} but was restored. Ithilien was a fair and prosperous land during the [[Second Age]] and the first part of the [[Third Age]], when Gondor was strong and Mordor deserted.

In {{TA|541}} [[Easterlings]] invaded northern Ithilien and King [[Rómendacil I]] was killed .<ref name="TA"/>
[[File:Alan Lee - Cirith Ungol.jpg|left|thumb|"Cirith Ungol" by [[Alan Lee]]]]
[[Amon Dîn]] was used as a fortified outpost of Minas Tirith keeping watch over the passage into North Ithilien from [[Dagorlad]] and any attempt by enemies to cross the [[Anduin]] near [[Cair Andros]].<ref name="Cirion">{{UT|Cirion}}</ref><ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 510</ref> The [[Tower of Cirith Ungol]] was also defending Ithilien from attacks from Sauron's remaining servants and stopped them from returning to Mordor, guarding the high pass over the [[Ephel Dúath]]. Gondor occupied the fortress until {{TA|1636}} when the [[Great Plague]] killed large parts of the population. During the plague most of the people of [[Osgiliath]] fled the city for the western dales or the woods of Ithilien.

After the disastrous [[Battle of the Plains]] in {{TA|1856}}, Ithilien was the only land east of the river Anduin to be occupied as the others were abandoned.

In {{TA|1899}}, Marhwini warned [[Calimehtar (King of Gondor)|King Calimehtar]] that the [[Wainriders]] were plotting to raid [[Calenardhon]] over the [[Undeeps]]. Calimehtar therefore provoked the Wainriders out of Ithilien, and his horsemen, joined by a large [[éored]] led by [[Marhwini]], drove the Wainriders back.<ref name="Cirion"/>

In {{TA|1944}}, [[Wainriders]] from [[Rhûn]] made an alliance with the [[Haradrim]], and a dual attack on Ithilien was launched. While the Wainriders assaulted Ithilien from the north, the armies of the Haradrim crossed the [[Poros]] and invaded [[South Ithilien]]. The Gondorian [[Captain of the Southern Army|Captain]] [[Earnil II|Eärnil]] leading Gondor's inferior [[Southern Army]], defeated the Haradrim, and then turned north, [[Battle of the Camp|took]] the Wainriders into surprise and pushed many of them into the swamplands of the [[Dead Marshes]].

When Minas Ithil was captured by Mordor in {{TA|2002}} it was renamed [[Minas Morgul]], the Tower of Black Sorcery. During the [[Watchful Peace]] the lords of Morgul had secretly bred the [[Uruk-hai]], and in {{TA|2475}} these creatures assailed and overran Ithilien, captured [[Osgiliath]] and destroyed the great stone-bridge.
===Deserting===
[[Boromir (Steward of Gondor)|Boromir]] defeated the host of Morgul and regained Ithilien. However, from that time on no people dwelt in that region, and for Gondor there was never full peace again until after the defeat of Sauron.<ref>{{App|Stewards}}</ref>

In {{TA|2885}}, Ithilien was invaded in great strength, King [[Folcwine]] of [[Rohan]] fulfilled the [[Oath of Eorl]] and sent many men to Gondor. With their aid Steward [[Túrin II]] won a victory at the crossings of [[Poros]], though the princes [[Fastred (son of Folcwine)|Fastred]] and [[Folcred]] were slain.<ref name=TA>{{App|TA}}</ref>
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Henneth Annûn.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Henneth Annun'']]
The majority of the people of Ithilien fled across the [[Anduin]] to escape war ({{TA|2901}})<ref name=TA/>, but the [[Stewards of Gondor]] still kept scouts there, operating out of secret locations such as [[Henneth Annûn]]. Those who stayed fled to regions such as [[Lossarnach]] when [[Mount Doom]] erupted in {{TA|2954}}. [[Steward]] [[Ecthelion II]] constructed the [[Rammas Echor]] as part of the now necessary defenses of [[Gondor]].<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 546</ref>
[[File:Angus McBride - Ambush.jpg|thumb|left|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Ambush'']]
The descendants of the people who had dwelt in Ithilien, formed the corps of the [[Rangers of Ithilien]].

===War of the Ring and later===

During the [[War of the Ring]], in early March {{TA|3019}}, [[Faramir]] the son of the Steward [[Denethor]], was leading the [[Rangers of Ithilien]] to ambush Haradrim who would pass through Ithilien. That same time, [[Gollum]] led [[Frodo Baggins]] and [[Samwise Gamgee]] through Ithilien on their way to [[Cirith Ungol]] and into Mordor, and Faramir allowed them to continue when he was satisfied they were not agents of [[Sauron]].
[[File:Alan Lee - Oliphaunt.jpg|thumb|"Oliphaunt" by [[Alan Lee]]]]
When the [[Host of the West]] marched on the [[Morannon]], [[Mablung (ranger of Ithilien)|Mablung]] and his troops discovered an ambush by Orcs and Easterlings that lay hid in Ithilien. The ambush was quickly turned.<ref>{{RK|V10}}</ref>

During the [[Fourth Age]], Ithilien was ruled by the [[Prince of Ithilien|Princes of Ithilien]], a line that started with Faramir and [[Éowyn]], who became known as the White Lady of Ithilien. Minas Morgul was not repopulated, and Faramir had his throne in [[Emyn Arnen]]. After the fall of Sauron, [[Legolas]] brought elves from [[Mirkwood|Greenwood]], and they dwelt in Ithilien, and once again it became the fairest country in all the westlands.<ref>{{App|Durin}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[Image:Ted_Nasmith_-_First_Sight_of_Ithilien.jpg|left|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''First Sight of Ithilien'']]
Ithilien was the only part of Gondor on the eastern side of the [[Anduin]], wedged in between the river and the [[Ephel Dúath]]. The northern border must have been around the [[Dead Marshes]] and its southern border was the river [[Poros]]. The region was further divided into [[North Ithilien|North]] and [[South Ithilien]] (the division was made at or near the [[Cross-roads]]).

[[Iris]]es, [[Anemones]], [[Eglantine]], [[lilies]], [[water-lilies]] and [[Asphodel]] grew in Ithilien<ref>{{TT|Herbs}}</ref>. [[Lebethron]]<ref>{{TT|Journey}}</ref> and [[Culumalda]] grew especially in the woods around the [[Field of Cormallen]].<ref name=RC>{{HM|RC}}, pp. 625-6 (citing from the [[Unfinished index]])</ref><ref name=SApp>{{S|Appendix}} (entry for ''mal-'')</ref>

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Ithilien.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Ithilien'' is a [[Sindarin]] name meaning "land of the moon".<ref>{{HM|UI}}, p. 233</ref> It has been suggested that the name consists of the elements ''[[Moon#Other names|Ithil]]'' ("moon") + the affix ''[[-nd|end]]''.<ref>[http://www.tolkiendil.com/langues/english/i-lam_arth/compound_sindarin_names Compound Sindarin Names in Middle-earth] at [http://www.tolkiendil.com Tolkiendil.com] (accessed 20 July 2011)</ref>

{{references}}
{{FellowshipRoute}}
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Gondor]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]

[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/gondor/ithilien]]

Men

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{{disambig-more|Men|[[Men (disambiguation)]]}}
{{race infobox
| name=Men
| image=[[File:Ted Nasmith - Felagund Among Bëor’s Men.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Felagund Among Bëor's Men" by [[Ted Nasmith]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Atani, Secondborn, Hildor, Apanónar
| origin=[[Children of Ilúvatar]]
| location=[[Hildórien]], [[Beleriand]], [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], [[Arnor]], [[Rohan]], [[Dunland]], [[Harad]], [[Khand]], [[Forochel]], [[Rhûn]], [[Harad]], [[Rhovanion]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=[[Morgoth]], [[Sauron]], [[Orcs]]
| language=[[Taliska]], [[Adûnaic]], [[Sindarin]], [[Rohirric]], [[Westron]]
| people=[[House of Bëor|Bëorians]], [[House of Haleth|Haladin]], [[House of Hador|Hadorians]], [[Easterlings]], [[Númenóreans]], [[Black Númenóreans]], [[Dúnedain]], [[Dúnedain of Arnor|Arnorians]], [[Gondorians]], [[Corsairs of Umbar|Corsairs]], [[Forodwaith (people)|Forodwaith]], [[Haradrim]], [[Rohirrim]], [[Dunlendings]], [[Men of Dale]], [[Beornings]], [[Bardings]], [[Drúedain]], [[Hobbits]]
| members=[[Bëor]], [[Hador]], [[Barahir]], [[Beren]], [[Húrin]], [[Morwen]], [[Túrin]], [[Niënor]], [[Tuor]], [[Elros]], [[Ar-Pharazôn]], [[Elendil]], [[Isildur]], [[Bard]], [[Denethor]], [[Boromir]], [[Faramir]], [[Théoden]], [[Éomer]], [[Éowyn]], [[Aragorn]]
| lifespan=ordinary Men - c. 80-100 years [[Númenóreans]] - c. 300-350 years<ref name=Line>{{UT|Kings}}</ref>[[Kings of Númenor]] - c. 400-500 years<ref name=Line/>[[Dúnedain]] - c. 150-250 years[[Hobbits]] - c. 100 years[[Drúedain]] - shorter<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}</ref>
| distinctions=[[Gift of Men|Mortality]], [[Dominion of Men|rulers]] of [[Middle-earth]]
| height=Dúnedain - 6'4" (average)<ref name=Galadriel>{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref>Númenóreans - 7'0" (average)<ref>{{PM|X}}, p. 310.</ref>ordinary Men - shorterDrúedain - 4' to 5'Hobbits - 3'6" (average)
| hair=Black, brown, blond, red, and (when older) grey or white
| skin=White, brown, black
| clothing=
| weapons=Swords, bows, axes, spears
}}
{{quote|West, North, and South the children of Men spread and wandered, and their joy was the joy of the morning before the dew is dry, when every leaf is green.|''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of Men]]}}
'''Men''' were one of the Kindreds of the [[Children of Ilúvatar]]. Men were called the Secondborn (or the Second Kindred<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 89</ref>) by the [[Elves]], their [[Elves|Elder]] brethren, because they were the last of all the [[incarnate]] races to come into being. Though they were born after the other sentient races, Men were destined to inherit and [[Dominion of Men|rule]] [[Middle-earth]].

==Origins and nature==

The race of Men is the second race of beings created by the Supreme God, [[Ilúvatar]]. Because they [[Awakening of Men|awoke]] at the start of the [[First Age]] of the Sun, while the [[Elves]] awoke three Ages before them, they are called the Secondborn ([[Quenya]]: ''Atani'', [[Sindarin]]: ''[[Edain]]'') by the Elves. Men awoke in a land located in the far east of Middle-earth called [[Hildórien]]. When the Sun rose for the first time in the far West, Men began to wander towards it, a journey which culminated in some of them reaching Beleriand centuries later.

There is much evidence that, soon after their awakening, Morgoth came to Men and incited them to worship him and turn away from Ilúvatar, and that they complied. Though all were seduced by the Enemy, some Men repented and escaped; they were said to be the ancestors of the Edain.

Men bear the so-called ''[[Gift of Men]]'', mortality. Elves are immortal, in the sense that even if their bodies are slain, their spirits remain bound to the world, going to the [[Halls of Mandos]] to wait until they are released or the world ends. Elves are tied to the world for as long as it lasts. When Men die, they are released from [[Arda]] and the bounds of the world and have rest from its troubles. Ilúvatar also gifted Men with the freedom to shape their own future, being rather free from the designs of the [[Music of the Ainur]]. <ref>{{S|1}}</ref> However, the influence of Morgoth has caused Men to fear their fate, and view Death as a Doom instead of a Gift.

==Groups and alignments==

Although all Men are related to one another, there are many different groups with different cultures. The most important group in the tales of the [[First Age]] were the Edain. Although the word Edain technically refers to all Men, the Elves used it to distinguish those Men who fought with them in the First Age against [[Morgoth]] in [[Beleriand]]. The Edain were divided into three Houses.

The First House of the Edain was the [[House of Bëor]], and entered Beleriand in {{FA|310}} and were granted the fief of [[Ladros]] in [[Dorthonion]] by [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]]. The Second House of the Edain, the [[Haladin]], was led by Haldad and later by his daughter Haleth and settled in the Forest of Brethil. The Third House, which became the greatest, was led by [[Marach]] and later his descendant [[Hador]], and they settled in [[Dor-lómin]]. This house was known both as the House of Marach and the [[House of Hador]].

Other Men did not cross the [[Misty Mountains]] or fight against Morgoth. However, some, such as the Easterlings, fought openly on his side. In later Ages, the Haradrim and Easterlings would fight on Sauron's side against the descendants of the Edain. Here below follow the short descriptions of the most important groups of Men in the First, Second and Third Ages.

===Edain and Dúnedain===

As a reward for their services and assistance rendered to the Elves and the Valar in the [[War of Wrath]] at the end of the First Age, the [[Edain]] received a new land of their own from the Valar, between Middle-earth and the [[Undying Lands]]. This was the land of [[Númenor]], an island in the form of a five-pointed star that was far away from the troubles of Middle-earth.

They were led to this island by [[Elros]] with the help of his father [[Eärendil]], who sailed the heavens as the bright star of the same name and guided the ships of the Edain to Númenor. Once they arrived, Elros became the first King of Númenor and took the name Tar-Minyatur. The Edain became known as the [[Númenóreans]] or [[Dúnedain]] (Sindarin for ''Men of the West''). The kingdom of Númenor grew steadily in power, and the Dúnedain became the noblest and highest of all Men on Arda. In their early days, the Dúnedain remained allied to the Elves of Middle-earth, and aided them in battle against Morgoth's lieutenant [[Sauron]].

As the Men of the West increased in power and happiness, they came to resent the Gift of Men, Death. They wished to become immortal like the Elves and enjoy their possessions for all time. Most of the Númenóreans, including the line of the Kings, began to turn away from the Valar, and spoke against the Ban of the Valar that forbade them to sail west beyond sight of Númenor or to enter [[Valinor]]. The Númenóreans also became increasingly hostile to all Elvish influences in their realm, and in {{SA|2899|n}} of the [[Second Age]], Ar-Adûnakhôr became the first king of Númenor to take his royal name in [[Adûnaic]], the language of Men, instead of [[Quenya]], the tongue of the Elves of Valinor.

During the early part of their rebellion, the Númenóreans became divided into two factions: the first, the [[King's Men]], enjoyed the support of the King and included the majority of the people. They wished to gain immortality and break away from their ancestral allegiance to the Valar. The King's Men also wanted to end relations with the Elves, and thus they favoured Adûnaic as the official language and eventually punished those who spoke the Elven tongues. The persecuted minority faction, the [[Faithful]], were led by the [[Lords of Andúnië]], the westernmost province of Númenor, and remained loyal to the Valar. They also tried to maintain friendship with the Elves.

When Sauron was apparently defeated and taken to the Isle by the Númenórean army near the end of the Second Age, he took advantage of the pride of the Númenóreans. By teaching the Dúnedain many things and flattering the King, [[Ar-Pharazôn]], he worked his way into the King's counsels and won the hearts of the people. Ultimately, Sauron advised Ar-Pharazôn to attack Valinor and claim immortality. This he foolishly did, and as a punishment Númenor, the island of the Men of the West, sank into the Sea and only the Faithful escaped. When the Faithful returned to Middle-earth, they founded the twin kingdoms of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]].

===Black Númenóreans and Haradrim===

The Faithful weren't the only Númenóreans left on Middle-earth when Númenor sank. When Númenor grew in naval power, many Númenóreans founded colonies in Middle-earth. In the second millennium of the [[Second Age]] there was an exodus of Men from the overcrowded island. Many of the King's Men settled in Middle-earth because they wanted to conquer more lands, and the Faithful because they were persecuted by the Kings. The Faithful settled in [[Pelargir]], while the King's Men ruled the [[Umbar|Haven of Umbar]] and other colonies in the South. From these colonies Sauron recruited men who would become some of the nine [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] in the second millennium of the Second Age. When Númenor was destroyed, the King's Men became known as the Black Númenóreans and remained hostile towards the Faithful of Gondor. Eventually, the [[Black Númenórean]] stronghold of Umbar was conquered by Gondor in {{TA|933|n}} of the Third Age.

Further east of Umbar another group of Men lived called the '''[[Haradrim]]''' or [[Southrons]]. They were dark skinned Men and waged war on great Oliphaunts or ''Mûmakil''. They too were hostile to Gondor, though they were subdued in {{TA|1050}} by [[Hyarmendacil I]].

Both Umbar and the Harad were left unchecked by Gondor's waning power by the time of the War of the Ring, and presented grave threats from the south. Many Haradrim fought with Sauron's forces in Gondor in that War.

===Easterlings===

Most Men who fought in the armies of Morgoth and Sauron were [[Easterlings]] who came from the regions beyondd the [[Sea of Rhûn]]. Some Easterlings offered their services to the Elvish kingdoms in Beleriand; among them were [[Bór]] and his sons, and [[Ulfang the Black]] and his sons. This proved to be disastrous for the Elves in the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] when Ulfang and his clan switched sides and defected to Morgoth, though Bór and his sons died bravely fighting on the side of the [[Eldar]].

After Morgoth's defeat Sauron extended his influence over the Easterlings, and although Sauron was defeated by the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]] at the end of the Second Age, the Easterlings were the first enemies to attack Gondor again in {{TA|492}}. They were soundly defeated by King [[Rómendacil I]], but they invaded again in {{TA|541|n}}and took revenge by slaying King Rómendacil. Rómendacil's son [[Turambar (King of Gondor)|Turambar]] took large portions of land from them.

In the next centuries Gondor held sway over the Easterlings. When Gondor's power began to decrease in the twelfth century of the Third Age, the Easterlings took the complete eastern bank of the [[Anduin]] except [[Ithilien]] and crushed Gondor's allies, the Northmen.

The Easterlings of the Third Age were divided in different tribes, such as the [[Wainriders]] and the [[Balchoth]]. The Wainriders were a confederation of Easterlings who were very active between {{TA|1856}} and {{TA|1944|n}}. They posed a serious threat to Gondor for many years, but were utterly defeated by [[Eärnil II]] in 1944.

When Gondor lost its royal dynasty in {{TA|2050|n}} the Easterlings started to reorganize themselves, and a fierce group called the Balchoth became the most important tribe. In {{TA|2510|n}} they invaded Gondor again and conquered much of [[Calenardhon]], until they were defeated by the [[Éothéod]] who rode to Gondor's aid.

In the War of the Ring, the Easterlings were among the fiercest warriors deployed at the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] by Sauron.

===Northmen===

Not all the Men who remained east of the Blue Mountains and Misty Mountains during the First Age were tempted by Morgoth or Sauron, and they were joined after the War of Wrath by those of the Edain who did not wish to travel to Númenor. The [[Northmen]] who dwelt in [[Mirkwood|Greenwood the Great]] and other parts of [[Rhovanion]] were friendly to the Dúnedain, being for the most part their kin, and many of them became Gondorian subjects. The Men of [[Dale]] and [[Lake-town|Esgaroth]] were Northmen, as were the Woodsmen of Mirkwood, and the [[Éothéod]], who became the Rohirrim or Horse Lords.

===Dunlendings===

When Elendil founded the Kingdom of Arnor, its borders were quickly extended towards the river Greyflood (Sindarin:''Gwathló''), and Gondor likewise extended up through [[Enedwaith]]. In Enedwaith and [[Minhiriath]] (Sindarin for ''Land between the Rivers'') lived a group of Men related to those Men that became the House of Haleth, and they were known as the [[Dunlendings]]. They had lived in the great woods that covered most of Eriador, and when the Númenóreans started to chop these woods down to build their ships in the [[Second Age]], they earned the hostility of the Dunlendings. The Dunlendings later became bitter enemies of [[Rohan]], as they believed the Rohirrim had stolen their lands.

Because of their enmity with the Rohirrim, the Dunlendings served [[Saruman]] in the War of the Ring and fought against the Horse Lords in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].

===Drúedain===
Another group of Men were the [[Drúedain]], also called the [[Woses]]. They were small and stooped, and were always few in number and shortlived compared to other races of Men. They lived among the House of Haleth in the First Age, and were held as Edain by the Elves, who called them ''Drúedain'' (from ''Drûg'', their own name for themselves, plus ''Edain'').

