How Long Was the Oblivion Crisis Before Skyrim?
The Oblivion Crisis, a significant event in the Elder Scrolls universe, took place 167 years before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. To understand the timeline of these events, let’s break down the key dates:
- 4E 33: The Oblivion Crisis occurred around 4E 33, which is approximately 167 years before the start of Skyrim’s storyline (4E 201).
- 4E 201: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim takes place in the year 4E 201, with the Dragonborn prophecy unfolding.
The Events Leading Up to the Oblivion Crisis
Before diving into the timeline, let’s quickly summarize the key events leading up to the Oblivion Crisis:
- The Breaching of the Oblivion Gate: The Daedric Prince of Madness, Sheogorath, opened a portal to Oblivion, allowing the demonic forces of Mehrunes Dagon to invade Cyrodiil, the province where the Imperial City is located.
- The Fall of Emperor Uriel VII: Emperor Uriel VII, who had been possessed by Mehrunes Dagon, disappeared after being struck by a sword during a ritual to try and close the Oblivion Gate.
- The Oblivion Crisis Begins: The invasion of Oblivion led to chaos and destruction throughout Cyrodiil, causing the Oblivion Crisis, which lasted for three years.
The Impact of the Oblivion Crisis
The Oblivion Crisis had significant consequences on the world of Tamriel:
- The Imperial Palace was destroyed: The Oblivion Gate breached the Imperial Palace, destroying parts of the building and scattering the Imperial Guard.
- The Empire was left in disarray: The sudden invasion and destruction of Cyrodiil weakened the Empire, leading to political instability and power struggles.
The Aftermath and Legacy of the Oblivion Crisis
In the aftermath of the Oblivion Crisis, the world of Tamriel continued to evolve:
- Martin Septim’s Sacrifice: Martin Septim, the last Emperor of Tamriel, sacrificed himself to seal the Oblivion Gate, ending the crisis but also leaving the Empire without an emperor.
- The Empire’s decline: The Empire continued to decline, and the Elder Council took control of the administration of the Empire.
- The rise of other factions: Other factions, such as the Blades, the Thieves Guild, and the Dark Brotherhood, gained power and influence, shaping the world of Skyrim.
Conclusion
The Oblivion Crisis took place 167 years before the events of Skyrim, marking a pivotal point in the history of Tamriel. The Crisis led to significant changes in the world, including the fall of the Empire and the rise of new factions.
Timeline of the Oblivion Crisis
Here is a brief timeline of the Oblivion Crisis:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 4E 33 | The Oblivion Gate breaches the Imperial Palace, marking the beginning of the Oblivion Crisis |
| 4E 35-36 | The crisis continues, with the Imperial Guard fighting against the forces of Mehrunes Dagon |
| 4E 36 | Martin Septim sacrifices himself to seal the Oblivion Gate |
Key Takeaways
- The Oblivion Crisis took place 167 years before the start of Skyrim’s storyline.
- The crisis was sparked by the breach of the Oblivion Gate, leading to the invasion of Cyrodiil.
- The aftermath of the Oblivion Crisis led to significant changes in the world of Tamriel, including the decline of the Empire and the rise of new factions.