If you're a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series The Lord of the Rings, you're probably familiar with the fictional land of Middle Earth. One of the most fascinating regions in this world is Rhun, located to the east of the Misty Mountains and the River Anduin. Rhun is home to several different cultures and peoples, and its landscape is filled with both beauty and danger. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Rhun and its place in Tolkien's mythology.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you're a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series The Lord of the Rings, you're probably familiar with the fictional land of Middle Earth. One of the most fascinating regions in this world is Rhun, located to the east of the Misty Mountains and the River Anduin. Rhun is home to several different cultures and peoples, and its landscape is filled with both beauty and danger. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Rhun and its place in Tolkien's mythology.
The Geography of Rhun
Rhun is a vast region that includes several different landscapes, from grassy plains to dense forests and towering mountains. The region is bordered by the Grey Mountains to the north, the Sea of Rhûn to the east, and the River Running to the south. The most famous location in Rhun is probably the Iron Hills, which are home to the Dwarves of the eastern lands.
Question: What other notable locations can be found in Rhun?
Other notable locations in Rhun include the Withered Heath, a desolate wasteland that is home to Dragons; the Plains of Khand, where the fierce Easterlings live; and the Forest of Rhovanion, which is filled with giant spiders and other dangerous creatures.
The Peoples of Rhun
Rhun is home to several different cultures and peoples, each with their own customs and languages. The Easterlings are perhaps the most well-known group, and they are often depicted as fierce warriors who serve the Dark Lord Sauron. However, not all Easterlings are evil, and some have fought alongside the Free Peoples of Middle Earth. Other peoples in Rhun include the Variags of Khand, who are skilled horsemen and archers, and the Balchoth, who are nomadic herders and raiders.
Question: Are there any friendly peoples in Rhun?
Yes, there are some friendly peoples in Rhun. The Wainriders, who are related to the Easterlings, were once allies of Gondor and Rohan, but they later turned against them. The Men of Dale, who live near the Lonely Mountain, have also had peaceful relations with some of the peoples of Rhun.
The Importance of Rhun in Tolkien's Mythology
Rhun is an important region in Tolkien's mythology, as it represents the far east of Middle Earth and the unknown. It is also significant because it is home to several different cultures and peoples, which adds complexity and depth to Tolkien's world-building. Rhun is also the site of several important battles, such as the Battle of Five Armies and the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, which help to drive the plot of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.
Question: Are there any other connections between Rhun and Tolkien's other works?
Yes, there are some connections between Rhun and Tolkien's other works. In The Silmarillion, Rhun is said to have been settled by the Easterlings after they were driven out of Hildórien, the land of their origin. Rhun is also mentioned in some of Tolkien's posthumously published writings, such as The Peoples of Middle Earth.
Conclusion
Rhun is a fascinating region in Tolkien's mythology that has captured the imaginations of many Lord of the Rings fans. From its diverse peoples and cultures to its treacherous landscapes and epic battles, Rhun is a crucial part of Middle Earth and its history. We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of this complex and intriguing region.