At the end of the Third Age a few Woses still lived in the Drúadan Forest. They held off [[Orcs]] with poisoned arrows and were vital in securing the aid of the Rohirrim in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. King [[Aragorn|Elessar]] granted the Drúadan Forest to them "forever" in the [[Fourth Age]].

===Hobbits===
[[Hobbits]] were strictly a race of Men rather than a separate species. The origin of Hobbits is obscure; they first appeared in the records of other Men in the middle of the [[Third Age]].

==Names and etymology==
The Elves called the race of '''Mankind''' with poetic names that refer to their later coming, and their mortality. They are mostly called '''[[Atani]]''' in [[Quenya]], literally meaning "Second ones" (the [[Elves]] being the First), but also '''[[Hildor]]''' (Followers or Aftercomers), '''Apanónar''' (Q. Afterborn), '''Secondborn''', '''Younger Children of Iluvatar''', '''Strangers''' and '''Usurpers'''<ref name=men>{{S|Men}}</ref> because they [[Dominion of Men|dominated Arda]] after the Elves. [[Sindarin]] names were '''Ephedin''' or '''Ephedrim''' (Followers).<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}}</ref>

Other names were '''[[Fírimar]]''' (Mortals), '''[[Engwar]]''' (The Sickly), the '''Self-cursed''' and the '''Guests'''<ref name=men/> because their fate was outside Arda.

Other names by the Elves, apparently referring to their differences from themselves are '''Inscrutable''', the '''Heavy-handed''', the '''Night-fearers''', and the '''Children of the Sun'''<ref name=men/> because they awoke with the Sun.

Hobbits called them the '''Big People''' or the '''[[Big Folk]]''', especially in [[Bree]].

The name ''Atani'' is cognate with [[Sindarin]] '''[[Adan|Edain]]''', but the latter term was later applied not to the race, but only to the peoples of [[Beleriand]] who aided the Elves in their war with [[Morgoth]] in the [[First Age]].

[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] employed a peculiar usage of the words ''Man'' and ''Mannish'': these terms came to replace the word "human" found in drafts of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''.<ref>{{PM|Languages}}, p. 61</ref> It has been suggested that Tolkien might have preferred ''Man'' and ''Mannish'' being pure Germanic roots, unlike the Latin-influenced ''Human'' (cf. ''[[Wiktionary:homo#Latin|homo]]'').<ref>{{HM|RW}}, pp. 156-8</ref> This usage also reflects old Germanic practice, where ''Man'' originally meant ''mankind'', not merely the male gender; this was found (and in many of them, still is found) in all the Germanic languages (i.e. German ''Menschen'', "people").<ref>http://etymonline.com/index.php?term=man&allowed_in_frame=0</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Men]]
[[Category:Races]]
[[de:Menschen]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/hommes/hommes]]
[[fi:Ihmiset]]

Men

2018-04-16T03:16:47Z

173.206.83.82:

{{disambig-more|Men|[[Men (disambiguation)]]}}
{{race infobox
| name=Men
| image=[[File:Ted Nasmith - Felagund Among Bëor’s Men.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Felagund Among Bëor's Men" by [[Ted Nasmith]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Atani, Secondborn, Hildor, Apanónar
| origin=[[Children of Ilúvatar]]
| location=[[Hildórien]], [[Beleriand]], [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], [[Arnor]], [[Rohan]], [[Dunland]], [[Harad]], [[Khand]], [[Forochel]], [[Rhûn]], [[Harad]], [[Rhovanion]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=[[Morgoth]], [[Sauron]], [[Orcs]]
| language=[[Taliska]], [[Adûnaic]], [[Sindarin]], [[Rohirric]], [[Westron]]
| people=[[House of Bëor|Bëorians]], [[House of Haleth|Haladin]], [[House of Hador|Hadorians]], [[Easterlings]], [[Númenóreans]], [[Black Númenóreans]], [[Dúnedain]], [[Dúnedain of Arnor|Arnorians]], [[Gondorians]], [[Corsairs of Umbar|Corsairs]], [[Forodwaith (people)|Forodwaith]], [[Haradrim]], [[Rohirrim]], [[Dunlendings]], [[Men of Dale]], [[Beornings]], [[Bardings]], [[Drúedain]], [[Hobbits]]
| members=[[Bëor]], [[Hador]], [[Barahir]], [[Beren]], [[Húrin]], [[Morwen]], [[Túrin]], [[Niënor]], [[Tuor]], [[Elros]], [[Ar-Pharazôn]], [[Elendil]], [[Isildur]], [[Bard]], [[Denethor]], [[Boromir]], [[Faramir]], [[Théoden]], [[Éomer]], [[Éowyn]], [[Aragorn]]
| lifespan=ordinary Men - c. 80-100 years [[Númenóreans]] - c. 350 years<ref name=Line>{{UT|Kings}}</ref>[[Kings of Númenor]] - c. 400-500 years<ref name=Line/>[[Dúnedain]] - c. 150-250[[Hobbits]] - c. 100 years[[Drúedain]] - shorter<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}</ref>
| distinctions=[[Gift of Men|Mortality]], [[Dominion of Men|rulers]] of [[Middle-earth]]
| height=Dúnedain - 6'4" (average)<ref name=Galadriel>{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref>Númenóreans - 7'0" (average)<ref>{{PM|X}}, p. 310.</ref>ordinary Men - shorterDrúedain - 4' to 5'Hobbits - 3'6" (average)
| hair=Black, brown, blond, red, and (when older) grey or white
| skin=White, brown, black
| clothing=
| weapons=Swords, bows, axes, spears
}}
{{quote|West, North, and South the children of Men spread and wandered, and their joy was the joy of the morning before the dew is dry, when every leaf is green.|''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of Men]]}}
'''Men''' were one of the Kindreds of the [[Children of Ilúvatar]]. Men were called the Secondborn (or the Second Kindred<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 89</ref>) by the [[Elves]], their [[Elves|Elder]] brethren, because they were the last of all the [[incarnate]] races to come into being. Though they were born after the other sentient races, Men were destined to inherit and [[Dominion of Men|rule]] [[Middle-earth]].

==Origins and nature==

The race of Men is the second race of beings created by the Supreme God, [[Ilúvatar]]. Because they [[Awakening of Men|awoke]] at the start of the [[First Age]] of the Sun, while the [[Elves]] awoke three Ages before them, they are called the Secondborn ([[Quenya]]: ''Atani'', [[Sindarin]]: ''[[Edain]]'') by the Elves. Men awoke in a land located in the far east of Middle-earth called [[Hildórien]]. When the Sun rose for the first time in the far West, Men began to wander towards it, a journey which culminated in some of them reaching Beleriand centuries later.

There is much evidence that, soon after their awakening, Morgoth came to Men and incited them to worship him and turn away from Ilúvatar, and that they complied. Though all were seduced by the Enemy, some Men repented and escaped; they were said to be the ancestors of the Edain.

Men bear the so-called ''[[Gift of Men]]'', mortality. Elves are immortal, in the sense that even if their bodies are slain, their spirits remain bound to the world, going to the [[Halls of Mandos]] to wait until they are released or the world ends. Elves are tied to the world for as long as it lasts. When Men die, they are released from [[Arda]] and the bounds of the world and have rest from its troubles. Ilúvatar also gifted Men with the freedom to shape their own future, being rather free from the designs of the [[Music of the Ainur]]. <ref>{{S|1}}</ref> However, the influence of Morgoth has caused Men to fear their fate, and view Death as a Doom instead of a Gift.

==Groups and alignments==

Although all Men are related to one another, there are many different groups with different cultures. The most important group in the tales of the [[First Age]] were the Edain. Although the word Edain technically refers to all Men, the Elves used it to distinguish those Men who fought with them in the First Age against [[Morgoth]] in [[Beleriand]]. The Edain were divided into three Houses.

The First House of the Edain was the [[House of Bëor]], and entered Beleriand in {{FA|310}} and were granted the fief of [[Ladros]] in [[Dorthonion]] by [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]]. The Second House of the Edain, the [[Haladin]], was led by Haldad and later by his daughter Haleth and settled in the Forest of Brethil. The Third House, which became the greatest, was led by [[Marach]] and later his descendant [[Hador]], and they settled in [[Dor-lómin]]. This house was known both as the House of Marach and the [[House of Hador]].

Other Men did not cross the [[Misty Mountains]] or fight against Morgoth. However, some, such as the Easterlings, fought openly on his side. In later Ages, the Haradrim and Easterlings would fight on Sauron's side against the descendants of the Edain. Here below follow the short descriptions of the most important groups of Men in the First, Second and Third Ages.

===Edain and Dúnedain===

As a reward for their services and assistance rendered to the Elves and the Valar in the [[War of Wrath]] at the end of the First Age, the [[Edain]] received a new land of their own from the Valar, between Middle-earth and the [[Undying Lands]]. This was the land of [[Númenor]], an island in the form of a five-pointed star that was far away from the troubles of Middle-earth.

They were led to this island by [[Elros]] with the help of his father [[Eärendil]], who sailed the heavens as the bright star of the same name and guided the ships of the Edain to Númenor. Once they arrived, Elros became the first King of Númenor and took the name Tar-Minyatur. The Edain became known as the [[Númenóreans]] or [[Dúnedain]] (Sindarin for ''Men of the West''). The kingdom of Númenor grew steadily in power, and the Dúnedain became the noblest and highest of all Men on Arda. In their early days, the Dúnedain remained allied to the Elves of Middle-earth, and aided them in battle against Morgoth's lieutenant [[Sauron]].

As the Men of the West increased in power and happiness, they came to resent the Gift of Men, Death. They wished to become immortal like the Elves and enjoy their possessions for all time. Most of the Númenóreans, including the line of the Kings, began to turn away from the Valar, and spoke against the Ban of the Valar that forbade them to sail west beyond sight of Númenor or to enter [[Valinor]]. The Númenóreans also became increasingly hostile to all Elvish influences in their realm, and in {{SA|2899|n}} of the [[Second Age]], Ar-Adûnakhôr became the first king of Númenor to take his royal name in [[Adûnaic]], the language of Men, instead of [[Quenya]], the tongue of the Elves of Valinor.

During the early part of their rebellion, the Númenóreans became divided into two factions: the first, the [[King's Men]], enjoyed the support of the King and included the majority of the people. They wished to gain immortality and break away from their ancestral allegiance to the Valar. The King's Men also wanted to end relations with the Elves, and thus they favoured Adûnaic as the official language and eventually punished those who spoke the Elven tongues. The persecuted minority faction, the [[Faithful]], were led by the [[Lords of Andúnië]], the westernmost province of Númenor, and remained loyal to the Valar. They also tried to maintain friendship with the Elves.

When Sauron was apparently defeated and taken to the Isle by the Númenórean army near the end of the Second Age, he took advantage of the pride of the Númenóreans. By teaching the Dúnedain many things and flattering the King, [[Ar-Pharazôn]], he worked his way into the King's counsels and won the hearts of the people. Ultimately, Sauron advised Ar-Pharazôn to attack Valinor and claim immortality. This he foolishly did, and as a punishment Númenor, the island of the Men of the West, sank into the Sea and only the Faithful escaped. When the Faithful returned to Middle-earth, they founded the twin kingdoms of [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]].

===Black Númenóreans and Haradrim===

The Faithful weren't the only Númenóreans left on Middle-earth when Númenor sank. When Númenor grew in naval power, many Númenóreans founded colonies in Middle-earth. In the second millennium of the [[Second Age]] there was an exodus of Men from the overcrowded island. Many of the King's Men settled in Middle-earth because they wanted to conquer more lands, and the Faithful because they were persecuted by the Kings. The Faithful settled in [[Pelargir]], while the King's Men ruled the [[Umbar|Haven of Umbar]] and other colonies in the South. From these colonies Sauron recruited men who would become some of the nine [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] in the second millennium of the Second Age. When Númenor was destroyed, the King's Men became known as the Black Númenóreans and remained hostile towards the Faithful of Gondor. Eventually, the [[Black Númenórean]] stronghold of Umbar was conquered by Gondor in {{TA|933|n}} of the Third Age.

Further east of Umbar another group of Men lived called the '''[[Haradrim]]''' or [[Southrons]]. They were dark skinned Men and waged war on great Oliphaunts or ''Mûmakil''. They too were hostile to Gondor, though they were subdued in {{TA|1050}} by [[Hyarmendacil I]].

Both Umbar and the Harad were left unchecked by Gondor's waning power by the time of the War of the Ring, and presented grave threats from the south. Many Haradrim fought with Sauron's forces in Gondor in that War.

===Easterlings===

Most Men who fought in the armies of Morgoth and Sauron were [[Easterlings]] who came from the regions beyondd the [[Sea of Rhûn]]. Some Easterlings offered their services to the Elvish kingdoms in Beleriand; among them were [[Bór]] and his sons, and [[Ulfang the Black]] and his sons. This proved to be disastrous for the Elves in the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] when Ulfang and his clan switched sides and defected to Morgoth, though Bór and his sons died bravely fighting on the side of the [[Eldar]].

After Morgoth's defeat Sauron extended his influence over the Easterlings, and although Sauron was defeated by the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]] at the end of the Second Age, the Easterlings were the first enemies to attack Gondor again in {{TA|492}}. They were soundly defeated by King [[Rómendacil I]], but they invaded again in {{TA|541|n}}and took revenge by slaying King Rómendacil. Rómendacil's son [[Turambar (King of Gondor)|Turambar]] took large portions of land from them.

In the next centuries Gondor held sway over the Easterlings. When Gondor's power began to decrease in the twelfth century of the Third Age, the Easterlings took the complete eastern bank of the [[Anduin]] except [[Ithilien]] and crushed Gondor's allies, the Northmen.

The Easterlings of the Third Age were divided in different tribes, such as the [[Wainriders]] and the [[Balchoth]]. The Wainriders were a confederation of Easterlings who were very active between {{TA|1856}} and {{TA|1944|n}}. They posed a serious threat to Gondor for many years, but were utterly defeated by [[Eärnil II]] in 1944.

When Gondor lost its royal dynasty in {{TA|2050|n}} the Easterlings started to reorganize themselves, and a fierce group called the Balchoth became the most important tribe. In {{TA|2510|n}} they invaded Gondor again and conquered much of [[Calenardhon]], until they were defeated by the [[Éothéod]] who rode to Gondor's aid.

In the War of the Ring, the Easterlings were among the fiercest warriors deployed at the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]] by Sauron.

===Northmen===

Not all the Men who remained east of the Blue Mountains and Misty Mountains during the First Age were tempted by Morgoth or Sauron, and they were joined after the War of Wrath by those of the Edain who did not wish to travel to Númenor. The [[Northmen]] who dwelt in [[Mirkwood|Greenwood the Great]] and other parts of [[Rhovanion]] were friendly to the Dúnedain, being for the most part their kin, and many of them became Gondorian subjects. The Men of [[Dale]] and [[Lake-town|Esgaroth]] were Northmen, as were the Woodsmen of Mirkwood, and the [[Éothéod]], who became the Rohirrim or Horse Lords.

===Dunlendings===

When Elendil founded the Kingdom of Arnor, its borders were quickly extended towards the river Greyflood (Sindarin:''Gwathló''), and Gondor likewise extended up through [[Enedwaith]]. In Enedwaith and [[Minhiriath]] (Sindarin for ''Land between the Rivers'') lived a group of Men related to those Men that became the House of Haleth, and they were known as the [[Dunlendings]]. They had lived in the great woods that covered most of Eriador, and when the Númenóreans started to chop these woods down to build their ships in the [[Second Age]], they earned the hostility of the Dunlendings. The Dunlendings later became bitter enemies of [[Rohan]], as they believed the Rohirrim had stolen their lands.

Because of their enmity with the Rohirrim, the Dunlendings served [[Saruman]] in the War of the Ring and fought against the Horse Lords in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]].

===Drúedain===
Another group of Men were the [[Drúedain]], also called the [[Woses]]. They were small and stooped, and were always few in number and shortlived compared to other races of Men. They lived among the House of Haleth in the First Age, and were held as Edain by the Elves, who called them ''Drúedain'' (from ''Drûg'', their own name for themselves, plus ''Edain'').

At the end of the Third Age a few Woses still lived in the Drúadan Forest. They held off [[Orcs]] with poisoned arrows and were vital in securing the aid of the Rohirrim in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. King [[Aragorn|Elessar]] granted the Drúadan Forest to them "forever" in the [[Fourth Age]].

===Hobbits===
[[Hobbits]] were strictly a race of Men rather than a separate species. The origin of Hobbits is obscure; they first appeared in the records of other Men in the middle of the [[Third Age]].

==Names and etymology==
The Elves called the race of '''Mankind''' with poetic names that refer to their later coming, and their mortality. They are mostly called '''[[Atani]]''' in [[Quenya]], literally meaning "Second ones" (the [[Elves]] being the First), but also '''[[Hildor]]''' (Followers or Aftercomers), '''Apanónar''' (Q. Afterborn), '''Secondborn''', '''Younger Children of Iluvatar''', '''Strangers''' and '''Usurpers'''<ref name=men>{{S|Men}}</ref> because they [[Dominion of Men|dominated Arda]] after the Elves. [[Sindarin]] names were '''Ephedin''' or '''Ephedrim''' (Followers).<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}}</ref>

Other names were '''[[Fírimar]]''' (Mortals), '''[[Engwar]]''' (The Sickly), the '''Self-cursed''' and the '''Guests'''<ref name=men/> because their fate was outside Arda.

Other names by the Elves, apparently referring to their differences from themselves are '''Inscrutable''', the '''Heavy-handed''', the '''Night-fearers''', and the '''Children of the Sun'''<ref name=men/> because they awoke with the Sun.

Hobbits called them the '''Big People''' or the '''[[Big Folk]]''', especially in [[Bree]].

The name ''Atani'' is cognate with [[Sindarin]] '''[[Adan|Edain]]''', but the latter term was later applied not to the race, but only to the peoples of [[Beleriand]] who aided the Elves in their war with [[Morgoth]] in the [[First Age]].

[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] employed a peculiar usage of the words ''Man'' and ''Mannish'': these terms came to replace the word "human" found in drafts of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''.<ref>{{PM|Languages}}, p. 61</ref> It has been suggested that Tolkien might have preferred ''Man'' and ''Mannish'' being pure Germanic roots, unlike the Latin-influenced ''Human'' (cf. ''[[Wiktionary:homo#Latin|homo]]'').<ref>{{HM|RW}}, pp. 156-8</ref> This usage also reflects old Germanic practice, where ''Man'' originally meant ''mankind'', not merely the male gender; this was found (and in many of them, still is found) in all the Germanic languages (i.e. German ''Menschen'', "people").<ref>http://etymonline.com/index.php?term=man&allowed_in_frame=0</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Men]]
[[Category:Races]]
[[de:Menschen]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/hommes/hommes]]
[[fi:Ihmiset]]

Dwarves of the Iron Hills

2018-04-16T03:13:57Z

173.206.83.82:

{{people infobox
| name=Dwarves of the Iron Hills
| image=[[File:Angelo Montanini - Iron Hill Dwarves.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Iron Hill Dwarves" by Angelo Montanini
| pronun=
| othernames=
| origin=[[Durin's Folk]]
| location=[[Iron Hills]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=
| language=[[Khuzdul]]
| members=[[Dáin Ironfoot|Dáin II Ironfoot]], [[Grór]], [[Náin (son of Grór)]]
| lifespan=c. 250 years
| distinctions=
| height=Five feet or less
| hair=
| skin=
| clothing=Well-armoured in combat
| weapons=
}}
The '''Dwarves of the Iron Hills''' were [[Dwarves]] belonging to the house of the [[Durin's Folk|Longbeards]], otherwise known as [[Durin's Folk]], who lived in the [[Iron Hills]].

