What is Volendrung?

TLDR: Volendrung, a legendary Daedric artifact forged by the Dwemer Rourken clan, is renowned for its immense power, unique enchantments that drain stamina from foes, and its tumultuous history of passing into the hands of various wielders, reflecting its connection to the Daedric Prince Malacath.

When it comes to legendary weapons in the Elder Scrolls universe, Volendrung is in a league of its own. I mean, just imagine wielding a hammer that’s not only a Daedric artifact but also has a history stretching back to the enigmatic Dwemer! Every time I dive into the lore surrounding Volendrung, I’m blown away by its rich backstory and incredible magical properties. From its origins with the Rourken clan to its current status as Malacath’s prized possession, this hammer has seen more of Tamriel’s history than most of us could ever dream of. It’s not just a weapon; it’s a piece of living history that continues to shape the world of the Elder Scrolls.

The Origins of Volendrung

The origins of Volendrung are steeped in the mysterious history of the Dwemer, specifically the Rourken clan. This legendary hammer was forged by these master craftsmen hundreds of years before their unexplained disappearance from Tamriel. Unlike typical Dwemer creations known for their brass-like appearance, Volendrung was curiously crafted from ebony, setting it apart from other Dwemer artifacts.

The purpose behind Volendrung’s forging is intertwined with a pivotal moment in Dwemer history. When the Rourken clan decided to reject an alliance with their Chimer enemies, they chose self-imposed exile. The chieftain of the clan used Volendrung as a tool to determine their new homeland. In a dramatic gesture, he hurled the mighty hammer across Tamriel, vowing to lead his people to wherever it landed. This act not only showcases the incredible strength of the hammer but also its significance as a symbol of the Rourken clan’s independence and determination.

Volendrung’s importance to the Dwemer extended beyond its role in their migration. It was renowned for its ability to crush the walls of enemy fortifications, earning it the moniker “Hammer of Might”. This capability suggests that the Dwemer may have initially created Volendrung as a weapon of war or a tool for expansion. Its power and unique properties made it a prized possession of the clan.

The significance of Volendrung to the Dwemer can be summarized in the following list:

1. Symbol of Rourken clan’s independence
2. Tool for determining their new homeland
3. Powerful weapon capable of destroying fortifications
4. Representation of Dwemer craftsmanship and ingenuity

Volendrung’s Physical Characteristics

The hammer’s head is disproportionately large compared to its handle, giving it a distinctive silhouette. It features intricate Dwemer engravings and patterns that cover much of its surface, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Dwemer artisans. The head of Volendrung is not simply a solid block but is designed with multiple striking surfaces and protrusions, likely enhancing its destructive capabilities.

Contrary to most Dwemer creations, which are typically crafted from their signature brass-like metal, Volendrung is primarily forged from ebony. This choice of material is unusual and significant, as ebony is known for its exceptional strength and magical properties. The use of ebony not only contributes to the hammer’s durability but also enhances its mystical attributes. The handle, while shorter than typical warhammer designs, is reinforced to withstand the immense force generated when wielding the weapon.

Some unique design elements of Volendrung include:

1. A glowing core visible within the hammer’s head
2. Retractable spikes that can emerge from the striking surface
3. Dwemer-style geometric patterns etched into the handle and head
4. A counterweight at the base of the handle for balance

To better understand Volendrung’s unique construction, consider this comparison table:

The Magical Properties of Volendrung

The magical properties of Volendrung have been a subject of fascination and debate among Elder Scrolls enthusiasts for years. This legendary Dwemer artifact, now associated with the Daedric Prince Malacath, has demonstrated a range of enchantments and powers throughout the series, showcasing its adaptability and mystical nature.

In its earliest appearances, Volendrung possessed formidable magical abilities. In Arena and Daggerfall, the hammer was renowned for its capacity to paralyze opponents and drain their strength, simultaneously healing its wielder. These potent enchantments made it a fearsome weapon in combat, reflecting its status as a Daedric artifact.

However, the hammer’s magical properties have not remained constant across the Elder Scrolls games. In Morrowind, players encountered a curious deviation from its previous incarnations. Volendrung appeared without any enchantments, functioning as a simple, albeit powerful, warhammer. This unexpected change sparked discussions among fans about the nature of Daedric artifacts and their ability to alter their properties over time.

In Oblivion, Volendrung regained its magical status, though its specific enchantments from this era are not detailed in the provided sources. The hammer’s reemergence as a magical artifact in this installment reinforced its importance in the Elder Scrolls lore.

Skyrim introduced yet another variation in Volendrung’s magical properties. In this iteration, the hammer features a drain stamina enchantment. This ability allows the wielder to sap the energy of their opponents, potentially turning the tide of battle in their favor. The drain stamina effect not only weakens enemies but also potentially replenishes the user’s own stamina, making it a versatile tool in combat situations.

To illustrate the evolution of Volendrung’s magical properties across the Elder Scrolls series, consider the following table:

Volendrung’s Journey Through History

The hammer’s most famous historical moment came during the Dwemer exodus. When the Rourken clan of Dwemer refused to participate in the alliance with the Chimer in Morrowind around 1E 420, they chose self-exile. In a dramatic gesture that would echo through the ages, the Rourken chieftain hurled Volendrung across Tamriel, vowing to lead his people to wherever it landed. This act not only determined the future home of the Rourken clan but also gave the region of Hammerfell its original name, Volenfell, meaning “City of the Hammer” in the Dwemer tongue.

