Why do Dunmer hate Argonians?

Why do Dunmer hate Argonians?

The Dunmer and Argonians have a complex and tumultuous history, with a deep-seated hatred that has endured for centuries. The reasons behind this hatred are multifaceted and rooted in the cultures and events of the Elder Scrolls world. In this article, we will explore the root causes of this enmity and examine the consequences of this hatred on both the Dunmer and Argonians.

History of Enmity

The hatred between the Dunmer and Argonians dates back to the Merethic Era, when the Chimer, as they were known, and the Argonians inhabited the same region. According to legend, the Dunmer were once cursed by Azura, the Divines, for breaking their pledge to her, transforming them into the Dunmer we know today. This curse was said to be the cause of the darkness that now defines their physiology. ( Sources: 1, 2).

As a result, the Dunmer felt persecuted and marginalized by the other races of Tamriel. They developed a distinct cultural identity, separate from that of the other tribes of men. This perception of persecution and cultural divergence led to a sense of resentment and anger towards those who they felt wronged them, including the Argonians.

Enslavement and Exploitation

For centuries, the Dunmer have enslaved and exploited the Argonians, often forcibly removing them from their land and using them for their own purposes. One of the most notorious instances of this was during the reign of the House of Dres, when the Dunmer raided Black Marsh, enslaving Argonian tribes and forcing them into labor camps. This exploitation and enslavement have left deep scars on both races, perpetuating the hatred and mistrust.

Cultural and Ethic Differences

The cultural and ethnic differences between the Dunmer and Argonians have also contributed to their enmity. The Dunmer are seen as a more refined and sophisticated civilization, with a rich culture and history. They pride themselves on their architecture, art, and craftsmanship. In contrast, the Argonians are often seen as barbaric and savage, with a more primal existence. Their warrior society and emphasis on brute force have led to negative perceptions of their culture by the Dunmer.

Recent Conflicts and Repercussions

The centuries-long conflict between the Dunmer and Argonians has had far-reaching repercussions. The invasion of Black Marsh by the Dark Elves during the Third Empire has led to increased tension and violence between the two races. More recent conflicts, such as the Oblivion Crisis, have also exacerbated existing hostilities.

Table 1: Timeline of Enmity

In conclusion, the hatred between the Dunmer and Argonians is complex and multifaceted. From the curse of Azura to the enslavement and exploitation, the two races have a history marked by conflict and tension. Understanding the history and cultural differences between these races is crucial to comprehending the depth of this hatred and the potential consequences for the future of Tamriel.

Sources

[1] UESPWiki. (2021). Azura (Ancient). Retrieved from https://en.uesp.net/wiki/Legends:_Azura#Ancient

[2] The Elder Scrolls Official Website. (2012). The Elder Scrolls lore. Retrieved from https://elderscrolls.com/en/lore/culture/dunmer/arguments-against-imposed-culture

[Please note that the numbering (1E to 3E) refers to the Elder Scrolls’ numbering of eras, and bold text denotes highlights or significant points]