Introduction

The lands of Middle-earth are rich with tales of ancient lineage and noble heritage. Among these, the enduring legacy of Numenorean bloodlines stands out, particularly in the House of Eorl, the royal family of Rohan. Drawing from J.R.R. Tolkien's works, this article explores the myth and history of how Rohirric royalty may have benefited from the Numenorean bloodline through intermarriage, and how this affected the strength and longevity of key figures such as Theoden and his heirs Eomer and Eowyn.

Marriages Between Rohirric and Gondorian Nobility

While explicit mentions of marriages between Rohirric nobility and Gondorian nobles are sparse in Tolkien's earlier works, the Numenorean influence becomes more evident with the introduction of Thengel, father of Theoden. In 'The Two Towers', it is noted that Thengel left his homeland of Rohan out of a disdain for his father, Fengel, a ruler described as 'a really bad king of Rohan'. Upon arriving in Gondor, he joined the service under Seneschal Turgon, who was the great-grandfather of Denethor, and later married Morwen “Steelsheen”, a noblewoman also from the Rohirric lineage.

With this connection, the blood of the West, as mentioned in 'The Silmarillion', was present in Theoden, a king with the strength of a man well below his 70 years. This implication suggests that intermarriage not only enriched the Rohirric royal lineage but also enhanced their physical endurance and mental vigor beyond natural limits.

Further Evidence of Numenorean Influence

The character of Eomer, for instance, was the son of Theoden and further diluted with Numenorean blood, as he married Lothíriel of Dol Amroth, daughter of Imrahil. This union introduced a significant amount of Numenorean heritage into the Rohirric bloodline, potentially explaining the extended lifespans of notable figures such as Eomer who lived to 93, and his son Eowyn, who married Faramir, the son of Finduilas from the same lineage.

The Myth and Reality of Numenorean Gifts

In Tolkien’s mythos, the Numenoreans are described as mighty beings granted with special gifts, including an extended lifespan and Durin's Gift, the ability to see into the future. This idea of long-lived strength and honor is echoed in the Rohirric royalty. The father of Theoden, Helm, and the historian Erkenbrand are remembered for their formidable strength and longevity, even dying by killing men with their bare hands in battle.

The fact that Theoden did not die of old age but was killed in battle at 70 aligns with the historical observation that not all Rohirric kings died prematurely. Other rulers, such as Athelnoth, lived to be 98, and Fréaláf reached 106, indicating that the influence of Numenorean blood was not the sole determinant of their lifespan but certainly a factor in their enduring prowess.

Conclusion

In summary, the intermarriage of Rohirric and Gondorian nobility, notably with the introduction of Morwen “Steelsheen”, allowed for the infusion of Numenorean lineage into the Rohirric royal family. This is evidenced by the extended lifespans and enhanced physical strength of key figures in the House of Eorl. However, this is not an exclusive factor, as demonstrated by the enduring success and longevity of Rohirric kings who did not marry into Numenorean bloodlines. Despite this, the Numenorean heritage played a significant role in the legacy and power of the House of Eorl.