==History==
===Early history===
The [[Durin's Folk|Longbeard]] [[Dwarves]] of [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]] colonized the Iron Hills in the [[First Age]]. The Hills were their primary source of iron-ore.<ref name=Relations>{{PM|Relations}}, p. 302</ref> The [[Old Forest Road|Dwarf-road of Mirkwood]] ran north-east from Khazad-dûm to the Hills for use by dwarf-traders and merchants.<ref>{{PM|XNotes}}, p. 323 (note 30)</ref>

After [[Sauron]] destroyed [[Eregion]] in the [[Second Age]], the Longbeards sealed Khazad-dûm and Orcs took control of the northern Misty Mountains and the Grey Mountains. This ended communication between the Iron Hills and Khazad-dûm for some time.<ref>{{PM|Relations}}, p. 306</ref>

=== Third Age===
====Founding of Grór's Realm====
In the Third Age, many Longboard Dwarves lived in the [[Grey Mountains]], but they were greatly troubled by [[Dragons]] in that region. After King [[Dáin I]] was slain by one of these dragons, his surviving sons led an exodus into the east. Dáin's elder son [[Thrór]] recreated the [[Kingdom under the Mountain]] at [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], while his younger brother [[Grór]] led a part of the people further into the east to join their kindred living in the [[Iron Hills]].

Grór settled in the Iron Hills in the year {{TA|2590}} and became [[Lord of the Iron Hills]]. During his reign, the realm became the strongest in the North, being the only realm standing between Sauron and his plans to destroy Rivendell and taking back the lands of Angmar.{{fact}} Also, following the [[Sack of Erebor]] many of Durin's folk fleeing from [[Smaug]] and those wandering in exile, except for [[Thrór]] and his small company of family and followers, came to the Iron Hills, bolstering their numbers.

====War of the Dwarves and Orcs====
During the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], many Dwarves from the Iron Hills fought several battles, but they are mostly remembered from the [[Battle of Azanulbizar]] in the year {{TA|2799}}. [[Náin son of Grór|Naín]] and his army came to the battle in the most crucial moment, when the main Dwarven army was being decimated by the great host of Orcs. With these fresh reinforcments, the Dwarves were able to route and destroy their opponents, fighting their way all up to the steps of the [[Great Gates|East-gate]] of [[Moria]]. There, Nain dueled with [[Azog]], the [[Orcs|Orc]] commander, resulting to his death. Later in the battle,[[Dáin Ironfoot|Dáin II Ironfoot]] killed Azog out of vengeance for his father, achieving recognition because he was very young for dwarven standards. After this battle Dain led his Dwarves back to Grór's Halls.

====Dáin's Reign====
Grór ruled the Dwarves of the Iron Hills for 215 years, and he died in {{TA|2805}} at 241 years of age. [[Dáin Ironfoot]] became the next Lord of the Iron Hills. During his reign, the Iron Hills evolved to the mightiest Dwarf-realm of its time.{{fact}}

Years later, Dáin's cousin [[Thorin]] attempted to restore the kingdom at Erebor, but he was trapped by the [[Elves of Mirkwood]] and [[Northmen]] of [[Lake-town|Esgaroth]] and sent to the Iron Hills for aid. Dáin arrived with 500 armoured Dwarves and as events developed, the Dwarves of the Iron Hills proved crucial in winning the ensuing [[Battle of Five Armies]] against the [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]]. Thorin died in that battle, and with him the royal line of [[Thrór]]. Through his ancestor Grór, the Kingship of Durin's Folk then fell on Dáin. Dáin II Ironfoot removed from the Iron Hills, and re-established a kingdom under the [[Lonely Mountain]]. It is possible that both Iron Hills and [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] were ruled by him and later by his son [[Thorin Stonehelm|Thorin III Stonehelm]].

It is unknown whether the Dwarves of the Iron Hills fought alongside the Dwarves of Erebor in the [[Battle of Dale]] against the [[Easterlings]] during the [[War of the Ring]].

==Other information==
They became well-known for making a metal mesh that could be used for making flexible items like leg-coverings.

These Dwarves of Durin's folk were known for being some of the most fierce and elite of all Dwarf armies, capable of matching Sauron's armies on equal footing. Their main weapon of choice seemed to have been the mattocks, though they also carried a short broad sword with a round shield.

Not much is said on whom were enemies of these dwarves, but it seems likely that the [[Easterlings]] were one of them, since their empire was near and around the Iron Hills, and possibly the Dragons that lived nearby in the northern wastes.

{{references}}
*''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', [[Appendix A]]
*''[[Unfinished Tales]]''
*''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''

[[Category:Dwarven peoples]]
[[de:Eisenberge (Rhûn)]]
[[fi:Rautavuoret#_Itäisen_Keski-Maan_Rautavuoret]]

Durin's Folk

2018-04-16T03:08:57Z

173.206.83.82:

{{people infobox
| name=Longbeards
| image=[[File:Warren Mahy - Longbeard king.jpg|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Warren Mahy - Longbeard king.jpg|Longbeard king]]" by Warren Mahy
| pronun=
| othernames=Longbeards
| origin=
| location=[[Gundabad|Mount Gundabad]], [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]], [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], [[Grey Mountains]], [[Iron Hills]], [[Blue Mountains]], [[Thorin's Halls]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=
| language=[[Khuzdul]], [[Westron]]
| members='''[[Durin]]''', [[Thorin]], [[Balin]], [[Dáin Ironfoot]], [[Gimli]]
| lifespan=c. 250-350 years
| distinctions=oldest of the Dwarven clans
| height=
| hair=
| skin=
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
'''Durin's Folk''' were the '''Longbeards''' (''[[Sigin-tarâg]]'' in [[Khuzdul]]), one of the seven kindreds of [[Dwarves]] whose leaders were from the [[House of Durin]]. Their first king was named [[Durin]], who was one of the seven [[Fathers of the Dwarves]].<ref name="Durin">{{App|Durin}}</ref>

==History==
===First Age===
In the deeps of time, the Fathers of the Dwarves awoke. Durin, who had slept alone at Mount [[Gundabad]],<ref name="Dwarves">{{PM|Dwarves}}</ref> wandered south along the [[Misty Mountains]] until he came upon [[Azanulbizar]]. In the caves above [[Kheled-zâram]], he founded the city of [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]], the home of Durin's Folk. Durin lived there so long he became known as Durin the Deathless, yet in the end he died before the end of the [[First Age]].<ref name="Durin"/>

The Dwarves of Khazad-dûm also colonized the [[Iron Hills]], which became Durin's Folk's primary source of iron-ore.<ref name=relations>{{PM|Relations}}, pp. 302-303</ref> The [[Old Forest Road|Dwarf-road of Mirkwood]] ran north-east to the Hills for the dwarf-traders and merchants between Khazad-dûm and the Hills.<ref>{{PM|XNotes}}, p. 323 (note 30)</ref> Durin's Folk also considered the [[Grey Mountains]], which lay between these two mansions, to be within their territory.<ref name=relations />

When [[Men]] first migrated west into [[Rhovanion]] and [[Eriador]], they encountered Durin's Folk. The Longbeards were the wisest and most farseeing of the seven kindreds and began dealing with Men, establishing an economy in which Men chiefly provided food in exchange for Dwarven work in building, road-construction, mining, and the crafting of tools and weapons. During this period the Longbeards adopted the speech of Men, keeping their own language to themselves.<ref name="Dwarves"/> Durin's Folk also battled against [[Morgoth]]'s [[Orcs]] and allied themselves with those Men who settled between the Grey Mountains and [[Mirkwood]], most of whom were associated with the [[House of Hador]].<ref name=relations />

===Second Age===
At the end of the First Age during the [[War of Wrath]] and the breaking of [[Thangorodrim]], the ancient cities of [[Nogrod]] and [[Belegost]] in the [[Blue Mountains]] had been ruined. In the [[Second Age]], about the year {{SA|40|n}},<ref name="SA">{{App|SA}}</ref> many Dwarves who lived in these cities left the destruction behind and came to Khazad-dûm, increasing its wealth and power.<ref name="Durin"/>

In {{SA|750|n}}, the [[Noldor]] established a new realm in [[Eregion]]. Being close to Khazad-dûm they established a friendship with Durin's Folk unlike any before between [[Elves]] and [[Dwarves]]. Although both peoples were enriched, eventually the Elves succumbed to the seduction of [[Sauron]] and forged the [[Rings of Power]] (the forging of these Rings began about {{SA|1500|n}} and one was given to [[Durin III]] in Khazad-dûm<ref name="Durin"/>). In {{SA|1693|n}} the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] began. By {{SA|1697|n}}, Eregion was [[Sack of Eregion|destroyed]] and the Dwarves briefly fought the forces of Sauron outside their western gate. This led to the gates of Khazad-dûm being shut.<ref name="SA"/> During the [[Dark Years]] of Sauron's dominion, Durin's Folk remained enclosed in Khazad-dûm, which was unassailable from without. Its wealth remained unravished, but its people began to dwindle,<ref name="SA"/> and communication between it and the Iron Hills was cut off.<ref>{{PM|Relations}}, p. 306</ref>

In the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] in {{SA|3434|n}}, Durin's Folk sent forces to fight alongside the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]], and likely through the end of the [[War of the Last Alliance]].<ref>{{S|Rings}}</ref>

===Third Age===
During the reign of [[Durin VI]] in the [[Third Age]], the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm delved deeper and deeper for ''[[mithril]]'', which had become increasingly harder to find. In {{TA|1980|n}} however, they accidentally awoke a hidden [[Balrogs|Balrog]] that had fled from the coming of the [[Host of the West]] in the First Age, and killed King [[Durin VI]]. Finally in {{TA|1981|n}} his son [[Náin I]] was also killed and all the people of Khazad-dûm were either destroyed or fled far away.<ref name="Durin"/>

Most of Durin's Folk escaped to the north where in {{TA|1999|n}}<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> [[Thráin I]] established a new capital within [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], becoming [[King under the Mountain]]. His son [[Thorin I]] left Erebor in {{TA|2210|n}}<ref name="TA"/> and travelled further north to settle in the Grey Mountains where most of Durin's Folk had gone. For a time they prospered there for the mountains were rich.<ref name="Durin"/>

Unfortunately, there were [[Dragons|dragons]] in the wastes north of the Grey Mountains, and in {{TA|2570|n}} they began [[War of the Dwarves and Dragons|making war]] against the Longbeards. The conflict came to a climax in {{TA|2589|n}} when King [[Dáin I]]<ref name="TA"/> and his second son [[Frór]] were killed by a great [[Cold-drakes|cold-drake]] outside [[Dáin's halls|his halls]].<ref name="Durin"/> Soon after, most of Durin's Folk left the Ered Mithrin with [[Grór]], Dáin's third son, leading many followers to the Iron Hills in {{TA|2590|n}}.<ref name="TA"/>

In the same year, Dáin's first son and heir, [[Thrór]], with his uncle [[Borin]] and the remainder of the departing Longbeards, returned to Erebor. There they prospered, winning the friendship of all Men nearby, and trafficking in ore with their kin in the Iron Hills.<ref name="Durin"/> News of the wealth of Erebor spread and reached the dragons, and in {{TA|2770|n}} [[Smaug]] suddenly descended upon the Mountain, and [[Sack of Erebor|sacked]] it.<ref name="TA"/> Although many Dwarves were killed, many escaped as well. Among them were King Thrór and his family who headed south into a long homeless wandering while most of the surviving Longbeards headed east to the Iron Hills.<ref name="Durin"/>

The followers of Thrór eventually settled in [[Dunland]]<ref name="Durin"/> where in {{TA|2790|n}} Thrór left "to see what I can find."<ref name="TA"/> With a companion, [[Nár]], he came to the east gate of Khazad-dûm and entered as a returning heir. For days Nár waited in hiding outside until Thrór’s body was tossed from the gates by the Orc-chieftain [[Azog]], who told Nár to go warn his kin never to return to Moria. Nár went back to [[Thráin]], Thrór's son to report what had happened. Now King and filled with anger, Thráin II sent word to all the houses of the Dwarves to prepare for war.<ref name="Durin"/>

By {{TA|2793|n}} the Dwarves had mustered a great host. Durin's Folk and large forces from the other Houses were ready to launch a [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs|war of vengeance]].<ref name="TA"/> For six years, From Gundabad to the [[Gladden River|Gladden]], they sacked and assaulted every Orc dwelling they could find. Defeating the [[Orcs]] through strength, matchless weapons, and burning anger.<ref name="Durin"/>

At last on a dark winter day in {{TA|2799|n}} the Dwarf-host came to Azanulbizar<ref name="TA"/> and found a great host of Orcs awaiting them. Undeterred, the Dwarves, led by Thráin II, made their assault, beginning the [[Battle of Azanulbizar]]. This final battle too the Dwarves won, but at great cost. In the end Azog was beheaded and Thrór was avenged, but the Dwarves could not take Khazad-dûm, for within still dwelt Durin's Bane.

With the war over the Dwarves dispersed. [[Dáin Ironfoot]] led his contingent of Longbeards back to the Iron Hills. Thráin II, with [[Thorin]], [[Balin]], [[Glóin]], and others of their following returned to Dunland. Soon though they uprooted and wandered in Eriador until they established themselves in the northern [[Ered Luin]] beyond the [[Lhûn|Lune]]. There they prospered and their numbers slowly grew.<ref name="Durin"/>

Thráin II decided to return to Erebor in {{TA|2841|n}} but as he travelled, he and his companions were pursued by Sauron's servants. One day in {{TA|2845|n}} Thráin was captured and imprisoned in [[Dol Guldur]]. Eventually, in {{TA|2850|n}}, [[Gandalf]] found him and received the key to Erebor, but the last of the [[Seven Rings]] had been taken and Gandalf was unable to rescue the Dwarf.<ref name="TA"/>

King Thorin II Oakenshield and his people continued to labor and traffic in the Ered Luin until one day Thorin sought and found Gandalf to solicit his counsel and aid in dealing with Smaug. Gandalf devised a plan for burglary, employing the service of [[Bilbo Baggins]] of [[the Shire]]. The plan succeeded and Smaug was slain, but in the subsequent [[Battle of Five Armies]] Thorin was killed. However his cousin Dáin Ironfoot, who led a contingent of Dwarves in the battle, entered Erebor and restored the Kingdom under the Mountain as King Dáin II.<ref name="Durin"/>

Durin's Folk grew strong in Erebor until during the [[War of the Ring]] their realm and that of the [[Kingdom of Dale]] were attacked by Sauron's northern forces. In the [[Battle of Dale]] in {{TA|3019|n}} King Dáin II fell and thereafter the Mountain was besieged. Upon the news of Sauron's downfall, however, the besieged routed the army of Sauron and Dáin's son, [[Thorin Stonehelm]] became the King under the Mountain as Thorin III.<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> Eventually his descendant, [[Durin VII]], would lead Durin's Folk back to Khazad-dûm .<ref>{{PM|Aiv}}</ref>

Also after the fall of Sauron, [[Gimli]], the son of Glóin, brought some of Durin's Folk from Erebor south to [[Glittering Caves|Aglarond]] and there established a new Dwarf-realm. Gimli served as the [[Lord of the Glittering Caves]].<ref name="Durin"/>

==Inspiration==
Historically, the term "Longbeards" is the supposed original name of the [[Wikipedia:Lombards|Lombards]], but other than the name, there is no other significant similarities between the Lombards and the Durin's Folk.

{{References}}

{{dwarvenclans}}
{{durinskings}}

[[Category:Dwarves]]
[[Category:Longbeards]]

[[de:Durins Volk]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/nains/peuple_de_durin]]
[[fi:Durinin heimo]]

Grey Mountains

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{{disambig-two|a mountain chain|[[Middle-earth Role Playing|MERP]] supplement|[[The Grey Mountains]]}}
{{location infobox
| name=Grey Mountains
| image=[[File:Matěj Čadil - Ered Mithrin.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Ered Mithrin" by Matěj Čadil
| pronun=
| othernames=''Ered Mithrin''
| location=North-west of [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], north of [[Mirkwood]]
| type=Mountain range
| description=A rich mountain range of many ores
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Durin's Folk]], [[Dragons]], and [[Orcs]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[War of the Dwarves and Dragons]], slaying of [[Scatha]] the Worm
| gallery=the Grey Mountains
}}
The '''Grey Mountains''' (or '''Ered Mithrin''' in [[Sindarin]]) was a large mountain range to the north of [[Rhovanion]]. Their western end connected to the [[Misty Mountains]] at the site of [[Gundabad|Mount Gundabad]].

==Geography==
North of the Grey Mountains lay the [[Northern Waste]].<ref name="UTmap">{{UT|Map}}</ref> In the west, where the Grey Mountains met with the [[Misty Mountains]] rose [[Gundabad|Mount Gundabad]], an ancient [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] holy site and later the capital for the [[Orcs]] of the north. The eastern end of the Grey Mountains was split into two chains, and in between lay the [[Withered Heath]], where [[Dragons]] bred. After that was a wide hilly plain, beyond which lay the [[Iron Hills]]. [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]], the Lonely Mountain, lay south of the Grey Mountains.<ref name="UTmap"/>

From east to west the mountains stretched some 350 Númenórean Miles, and the sources of the Great River [[Anduin]], the river [[Greylin]], and the [[Forest River]] of [[Mirkwood]] arose in this range.<ref name="UTmap"/>

==History==
===Early history===
In the First Age, the Longbeards established mansions in [[Moria]] and the [[Iron Hills]], and they considered the Grey Mountains, which lay between these mansions, to be within their territory.<ref name=relations>{{PM|Relations}}, pp. 302-303</ref> Also during the First Age, some men—mostly associated with the House of Hador—settled between the Grey Mountains and Mirkwood, and they allied with the Longbeards against Morgoth's Orcs.<ref name=relations /> This alliance ended in the Second Age after [[Sauron]] destroyed [[Eregion]], which prompted the Longbeards to seal Moria. During this time, Orcs took control of the Grey Mountains.<ref>{{PM|Relations}}, p. 305</ref> Although, few Longbeards remained in their halls in the Second Age.

===Third Age===
In {{TA|1980}} a [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]] appeared in [[Moria]] and by the next year the Dwarves fled.<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref> Durin's folk were scattered. [[Thráin I]] reestablished the [[Kingdom under the Mountain]] but [[Thorin I]] went to the Grey Mountains where most of the Dwarves gathered.<ref name="Durin">{{App|Durin}}</ref> Nearly six hundred years later, [[Dragons]] began afflicting the Dwarves. In {{TA|2589|n}} [[Dáin I]] was slain by a Dragon and the Grey Mountain strongholds were abandoned after the [[Wars of the Dwarves and Dragons]]. About {{TA|2480|n}} [[Orcs]] had begun to infest the [[Misty Mountains]]<ref name="TA"/> and spread to the Grey Mountains, such that by {{TA|2941|n}} [[Gandalf]] the Wizard could say that the range was "simply stiff with goblins, hobgoblins, and orcs of the worst description".<ref>{{H|Queer}}</ref> However, after the [[Battle of Five Armies]] the number of Goblins in the Grey Mountains were greatly reduced (some three parts of them had perished).<ref>{{H|Return}}</ref>

It seems that some Dwarves still dwelt in the Ered Mithrin during the late [[Third Age]], so it is likely after the [[War of the Ring]], the Dwarves drove whatever Drakes and Orcs were left totally from the mountains, and reclaimed the rest of their halls and mines in the Grey Mountains.

== Other versions of the legendarium ==
Another line of "[[Grey Mountains (ancient)|Grey Mountains]]" in Middle-earth are seen on the [[Ambarkanta]] map.<ref>{{SM|Ambar}}</ref>

{{references}}

[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Mountain ranges]]
[[Category:Dwarven realms]]
[[Category:Evil realms]]

[[de:Ered Mithrin]]
[[de:Graues Gebirge (Hinnenlande)]]
[[fi:Harmaavuoret]]
[[fi:Harmaavuoret (Esiajat)]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/reliefs/rhovanion/montagnes_grises]]

Dunland

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{{location infobox
| name=Dunland
| image=
| caption=
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=The west-skirts of the southern [[Misty Mountains]], south of [[Glanduin]]
| type=Region
| description=Fair, fertile land
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Men]] For a time - [[Stoors]] and [[Dwarves]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=
}}
'''Dunland''' was a part of [[Enedwaith]] east of the [[North-South Road]], well south of the [[Glanduin]] and north of the [[Isen]]. It was a foothill region that fronted the western slopes of the southern [[Misty Mountains]].<ref>{{UT|Map}}</ref> Far from the centres of population of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]], its inhabitants at times included the [[Men]] known as [[Dunlendings]] as well as wandering [[Hobbits]] and [[Dwarves]].

