The Waning and Rising: An Age of Transition
Following Sauron's defeat in the Second Age, the Third Age began with shifting power dynamics. The Númenórean kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor grew, while the Elves began to decline, with many departing Middle-earth. This era, spanning over 3,000 years, was characterized by conflict against Sauron's resurgence, culminating in the War of the Ring.
The Free Peoples of Middle-earth
A varied alliance, the Free Peoples stood against Sauron's influence and dominion. They represented the forces of good and often united despite their differences to face common threats.
Men
Men were the most numerous and diverse Free People. Descended from the Númenóreans, the Dúnedain established Arnor and Gondor. By the end of the Third Age, Arnor was in ruins with its heirs becoming the Rangers of the North, while Gondor remained a significant power. Other groups included the Rohirrim of Rohan and the Bardings of Dale, who were crucial allies against Sauron.
- Dúnedain of Gondor: Ruled by kings and later stewards.
- Rangers of the North: Descendants of Arnor's royalty, including Aragorn II.
- Rohirrim: Horsemen vital in defending Gondor.
- Bardings of Dale: Allies of the Dwarves of Erebor.
- Beornings: Men who could transform into bears.
- Men of Bree: Simple folk related to the Dúnedain.
Elves
As the Third Age progressed, the Elves' power in Middle-earth diminished, yet their remaining realms held significant influence. High Elves were those who had returned from Valinor, while Silvan Elves had not.
- Lothlórien: Ruled by Galadriel and Celeborn.
- Rivendell (Imladris): Elrond's sanctuary.
- Mirkwood (The Woodland Realm): Thranduil's kingdom.
- Grey Havens (Lindon): Port for Elves leaving Middle-earth.
Dwarves
The Dwarves maintained strongholds despite losing Khazad-dûm (Moria) early in the Age. They were valuable allies.
- Erebor (The Lonely Mountain): Reclaimed by the Dwarves.
- Iron Hills: Ruled by Dáin II Ironfoot.
- Blue Mountains (Ered Luin): Another Dwarf kingdom.
Hobbits
Quiet inhabitants of the Shire, Hobbits emerged into the wider world during the Third Age. Their resilience proved crucial in the War of the Ring.
Ents
Ancient tree-like beings, the Ents were a dwindling race living primarily in Fangorn Forest. They played a key role in the defeat of Isengard.
The Servants of the Enemy
Opposing the Free Peoples were the diverse forces controlled by Sauron.
Orcs and Trolls
Bred by Morgoth and later commanded by Sauron, they formed the bulk of the Dark Lord's armies. Uruk-hai were a stronger breed created by Saruman.
Evil Men
Some Men, such as the Easterlings, Haradrim, Corsairs of Umbar, and Dunlendings, were corrupted by Sauron and fought for him.
Nazgûl
These Ringwraiths were once Men who were corrupted by Rings of Power and became Sauron's undying servants.
Comparison of Major Third Age Peoples
| Feature | Free Peoples | Servants of Sauron |
|---|---|---|
| Core Races | Men, Elves, Dwarves, Hobbits, Ents | Orcs, Trolls, Evil Men |
| Motivation | Preserve freedom, resist darkness, maintain their lands and heritage | Dominate and conquer Middle-earth for Sauron, fueled by malice and corruption |
| Key Locations | Gondor, Rohan, Rivendell, Lothlórien, The Shire, Erebor | Mordor, Isengard, Dol Guldur, Misty Mountains, Harad, Rhûn |
| Notable Strengths | Wisdom, resilience, heroism, ancient power, unexpected bravery | Overwhelming numbers, military might, fear, magical influence from Sauron |
| Notable Weaknesses | Fading power of Elves, divisions among Men, internal strife (e.g., Stewards vs. King), mortal limitations | Lack of creativity, reliance on a central power (Sauron), infighting, inability to withstand daylight (for some Orcs) |
| Typical Appearance | Diverse, often representing different virtues; many are fair-skinned, though this is not universal | Grotesque, dark, and misshapen; often pale or swart |
The Culmination and the Future
The Third Age concluded with the War of the Ring, a final conflict against Sauron. With the One Ring's destruction, Sauron was defeated, marking the beginning of the Fourth Age, the Age of Men, as other races continued to depart Middle-earth.
Conclusion
The people of the Third Age formed a complex world of interconnected stories. This era was a defining time for many civilizations. Their victory over Sauron was a crucial turning point, ending an age of magic and ushering in the Age of Men.
