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What is the Lifespan of a Numenorean?

Published in Tolkien Lore 2 mins read

The lifespan of a Númenórean varied significantly depending on their lineage, particularly whether they belonged to the Royal House or not. While members of the Royal House generally lived longer, those not of the royal line typically had a lifespan ranging from 350 to 420 years.

Understanding Númenórean Longevity

Númenóreans, also known as the Dúnedain, were gifted with lifespans far exceeding those of ordinary Men, a unique blessing from the Valar. This gift, however, was not uniform across all their people.

Lifespan by Lineage

The specific longevity of a Númenórean depended primarily on their connection to the original noble lines.

  • Non-Royal House Númenóreans: For those not directly descended from the Royal House, their average lifespan was around 350 to 420 years. It was considered an uncommon event for a non-royal Númenórean to live beyond 400 years, indicating that reaching the upper end of that range was exceptional for the general populace.

  • Royal House Númenóreans: While specific figures for the Royal House are not detailed in this context, it is understood that individuals of the royal line often enjoyed an even greater longevity than their non-royal counterparts. Their lifespan was the longest among Men.

Here's a summary of the typical lifespans:

Númenórean Lineage Typical Lifespan Range Noteworthy Characteristics
Non-Royal House 350-420 years Reaching 400 years was uncommon.
Royal House Significantly longer Specific maximum not defined here, but surpassed non-royals.

This remarkable longevity was a defining characteristic of the Númenóreans, distinguishing them as a race of Men blessed beyond all others.