Dunland was a fair, fertile land. By the end of the [[Third Age]] being neither prosperous or civilised, it was sparsely inhabited by unorganised herdsmen and hillmen.<ref>[[Robert Foster]], ''[[The Complete Guide to Middle-earth]]'', entry "Dunland"</ref>

==History==
===The First Men in Dunland===
In the early [[Second Age]], Dunland first acquired a significant population of [[Men]] when those who had dwelt in the forests of Enedwaith south of the [[Gwathló]] fled from the [[Númenóreans]] after they began to cut down all of the trees.<ref>{{UT|6d}}</ref>s

When the kingdoms of [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]] were established early in the [[Third Age]] the land of Enedwaith (and the region of Dunland) were largely ignored, although the inhabitants were nominally subjects of Gondor.<ref name="Isen">{{UT|Isen}}, Appendix (ii)</ref>

===The Stoors Stay in Dunland===
About {{TA|1150}} the Hobbit-breed known as the [[Stoors]] left their early homeland in the upper vales of the [[Anduin]] and crossed the [[Caradhras#The Redhorn Gate|Redhorn Pass]]. Some settled in the [[Angle (Eriador)|Angle]] and other travelled down the [[Bruinen|Loudwater]] and settled in Dunland. While the Stoors in the Angle vacated that area in {{TA|1356|n}}, those living in Dunland remained until around {{TA|1630|n}} when they migrated to the newly founded [[The Shire|Shire]].<ref name="TA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

===The Middle Years of the Third Age===
The [[Great Plague]] swept through the north-west of [[Middle-earth]] in the years {{TA|1636}} – {{TA|1637|n}}.<ref name="TA"/> Dunland suffered, but to a lesser extent than in other regions due to their self-isolation. After the end of the royal line in Gondor the Dunlendings ceased to be subjects of the realm. During the years of the [[Watchful Peace]] ({{TA|1975|n}} – {{TA|2050|n}}), as the people of [[Calenardhon]] dwindled, the Dunlendings began drifting across the [[Isen]].

The expansion of the Dunlendings to the southeast of Dunland was checked when the new realm of [[Rohan]] was established in {{TA|2510|n}}. In the subsequent centuries there was tension between the Dunlendings and the [[Rohirrim]], which reached open war in the time of [[Helm Hammerhand]].

Guarding the [[Gap of Rohan]] was the fortress of [[Isengard]], where a hereditary guard watched for Gondor. However, by the time of the [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]], [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] of [[Gondor]], these guards had mixed with Dunlendings, and it had become hostile to Gondor. To remedy this situation, in {{TA|2759}}<ref name="TA"/> Beren gave [[Saruman]] the keys to [[Orthanc]], to guard Isengard for Gondor.<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref>

===The Dwarves in Dunland===
In {{TA|2770}}, [[Smaug]] the [[Dragons|Dragon]] destroyed the [[Kingdom under the Mountain]].<ref name="TA"/> Dwarves fleeing from this disaster settled in Dunland, from where [[Thrór]] departed when he and his companion [[Nár]] journeyed to [[Moria]] in {{TA|2790}}. After the [[Battle of Azanulbizar]], provoked by the [[Orcs]]' brutal slaying of Thrór, [[Thráin|Thráin II]] and [[Thorin]] led the remnants of their followers back to Dunland but soon left (to eventually settle in the [[Ered Luin]]).<ref>{{App|Durin}}</ref>

===The Later Third Age===
Beren's decision to trust Saruman however had severe consequences, as before and around the [[War of the Ring]], the Wizard inflamed the Dunlendings' grievance and enmity to the Rohirrim<ref>{{TT|III7}}</ref> and concentrated a great military force which besieged them at the [[Helm's Deep]]. After the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], the Rohirrim allowed the surviving Dunlendings to return to their homes. The Rohirrim required that all hostilities cease, and that the Dunlendings retreat behind the [[Isen]] river again.<ref>{{TT|III8}}</ref>

After the War the four Hobbits, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]], and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]], with the company of [[Gandalf]], [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]], and others journeyed through Dunland on their way home. While traversing the region they met two beggars, Saruman and [[Gríma|Gríma Wormtongue]].<ref>{{RK|VI6}}</ref>

==Etymology==
Dunland meant "Hill Land" in the language of neighbouring [[Rohan]], whose people named it after arriving in nearby [[Calenardhon]] in the later [[Third Age]]. ''Dunland'' is understood as "Brownland" ([[Old English]] ''dunn'' means "brown, dusky, dull"), referring to its inhabitants being swarthy and dark-haired . The element ''dunn'' had no relation to the [[Elvish]] root ''[[dûn]]'' meaning "west".<ref>{{App|Men}}</ref>
==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:Dunland is mentioned when a flock of ''Crebain'' appears when the Fellowship is in [[Hollin]]; and [[Legolas]] identifies them as such and being from Dunland.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Ring Goes South (scene)|The Ring Goes South]]"</ref> The ''crebain'' later report to Saruman at Isengard.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Fighting Uruk-hai]]"</ref>

{{navigation
| title=Region of Dunland
| north-west=[[Tharbad]], [[Gwathló]]. '''[[Eriador]]'''
| north=[[Glanduin]], [[Eregion]]
| north-east=[[Moria]], [[Misty Mountains]], [[Lothlórien|Lórien]]
| west=[[Lond Daer]], [[Gwathló]], [[Enedwaith]]
| east=[[Misty Mountains]], [[Fangorn Forest]]
| south-west=[[Enedwaith]], [[Drúwaith Iaur]], [[Isen|River Isen]]
| south=[[Isen|River Isen]]
| south-east=[[Isengard]], [[Gap of Rohan]]. '''[[Rohan]]'''
}}
{{references}}
[[Category:Eriador]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[de:Dunland]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:regions:pays_de_dun]]
[[fi:Mustainmaa]]

Faramir

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{{disambig-more|Faramir|[[Faramir (disambiguation)]]}}
{{gondorian infobox
| name=Faramir
| image=[[File:Anke Eißmann - Faramir.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Faramir" by [[Anke Eißmann]]
| pronun=
| othernames=
| titles=[[Steward of Gondor]], [[Prince of Ithilien]], [[Lord of Emyn Arnen]]
| position=Captain of Gondor
| location=[[Ithilien]], [[Gondor]]
| affiliation=
| language=[[Westron]], [[Sindarin]]
| birth={{TA|2983}}
| birthlocation=
| rule={{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|82}} (84 years)
| death={{FoA|82}}
| deathlocation=
| age=120
| notablefor=
| house=[[House of Húrin]]
| parentage=[[Denethor|Denethor II]] and [[Finduilas (wife of Denethor)|Finduilas]]
| siblings=[[Boromir]]
| spouse=[[Éowyn]]
| children=[[Elboron]]<ref name="Elboron">{{PM|Elendil}}, p. 221</ref>
| gender=Male
| height=Tall<ref name="Herbs">{{TT|Herbs}}</ref>
| hair=Raven<ref name="Steward">{{RK|Steward}}</ref>
| eyes=Grey<ref name="Window"/>
| clothing=Green gauntlets, green hood and mask, green and brown clothing<ref name="Herbs"/>
| weapons=Sword,<ref name="Herbs"/> nail-knife,<ref name="Forbidden">{{TT|Pool}}</ref>, bow
| steed=
}}
{{quote|[Faramir] is bold, more bold than many deem; for in these days men are slow to believe that a captain can be wise and learned in the scrolls of lore and song, as he is, and yet a man of hardihood and swift judgement in the field. But such is Faramir. Less reckless and eager than [[Boromir]], but not less resolute.|[[Beregond]]<ref name="MT">{{RK|MT}}</ref>}}
'''Faramir''' ({{TA|2983}} – {{FoA|82}}, aged 120 years) was the last [[Ruling Steward|Ruling]] [[Stewards of Gondor|Steward of Gondor]] and the first [[Prince of Ithilien]].

The second of [[Denethor]]'s two sons, Faramir was briefly the [[Ruling Steward]] after his father's death. Upon the arrival of the true king, King [[Aragorn|Aragorn Elessar]], he laid down his office, but Elessar renewed the hereditary appointment of Steward as the advisor to the King. Faramir was also appointed Prince of Ithilien.<ref name="Elendil">{{PM|Elendil}}, p. 207</ref>

==History==
Faramir was born in {{TA|2983}}, five years after [[Boromir]]. Faramir was five when his mother [[Finduilas (wife of Denethor)|Finduilas]] died. When that happened Boromir and Faramir formed a great bond with each other.
[[File:Catherine Chmiel - Brothers study.jpg|left|thumb|Catherine Chmiel - ''Brothers study'']]
He grew to become a brave warrior admired by his soldiers, although unlike his brother he did not care much for battle and arms. He loved lore and music, and his gentle nature (and love of [[Gandalf]]) displeased his father.<ref>{{HM|guide}}, entry "Faramir"</ref>

[[Denethor]] grew cold and grim and favored Boromir over Faramir. But there was no rivalry between the brothers.

During [[Sauron's attack on Osgiliath]] which started the [[War of the Ring]], the two brothers commanded the defences of [[Osgiliath]]. They protected the last bridge across the [[Anduin]] until it was destroyed. Only the two brothers and two others survived by swimming.<ref>{{FR|Council}}</ref>

Later during the War, Faramir went to command the [[Rangers of Ithilien]].
===In Ithilien===
[[File:John Howe - Faramir 02.jpg|thumb|left|[[John Howe]] - ''Faramir'']]
Faramir acted as a ranger harassing [[Haradrim]] and keeping evil things from entering [[Ithilien]] from [[Minas Morgul]]. During one such raid he found [[Frodo Baggins]], [[Samwise Gamgee]] and [[Gollum]] observing an attack by his rangers on a column of [[Haradrim]]. The former two were captured as spies by the rangers though Gollum eluded them. Frodo was questioned by Faramir concerning their errand. Frodo recounted the journeys of the [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]] and its members but referred to the [[Quest of the Ring|purpose]] of the travels only cryptically. During the questioning he denied knowledge of Gollum but revealed that he travelled with both [[Aragorn]], the [[Heir of Isildur]], and [[Boromir]].<ref>{{TT|IV4}}</ref>
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Window on the West.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Window on the West'']]
Faramir informed Frodo of Boromir's death, implying Frodo's involvement in it, though Frodo had not known of Boromir's death until that very moment. Unsure of how to deal with his captives, Faramir led Frodo and Sam, blindfolded, to [[Henneth Annûn]]. There he questioned them further in private, learning that the hobbits' errand was linked to the 'Isildur's bane' that had sent Boromir to [[Rivendell]] in the first place. Eager to earn their trust Faramir delivered his famous oath, saying that he "...would not take this thing, if it lay by the highway. Not were [[Minas Tirith]] falling in ruin and I alone could save her, so, using the weapon of the Dark Lord for her good and my glory. No, I do not wish for such triumphs". In a slip up however Samwise revealed the nature of 'Isildur's bane' and so Faramir was tested, just as Boromir had been, by the lure of The Ring. Where Boromir failed Faramir succeeded, leading Samwise to remark that Faramir had "shown [his] quality".<ref>{{TT|IV5}}</ref>

During the night, Faramir's watch spotted Gollum fishing in the Forbidden Pool. Faramir called Frodo to him who confessed to the part of Gollum in their errand, begging Faramir not to slay him. Gollum was caught and questioned and then surrendered to Frodo. The following morning Faramir released Frodo and Sam (with Gollum), but warned them strongly against taking the pass of [[Cirith Ungol]].<ref>{{TT|IV6}}</ref>

===In Pelennor/Minas Tirith===

Faramir returned to [[Osgiliath]] after his encounter with the hobbits, supervising the defence there. However he retreated over the [[Pelennor Fields]] to report to Denethor and was almost caught by the [[Nazgûl]] on their [[Fell beasts]], but was saved by [[Gandalf]]. Faramir reached Minas Tirith, telling Denethor and Gandalf of what befell in Ithilien, but soon departed to supervise the defences at his father's bidding. In this venture the host of the [[Witch-king]] came upon Osgiliath and Faramir was struck down by the [[Black Breath]]. Only a sortie by [[Imrahil]] and his knights saved the wounded (including Faramir) from that onset.<ref>{{RK|V4}}</ref>
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Sun Unveiled.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Sun Unveiled'']]
Faramir remained out of action for the rest of the War of the Ring. During the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|Battle of Pelennor Fields]] Denethor planned to burn his stricken son alongside him and Faramir was once again saved by Gandalf, though Denethor completed his suicide.<ref>{{RK|V7}}</ref> After this he was taken to the [[Houses of Healing]] and healed by [[Aragorn]] after the battle.<ref>{{RK|V8}}</ref> Faramir spent the rest of the war recovering in the Houses of Healing where he met [[Éowyn]], also grievously wounded.<ref>{{RK|VI5}}</ref> The two fell in love and were married after the war.<ref>{{RK|VI6}}</ref>

===After the War of the Ring===

After the destruction of the [[The One Ring|Ring]] and the [[Battle of the Morannon]], Faramir, as Steward, led the ceremony in the crowning of [[Aragorn]] as King of Gondor and Arnor.<ref>{{RK|VI5}}</ref> Aragorn reinstated the original role of the [[Stewards of Gondor|Stewards]] before the failing of the [[Kings of Gondor]] and made Faramir the [[Prince of Ithilien]]. As Prince of Ithilien, Faramir was one of the two Chief Commanders of [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and his duty was to guard and maintain the eastern borders of Gondor. He also defeated the remaining enemies and cleansed the [[Morgul Vale]].

Faramir and Éowyn settled down in [[Emyn Arnen]], a range of hills in Ithilien in sight of [[Minas Tirith]], and Faramir became the [[Lord of Emyn Arnen]]. He and Éowyn had at least one son named [[Elboron]],<ref name="Elboron"/> who followed his father as Steward and Prince of Ithilien when Faramir died in the year {{FoA|82}}. Faramir lived to be 120 years old, due to the large percentage of pure [[Dúnedain]] ancestry he possessed as a member of the Gondorian nobility.<ref>{{App|South}}</ref>

== Inspirations ==
Faramir was, in the words of Tolkien, "modest, fair-minded and scrupulously just, and very merciful".<ref>{{L|244}}</ref> His appearance toward the end of ''[[The Two Towers]]'' apparently was as much of a surprise to Tolkien as it is to his readers. "I am sure I did not invent him," he wrote. "I did not even want him, though I like him".<ref>{{L|66}}</ref>

Faramir in many ways speaks for Tolkien, who was an officer in the British Army during [[World War I]], when he says, for example, "I do not love the bright sword for its sharpness... I love only that which they defend".<ref name="Window">{{TT|Window}}</ref> Much later, Tolkien would write, "As far as any character is 'like me', it is Faramir".<ref>{{L|180}}</ref>

==Etymology==
Translation of Faramir is not given, not even if it is Quenya or [[Sindarin]].

As all the [[Kings of Gondor]] and their heirs had names in [[Quenya]],<ref>{{App|F1ii}}</ref> and the name is also attested as a name of the royal family (in the case of [[Faramir (son of Ondoher)|Faramir]] son of [[Ondoher]]) the name apparently is Quenya.

==Genealogy==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree | | | | | PRI | | | | | | STE | | | | | | | | |PRI=[[Princes of Dol Amroth|''Princes of Dol Amroth'']]|STE=[[Ruling Steward|''Ruling Stewards of Gondor'']]}}
{{familytree | | | | | |:| | | | | | | |:| | | | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | ADR | | | | | | ECT | | | | | | ROH |ADR=[[Adrahil II]] ''{{TA|2917|n}} - {{TA|3010|n}}''|ECT=[[Ecthelion II]] ''{{TA|2886|n}} - {{TA|2984|n}}''|ROH=[[Kings of Rohan|''Kings of Rohan'']]}}
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | |!| | | | | | | |:| |}}
{{familytree | IVR | | IMR | | FIN |y| DEN | | EOM |y| THE |IVR=[[Ivriniel]] ''b. {{TA|2947|n}}''|IMR=[[Imrahil]] ''{{TA|2955|n}} - {{FoA|34}}''|FIN=[[Finduilas (wife of Denethor)|Finduilas]] ''{{TA|2950|n}} - {{TA|2988|n}}''|DEN=[[Denethor|Denethor II]] ''{{TA|2930|n}} - {{TA|3019|n}}''†|EOM=[[Éomund]] ''d. {{TA|3002|n}}''†|THE=[[Théodwyn]] ''{{TA|2963|n}} - {{TA|3002|n}}''†}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | |)|-|-|-|.| | | |!| | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | BOR | | FAR |y| EOW | | |BOR=[[Boromir]] ''{{TA|2978|n}} - {{TA|3019|n}}''†|FAR='''FARAMIR''' ''{{TA|2983|n}} - {{FoA|82}}''|EOW=[[Éowyn]] ''b. {{TA|2995|n}}''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | ELB | | | | |ELB=[[Elboron]] ''unknown''}}
{{familytree/end}}

==Portrayal in adaptations==
A major player in the second half of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Faramir has found his portrayal both diminished and expanded.

<center><gallery>
File:War in Middle Earth - Faramir.png|<center>Faramir in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''
File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Faramir2.jpg|<center>Faramir (presumably) in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]
File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Faramir.jpg|<center>Faramir in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
</gallery></center>

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:Faramir's role has been omitted. However, a young black-haired man is shown at [[Aragorn]]'s coronation, sitting on a horse beside [[Éowyn]]. It can be guessed that this is a cameo of Faramir. Whether he had at any time a larger part, that was cut for time restraints, is unknown.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Faramir is voiced by [[Andrew Seear]]. Because Boromir already named him during the Council of Elrond - in the book, he is simply called "my brother" - much of the mystery surrounding Faramir's first appearance is lost to the attentive listener. However, unlike some adaptations Faramir's recovery in the Houses of Healing and his budding romance with Eowyn are included, as is his role at Aragorn's coronation.

'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''
:Faramir is portrayed as a blond, bearded man. He can be controlled by the player.

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:[[David Wenham]] plays Faramir in this adaptation. He does not at first let Frodo, Sam, and Gollum go, but decides to bring them and the Ring to Gondor. He takes them west to [[Osgiliath]], crossing the river [[Anduin]], and not until the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] attack the city does he release them. Many fans of the book criticise this change, saying that it seriously damages the character.{{citation needed}} [[Peter Jackson]]'s explanation is that he needed another adventure to delay Frodo and Sam, because the episode at [[Cirith Ungol]] was moved to the third movie, and so a new climax was needed. Another explanation often cited is that it was felt that for dramatic reasons it was necessary to show character ''development'', which meant that Faramir had to go through some kind of struggle or difficult decision. Jackson also argued that it was necessary for Faramir to be tempted by the Ring because everyone else was tempted, and letting Faramir be immune would be inconsistent, at least in the eyes of a film audience, and would weaken the films' portrayal of the Ring.

:In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (extended edition)|Extended Edition]], Jackson has included a flashback scene showing that Denethor has been neglecting him and favouring Boromir, so that Faramir wanted to please his father by bringing him the Ring. The relationship is similarly strained in the books, but there his father's favouritism does not seem to affect his decisions in Ithilien. On the whole, however, new Extended Edition scenes with Faramir brought the character closer to the sympathetic treatment of the books.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Faramir's role in this film is largely faithful to that in the book.

