The Fantasy Review answers: Why is Elrond Called “Half-Elven”?
Elrond is probably one of the most recognisable characters to many fans of The Lord of the Rings, especially those familiar with Hugo Weaving’s portrayal in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies.
In Amazon’s Rings of Power show, Elrond is played by Robert Aramayo, and we hear him called “Half-elven” a few times. In this article we will quickly answer why Elrond is called “Half-elven” and its significance in the wider world of Middle-earth.
Elrond’s Ancestry
Elrond was born in Arvernien to Eärendil and Elwing. Along with his brother, Elros, he was one of the Peredhil, meaning ‘half-elven’ in Sindarin. His parents, Eärendil and Elwing, were also Half-elven:
- Eärendil was son of the human Tuor and the elf Idril
- Elwing was granddaughter of Beren, a human, and Lúthien, who was half-elf and half-Maia
This very mixed ancestry decided the fates of the brothers Elrond and Elros. They were tasked to choose, at the end of the First Age, which race they wanted to belong to. Elros chose humanity and became a mortal, albeit with a long life-span gifted by the Valar, and became the first King of Númenor.
Elrond chose the Elves and became an immortal Elven-lord of great power. He was known for his wisdom and loyalty.
Why Is Elrond Still Called “Half-elven”?
Elrond retained the title even after the end of the First Age as a reminder of his bloodline and the choice he made.
Being a man of peace and wisdom, this title also aided him in bridging the gap between Men and Elves, which was especially important in their alliance with Númenor against Sauron in the Second Age.
