The Enigmatic Origins of Tiber Septim: Unraveling the Race of Tamriel’s Unifier
The race of Tiber Septim is one of the most hotly debated topics in the lore of The Elder Scrolls. While the precise answer remains elusive, drawing definitive conclusions from the available lore is possible. Most evidence suggests that Tiber Septim was Breton, specifically from Alcaire in High Rock. However, the story is far more complex than a simple answer allows. The man who would become Talos, the divine, was likely born as Hjalti Early-Beard, a Breton warlord who rose to prominence during the tumultuous Second Era. Subsequent events and transformations, including the formation of Talos from three distinct entities, complicate matters and blur the lines of his original racial identity. The mystery surrounding Tiber Septim’s origins is one reason why the series is beloved, and the Games Learning Society has more resources on the importance of world-building, learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Deciphering the Lore: The Breton Hypothesis
The Alcaire Connection
The primary evidence supporting the Breton origin lies in the claim that Tiber Septim was born in Alcaire, a kingdom within the Breton province of High Rock. This assertion appears in several in-game sources and is supported by various theories circulating within the Elder Scrolls community. The name Hjalti Early-Beard is often associated with this origin, further solidifying the connection. If this is true, then General Talos Stormcrown was a Breton, not a Nord.
The Battle of Old Hroldan
Another compelling piece of evidence comes from the ghost encountered at the inn in Old Hroldan. The ghost identifies himself as a friend of Tiber Septim who died in battle there. This implies a personal connection and familiarity that further supports the idea that Tiber Septim was present in the region during his early military campaigns, aligning with the Breton origin story.
The Ambiguity of “Man”
It is important to remember that the term “Man” in The Elder Scrolls universe encompasses several races, including Nords, Imperials, and Bretons. When sources state that Tiber Septim was a Man but not a Mer (Elf) or Beastfolk, it doesn’t necessarily exclude the possibility of him being a Breton. In fact, Bretons have elven blood, due to their ancestors intermingling with the Nordic population in Skyrim and High Rock.
Beyond Breton: The Talos Enigma
The Formation of Talos
The apotheosis of Tiber Septim into Talos is not a straightforward process. It is widely believed that Talos is the result of the merging of three distinct individuals: Tiber Septim (likely a Breton), Wulfharth (a powerful ancient Nord king), and Zurin Arctus (an Imperial Battlemage). This amalgamation complicates the question of Talos’s race, making him a composite being with elements of Breton, Nord, and Imperial heritage.
The Atmoran/Nord Element
Some scholars suggest that Talos embodies Atmoran qualities. This claim stems from the fact that the Nords are descended from the Atmora people, and Wulfharth, one of the key components of Talos, was a Nord. This adds another layer of complexity to the racial makeup of the deity.
The Dragonborn Connection
Furthermore, the title “Dragonborn” is associated with Talos, and the Nords traditionally recognize the Dragonborn as Ysmir, the Dragon of the North. While the Bretons of High Rock see Tiber Septim as Hjalti Early-Beard, the Nordic interpretation emphasizes the Atmoran or Nord element of Talos. There is an argument that can be made that the Nords would not worship a Breton God.
Debunking Alternative Theories
The Orcish Tiber Septim?
One controversial theory, popularized by Michael Kirkbride, suggests that one of the 24 different Tiber Septims was an Orc who used magic to transform into a human. However, this theory lacks widespread support within the established lore and is often dismissed as apocryphal. It also clashes with the claim that Tiber Septim hated Orcs, which appears in the Pocket Guide.
The Descendant Dragonborn Theory
The suggestion that the player character in Skyrim, the Last Dragonborn, is a descendant of Tiber Septim is unlikely. While all Septim Emperors are Dragonborn, the protagonist in Skyrim has the Dragonborn blood and soul. Some suggest that they might be a reincarnation of Tiber Septim in some way.
FAQs: Unraveling the Tiber Septim Mystery
What race is Tiber Septim?
While definitive proof remains elusive, most evidence suggests that Tiber Septim, known as Hjalti Early-Beard before his rise to power, was likely Breton, specifically from Alcaire in High Rock.
Is Tiber Septim a Nord or Breton?
The most credible evidence points to Tiber Septim being Breton. However, due to his apotheosis into Talos and the merging of multiple entities, the question is complex.
Is Tiber Septim a Dragonborn?
Yes, Tiber Septim was a Dragonborn, and his lineage as a Dragonborn was the reason that the Septim emperors were able to rule in Tamriel.
Is Tiber Septim an orc?
The theory that one iteration of Tiber Septim was an Orc is considered unlikely and lacks substantial support within established lore.
What race is the Dragonborn canonically?
The Last Dragonborn has no set race; it is up to the player, but Nord has become the most common portrayal for the Dragonborn in promotional art.
What race is Uriel Septim?
Uriel Septim is an Imperial, as were most of the Septim emperors after Tiber.
Did Talos exist before Tiber Septim?
No. It is the person known as Tiber Septim who then became the God known as Talos.
What race was Talos?
Talos is a composite deity with Breton, Nord, and Imperial elements due to the merging of Tiber Septim, Wulfharth, and Zurin Arctus.
Why is Tiber Septim called Talos?
Hjalti Early-Beard was named Talos Stormcrown by the Nords after a victory at the Reachmen’s keep, where he used his Thu’um to defeat his enemies.
Do Bretons have elven blood?
Yes, Bretons are descendants of Aldmeri-Nedic or Aldmeri-Atmoran hybrid race of the 1st Era and are consequently termed as ‘the mongrel race of Tamriel‘. Their elven blood is heavily diluted.
Do Bretons worship Talos?
Generally, no. The Bretons of High Rock primarily worship the Twelve Divines, which excludes Talos. However, some individual Bretons may choose to worship Talos.
Was Talos a Dragonborn?
Yes, given that he is doing many of the things our PC does, and the fact that Ysmir is the Nordic aspect of Talos. He is also called the Dragon of the North.
Why don’t the elves like Talos?
The Altmer object to the idea that a man could ascend to godhood, considering it blasphemous.
What race is khajiit?
Khajiit are a unique type of beast-folk native to Elsweyr, with appearances ranging from house cats to humanoids.
Is Martin Septim Dragonborn?
Yes, all members of the Septim line possessed the Dragonborn blood, which gave them the authority to rule Tamriel.
The mystery surrounding Tiber Septim’s race is a testament to the rich and complex world-building of The Elder Scrolls. While the Breton origin appears most plausible, the ultimate truth is shrouded in ambiguity, inviting endless debate and speculation among fans. For more information on how complex narratives create engaging games, visit the Games Learning Society website.