== See Also ==
* [[:Category: Images_of_Faramir|Images of Faramir]]

{{references}}
{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
| race= gondorian
| house= [[House of Húrin]]
| born={{TA|2983}}
| died={{FoA|82}}
}}
{{seq
| prow=
| pvac=
| prev=[[Denethor|Denethor II]]
| list=[[Ruling Steward|Ruling Steward of Gondor]]
| dates={{TA|3019}}-{{TA|3019}}
| next=None, position abolished
| nvac=
| nrow=
}}
{{seq
| prow=
| pvac=Vacant
| prev=[[Mardil|Mardil Voronwë]], 969 years earlier
| list=[[Steward of Gondor|Steward to the King of Gondor]]
| dates={{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|82}}
| next=[[Elboron]]
| nvac=
| nrow=2
}}
{{seq
| prow=
| pvac=None
| prev=Position created
| list=[[Prince of Ithilien]]
| dates={{TA|3019}} - {{FoA|82}}
| next=
| nvac=
| nrow=
}}
{{seq-end}}
{{rulingstewards}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]
[[Category:Gondorians]]
[[Category:House of Húrin]]
[[Category:Ruling stewards]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Stewards]]
[[de:Faramir (Sohn von Denethor II.)]]
[[fi:Faramir]]

Talk:Battle of the Pelennor Fields

2018-04-16T02:53:45Z

173.206.83.82:

__NOTOC__
==Mordor's Army==
How big was Mordors Army does an one truly know i heard on the bonus feature of the return of the king that it could be 200,000 or 350,000 ether way its huge your thoughts {{unsigned|Sauron}}

:There is no exact number for all of the forces, I'm unsure offhand where the 200,000 number comes from but most likely there is mention of the forces possibly being 10 times that of the opposing time, I'll see if I can find a quote as we should include the reference in the article. --[[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]] 18:48, 29 April 2008 (EDT)

It was never mentioned how many there were (save the at least 18,000 Haradrim). But it can be guessed at 100-200,000. I've done an extensive amount of calculations on this, and they have come out just about the same as the purposed 200,000.--[[User:Dwarf Lord|Dwarf Lord]] 22:14, 29 April 2008 (EDT)

==Order of Battle==
Just a WiP, add to it if you like. -- {{User:Ederchil/sig}} 21:37, 2 May 2009 (UTC)

===Gondor===
;Command
* [[Denethor]] †
** [[Faramir]] (wounded)
** [[Imrahil]]
;Troops
* Troops of Minas Tirith
** [[Húrin (Warden of the Keys)|Húrin the Tall]]
** [[Guards of the Citadel]]
*** [[Beregond]]
*** [[Peregrin Took]]
* [[Southern Fiefs|Captains of the Outlands]]
** [[Imrahil]] of [[Dol Amroth]]
*** One company of Knights
*** 700 Men-at-Arms
** [[Forlong]] of [[Lossarnach]] †
*** 200 Axe-men
** [[Dervorin]] of [[Ringló Vale]] †
***300 men
** [[Duinhir]] of [[Morthond|Morthond Vale]]
*** [[Duilin (son of Duinhir)|Duilin]] †
*** [[Derufin]] †
*** 500 Bowmen
** [[Golasgil]] of [[Anfalas]]
*** Golasgil's Household
*** Scantilly equiped troops
** [[Lamedon]]
*** Few men
** [[The Ethir]]
*** 200 fishermen
** [[Hirluin the Fair]] of [[Pinnath Gelin]] †
*** 300 men
===Rohan===
;Command
*[[Théoden]] †
* [[Éomer]]
;Troops
* [[King's Company]]: [[Déorwine]] †
** [[Dúnhere]] †
** [[Herefara]] †
** [[Herubrand]] †
** [[Horn (rider of Rohan)|Horn]] †
** [[Fastred (rider of Rohan)|Fastred]] †
** [[Guthláf]] †
* First [[Éored]]: [[Éomer]]
* Second Éored: [[Grimbold]] of [[Grimslade]] †
* Third Éored: [[Elfhelm]]
** [[Éowyn|Dernhelm]]
** [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Master Bag]]
===Aragorn===
;Command
* [[Aragorn]]
;Troops
* [[Legolas]] of [[Mirkwood]]
* [[Gimli]] of [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]]
* [[Halbarad]] of the Northlands †
* [[Elladan]] of [[Rivendell]]
* [[Elrohir]] of [[Rivendell]]
* 29 [[Rangers of the North]]
* [[Angbor]] of [[Lamedon]]
** Horsemen

== Numbers ==
I'm currently planning to add a chapter named "Strength". With will be highly referenced.
Note: A company in [[Middle-earth|ME]] is 500 men.
===S. Fiefs===
====Books====
* Lossarnach: 200 (note: of a total of 2000 men)
* Ringló Vale: 300
* Morthond Vale: 500
* Ethir Anduin: 100
* Pinnath Gelin: 300
* Dol Amroth: 1200 (700 at foot and 500 swan knights)
* [b]Total:[/b] 2600-3000
====Speculative====
* Lamedon: 50? (note: of a total of 4000 men)
* Anfalas: 200?
===Minas Tirith and fortresses===
====Books====
* Tower Guard companies: 1500
* Company of Knights: 500
* [b]Total:[/b] 2000
====Speculative====
* Tower Guard reserves: 200?
* Others from Minas Tirth: 2000?
* Rangers of Ithilien: 500?
* Survivers of [[Cair Andros|C.A.]]: 200?
* Survivers of [[Rammas Echor|R.E.]]: 1250?
===Rohan===
====Books====
* Rohirim: 6000
====Speculative====
* ...
===Aragorn's Host===
====Books====
* Rangers of the North: 30
====Speculative====
* Lebennin, Ethir, etc.: 2000?
===Total===
* Known from the books: 10.630-11.030
* Speculative: 6.400
* '''Total:''' 17.030-17.430
--[[User:Amroth|Amroth]] 13:19, 26 March 2011 (UTC)

:Sources? --{{User:Ederchil/sig}} 10:21, 7 September 2015 (UTC)
==Changes==

I was planning on adding some changes to the article, namely fixing up typos, giving more accurate casualty estimates, as well as trimming up any misplaced references or inaccurate statements. I was told to discuss the change here. [[Special:Contributions/76.11.233.95|76.11.233.95]] 20:53, 17 September 2014 (UTC)

:Well, discuss your specific changes. List them here, why you think they're wrong, what you want to replace them with, and what your sources are. --{{User:Ederchil/sig}} 10:21, 7 September 2015 (UTC)

==Additonal battle info based off movie==
I was wondering if i could add battle information for battles that happened in the peter jackson movies and add battle information based on the movies. it might be helpful for some readers. consider doing this for all battles shown in the movies

Gimli

2018-04-16T02:09:28Z

173.206.83.82:

{{Sources}}
{{disambig-two|the dwarf in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''|elf in [[The Tale of Tinúviel]]|[[Gimli (Noldo)]]}}
{{dwarves infobox
| name=Gimli
| image=[[File:Matt Stewart - Forty-Two.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Forty-Two" by [[:Category:Images by Matt Stewart|Matt Stewart]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Elf-friend, Lockbearer
| titles=[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]
| position=
| location=[[Thorin's Halls]] [[Lonely Mountain]] [[Glittering Caves]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Khuzdul]] and [[Westron]]
| birth={{TA|2879}}
| birthlocation=[[Thorin's Halls]]
| rule=Early [[Fourth Age]] - {{FoA|120}}
| sailedwest={{FoA|120}}
| sailedfrom=[[Ithilien]]
| age=262
| notablefor=
| house=[[Durin's line]]
| parentage=[[Glóin]]
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=Dark<ref name="Riders">{{TT|Riders}}</ref>
| clothing=Short shirt of steel rings<ref name="South"/> cap of iron and leather<ref name="King">{{TT|King}}</ref> belt,<ref name="South">{{FR|South}}</ref> hood, boots,<ref name="Journey">{{FR|Journey}}</ref> shield<ref name="King"/>
| weapons=Broad-bladed axe<ref name="South"/>
| steed=
}}
{{Pronounce|Gimli.mp3|Ardamir}}{{quote|Only Gimli lifted up his head; a smouldering fire was in his eyes. . .|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[A Journey in the Dark]]}}
'''Gimli''' was a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] of the [[House of Durin]] who became famous as the only Dwarven member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].

==History==
Gimli was born in the [[Blue Mountains]] during a time of exile for the [[Durin's Folk]], about [[Third Age 2770|a century]] after the tragic destruction of [[Dale]] and the [[Sack of Erebor|Sacking]] of [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] by [[Smaug]] the Golden. His father was [[Glóin]], a direct descendant of [[King of Durin's Folk|King]] [[Náin II]] and, through him, of [[Durin|Durin the Deathless]]. His father joined [[Thorin and Company]] in their [[Quest of Erebor|quest]] to reclaim the [[Kingdom Under the Mountain]], but Gimli was forbidden because he was too young: only 62 at the time.<ref>{{UT|Erebor}}</ref>

The Dwarves were successul in their Quest and Gimli and his father were among the Dwarves who returned to Erebor. Years later, in {{TA|3017}}, Gimli witnessed the arrival of a messenger of [[Sauron]] (presumed to be a [[Nazgûl]]) inquiring about [[Bilbo Baggins]], old acquaintance of his father, and the [[The One Ring|Ring of Power]], promising tempting offers. Gimli accompanied his troubled father to [[Rivendell]] for the dual purpose of warning Bilbo and seeking the counsel of [[Elrond]] on such weighty matters. He attended the [[Council of Elrond]] as a representative of the [[Dwarves of Erebor]].

===The Fellowship of the Ring===
Gimli, as the only young dwarf seen at the council of Elrond, was appointed as a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. He alone of the company wore a mail-shirt, and carried a broad-bladed axe.<ref name="South">{{FR|South}}</ref> He quickly distinguished himself in the company by declaring that he "needed no map" and naming the [[Misty Mountains]] individually by their [[Khuzdul]] names, inspiring the comment from [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]]: "A fair jaw-cracker dwarf-language must be!"

Gimli stood more than all the others with [[Gandalf]] on the matter of passing through [[Moria]].<ref name="Journey">{{FR|Journey}}</ref> This may be influenced by his curiosity about the fate of his cousin [[Balin]], who went thither to [[Balin's Colony|refound]] the ancient kingdom of the [[Durin's Folk|Longbeards]], and also his vengeful nature. His first clash with [[Legolas]] occurred before the [[Doors of Durin]], in a brief dispute over whose fault it was (the Elves’ or the Dwarves’) that the friendship between the two races waned. Gandalf quickly intervened, though it was not until [[Lothlórien]] that they would truly become friends.

He was quite helpful to Gandalf in explaining the Doors to the other curious members of the fellowship. Gandalf showed his appreciation of Gimli’s skills by letting him walk up front through the dark tunnels beside himself, and taking brief counsels with him when the way is unsure. It is probable that here Gandalf was tapping into Dwarven inborn or developed skills rather than actual knowledge of Moria itself, as Gimli had never personally been there.

Gimli reacted most indignantly to Sam’s suggestion that Moria was but "holes", going so far as to chant for him the ancient ''[[Song of Durin]]''. Gimli continued to be helpful to Gandalf on the rest of the dark passage, and boldly aided in the [[Battle of the Chamber of Mazarbul]], protecting Balin’s tomb. After Gandalf remained behind to halt the Balrog, Gimli led the others across the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]].

He again showed great emotion when they neared [[Kheled-zâram]], taking [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] alone out of all the company with him to see it (though Sam followed as well).<ref name="Lorien">{{FR|Lorien}}</ref> This hinted at a degree of affection for Frodo, though it may merely have been because he was the most important of the company. Despite his helpfulness, at [[Lothlórien]] he became the greatest hindrance to the Company, when he alone was required to be blindfolded and of all of them liked the idea the least (save for perhaps Legolas). The compromise was made that the entire company would go through the Golden Wood in this manner, that Gimli would not suffer alone.<ref name="Lorien"></ref>

Despite this early struggle, it was Gimli of all the company that was most remembered for his deeds in Lothlórien. For his heart softened towards [[Galadriel]] and as a result toward Elves in general when that great lady sympathised with his sorrows, using the traditional Khuzdul names.<ref name="Mirror">{{FR|Mirror}}</ref> In return he attempted to compliment her, as he saw her love and understanding. Though slightly clumsy in his first attempt, he distinguished himself when, as Galadriel gave the Company [[Gifts of Galadriel|gifts]], he asked only for a single strand of her hair. Galadriel gave him three hairs with a blessing, probably remembering when [[Fëanor]] had requested a similar gift several millennia ago. Henceforth Gimli was known as "[[Lockbearer]]". He wept openly at the departure from Lothlórien, calling the light more dangerous than the darkness he had feared.

By the time the Fellowship departed from Lothlórien, Gimli had become fast friends with Legolas the Elf, a result of Galadriel’s kindness. This, too, made him famous among all the Dwarves of the [[Third Age]].

===The Three Hunters===

[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Pursuit in Rohan.jpg|thumb|right|200px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Pursuit in Rohan'']] After the [[Breaking of the Fellowship]], during which he and Legolas slew many [[orcs]], Gimli listened in silence as his only remaining comrades, [[Aragorn]] and Legolas, sang a lament for Boromir in the character of three of the Winds. Only the East Wind was left, and Gimli would not sing it, which Aragorn declared to be appropriate.

For most of the chase he served as a commentator, usually leaving the decisions to Aragorn. His reaction was quite hostile to the suspicious [[Rohirrim]], especially after [[Éomer]]’s rash comments about Galadriel. Little did either know that they would become close friends in the times to come as fiery words passed between them. After the [[Three Hunters]] were lent horses, Gimli and Éomer parted in peace, with promises to one another of reconciliation.

Of the Three Hunters, Gimli seemed the most shaken by [[Fangorn Forest]] while they searched for traces of [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]]. Gimli felt no reluctance to shoot the “unarmed” old man whom they thought was [[Saruman]], unlike Aragorn and Legolas. After Gandalf was revealed to them, Gimli fell to his knees. Gandalf put his hand on Gimli’s head, and the dwarf laughed for the first time recorded during the [[Quest of the Ring]].

Gimli’s ire was raised again in King [[Théoden]]’s courts against [[Gríma|Wormtongue]], who spoke slanderously of the Lady of the Golden Wood. Gandalf quickly calmed him. Gimli was delighted by the [[White Mountains]] and [[Helm's Deep]], declaring "This country has tough bones". He declared that if he had a hundred of his kin he could make the fortress invincible.

===War of the Ring===

[[Image:Ted Nasmith - The Glittering Caves of Aglarond.jpg|thumb|left|220px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Glittering Caves of Aglarond'']]During the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], Gimli saved Éomer’s life outside the gates. He came in, boasting of his first two orc-kills to his friend Legolas. Legolas estimated his slaughter to amount to twenty, starting the good-hearted orc-killing game that continued through the rest of the battle. Gimli was the first to the culvert when the orcs crept through, leaping heroically into their midst from the walls. He then proceeded to lead the blocking up of the culvert. During the course of the battle Gimli was one of those forced into the [[Glittering Caves]]. He was astonished to see the magnificence of these caverns, moving even Legolas with his glowing description of them. This one sight would change his life.

His final kill score number was forty-two in that battle, surpassing his friend the elf by one. Gimli shows a hint of humour and affection when he greets the two [[Hobbits]] Merry and Pippin comfortably situated among [[wikipedia:flotsam|flotsam]] and [[wikipedia:jetsam|jetsam]] in the ruin of [[Isengard]]. He declared himself deep in Pippin’s debt when the hobbit lent him his spare pipe.

Gimli shows some of the stone hardness of Dwarves when they meet [[Saruman]] at [[Orthanc]]. Saruman uses the power in his voice to sway [[Théoden]] to forgive him and make peace, and many of the [[Rohirrim]] are moved by his magic and are spell-bound. Unmoved, Gimli comments that Saruman's words cannot be trusted and that from Orthanc, help would mean ruin. Saruman is angered enough by Gimli that for a moment he loses his charm.

As the fellowship of friends again began to break up – Gandalf and Pippin heading for [[Minas Tirith]], [[Théoden]] and his riders for [[Dunharrow]] – Gimli out of love and respect for Aragorn went with him, Legolas, the sons of Elrond, and the [[Dúnedain]] [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] on the [[Paths of the Dead]]. He showed great reluctance before the [[Dark Door]], the final thought that drove him downward was the thought of being bested by an Elf underground.

He participated in the epic [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], returning with Aragorn and his other companions on the [[Black Ships]], and later recounted their journey to the fascinated Hobbits. He began to fear for Legolas, who seemed entranced by the Sea. His position on Elves completely changed, he remarked "If all the fair folk take to the Havens, it will be a duller world for those who are doomed to stay". He was much more sceptical as to the overall end of [[Men]] than his comrade.

Gimli fought in the [[Battle of the Morannon]], passing through unscathed, and finding the alive but bruised Pippin among the dead lying on the hill. He returned to the [[Field of Cormallen]] to be reunited to his friends, and there displayed open affection for all of them, even his frequent rival Pippin ("If only because of the pains you have cost me, which I shall never forget").

===After the War of the Ring===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Legolas and Gimli Reach the Shores of Valinor.jpg|thumb|right|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Gimli and Legolas reach the shores of Valinor'']]
After the coronation of Aragorn, Gimli said farewell to his old friend Éomer, who begged for pardon as to his words on Galadriel, though he added that he still didn’t think she was the fairest in the world. When he added that he considered [[Arwen]] the fairest instead, Gimli was content with this<ref>{{RK|Partings}}</ref>.

During the return journey he visited many places with Legolas, including Fangorn Forest and [[Glittering Caves|Aglarond]]. Eventually he returned to Erebor, to find it nearly devastated by war. [[Dáin Ironfoot|Dáin II Ironfoot]] had died, and [[Thorin Stonehelm|Thorin III Stonehelm]] was now King. Eventually, though, he returned to the Glittering Caves with a contingent of dwarves, becoming the "[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]". He rebuilt the gates of Minas Tirith with ''[[mithril]]'' and steel, and in both [[Gondor]] and [[Rohan]] accomplished great works. There he met his friends Merry and Pippin and the [[Appendix A|history of his people]] made its way to the [[Red Book]]<ref>{{App|A}}</ref>.

In Aglarond, it is assumed, he lived on until he was old, and in {{FoA|120}} he sailed with Legolas his friend across [[Belegaer]] to [[Valinor]], becoming the first and only Dwarf to do so<ref>{{App|Later}}</ref>.

==Character==
Gimli throughout the War showed perhaps the greatest open contempt for Sauron and his minions, save possibly [[Boromir]]. He was a grim character, for the most part, laughing only occasionally and, though in a few rare situations inspiring amusement, never joking. Due to his comments especially during the initial stage of the journey, he may be called more superstitious than the others, acting very much as if Caradhras was an actual living being.<ref name="South"></ref>

Gimli also carries the characteristic of smouldering vengeance against enemies found in many dwarves, such as when speaking of Moria. It may be that Gimli’s strongest show of sentiment was when speaking of Balin and Moria.<ref name="Journey"></ref> He also is shown to have a steadfast nature to match, noticeable, for instance, when he plunges heedlessly across a stagnant creek in his eagerness to get to Moria. He also seems to have a love (or an interest, at least) in food, complementing the [[lembas]] of the Elves most highly.

