Eorl the Young - Definition and Overview

This article is about a fictional character. For information on the historical Scotsman, see Clan MacLeod

Eorl the Young is a fictional character from J. R. R. Tolkien's universe of Middle-earth, lord of the Éothéod (T.A. 2501–2510) and King of Rohan (T.A. 2510–2545). He was the founder of the House of Eorl.

Eorl, son of Léod, was the ruler of the Northmen tribe of the Éothéod, who dwelt between the Langwell and Greylin rivers.

The most renowned fact in his reign was his unexpected arrival in the perilous Battle of the Field of Celebrant to the aid of Gondor. He may be regarded the true hero of this battle and was granted lands in Calenardhon by Cirion, Steward of Gondor. He led the migration of his people to these great pastures and there he became the first King of Rohan. He then swore the Oath of Eorl to Cirion.

Eorl established his new capital at Aldburg in the Folde.

He was called the Young because at the start of his reign he was in his youth and he retained his youthful appearance throughout his reign.

The Rohirrim call themselves the Eorlingas, the Sons of Eorl.

He died in battle in the Wold against the Easterlings.