Why Were the Numenoreans So Big? Unveiling Key Insights and Answers

In this article, we will delve into the enigma of why the Numenoreans were so towering and majestic in stature. Drawing from the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and historical analysis, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contributed to their extraordinary height and physical prowess.

Introduction to the Numenoreans’ Height

Numenoreans, the descendants of Men blessed by the Valar with superior qualities, stood tall and formidable. Their height and physical characteristics were a source of both awe and mystery in Middle-earth. This article will expose the first and definitive answer to their towering stature and the underlying factors that supported their extraordinary growth.

Roots and Blessings of the Numenoreans

The Numenoreans inherited their remarkable height and strength from their ancestors, blessed by the Valar to be taller, stronger, and with longer lifespans than other Men. This blessing was further enhanced by their founding leaders, who were a mix of large and powerful humans and Elves. Their initial population of around 3000 settlers on the island of Numenor, granted by Ulmo, Aule, and Yavanna, had a significant impact on their development.

Longevity and Physical Attributes

One of the key factors that contributed to the Numenoreans' physical superiority was their extended lifespan. They typically lived for 300 years, with a range of 200 to 400 years. This prolonged life span allowed for a more stable and consistent breeding population, leading to a more robust and uniform lineage. Their average height was around 7 feet (2.13 meters), with some individuals reaching up to 8 feet (2.4 meters).

The Numenoreans were also blessed with increased strength, stature, and immunity to diseases. These physical attributes were not only inherited but also reinforced through their lifestyle and cultural practices.

Cultural and Environmental Factors

Living on the island of Numenor, a fertile and prosperous land comparable to the state of California, the Numenoreans enjoyed a healthy environment rich in resources. This contributed significantly to their physical development and well-being. They also developed sophisticated technologies and practices that further enhanced their health and longevity.

Demographic and Military Insights

Historical estimates and references from Tolkien's letters indicate that the Numenoreans’ growth rate was modest at 2.4, based on marriage and average children per couple. By the time of the Mordor expedition in SA 3260 and the surrender of Sauron in 3318, the population of Numenor was around 15 million, while the mainland had about 3 million. The military strength of the Numenoreans was assessed at approximately 540,000 trained soldiers.

Tolkien's depiction of Numenorean military might is particularly vivid. Dromon-style warships, with their 100 soldiers and 100 oarsmen, indicate a vast army of 100,000 troops. Including support and security personnel, the force doubled to 200,000 when at sea. In 59 years, there was a surge in military capabilities, with an additional 170,000 ships built at the rate of 29 per year, a remarkable feat of naval expansion.

Physiological and Folkloric Evidence

The Numenoreans’ step averages 38 inches (96.5 cm), which is significantly longer than the average human step (31 inches or 79 cm). This physiological characteristic, influenced by their height, contributed to their reputation for marching and movement on the battlefield. Tolkien described their stride as 2 and a half rangars (19 feet), indicating their unmatched speed and intimidation. Height comparisons to the Noldor elves and the 7 feet minimum height of their military force suggest they towered over many of their contemporaries.

Conclusion

The Numenoreans were not merely mythical beings but had a well-documented physical reality, rooted in their unique heritage, environment, and cultural practices. Their height and strength were not beyond the realm of possibility but an embodiment of their divine blessing and dedicated lifestyle. The insights provided here offer a definitive answer to the question of why the Numenoreans were so big, providing a glimpse into the world of Middle-earth and the wonders that await in the pages of Tolkien's works.

References

1. Tolkien, J.R.R. *Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien*
2. Tolkien, J.R.R. *The Letters from the Shadow of the Flame* (SIL)
3. Tolkien, J.R.R. *The Frontier of Middle-earth: Numer and Operations in Middle-earth* (TFON)