== Genealogy ==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree| | | | | | NAI | | | | | | | | | | | |NAI=[[Náin II]] ''{{TA|2338|n}} - {{TA|2585|n}}''}}
{{familytree| |,|-|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree| DAI | | | | | | | | BOR | | | | | | |DAI=[[Dáin I]] ''{{TA|2440|n}} - {{TA|2589|n}}''†| BOR=[[Borin]] ''{{TA|2450|n}} - {{TA|2711|n}}''}}
{{familytree| |!| | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree| THR | | | | | | | | FAR | | | | | | |THR=[[Thrór]] ''{{TA|2542|n}} - {{TA|2790|n}}''†''|FAR=[[Farin]] ''{{TA|2560|n}} - {{TA|2803|n}}''}}
{{familytree| |!| | | | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|.| | | |}}
{{familytree| THR | | | | FUN | | | | | | GRO | | |THR=[[Thráin|Thráin II]] ''{{TA|2644|n}} - {{TA|2850|n}}''†|FUN=[[Fundin]] ''{{TA|2662|n}} - {{TA|2799|n}}''†|GRO=[[Gróin]] ''{{TA|2671|n}} - {{TA|2923|n}}''}}
{{familytree| |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| |}}
{{familytree| THO | | BAL | | DWA | | OIN | | GLO |THO=[[Thorin]] ''{{TA|2746|n}} - {{TA|2941|n}}''†|BAL=[[Balin]] ''{{TA|2763|n}} - {{TA|2994|n}}''†|DWA=[[Dwalin]] ''{{TA|2772|n}} - {{FoA|91}}''|OIN=[[Óin]] ''{{TA|2774|n}} - {{TA|2994|n}}''†|GLO=[[Glóin]] ''{{TA|2783|n}} - {{FoA|15}}''}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| |}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | GIM |GIM='''GIMLI''' ''{{TA|2879|n}} - {{FoA|120}}+''}}
{{familytree/end}}

==Etymology==

In [[1978]], [[Jim Allan]] noted that the name ''Gimli'' appears once in the ''[[Völuspá]]'' and three times in the ''Prose Edda''. Allan suggested that ''Gimli'' means "One-of-Gimlé/Gimill", where [[Wikipedia:Gimlé|''Gimlé''/''Gimill'']] in the ''Eddas'' is a hall of the after-life "''inhabited solely by [[Calaquendi#Inspiration|Light-elves]]''" (evoking Gimli's leaving for [[Aman]]).<ref>[[Jim Allan]], "Giving of Names", in ''[[An Introduction to Elvish]]'', p. 225</ref>

However, with the publication of ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' in [[1981]], Tolkien wrote in a draft letter that Gimli's name comes from a poetic [[Old Norse]] word, ''gimm'', presumably meaning "fire".<ref>{{L|297}}, p. 382</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
The name "[[Gimli (Noldo)|Gimli]]" was first used by Tolkien for the name of a [[Gnome]] in the ''[[Tale of Tinúviel]]'', written in mid-1910s.

In the [[Adûnaic]] language described in ''[[The Notion Club Papers]]'' ([[1945]]), ''gimli'' (pl. ''gimil'') is the word for "[[stars|star]]", derived from a [[root]] G-M-L and having the Characteristic Vowel I. From these derive others words such as ''igmil'' "a star-shaped formation"; and ''Gimilnitîr'' "Star-kindler" ([[Gilthoniel]]), a name for [[Varda]].<ref>{{SD|NC}}, p. 427-428</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Pictures of adaptations of Gimli
|height=150
|width=200
|lines=3
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Gimli.jpg|[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Gimli.jpg|[[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 (video game) - Gimli.JPG|[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]
|File:SBG - Gimli.gif|''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]''
|File:Aragorn's Quest - Gimli.jpg|''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]''
|File:Gimli.jpg|''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Gimli mini figure.png|''[[Lego]] mini figure''
}}

'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The part of Gimli was read by [[Eric Lugg]].

'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Gimli is portrayed as almost as tall as [[Aragorn]] and [[Legolas]]. He has a brown beard and wears a hood. [[David Buck]] provided Gimli's voice.

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gimli is provided by [[Gail Chugg]].

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:Both Gimli and Legolas are omitted from this adaptation, as it centers on Aragorn.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Gimli is played by [[Douglas Livingstone]], who uses a heavily articulated accent.

'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[John Rhys-Davies]] portrayed Gimli in voice and close-ups; Brett Beattie was his size-double. Jackson used the antagonism between Legolas and Gimli, although he placed most of it on Gimli's plate.

'''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)]]:'''
:Gimli is portrayed as a burly lumberjack, slightly smaller than Legolas, but the same size as Boromir. His moment of glory is in [[Moria]], where he aids the player (at this point, Frodo) with trying to find the Bridge. He is voiced by [[James Horan]].

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Now that [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] were no longer around to provide comic relief, Gimli was chosen to fill the spot. This has led to much criticism.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''
:Gimli is one of the three playable characters.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:As in the second film Gimli's character was somewhat controversially used to insert comic relief into the scenes he appeared in.

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Gimli is a playable character, with an aggressive fighting style. He and Legolas accompany Aragorn through Paths of the Dead, later he fights on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's War of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Bob Papenbrook]] provided the voice of Gimli, who is a Hero Unit for the Free People side. His first appearance is near the Lonely Mountain, where he and other dwarves fight orcs and later activate a giant catapult.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Gimil is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, though he accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Gimli is now the Hero for the Dwarven faction.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Gimli is first met by Dwarven character in the intro taking place in {{TA|2941}}, shortly before the Quest for Erebor. Later, all characters meet him in Rivendell and he also accompanies them on a mission to the [[Misty Mountains]]. Later, he can be found in Lothlorien, where he is present on Cerim Amroth along with Legolas.

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:Gimli is a playable hero available in several missions.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:Gimli can be found and talked to in Rivendell, he retains the appearance from the movies. While he provides insight into many events, interactions with him do not affect the main plot.

'''2013: ''[[The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug]]'':'''
:When Thorin's Company are arrested in [[Mirkwood]], Legolas searches Glóin's possessions and finds a picture wallet. Legolas comments how ugly are the portraits and Glóin points out that it's his son's portrait, parodying the future friendship of the two.

==See Also==
* [[:Category:Images of Gimli|Images of Gimli]]

{{References}}
{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
| race=dwarf
| house=[[House of Durin]]
| born={{TA|2879}}
| died=after {{FoA|120}}
}}
{{seq
| pvac=None
| prev=Position created
| list=[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]
| dates=unknown – {{FoA|120}}
| nvac=Unknown
}}
{{seq-end}}{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Dwarves]]
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]
[[Category:Longbeards]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]

[[de:Gimli]]
[[fi:Gimli]]

Hobbits

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{{sources}}
{{expansion}}
{{disambig-more|Hobbits|[[The Hobbit (disambiguation)]]}}
{{people infobox
| name=Hobbits
| image=[[File:Inger Edelfeldt - A Long Expected Party.jpg|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Inger Edelfeldt - A Long Expected Party.jpg|A Long Expected Party]]" by [[Inger Edelfeldt]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Halflings
| origin=
| location=[[The Shire]], [[Bree-land]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=
| language=[[Hobbitish]] (a regional dialect of [[Westron]])
| members=[[Marcho]] and [[Blanco]], [[Sméagol]], [[Bandobras Took]], [[Bilbo Baggins]], [[Frodo Baggins]]
| lifespan=c. 100<ref name="LOTRProjectStats">{{webcite|author=Emil Johansson|articleurl=http://lotrproject.com/statistics/#lifeexpectancy|articlename=Lord of the Rings in Statistics|website=[http://lotrproject.com/ Lord of the Rings Project]|accessed=09-September-2012}}</ref>
| distinctions=[[Gift of Men|Mortality]], diminutive stature, furry feet
| height=2-4 ft or 0.6-1.2 m (often less than three feet in later days)
| hair=Typically curly brown, rarely blond (until the [[Fourth Age]]), and white and grey in later years
| skin=Nut-brown to White
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
{{quote|In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.|''[[The Hobbit]]'', [[An Unexpected Party]]}}
'''Hobbits''' were a small race that typically dwelt underground, believed to be related to [[Men]]. They played little role in history, save during the [[War of the Ring]].

==Description and culture==
{{quote|There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly [[Eriador|West]]. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.|[[Thorin Oakenshield]]<ref>{{H|18}}</ref>}}
Hobbits were between three to four feet tall, the average height being 3 feet 6 inches, with short legs, slightly pointed ears<ref>{{L|27}}</ref> and furry feet with leathery soles, resulting in most never wearing shoes. Early in their recorded history, Hobbits were divided in three kinds with different customs and temperament. The '''[[Stoors]]''' grew facial hair and had an affinity for water, boats and swimming and wore boots; the '''[[Fallohides]]''' were fair, tall and slim, an adventurous people, friendlier and more open to outsiders. Finally, the '''[[Harfoots]]''' were the most numerous and instituted the living in burrows. In later days the Harfoot traits became the "norm".

Hobbits had a life span somewhat longer than Men of non-[[Númenórean]] descent, averaging between 90 and 100 years. The time at which a young hobbit "came of age" was 33.<ref name=FRI1>{{FR|I1}}</ref> The two oldest-living recorded hobbits (except [[Gollum]]) were The [[Gerontius Took|Old Took]] (who reached the age of 130) and [[Bilbo Baggins]] (who surpassed him at 131).

Throughout their history Hobbits had showed unparelleled skill, courage and also endurance and resistance in times of danger and terror. During their [[Wandering Days]] Hobbits demostrated an easiness to adapt to the environments they visited and adopted the customs and languages of the peoples they were in contact with. In the Shire, they had settled with a closed and comfort-loving lifestyle; they were fond of an unadventurous bucolic life of farming, eating, smoking [[pipe-weed]],<ref>{{FR|Hobbits}}</ref> socializing and talking about genealogies. Hobbits also liked to drink ale in inns, and ate at least six meals a day when they could get them. Every [[Highday]] and after noon, Hobbits celebrated a small holiday with evening feasts. <ref name=cal>{{App|Calendars}}</ref>

However, their hidden potentials resurfaced in difficult times; in the [[Long Winter]], [[Gandalf]] admired their uncomplaining courage and pity one for another, thanks to which they survived.<ref>{{UT|Erebor}}</ref> Another example of Hobbitish hardiness and resistant nature, was [[Gollum]], who despite using [[the One Ring]] for years, did not transform into a [[Wraiths|Wraith]] under the Ring's evil power (unlike the [[Nazgûl|nine Mannish Kings]]).<ref>
{{webcite|author=Stan Brown|website=FAQ of the Rings|articleurl=http://oakroadsystems.com/genl/ringfaq.htm#Q1-GollumWraith |articlename=Why hadn’t Gollum turned into a wraith long ago?}}</ref> These surprising Hobbit traits also were tested and proven during the [[Quest of Erebor]] and, most notably, the [[War of the Ring]].

==Origin==
[[File:Lidia Postma - Hobbits comparison.jpg|thumb|left|The three kinds of Hobbits]]
Hobbits were considered Men. Nearly all scholars agree that Men were closely related to Hobbits, far more closely than Men were to either [[Elves]] or [[Dwarves]]. It was thus commonly assumed that Hobbits were among the Younger [[Children of Ilúvatar]] and were the result of the same act of creation as Men. This would imply that Hobbits had the [[Gift of Men]] to pass entirely beyond [[Arda]].

It is supposed that Hobbits branched out from Men as a race in the [[Elder Days]].<ref>{{FR|Prologue}}</ref> Their exact origin is unknown and they come into the records not earlier than the early [[Third Age]] where they were living in the [[Vales of Anduin]] in [[Rhovanion|Wilderland]], between [[Mirkwood]] and the [[Misty Mountains]]. They have lost the genealogical details of how they are related to the rest of mankind. While they stayed there, the [[Northmen]] knew them. Their descendants, the [[Rohirrim]], had that memory of the ''[[holbytla]]n'' and they remained an object of lore until they contacted them during the War of the Ring. Many old words and names in "[[Hobbitish]]" are cognates of words in [[Rohirric]], so much so that even someone without linguistic training could make out the relation ([[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] would later write an entire book devoted to the relationship, ''[[Old Place Names in the Shire]]'').

==History==

[[File:Robin Wood - Mathom lore.jpg|thumb|Robin Wood - [[Mathom]] lore]]
While situated in the Valley of the Anduin River the Hobbits lived close by the Northmen. Some time near the beginning of the [[Third Age]], they undertook, for reasons unknown, but possibly having to do with the [[Dol Guldur|rising evil power in Mirkwood]], the arduous task of crossing the [[Misty Mountains]], beginning thus their '''[[Wandering Days]]'''. Some of the Stoors, however, stayed behind, and it is from these people that [[Gollum]] would come many years later. The Hobbits took different routes in their journey westward, but eventually came to a land between the River [[Baranduin]] (which they renamed ''Brandywine'') and the [[Weather Hills]]. There they founded many settlements, and the divisions between the Hobbit-kinds began to blur.

In the year {{TA|1601}}, two Fallohide brothers decided to cross the River Brandywine and settle on the other side. Large numbers of Hobbits followed them, and most of their former territory was depopulated. Only [[Bree]] and a few surrounding villages lasted to the end of the Third Age. The new land that they found on the west bank of the Brandywine is called [[The Shire]].

Originally the [[Shire-hobbits]] swore nominal allegiance to the last Kings of [[Arnor]], being required only to acknowledge their lordship, speed their messengers, and keep the bridges and roads in repair. During the final fight against [[Angmar]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]], the Hobbits maintain that they sent a company of archers to help but this is nowhere else recorded. After the battle the kingdom of Arnor was destroyed, and in absence of the king the Hobbits elected a [[Thain]] of the Shire from among their own chieftains.

The first Thain of the Shire was [[Bucca]] of the [[Marish]], who founded the Oldbuck family. However, later on the Oldbuck family crossed the Brandywine River to create the separate land of [[Buckland]] and the family name changed to the familiar "Brandybuck". Their patriarch then became Master of Buckland. With the departure of the [[Oldbucks]]/Brandybucks, a new family was selected to have its chieftains be Thain, the [[Took family]] (Indeed, [[Peregrin Took|Pippin Took]] was son of the Thain and would later become Thain himself). The Thain was in charge of [[Shire-moot]] and Muster and the [[Hobbitry-in-arms]], but as the Hobbits of the Shire led entirely peaceful, uneventful lives the office of Thain was seen as something more of a formality.

==Some well-known Hobbits==
[[File:Lorraine Brevig - Frodo and Sam in Ithilien.jpg|thumb|Frodo and Sam]]
* [[Bilbo Baggins]]
* [[Frodo Baggins]]
* [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise "Sam" Gamgee]]
* [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck]]
* [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin "Pippin" Took]]
* [[Fredegar Bolger|Fredegar "Fatty" Bolger]]
* [[Otho Sackville-Baggins|Otho]] and [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]]
* [[Lobelia Sackville-Baggins]]
* [[Gerontius Took|Old Took]]
* [[Bandobras Took|Bullroarer Took]]
* [[Sméagol]] (who became the creature [[Gollum]])
* [[Déagol]]

Though in ''[[The Hobbit]]'' it is mentioned that [[Gandalf]] "was responsible for so many quiet lads and lasses going off into the Blue for mad adventures," no female Hobbits are depicted in [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]'s stories doing so; however Hobbit women do appear in his works, such as the formidable [[Lobelia Sackville-Baggins]] and Sam's wife [[Rose Cotton|Rose Cotton]].

== Etymology ==
:''This section explains the fictional etymology of the word in the linguistic context of Middle-earth; for the actual origin of the word see the section [[#Inspiration]] below''.
''Hobbit'' was derived from [[Old English]] ''[[holbytla]]'', "hole-dweller" which represents the [[Rohirric]] language.<ref>{{HM|RW}}, p. 144</ref> In a letter, Tolkien commented on the pronounciation of the word ''hobbit'': "I am sure many hobbits drop their ''h''s like most rural folk in England".<ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], "[[Letter to Alina Dadlez (19 September 1962)]]" (letter); quoted in {{CG|RG}}, p. 1036</ref>

The relationship hobbit/holbytla parallels the original [[Westron]] ''[[Kuduk]]'' (Hobbit), derived from the actual Rohirric ''[[kûd-dûkan]]'' (holbytla, hole dweller). This name obviously derives from the times when the hobbits lived at the [[Vales of Anduin]] with the [[Northmen]].<ref name="Road">{{TT|III8}}</ref><ref name="Translation">{{App|F2}}</ref>

Hobbits were also called ''[[Halflings]]'' by the [[Dúnedain]], first when they still measured 2 [[ranga]]r tall; twice as high as a hobbit who would reach only 1 ranga. The word retained even when the later generations of Dúnedain became shorter. However, the term is slightly offensive to Hobbits, as to themselves they are not 'half' of anything, and certainly do not use the term to refer to themselves.{{fact}}

''Halfling'' represents a translation of [[Westron]] ''[[banakil]]''. In [[Quenya]] the word is ''[[perian|Perian(d-)]]'' pl. ''Periandi''<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.tolkienlibrary.com/press/856-most_expensive_Tolkien_book_in_the_world.php|articlename=Most expensive Tolkien bok in the world|website=[http://www.tolkienlibrary.com/index.php TolkienLibrary.com]}}, dedication to [[Elaine Griffiths]]</ref> and in [[Sindarin]] ''[[Perian]]'' pl. ''Periannath''.<ref>{{RK|Cormallen}}</ref>

*''See also: [[Wikipedia:Hobbit (word)]]''

==Inspiration==
{{quote|I am in fact a Hobbit (in all but size). I like gardens, trees and unmechanized farmlands; I smoke a pipe, and like good plain food [...]; I like, and even dare to wear in these dull days, ornamental waistcoats. I am fond of mushrooms (out of a field); have a very simple sense of humour [...]; I go to bed late and get up late [...]. I do not travel much.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]|[[Letter 213]]}}

Tolkien's etymology for 'Hobbit' is interesting as well: the word obviously constructed meaningless as a spontaneous inspiration, without prior intent, but it would have been natural for him to see in it the German prefix ''hob'' meaning ''small'' (e.g. ''[[hobgoblin]]'', ''hobbledehoy'' and ''hobyah''). However this prefix dates back "only" to the 13th century, too late by Tolkien's standards; thence when later he began to work out the language relations further (see: [[Mannish]]) he decided that it could be a derived form of an [[Old English]] word such as ''[[holbytla]]''.

According to Tolkien, the word ''hobbit'' came first, and then he decided to write ''[[The Hobbit]]'' around it. As a university lecturer, he was in the process of correcting reports when he started scribbling on a blank piece of paper and wrote, "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit", and the rest of the story sprang from that.<ref>[[Humphrey Carpenter]], ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]]'', p.172</ref> The idea of a little hole dwelling creature was introduced to Tolkien by one of his students in a story he had written.

It was revealed recently that the word pre-dated Tolkien's usage, though with a different meaning).<ref name="annot">{{HM|AH}}</ref> Tolkien's concept of hobbits, in turn, seems to have been inspired by Edward Wyke Smith's 1927 children's book ''[[Wikipedia:The Marvellous Land of Snergs|The Marvellous Land of Snergs]]'', and by Sinclair Lewis's 1922 novel ''[[Wikipedia:Babbitt (novel)|Babbitt]]''. Tolkien wrote to [[W.H. Auden]] that ''The Marvellous Land of Snergs'' "was probably an unconscious source-book for the Hobbits"<ref name=annot/> and he told an interviewer that the word ''hobbit'' "might have been associated with Sinclair Lewis's ''Babbitt''" who enjoys the comforts of his home.

The name ''hobbit'' had previously appeared in an obscure "[[Wikipedia:Denham Tracts|list of spirits]]" by Michael Denham, which includes several repetitions. There is no evidence to suggest Tolkien used this as a source — indeed he spent many years trying to find out whether he really did coin the word. Denham's "hobbit spirits" (which are never referenced anywhere except in the long list) have no obvious relation to Tolkien's Hobbits, other than the name (which may possibly imply hob- "small"): Tolkien's Hobbits are small humans, not spirits. Nonetheless, some few people have suggested that the reference in the Denham list should invalidate the trademark.

== In popular usage ==

"Hobbit" is a trademark owned by the [[Middle-earth Enterprises]], as some of names, places and artifacts included in ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]. For this reason [[Dungeons and Dragons]] and other fantasy tend to refer to Hobbits and Hobbit-like races rather as '''Halflings''' (''hin'' in the Mystara universe, ''hurthlings'' in Ancient Domains of Mystery).

''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_floresiensis Homo floresiensis]'', a possible species in the genus Homo (thus, related to humans) discovered in 2004, has been informally dubbed a "hobbit" by its discoverers due to its small size.

