Mablung of the Heavy Hand
For the Ranger of Ithilien and lieutenant of Faramir, see Mablung.
| Biography: Mablung of the Heavy Hand | |
|---|---|
| Birth - Death | First Age ? – 503 |
| Race: | Elf - Sindar |
| Gender: | Male |
| Mablung of the Heavy Hand | |
| Info: | Chief captain of Thingol and leader of the Marchwardens, participant in the wolf hunt and defender of Doriath |
Mablung of the Heavy Hand was a Sindar Elf of Doriath and the chief captain of Thingol. He was a key figure in the wolf hunt - a quest to retrieve a Silmaril from a great wolf, and played a central role in the story of Túrin Turambar, including escort duties for the family of Túrin.
History
Mablung was a messenger delivering the greetings of Thingol to allied realms. During the quest for the Silmaril, Thingol learned that his daughter Lúthien had fled from Nargothrond. Mablung was sent to summon aid from the House of Fëanor, but unexpectedly encountered a great beast - a wolf maddened after consuming a Silmaril. Alone of the messengers, Mablung escaped to report the danger to Thingol.
Later, during the hunt for the wolf, Mablung accompanied Beren, Beleg Strongbow, and a great loyal hound to track and confront the beast. After it was slain, Mablung cut open its belly and recovered the Silmaril, placing it in Beren’s remaining hand to restore him.
Mablung joined the High King's host against Morgoth in the Battle of Unnumbered Tears. He saved three Haladin warriors under Haldir and healed their wounds, demonstrating his skill and leadership. Mablung became involved in the events surrounding Túrin Turambar’s conflicts within Doriath, attempting to mediate disputes and prevent unnecessary violence. He allowed Túrin to depart after a fatal incident, warning him that a shadow would follow his path.
Later, Mablung was tasked with escorting Túrin's family on a journey to Nargothrond. Despite scouting and attempting to protect them, he was unable to prevent them from falling into traps set by enemy forces. He continued to search for them and ultimately informed Túrin of the tragic outcome.
In F.A. 503, during the attack on Doriath by Nogrod, Mablung fell in battle.
Etymology
The name Mablung means "with weighted hand," derived from Sindarin mab ("hand") and lung ("heavy"). His epithet, "Mablung of the Heavy Hand," reflects this translation. The Quenya equivalent appears to be Lungumá or Lungumaqua, containing the element má ("hand"). He is also referred to as Thingol's chief warrior, "Mablung the Hunter," and chief huntsman of Doriath.
In-game mention
- The human Ranger of Ithilien and lieutenant of Faramir, Mablung, carries his name.
References
- Tolkien, J.R.R., The Silmarillion
- Tolkien, J.R.R., The Children of Húrin
- Tolkien, J.R.R., The Lost Tales