The sword that defies the shadows
In the vast mythology of Middle-earth, swords are not mere weapons: they are living relics, charged with magic, history, and destiny.
One of the most iconic in Tolkien's narrative is Orcrist, also known as the Gobelin-cleaver, a blade forged by the elves of Gondolin in the glorious First Age.
This sword, sister to the famous Glamdring, was discovered millennia later by Thorin Oakenshield during his adventure in The Hobbit. From that moment on, Orcrist would become part of the legends that weave the destiny of Middle-earth.
Orcrist, forged in Gondolin: light against darkness
Orcrist was created in the secret Elven city of Gondolin, famed for its art, knowledge, and power. Forged with ancient Elven techniques, the sword was designed to combat Orcs, and its blade could glow with blue light when the creatures were near, a living warning of their presence.
Its name, “Orcrist,” literally means “gobelin cutter” in the common tongue, and it is one of the few elven weapons with its own renown, equaling others such as Anglachel or Narsil in fame and respect.
Thorin Oakenshield: a dwarf worthy of his blade
Thorin found Orcrist in a troll cave, along with Glamdring and the dagger that would later become Sting, carried by Bilbo Baggins. Fate would have it that a dwarf—a descendant of kings, driven by honor and the need to reclaim his kingdom—would become its new wielder.
Although elves and dwarves had a history fraught with suspicion, even the inhabitants of Rivendell showed respect when they saw Thorin with a sword from Gondolin.
Orcrist became a symbol of leadership, justice and resistance against the forces of evil.
Description of a legend
With a long, curved, and glowing blade, Orcrist is inscribed with runes in tengwar, the Elvish alphabet, giving the sword an air that is both mystical and resplendently beautiful.
Its hilt is decorated with leaf and star motifs, representing the stellar lineage of the elves.
It is not just a weapon: it is a testament to the past, an extension of the wielder's soul, and a tool of judgment in the face of the chaos of the world.
The Immortal Legacy of Orcrist
When Thorin dies after the Battle of the Five Armies, Orcrist is returned to his side, buried with him beneath the Lonely Mountain. There, it is said, the sword continues to fulfill its duty: it shines brightly when enemies approach its owner's tomb. Thus, its light continues to defend its once worthy bearer.
Eternal light from Gondolin
This isn't just a magical sword in Tolkien's narrative. It's a symbol of courage, nobility, and redemption. Its journey, from Gondolin to Thorin's grave, spans ages, conflicts, and cultures. It merges Elven craftsmanship, the destiny of dwarves, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, which they all share.
A sword, a legacy, a legend that could well continue to appear in later stories, in the hands of another hero.
You can find this sword and many other Lord of the Rings and Hobbit merchandise in our Swords and More Shop.
