King of Men

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King of Men was a title claimed by two of Arda's major tyrants: Sauron, the great subversive Maia, and Ar-Pharazôn, a power-hungry Númenórean.

History

During the Black Years, when his empire encompassed almost all of Middle-earth, Sauron styled himself as the "King of Men",[1] demanding god-like deference from his great following among Men;[2] this incensed Ar-Pharazôn who perceived Sauron as a competitor for lordship of Arda.

Seeking to contend with the Dark Lord, the King of Númenor confronted him and seemingly prevailed, wrestling the title of "King of Men" from his rival and oppressing the Men of Middle-earth. Ultimately, though, Ar-Pharazôn became Sauron's puppet, so that the latter remained in truth the most feared tyrant since Morgoth's ousting.[1]

References