[[Tolkien fandom|Fans]] have noted that in depictions and adaptations such as [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]], Hobbits are shown with unusually large feet, a conception probably influenced by the widespread art of [[the Brothers Hildebrandt]]. However, Tolkien himself never mentioned that large feet was a general feature of Hobbits.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?do=post_view_printable;post=365823;guest=38267446|articlename=Big Feet|dated=|website=[http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?guest=35804230 The One Ring Forums]|accessed=2 September 2012}}</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Hobbits| ]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/hobbits/hobbits]]
[[de:Hobbits]]
[[fi:Hobitit]]

Legolas

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{{sources}}
{{rewrite}} 
{{disambig-two|the elf of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]|the elf in ''[[The Fall of Gondolin (chapter)|The Fall of Gondolin]]''|[[Legolas (elf of Gondolin)]]}}
{{sindar infobox
| name=Legolas
| image=[[File:Līga Kļaviņa - Legolas.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Legolas" by [[:Category:Images by Līga Kļaviņa|Līga Kļaviņa]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Greenleaf
| titles=Prince of [[Woodland Realm]]
| position=
| location=[[Woodland Realm]] [[Ithilien]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Sindarin]] and [[Westron]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule= Elven colony of [[Ithilien]]; early [[Fourth Age]] - {{FoA|120}}
| sailedwest={{FoA|120}}
| sailedfrom=[[Ithilien]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=[[Thranduil]]
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Green and brown garb
| weapons=Bow and long white knife
| steed=
}} '''Legolas''' was an elf of the [[Woodland Realm]] of [[Mirkwood]]. He was of [[Sindar]]in heritage, being the only recorded son of King [[Thranduil]]. The most important events of his life are surrounded by the [[War of the Ring]], during which he was the [[Elves|Elven]] representative in the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]; his Elven characteristics, such as superior sight and hearing, lightness of foot, and skilled archery, were valuable assets.

Legolas was also famous for his strong friendship with [[Gimli]] the [[Dwarves|Dwarf]]. Not only was such a friendship among the two races rare throughout history, but it also contrasted the harsh way his own father behaved to [[Glóin]], Gimli's father, and [[Thorin and Company|his companions]].

==History==
As the son of the Elvenking [[Thranduil]], Legolas was a prince of the [[Woodland Realm]]. Little is known about most of his life before or during the [[Third Age]].

During the [[War of the Ring]], the [[Elves of Mirkwood]] kept [[Gollum]] captive after his capture by [[Aragorn]]. However, he soon managed to escape. Legolas was sent to [[Rivendell]] with a message to [[Gandalf]] about this event.<ref name=Council>{{FR|Council}}</ref>

Legolas was present at the [[Council of Elrond]] and related the news, being quick to state to [[Aragorn]] that it was not through lack of watchfulness--if anything, from over-kindliness--and related the details to the council.<ref name=Council/> He spoke little for the rest of the council, if at all, but later was to participate in the [[Quest of the Ring]] as the elven representative of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]. His capabilities were welcomed.
===The Fellowship of the Ring===
For the early part of the quest they walked in single file, with Legolas often at the back due to his keen eyesight. Later, he was at the head of the company as they entered [[Eregion|Hollin]]. Though all in the Company could feel the wholesomeness of the country, only Legolas could hear the stones lament the lost presence of the [[Elves]], and his words were poignant.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Anger of the Mountain.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Anger of the Mountain'']]As they ascended [[Caradhras]], Legolas could walk on top of the snow, whereas the others were forced to trudge. He also unsuccessfully attempted to light a fire. When they decided to retreat due to the snowy conditions, [[Boromir]] and Aragorn tried to push a path through the snow to get out, but Legolas danced lightly on top, passing them easily.<ref>{{FR|South}}</ref>

Perhaps a bit grumpy with the irrepressibility of the elf, Boromir during the vote as to whether or not they should pass through [[Moria]], asked, “What do Legolas and the little folk say?” Legolas voted against the passage with Boromir, but was overruled, especially when [[Wargs|Warg]] voices were heard. During their defence against these beasts, Legolas did more than perhaps all the rest of the company except Gandalf, shooting numerous Wargs. After the fight, he retrieved all of his arrows except one.<ref> {{FR|Journey}}</ref>

The Fellowship entered Moria and Legolas, despite his ability to see well in the dark, could not in the caves. Due to his [[Morgul-wound]], [[Frodo Baggins]] could see better than any of the company in the dark, except perhaps Gandalf. Legolas had to drag Gimli from the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]] when the [[Dwarves|dwarf]] refused to leave [[Balin]]'s Tomb. He was also the first of the Company to recognise [[Durin's Bane]] as a [[Balrogs|Balrog]], or at least the first to express his dismay at the fact.<ref>{{FR|Bridge}}</ref>

Legolas was most enthusiastic about coming to [[Lothlórien]], describing it to the rest of the Company, and mourning the fact that it was winter and they could not witness it in the pinnacle of its glory. As they rested by the [[Nimrodel (river)|Nimrodel]], Legolas told the company tales of Lothlórien, and sang the [[Song of Nimrodel]] to them. Upon hearing the Elves of Lórien speaking in the trees, Legolas responded in their own tongue, and when [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise]] queried as to what they were saying, Legolas slyly responded that they said he breathed so loudly that the elves claimed they could shoot him in the dark. Samwise was horrified until Legolas added that they need not fear the elves.

Legolas was called up to meet with the [[Galadhrim]], with Frodo only, thought Sam followed, as always. The Galadhrim had heard him singing and knew he came from [[Mirkwood]]. They would readily accept all of the fellowship, save Gimli, because of his race. Legolas was forced to answer for the company, with the reminder to keep an eye on "that dwarf". Eventually the Elves asked to blindfold him, but Gimli was outraged. When Aragorn offered for all of the Company to wear blindfolds, Gimli said Legolas alone needed to. Legolas was outraged in turn, but Aragorn settled the dispute by asking to blindfold the whole of the Company. In the end, Legolas had no choice but to submit.

[[Image:Michael Kaluta - Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[Michael Kaluta]] - ''Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel'']]In Lothlórien, many Elves sang of Gandalf, and their language was such that only Legolas could understand. Legolas would not translate the lamentations, saying that he had neither the skill nor the heart. During their time in Lórien, however, with the influence of the Lady [[Galadriel]] working her magic on the dwarf, he became fast friends with Gimli, a friendship that would never be broken. He was one of the Company that could handle boats, and so was assigned to one with the dwarf. He received a bow and quiver such as the Galadhrim used.

After ambushed by orc-archers on the [[Anduin]], Legolas quickly leaped out onto dry ground and searched for a mark to shoot at. As a dread fell on the Company, Legolas invoked the name of [[Elbereth Gilthoniel]], and shot the descending [[Fell beasts|Fell beast]] from the sky, a masterful shot in the dark. He was praised by the rest of the Company for this, especially Gimli.

===The Three Hunters===
[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Pursuit in Rohan.jpg|thumb|right|200px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Pursuit in Rohan'']]When the company was ambushed on [[Amon Hen]], Legolas shot many [[Orcs]] until his arrows ran out, and then used his knife. Upon the [[breaking of the Fellowship]], when he learned that Boromir had fallen, he sang with Aragorn a lament, taking the part of the South Wind, which came from the Sea. Legolas was of great aid to Aragorn in the days following, as he helped to track the [[Uruk-hai]] across [[Rohan]]. His eyes could see many leagues, and for a while he could see their quarry far ahead of them.

Legolas stood by his friend Gimli when confronted by the haughty [[Éomer]], threatening him with death if he attempted to harm the dwarf. He let Gimli ride behind him on the way to [[Fangorn Forest]]. Under its eaves, Legolas noticed how the tree beneath which they sat seemed glad of the fire. He was reluctant to enter Fangorn, having no knowledge about it save for stories of the [[Onodrim|Ents]], and that it was very old. Though the night was very dark, he was also the first to notice the absence of the horses. Later he asserted to Aragorn that the beasts sounded joyful, confirming Aragorn’s own guess.

Upon entering Fangorn, Legolas declared that he almost felt young again beside those trees. He commented that in earlier days he could have been happy there. Gimli snorted, saying, “''I dare say you could. You are a Wood-elf, anyway, though Elves of any kind are strange folk.''” Legolas would later reverse this declaration at the [[Hornburg]]. When the [[Three Hunters]] met with the apparition of an old man, whom they believed to be [[Saruman]], despite Gimli’s encouragement Legolas did not shoot him, feeling moral objections to this. The old man declared, "''Put away that bow, Master Elf.''" Legolas dropped his bow, but later picked it up again, and was about to shoot when it was seen that beneath the old man’s robes there was white. Yet he recognised that it was [[Gandalf]] just in time, and shot his arrow high in the air to be consumed by fire. Gandalf coolly added, "''Well met, I say to you again, Legolas!''"

===With the Rohirrim===
Legolas was the first to ask Gandalf about [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]], and Gandalf’s apparently miraculous escape. After the story, Gandalf delivered [[Galadriel]]’s messages to each of them, Legolas' being:

<poem style="font-style:italic; margin-left:20px;">
''Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
''In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
''If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
''Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more.
</poem>

Later, Legolas again used his eyes for the help of the company, as he spied both the of [[Isengard]] and [[Edoras]] from afar. At the gates of [[Meduseld]], Legolas was the only one to lay down his weapons without hesitation. He played only a passive role in the healing of [[Théoden|Théoden King]], and later was arrayed in shining mail beside Aragorn. Gimli would not ride on Éomer's horse unless Legolas rode beside them, which he did gladly. Éomer declared, "''Legolas upon my left, and Aragorn upon my right, and none will dare to stand before us!''"

[[Image:John Howe - Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[John Howe]] - ''Legolas and Gimli at Helm's Deep'']]As Legolas stood at the [[Hornburg]] at the eve of battle, he said that though he did not like the place. Gimli comforted him, and he was glad that the dwarf stood by his side. He also wished that a hundred archers of [[Mirkwood]] were there, noting the small number of bowmen among the [[Rohirrim]]. At the opening of the battle, Legolas shot twenty at least, this figure being taken as precise by Gimli. When Gimli returned to the elf for the second time to declare that he slew twenty-one, Legolas counted his kills as twenty-four. By the time the [[Fire of Orthanc]] blew out a piece of the wall, his quiver was nearly empty. With the last arrow the elf saved Aragorn’s life when he stumbled while pursued. At the end of the battle, Legolas had shot a total of forty-one, though Gimli surpassed his count by one.

Legolas showed great interest in the [[Huorns]] on the way to [[Isengard]], discussing them with Gandalf and a less willing Gimli. Legolas promised Gimli that he would go to [[Glittering Caves|Aglarond]] after the war upon hearing the dwarf’s eloquence, if only Gimli would accompany him on a return to Fangorn. At Isengard he enjoyed a meal in the company of Gimli, Aragorn, and the [[Hobbits]], Merry and Pippin.

===The Return of the King===
When Aragorn made clear his purpose as to the taking of the [[Paths of the Dead]], Legolas and Gimli willingly volunteered to go with him. Legolas predicted, when Gimli suggested that Galadriel might have sent them soldiers from their own lands, that they need not ride away to find war.

Amidst the Paths of the Dead, riding with the [[Grey Company]], Legolas alone, save for [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], [[Elrond|Elrond's]] sons, felt no fear of the [[Oathbreakers]], and it may be remembered that the High Elves had power both in the worlds of the seen and unseen. Yet his turn came to be struck to the heart in the opposite sense – when he heard the gulls at [[Pelargir]], fulfilling Galadriel’s prediction and warning. While telling this story later, he stopped there, while Gimli promptly said, "''For my part I heeded them not''". Legolas saw as Aragorn led the Dead Men what a mighty lord he might have been if he had taken the [[One Ring]].

Legolas came with Aragorn from the ships during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|Battle of Pelennor Fields]], and fought there beside his comrades. He survived the battle, and several times afterward commented on the longevity and eventual domination of [[Men]] to the dubious Gimli.

===Battle of the Morannon and Aftermath===
Legolas rode for the last time into battle beside his friends to the [[Battle of the Morannon]]. He witnessed the Fall of the Dark Tower, and after the battle attended the ceremonies of the [[Field of Cormallen]] in the honour of Frodo and Samwise and their victory. That night Legolas would not go to bed, but instead went away to walk in the woods, singing of the Sea.

At the urging of Aragorn, Legolas remained in [[Minas Tirith]] for a time, after attending the coronation of Elessar. During the parting of the [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]], Legolas went with Gimli to Aglarond. After that, he rode off with Gimli to return [[Fangorn Forest]].

===After the War of the Ring===
[[File:Lorraine Brevig - Legolas and the Sea.jpg|thumb|Lorraine Brevig - ''Legolas and the Sea'']] Legolas returned to Minas Tirith with a company of Wood-elves, and they made [[Ithilien]] a green and fair land once more. After King Aragorn died, Legolas sailed West, reportedly taking Gimli with him.<ref>{{App|Durin}}</ref>

==Personality==
Legolas showed almost irrepressible cheerfulness throughout the journey, passing through Caradhras and even the Paths of the Dead without hesitation or complaint. His youthful nature can be seen from the mocking way he treated the "strong men" on Caradhras, whom Boromir (excluding Legolas) had said could forge a way out through the snow. He is perhaps most remembered for his friendship with Gimli the Dwarf, and it was during this friendship that we see his faithfulness, and also his love of beauty. Gimli's words moved him when the dwarf spoke of the [[Glittering Caves]].

==Description and Equipment==
At Rivendell, Legolas was dressed in green and brown garb, and he was probably dressed similarly for the duration of the quest.

He bore a bow from Mirkwood, and later a [[Bow of the Galadhrim|bow of the Galadhrim]]. He also had a long white knife.

==Genealogy==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree| ORO |ORO=[[Oropher]] ''d. {{SA|3434}}''}}
{{familytree| |!| |}}
{{familytree| THR |THR=[[Thranduil]] ''Unknown''}}
{{familytree| |!| |}}
{{familytree| LEG |LEG='''LEGOLAS''' ''Sailed West {{FoA|120}}''}}
{{familytree/end}}

== Etymology ==
The name ''Legolas'' is a [[Silvan Elvish|Silvan]] dialect form of pure [[Sindarin]] ''Laegolas'', which means "Greenleaf". At one point he is called "Legolas Greenleaf" by Gandalf, coupling his name and its translation like an epithet.<ref group=note>'''''Greenleaf''''' is not his surname, as is sometimes erroneously believed; nor is it an epithet (like ''[[Oakenshield]]'').</ref>

''Legolas'' consists of the [[Sindarin]] words ''laeg'', a very rare, archaic word for "green" (cf. ''Laegrim, Laegel(d)rim'', the [[Green Elves]]), which is normally replaced by ''calen'' (cf. ''[[Calenhad]], [[Parth Galen]]'' and ''[[Pinnath Gelin]]''); and ''golas'', a collection of leaves, foliage (being a prefixed collective form of ''[[lass|las(s)]]'', "leaf").<ref>{{L|211}}</ref><ref>{{PE|17}}, pp. 84, 153</ref> The [[Quenya]] cognate of Laegolas is said to be ''Laicolasse''.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 56</ref><ref>[[Helge Fauskanger]], [http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm ''Quettaparma Quenyallo'']. Entry for '''laica'''. Retrieved 30 August 2010.</ref>

==Other versions of the Legendarium==
A character "[[Legolas (elf of Gondolin)|Legolas Greenleaf]]" appears firstly in ''[[The Fall of Gondolin (chapter)|The Fall of Gondolin]]'' in ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'' (in the context of another unrelated character) who guided some survivors of the sack of the city to safety. His [[Qenya]] name is ''Laiqalassë''.<ref>{{LT2|IIIn}}, §2 Entries in the Name-list to The Fall of Gondolin</ref>

Tolkien considered [[Glorfindel]] to be the Elven character of the Fellowship, however he dropped the idea, and Legolas was created to replace him. Perhaps this is the reason why Legolas is considered the most underdeveloped character of the Fellowship, playing only a minor role in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''.<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=http://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com/post/53965333513/why-is-legolass-character-so-underdeveloped|articlename=Why is Legolas so underdeveloped?|website=[http://askmiddlearth.tumblr.com Ask About Middle-Earth]}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
<center><gallery>
File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Legolas 2.jpg|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring - Legolas at Amon Hen.jpg|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]</center>
File:Legolas viv lotr.JPG|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]</center>
File:The Lord of the Rings- The Treason of Isengard - Legolas.png|<center>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Treason of Isengard]]''</center>
File:Lego Legolas poster.png|<center>Legolas as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''</center>
File:LOTRO-Legolas.jpg|<center>[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]</center>
</gallery></center>

'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Frank Duncan]] was the voice of Legolas.

'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Legolas was voiced by [[Anthony Daniels]]. In the film, he takes [[Glorfindel]]'s place in the Flight to the Ford sequence; he meets Strider and the hobbits on their way to [[Rivendell]], and sets Frodo on his horse before he is chased by the Nazgûl to the ford of [[Bruinen]]. Here, he is apparently from Rivendell, because he answers to Elrond; he is not identified as a Wood-elf.

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:[[John Vickery]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:Neither Legolas nor Gimli appeared in this film, as they were essentially followers irrelevant to the plot.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[David Collings]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''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)]]:'''
:[[Michael Reisz]] provided the voice of Legolas.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Legolas was portrayed by [[Orlando Bloom]].

:In the "official movie guide" for ''The Lord of the Rings'', a birthdate for Legolas is set to 87 of the [[Third Age]]. This would make him 2931 years old at the time of the [[War of the Ring]]. This date for Legolas' birth was made up by the movie writers. Curiously, the year 2931 was the year Aragorn was born; the writers may have picked the number at random from the ''Tale of Years'' in the [[Appendix B|Appendices]].

:He is presented as an unstoppable fighter, arguably to the point of stealing the show; he performs show-stopping yet implausible stunts in battle scenes. For example, in the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], he slides down a staircase using a shield, shooting arrows all the while, and in the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], he takes down an [[Oliphaunts|Oliphaunt]] all by himself. However, in the books, Legolas's exploits in battle are not presented in great detail. Aside from shooting the fell beast, he undertakes no major actions other than to make peace with Gimli, overcoming their longstanding mutual racial animosity — he and Gimli are followers, rather than leaders. The film-makers later stated that the entire scene of Legolas killing the Oliphaunt and its entire crew was filmed during pick-ups (months after original filming) to insert a major action scene showcasing him, because at that point they realized that he simply doesn't get to do much in the third part of the trilogy.

:Legolas bears two long knives, while in the book he bears only one. Another, more trivial change, was the number of Orcs he and Gimli kill at [[Helm's Deep]]: 42 and 43, respectively. It is not clear whether this was an intentional change on the part of the filmmakers, though it seems likely that it was, since the original numbers were so clear in Tolkien's own text.

:Playing Legolas in the trilogy was Orlando Bloom's breakout route to superstardom. His handsome features and Legolas' "coolness", so to speak, as depicted in the film, have led to the character becoming an unprecedented fan favourite with both fangirls and fanboys, not to mention other Tolkien fans. Although the disproportionate popular reaction to Legolas met with mixed reactions from fans, many debaters on the Internet during earlier stages of production were worried that a film portrayal of Legolas might render him as far too effeminate for popular consumption. Later, many felt that Bloom was able to avoid this entirely. [[Christopher Tolkien]] recounts that his father wrote the following "wrathful" comment protesting against a "pretty" or "ladylike" depiction of Legolas:
{{quote|He was tall as a young tree, lithe, immensely strong, able swiftly to draw a great war-bow and shoot down a Nazgûl, endowed with the tremendous vitality of Elvish bodies, so hard and resistant to hurt that he went only in light shoes over rock or through snow, the most tireless of all the Fellowship.|[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]}}

'''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)]]:'''
:Legolas is a non-playable character, accompanying the Ring-bearer since Rivendell.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''
:Legolas is one of the three playable characters.

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Legolas is a playable character, skilled in both ranged and melee. He and Gimli accompany Aragorn through Paths of the Dead, later he fights on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Grant George]] provides the voice of Legolas.<ref>http://www.dynamicduovo.com/aboutgrant.html</ref> The game depicts Legolas's hunt for [[Gollum]] in northern Mirkwood, which is interrupted by the orcs.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Legolas is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, and accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode. He specializes in powerful ranged attacks.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Legolas is now the Hero for the Elven faction.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Legolas can be found in Rivendell, where before the Fellowship's departure he accompanies the player on a mission to find the missing Nazgul (as only eight horses were found in the book). Later, he can be found in Lothlorien, displaying Gimli the beauty of [[Cerin Amroth]].

