Durin’s Family Tree: An Exhaustive Genealogy
Greetings, readers! Today, we embark on a captivating journey into the sprawling tapestry of Durin’s family tree. From the ancient legends of Middle-earth to the intricate branches of the Longbeards, we’ll delve into the lineage of a dynasty that has shaped the destiny of the dwarves.
The Progenitor: Durin I, the Fatherless
The roots of Durin’s family tree stretch back to the First Age of Middle-earth, with the enigmatic figure of Durin I. Known as the Fatherless, he was awakened by the Valar Aulë in the depths of Mount Gundabad. From this humble beginning, Durin I founded the realm of Khazad-dûm, which would become the greatest underground kingdom of the dwarves.
The Line of Kings
Durin I’s legacy passed down through generations of illustrious rulers. His son, Thrór, led the dwarves into exile after the War of the Jewels, while his grandson, Thorin I, established the realm of Ered Luin. With each successive generation, the line of Durin kings expanded, weaving a complex tapestry of familial ties and alliances.
The Longbeards of Erebor
One branch of Durin’s family tree, known as the Longbeards, played a pivotal role in the history of Middle-earth. Led by Thrór’s son, Thráin I, the Longbeards eventually reclaimed the lost kingdom of Erebor. Under the wise rule of Thorin Oakenshield, the Longbeards defended Erebor from the dragon Smaug and became one of the most prosperous dwarven realms.
Descendants of Durin
The descendants of Durin continued to spread far and wide, establishing dwarven kingdoms in various corners of Middle-earth. The House of Durin can be traced through multiple lineages:
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The House of Durin: The direct descendants of Durin I, who ruled Khazad-dûm and other dwarven realms.
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The House of Thráin: The Longbeards, who reclaimed Erebor and became powerful in their own right.
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The House of Grór: Another line of descendants who founded the realm of Belegost and played a key role in the First Age.
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The House of Náin: A lesser-known lineage that descended from Durin’s brother, Náin.
Table of Durin’s Descendants
| Name | House | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|
| Durin I | Fatherless | Founded Khazad-dûm |
| Thrór | Durin | Led the dwarves into exile |
| Thorin I | Durin | Established the realm of Ered Luin |
| Thráin I | Thráin | Reclaimed Erebor |
| Thorin Oakenshield | Longbeards | Defeated Smaug and reclaimed the Lonely Mountain |
| Dain II | Thráin | Ruled Erebor after Thorin’s death |
| Gimli | Longbeards | Joined the Fellowship of the Ring |
| Grór | Grór | Founded Belegost |
| Náin | Náin | Served as Thorin’s advisor |
Conclusion
Delving into Durin’s family tree is like exploring a labyrinth of history and legend. From the enigmatic Durin I to the valiant Thorin Oakenshield, the descendants of Durin have shaped the destiny of Middle-earth in countless ways. We invite you to delve deeper into the tapestry of dwarven history by checking out our other articles on the First Age, the War of the Ring, and the various realms of the dwarves.
FAQ about Durin Family Tree
Who is Durin?
Durin is the first of the Seven Fathers of the Dwarves, created by the Vala Aulë before the Awakening of the Elves. He is the progenitor of the Longbeards, who founded the great realms of Khazad-dûm and Erebor.
Who are Durin’s children?
Durin’s children include:
- Durin II the Great, who ruled Khazad-dûm for over 250 years
- Thráin I, who led the Longbeards east into exile
Who are the notable descendants of Durin?
Among the notable descendants of Durin are:
- Thorin Oakenshield, who led the company that reclaimed Erebor from Smaug
- Gandalf, who was closely associated with the Durin family
- Gimli, the only Dwarf who joined the Fellowship of the Ring
What is the significance of the Durin’s Bane?
Durin’s Bane is the Balrog that was awakened by Durin I when he mined too deep under the Misty Mountains. It became a symbol of the darkness and danger that lurked beneath the earth.
What happened to the Longbeards in the Third Age?
The Longbeards were driven from their homes in Khazad-dûm and Erebor by the War of the Ring. Many of them settled in the Iron Hills, while others wandered throughout Middle-earth.
Who was Durin’s Bane and how did he die?
Durin’s Bane was a powerful Balrog that dwelt beneath Khazad-dûm. It was slain by Gandalf the Grey in the Battle of Moria.
What is the significance of the Seven Fathers of the Dwarves?
The Seven Fathers of the Dwarves were the first of their race to be created and each became the progenitor of one of the seven clans of Dwarves.
What is the House of Durin?
The House of Durin is the royal line of the Longbeards. Its members ruled Khazad-dûm and Erebor for centuries.
Who was the greatest king of the House of Durin?
The greatest king of the House of Durin is generally considered to be Durin III Stonehelm, who ruled Khazad-dûm during its greatest prosperity.
What is the fate of the House of Durin?
The House of Durin continues to exist in the Fourth Age, with Gimli as its Lord. It is said that one day the heir of Durin will return to Khazad-dûm and reclaim his ancestral home.
