The Mythology of Middle-earth: Exploring the Different Races

Summary

In this article, we delve into the rich mythology of Middle-earth created by J.R.R. Tolkien and explore the different races that inhabit this world. From humans to elves, dwarves to orcs, and dragons to eagles, we will examine the origins, characteristics, and evolution of each race.

Elves and Men: The Difference in Connection to Ard
The Story of Numenor and the Dunedain
Eagles: Servants of Manwe and Direct Intervention
Balrogs: Servants of Morgoth
The Dramatic Evolution of Dwarves
The Origins of Orcs and Uruk-Hai
Dragons: Created by Morgoth

Elves and Men: The Difference in Connection to Ard

One of the main differences between elves and men in Tolkien’s mythology is their connection to Ard. Humans, also known as aftercomers, leave Ard behind completely when their spirits depart. Elves, on the other hand, are bound to Ard and cannot leave it unless they die or are granted special permission by the Valar.

The Story of Numenor and the Dunedain

The story of Numenor is an important one for humans. They are granted an island by the Valar and become wise and blessed, but also become discontent and long for immortality. Sauron becomes their chief counselor and convinces them to attack the Valar and take the immortal land by force. This leads to the downfall of Numenor and the survivors establish themselves in Middle-earth, becoming known as the Dunedain. Gondor is where the people of Middle-earth join together with the descendants of Numenor to form a kingdom.

Eagles: Servants of Manwe and Direct Intervention

The eagles are important characters in Tolkien’s stories and are seen as the servants of Manwe, the leader of the Pantheon. They represent a direct intervention and are not just mounts, but allies sent by the Valar to help in times of need. They are associated with shadows, darkness, and flame, and can intervene in extreme situations.

Balrogs: Servants of Morgoth

The Balrogs are old characters in Tolkien’s mythology and are associated with shadows, darkness, and flame, and are servants of Morgoth.

The Dramatic Evolution of Dwarves

The dwarves have a dramatic evolution in the story, from being bad guys to becoming heroes over the course of the Hobbit. They become skilled craftsmen and care about recovering the work of their fathers and their homeland. In the end, dwarves, elves, and men become the core of what Tolkien calls the free peoples of Middle-earth.

The Origins of Orcs and Uruk-Hai

The origins of dwarves in Lord of the Rings are uncertain, but they were eventually created by Aul, the Vala in charge of earth and craftsmanship. The orcs, on the other hand, were created by Morgoth in mockery of elves and filled with his spirit of hatred and cruelty. However, Tolkien later retconned his mythology and decided that only Iluvatar, the God, can create sentient races, making orcs a corruption of elves that Morgoth twisted and tortured. The Uruk-Hai, a group of orcs in the Lord of the Rings, are believed to be the result of crossbreeding between orcs and men.

Dragons: Created by Morgoth

Dragons, such as Glaurung, were also created by Morgoth to tip the scales in his favor during the wars with elves.

Conclusion

Tolkien’s mythology of Middle-earth is a complex and fascinating world filled with different races, each with their own unique characteristics and origins. From the immortal elves to the mortal men, from the heroic dwarves to the cruel orcs, and from the powerful eagles to the fiery Balrogs and dragons, Middle-earth is a world that continues to captivate and inspire readers and viewers alike.