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:[[Crispin Freeman]] plays Legolas, who is available as a Hero in several missions.<ref>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crispin_freeman_fansite/message/9438</ref>

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:Legolas can be found and talked to in Rivendell, he retains the appearance from the movies. While he provides insight into many events, interactions with him do not affect the main plot.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
: Orlando Bloom reprised his role as Legolas in [[Peter Jackson|Peter Jackson's]] adaptation of the Hobbit.<ref name="PJCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Peter Jackson]]|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/PeterJacksonNZ/posts/10150265634081558|articlename=Ten years ago,...|dated=27-May-2011|website=[http://www.facebook.com/ Facebook]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> In ''[[The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug]]'', he joins [[Tauriel]] in pursuit of the pack of [[Orcs]] (led by [[Bolg]]) who are after [[Thorin and Company]] and also takes part in the [[Battle of Five Armies]], where he ultimately kills Bolg.

==See also ==
* [[:Category:Images of Legolas|Images of Legolas]]
* [[Legolas/Disputes]]

{{references|n}}
{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]
[[Category:Silvan Elvish names]]
[[Category:Sindar]]
[[de:Legolas (Thranduils Sohn)]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/teleri/sindar/legolas]]
[[fi:Legolas]]

Gimli

2018-04-14T17:46:16Z

173.206.83.82:

{{Sources}}
{{disambig-two|the dwarf in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''|elf in [[The Tale of Tinúviel]]|[[Gimli (Noldo)]]}}
{{dwarves infobox
| name=Gimli
| image=[[File:Matt Stewart - Forty-Two.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Forty-Two" by [[:Category:Images by Matt Stewart|Matt Stewart]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Elf-friend, Lockbearer
| titles=[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]
| position=
| location=[[Thorin's Halls]] [[Lonely Mountain]] [[Glittering Caves]]
| affiliation=[[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=[[Khuzdul]] and [[Westron]]
| birth={{TA|2879}}
| birthlocation=[[Thorin's Halls]]
| rule=Early [[Fourth Age]] - {{FoA|120}}
| sailedwest={{FoA|120}}
| sailedfrom=[[Ithilien]]
| age=262
| notablefor=
| house=[[Durin's line]]
| parentage=[[Glóin]]
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=Dark<ref name="Riders">{{TT|Riders}}</ref>
| clothing=Short shirt of steel rings<ref name="South"/> cap of iron and leather<ref name="King">{{TT|King}}</ref> belt,<ref name="South">{{FR|South}}</ref> hood, boots,<ref name="Journey">{{FR|Journey}}</ref> shield<ref name="King"/>
| weapons=Broad-bladed axe<ref name="South"/>
| steed=
}}
{{Pronounce|Gimli.mp3|Ardamir}}{{quote|Only Gimli lifted up his head; a smouldering fire was in his eyes. . .|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', [[A Journey in the Dark]]}}
'''Gimli''' was a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] of the [[House of Durin]] who became famous as the only Dwarven member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].

==History==
Gimli was born in the [[Blue Mountains]] during a time of exile for the [[Durin's Folk]]; 109 years had passed after the tragic destruction of [[Dale]] and the [[Sack of Erebor|Sacking]] of [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] by [[Smaug]] the Golden. His father was [[Glóin]], a direct descendant of [[Durin|Durin the Deathless]] through [[Náin II]]'s younger son [[Borin]], and in turn [[Farin]]'s younger son [[Gróin]]. His father joined [[Thorin and Company]] in their [[Quest of Erebor|quest]] to reclaim the [[Kingdom Under the Mountain]], but Gimli was forbidden because of his age: only 62 at the time.<ref>{{UT|Erebor}}</ref>

The Dwarves were successul in their Quest and Gimli and his father were among the [[Dwarves of Erebor|Dwarves who repopulated Erebor]]. Years later, in {{TA|3017}}, Gimli witnessed the tempting offers of the messenger of [[Sauron]] (presumed to be a [[Nazgûl]]) concerning the [[The One Ring|Ring of Power]], and accompanied his troubled father to [[Rivendell]] for the dual purpose of warning old acquaintance [[Bilbo Baggins]] and seeking the counsel of [[Elrond]] on such weighty matters. He attended the [[Council of Elrond]] as a representative of the [[Dwarves of Erebor]].

===The Fellowship of the Ring===

Gimli, as the only young dwarf seen at the council of Elrond, was appointed as a member of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]].<ref name="South"></ref> He alone of the company wore a mail-shirt, and carried a broad-bladed axe.<ref name="South"> He quickly distinguished himself in the company by declaring that he "needed no map" and naming the [[Misty Mountains]] individually by their [[Khuzdul]] names, inspiring the comment from [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]]: "A fair jaw-cracker dwarf-language must be!"

Gimli stood more than all the others with [[Gandalf]] on the matter of passing through [[Moria]].<ref name="Journey"</ref> This may be influenced by his curiosity about the fate of his cousin [[Balin]], who went thither to refound the ancient kingdom of the [[Durin's Folk|Longbeards]], and also his vengeful nature. His first clash with [[Legolas]] occurred before the [[Doors of Durin]], in a brief dispute over whose fault it was (the Elves’ or the Dwarves’) that the friendship between the two races waned. Gandalf quickly intervened, though it was not until [[Lothlórien]] that they would truly become friends.

He was quite helpful to Gandalf in explaining the Doors to the other curious members of the fellowship. Gandalf showed his appreciation of Gimli’s skills by letting him walk up front through the dark tunnels beside himself, and taking brief counsels with him when the way is unsure. It is probable that here Gandalf was tapping into Dwarven inborn or developed skills rather than actual knowledge of Moria itself, as Gimli had never personally been there.

Gimli reacted most indignantly to Sam’s suggestion that Moria was but "holes", going so far as to chant for him the ancient ''[[Song of Durin]]''. Gimli continued to be helpful to Gandalf on the rest of the dark passage, and boldly aided in the [[Battle of the Chamber of Mazarbul]], protecting Balin’s tomb. After Gandalf remained behind to halt the Balrog, Gimli led the others across the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]].

He again showed great emotion when they neared [[Kheled-zâram]], taking [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] alone out of all the company with him to see it (though Sam followed as well).<ref name="Lorien">{{FR|Lorien}}</ref> This hinted at a degree of affection for Frodo, though it may merely have been because he was the most important of the company. Despite his helpfulness, at [[Lothlórien]] he became the greatest hindrance to the Company, when he alone was required to be blindfolded and of all of them liked the idea the least (save for perhaps Legolas). The compromise was made that the entire company would go through the Golden Wood in this manner, that Gimli would not suffer alone.<ref name="Lorien"></ref>

Despite this early struggle, it was Gimli of all the company that was most remembered for his deeds in Lothlórien. For his heart softened towards [[Galadriel]] and as a result toward Elves in general when that great lady sympathised with his sorrows, using the traditional Khuzdul names.<ref name="Mirror">{{FR|Mirror}}</ref> In return he attempted to compliment her, as he saw her love and understanding. Though slightly clumsy in his first attempt, he distinguished himself when, as Galadriel gave the Company [[Gifts of Galadriel|gifts]], he asked only for a single strand of her hair. Galadriel gave him three hairs with a blessing, probably remembering when [[Fëanor]] had requested a similar gift several millennia ago. Henceforth Gimli was known as "[[Lockbearer]]". He wept openly at the departure from Lothlórien, calling the light more dangerous than the darkness he had feared.

By the time the Fellowship departed from Lothlórien, Gimli had become fast friends with Legolas the Elf, a result of Galadriel’s kindness. This, too, made him famous among all the Dwarves of the [[Third Age]].

===The Three Hunters===

[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Pursuit in Rohan.jpg|thumb|right|200px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Pursuit in Rohan'']] After the [[Breaking of the Fellowship]], during which he and Legolas slew many [[orcs]], Gimli listened in silence as his only remaining comrades, [[Aragorn]] and Legolas, sang a lament for Boromir in the character of three of the Winds. Only the East Wind was left, and Gimli would not sing it, which Aragorn declared to be appropriate.

For most of the chase he served as a commentator, usually leaving the decisions to Aragorn. His reaction was quite hostile to the suspicious [[Rohirrim]], especially after [[Éomer]]’s rash comments about Galadriel. Little did either know that they would become close friends in the times to come as fiery words passed between them. After the [[Three Hunters]] were lent horses, Gimli and Éomer parted in peace, with promises to one another of reconciliation.

Of the Three Hunters, Gimli seemed the most shaken by [[Fangorn Forest]] while they searched for traces of [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]]. Gimli felt no reluctance to shoot the “unarmed” old man whom they thought was [[Saruman]], unlike Aragorn and Legolas. After Gandalf was revealed to them, Gimli fell to his knees. Gandalf put his hand on Gimli’s head, and the dwarf laughed for the first time recorded during the [[Quest of the Ring]].

Gimli’s ire was raised again in King [[Théoden]]’s courts against [[Gríma|Wormtongue]], who spoke slanderously of the Lady of the Golden Wood. Gandalf quickly calmed him. Gimli was delighted by the [[White Mountains]] and [[Helm's Deep]], declaring "This country has tough bones". He declared that if he had a hundred of his kin he could make the fortress invincible.

===War of the Ring===

[[Image:Ted Nasmith - The Glittering Caves of Aglarond.jpg|thumb|left|220px|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Glittering Caves of Aglarond'']]During the [[Battle of the Hornburg]], Gimli saved Éomer’s life outside the gates. He came in, boasting of his first two orc-kills to his friend Legolas. Legolas estimated his slaughter to amount to twenty, starting the good-hearted orc-killing game that continued through the rest of the battle. Gimli was the first to the culvert when the orcs crept through, leaping heroically into their midst from the walls. He then proceeded to lead the blocking up of the culvert. During the course of the battle Gimli was one of those forced into the [[Glittering Caves]]. He was astonished to see the magnificence of these caverns, moving even Legolas with his glowing description of them. This one sight would change his life.

His final kill score number was forty-two in that battle, surpassing his friend the elf by one. Gimli shows a hint of humour and affection when he greets the two [[Hobbits]] Merry and Pippin comfortably situated among [[wikipedia:flotsam|flotsam]] and [[wikipedia:jetsam|jetsam]] in the ruin of [[Isengard]]. He declared himself deep in Pippin’s debt when the hobbit lent him his spare pipe.

Gimli shows some of the stone hardness of Dwarves when they meet [[Saruman]] at [[Orthanc]]. Saruman uses the power in his voice to sway [[Théoden]] to forgive him and make peace, and many of the [[Rohirrim]] are moved by his magic and are spell-bound. Unmoved, Gimli comments that Saruman's words cannot be trusted and that from Orthanc, help would mean ruin. Saruman is angered enough by Gimli that for a moment he loses his charm.

As the fellowship of friends again began to break up – Gandalf and Pippin heading for [[Minas Tirith]], [[Théoden]] and his riders for [[Dunharrow]] – Gimli out of love and respect for Aragorn went with him, Legolas, the sons of Elrond, and the [[Dúnedain]] [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] on the [[Paths of the Dead]]. He showed great reluctance before the [[Dark Door]], the final thought that drove him downward was the thought of being bested by an Elf underground.

He participated in the epic [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], returning with Aragorn and his other companions on the [[Black Ships]], and later recounted their journey to the fascinated Hobbits. He began to fear for Legolas, who seemed entranced by the Sea. His position on Elves completely changed, he remarked "If all the fair folk take to the Havens, it will be a duller world for those who are doomed to stay". He was much more sceptical as to the overall end of [[Men]] than his comrade.

Gimli fought in the [[Battle of the Morannon]], passing through unscathed, and finding the alive but bruised Pippin among the dead lying on the hill. He returned to the [[Field of Cormallen]] to be reunited to his friends, and there displayed open affection for all of them, even his frequent rival Pippin ("If only because of the pains you have cost me, which I shall never forget").

===After the War of the Ring===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Legolas and Gimli Reach the Shores of Valinor.jpg|thumb|right|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Gimli and Legolas reach the shores of Valinor'']]
After the coronation of Aragorn, Gimli said farewell to his old friend Éomer, who begged for pardon as to his words on Galadriel, though he added that he still didn’t think she was the fairest in the world. When he added that he considered [[Arwen]] the fairest instead, Gimli was content with this<ref>{{RK|Partings}}</ref>.

During the return journey he visited many places with Legolas, including Fangorn Forest and [[Glittering Caves|Aglarond]]. Eventually he returned to Erebor, to find it nearly devastated by war. [[Dáin Ironfoot|Dáin II Ironfoot]] had died, and [[Thorin Stonehelm|Thorin III Stonehelm]] was now King. Eventually, though, he returned to the Glittering Caves with a contingent of dwarves, becoming the "[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]". He rebuilt the gates of Minas Tirith with ''[[mithril]]'' and steel, and in both [[Gondor]] and [[Rohan]] accomplished great works. There he met his friends Merry and Pippin and the [[Appendix A|history of his people]] made its way to the [[Red Book]]<ref>{{App|A}}</ref>.

In Aglarond, it is assumed, he lived on until he was old, and in {{FoA|120}} he sailed with Legolas his friend across [[Belegaer]] to [[Valinor]], becoming the first and only Dwarf to do so<ref>{{App|Later}}</ref>.

==Character==
Gimli throughout the War showed perhaps the greatest open contempt for Sauron and his minions, save possibly [[Boromir]]. He was a grim character, for the most part, laughing only occasionally and, though in a few rare situations inspiring amusement, never joking. Due to his comments especially during the initial stage of the journey, he may be called more superstitious than the others, acting very much as if Caradhras was an actual living being.<ref name="South"></ref>

Gimli also carries the characteristic of smouldering vengeance against enemies found in many dwarves, such as when speaking of Moria. It may be that Gimli’s strongest show of sentiment was when speaking of Balin and Moria.<ref name="Journey"></ref> He also is shown to have a steadfast nature to match, noticeable, for instance, when he plunges heedlessly across a stagnant creek in his eagerness to get to Moria. He also seems to have a love (or an interest, at least) in food, complementing the [[lembas]] of the Elves most highly.

== Genealogy ==
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{{familytree| DAI | | | | | | | | BOR | | | | | | |DAI=[[Dáin I]] ''{{TA|2440|n}} - {{TA|2589|n}}''†| BOR=[[Borin]] ''{{TA|2450|n}} - {{TA|2711|n}}''}}
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{{familytree| THR | | | | | | | | FAR | | | | | | |THR=[[Thrór]] ''{{TA|2542|n}} - {{TA|2790|n}}''†''|FAR=[[Farin]] ''{{TA|2560|n}} - {{TA|2803|n}}''}}
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{{familytree| THR | | | | FUN | | | | | | GRO | | |THR=[[Thráin|Thráin II]] ''{{TA|2644|n}} - {{TA|2850|n}}''†|FUN=[[Fundin]] ''{{TA|2662|n}} - {{TA|2799|n}}''†|GRO=[[Gróin]] ''{{TA|2671|n}} - {{TA|2923|n}}''}}
{{familytree| |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| |}}
{{familytree| THO | | BAL | | DWA | | OIN | | GLO |THO=[[Thorin]] ''{{TA|2746|n}} - {{TA|2941|n}}''†|BAL=[[Balin]] ''{{TA|2763|n}} - {{TA|2994|n}}''†|DWA=[[Dwalin]] ''{{TA|2772|n}} - {{FoA|91}}''|OIN=[[Óin]] ''{{TA|2774|n}} - {{TA|2994|n}}''†|GLO=[[Glóin]] ''{{TA|2783|n}} - {{FoA|15}}''}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| |}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | GIM |GIM='''GIMLI''' ''{{TA|2879|n}} - {{FoA|120}}+''}}
{{familytree/end}}

==Etymology==

In [[1978]], [[Jim Allan]] noted that the name ''Gimli'' appears once in the ''[[Völuspá]]'' and three times in the ''Prose Edda''. Allan suggested that ''Gimli'' means "One-of-Gimlé/Gimill", where [[Wikipedia:Gimlé|''Gimlé''/''Gimill'']] in the ''Eddas'' is a hall of the after-life "''inhabited solely by [[Calaquendi#Inspiration|Light-elves]]''" (evoking Gimli's leaving for [[Aman]]).<ref>[[Jim Allan]], "Giving of Names", in ''[[An Introduction to Elvish]]'', p. 225</ref>

However, with the publication of ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]'' in [[1981]], Tolkien wrote in a draft letter that Gimli's name comes from a poetic [[Old Norse]] word, ''gimm'', presumably meaning "fire".<ref>{{L|297}}, p. 382</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
The name "[[Gimli (Noldo)|Gimli]]" was first used by Tolkien for the name of a [[Gnome]] in the ''[[Tale of Tinúviel]]'', written in mid-1910s.

In the [[Adûnaic]] language described in ''[[The Notion Club Papers]]'' ([[1945]]), ''gimli'' (pl. ''gimil'') is the word for "[[stars|star]]", derived from a [[root]] G-M-L and having the Characteristic Vowel I. From these derive others words such as ''igmil'' "a star-shaped formation"; and ''Gimilnitîr'' "Star-kindler" ([[Gilthoniel]]), a name for [[Varda]].<ref>{{SD|NC}}, p. 427-428</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Pictures of adaptations of Gimli
|height=150
|width=200
|lines=3
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Gimli.jpg|[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Gimli.jpg|[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:Gimli viv lotr.JPG|[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]
|File:SBG - Gimli.gif|''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]''
|File:Aragorn's Quest - Gimli.jpg|''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]''
|File:Gimli.jpg|''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Gimli mini figure.png|''[[Lego]] mini figure''
}}

'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The part of Gimli was read by [[Eric Lugg]].

'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Gimli is portrayed as almost as tall as [[Aragorn]] and [[Legolas]]. He has a brown beard and wears a hood. [[David Buck]] provided Gimli's voice.

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gimli is provided by [[Gail Chugg]].

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:Both Gimli and Legolas are omitted from this adaptation, as it centers on Aragorn.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Gimli is played by [[Douglas Livingstone]], who uses a heavily articulated accent.

'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[John Rhys-Davies]] portrayed Gimli in voice and close-ups; Brett Beattie was his size-double. Jackson used the antagonism between Legolas and Gimli, although he placed most of it on Gimli's plate.

'''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)]]:'''
:Gimli is portrayed as a burly lumberjack, slightly smaller than Legolas, but the same size as Boromir. His moment of glory is in [[Moria]], where he aids the player (at this point, Frodo) with trying to find the Bridge. He is voiced by [[James Horan]].

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Now that [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] were no longer around to provide comic relief, Gimli was chosen to fill the spot. This has led to much criticism.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''
:Gimli is one of the three playable characters.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:As in the second film Gimli's character was somewhat controversially used to insert comic relief into the scenes he appeared in.

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Gimli is a playable character, with an aggressive fighting style. He and Legolas accompany Aragorn through Paths of the Dead, later he fights on Pelennor fields and at the Black Gate.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring|Sierra's War of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Bob Papenbrook]] provided the voice of Gimli, who is a Hero Unit for the Free People side. His first appearance is near the Lonely Mountain, where he and other dwarves fight orcs and later activate a giant catapult.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Gimil is a Hero Unit for the Rohan faction in skirmishes, though he accompanies the Fellowship in the storyline mode.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Gimli is now the Hero for the Dwarven faction.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Gimli is first met by Dwarven character in the intro taking place in {{TA|2941}}, shortly before the Quest for Erebor. Later, all characters meet him in Rivendell and he also accompanies them on a mission to the [[Misty Mountains]]. Later, he can be found in Lothlorien, where he is present on Cerim Amroth along with Legolas.

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:Gimli is a playable hero available in several missions.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:Gimli can be found and talked to in Rivendell, he retains the appearance from the movies. While he provides insight into many events, interactions with him do not affect the main plot.

'''2013: ''[[The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug]]'':'''
:When Thorin's Company are arrested in [[Mirkwood]], Legolas searches Glóin's possessions and finds a picture wallet. Legolas comments how ugly are the portraits and Glóin points out that it's his son's portrait, parodying the future friendship of the two.

==See Also==
* [[:Category:Images of Gimli|Images of Gimli]]

{{References}}
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{{seq-head
| race=dwarf
| house=[[House of Durin]]
| born={{TA|2879}}
| died=after {{FoA|120}}
}}
{{seq
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| prev=Position created
| list=[[Lord of the Glittering Caves]]
| dates=unknown – {{FoA|120}}
| nvac=Unknown
}}
{{seq-end}}{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Dwarves]]
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]
[[Category:Longbeards]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]

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