The circumstances of how Volendrung came into Malacath’s possession are shrouded in mystery. The transition likely occurred sometime after the disappearance of the Dwemer in 1E 700. One theory suggests that when the Dwemer vanished, their Orcish enemies, who worshipped Malacath, may have explored the abandoned Dwemer cities and recovered Volendrung as a prize. The irony of this Dwemer artifact becoming a symbol of one of their greatest foes has not been lost on scholars of Tamrielic history.

Notable historical events involving Volendrung include:

1. The founding of Volenfell (later Hammerfell) by the Rourken clan
2. Its use in various conflicts during the First and Second Eras
3. Its appearance during the Three Banners War in the Second Era
4. Its role in the events of the Oblivion Crisis in the Third Era

Throughout its history, Volendrung has resurfaced at critical junctures, often in the hands of powerful individuals or heroes. In the Second Era, around 2E 582, pieces of Volendrung’s handle were found circulating in black markets, indicating that the artifact had been temporarily dismantled or damaged. Later that same year, the hammer played a role in Sheogorath’s scheme to sow chaos in Cyrodiil during the Three Banners War.

To illustrate Volendrung’s journey through different eras, consider this timeline:

Volendrung’s Connection to Malacath

One theory suggests that when the Dwemer vanished, Orcish followers of Malacath may have explored abandoned Dwemer cities and recovered Volendrung as a prize. This transition is particularly ironic given that Malacath was one of the Dwemer’s most bitter foes. Martin Septim, in “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion,” comments on this peculiar turn of events, highlighting the enigmatic nature of how a Dwemer hammer came to embody the power of their adversary.

Malacath’s influence on the hammer is evident in its changing magical properties across different Elder Scrolls games. While originally a powerful Dwemer artifact, under Malacath’s ownership, Volendrung has exhibited various enchantments, including the ability to paralyze foes, drain their strength, and in “Skyrim,” absorb stamina. These changes likely reflect Malacath’s own sphere of influence as the Daedric Prince of curses, reflecting his power through the artifact.

The importance of Volendrung to Malacath’s followers, particularly the Orsimer (Orcs), cannot be overstated. It serves as a symbol of their patron Daedra’s power and influence. For the Orcs, who often face discrimination and hardship, Volendrung represents strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome adversity – all qualities associated with Malacath himself.

Key aspects of Volendrung’s connection to Malacath include:

1. Its transformation from a Dwemer artifact to a Daedric one
2. The changing magical properties reflecting Malacath’s influence
3. Its role as a symbol of strength for Malacath’s followers
4. Its use as a reward for those who complete Malacath’s quests

Volendrung in Elder Scrolls Lore

In-game books and scrolls often reference Volendrung, providing insights into its origins and significance. The “Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition” mentions the hammer in relation to the Dwemer exodus, describing how the Rourken chieftain threw Volendrung across Tamriel to determine where his clan would settle. This account is corroborated in “Tamrielic Lore,” which elaborates on the hammer’s creation by the Dwemer and its subsequent adoption by Malacath.

The legends and myths surrounding Volendrung are numerous and varied. One of the most prominent tales is the story of its creation by the Dwemer Rourken clan, which has been depicted on the walls of several ruins in Hammerfell. These murals show a mass exodus of golden-clad Dwarves trudging through Cyrodilic forests, with Volendrung as a falling star in the night sky guiding their way. This myth not only explains the hammer’s origins but also ties it to the founding of Volenfell (later known as Hammerfell).

Another intriguing legend surrounds Volendrung’s transition from a Dwemer artifact to a Daedric one. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, Martin Septim’s comment in “Oblivion” hints at the irony of this Dwemer creation embodying the power of one of their greatest enemies, Malacath. This transformation has sparked numerous theories and debates among scholars of Daedric lore.

Volendrung’s place in prophecies or predictions is less explicit, but its recurring appearances throughout Tamriel’s history suggest a certain prophetic quality. The hammer’s tendency to disappear and resurface at crucial moments in history has led some to believe that it may play a role in future events of cosmic significance.

To illustrate Volendrung’s presence in different Elder Scrolls games and lore sources, consider this table:

The Acquisition of Volendrung

In The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall, Volendrung could be acquired through a quest given by the Daedric Prince Malacath. Players had to complete a series of tasks to prove their worth before being granted the hammer. This early version of the acquisition process set the tone for future games, establishing Volendrung’s connection to Malacath.

The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind took a different approach. Here, Volendrung could be found in the possession of Divayth Fyr, a powerful Dunmer wizard. Players could obtain it through trade or theft, presenting a more straightforward but potentially challenging acquisition method, especially if choosing the theft route.

In The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, the quest to obtain Volendrung returned to its Daedric roots. Players had to complete Malacath’s quest, “Malacath’s Shrine,” which involved freeing ogres from enslavement. This quest not only provided a means to acquire the hammer but also delved into Malacath’s role as a protector of the downtrodden.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim presents perhaps the most elaborate quest for obtaining Volendrung. The quest “The Cursed Tribe” requires players to assist the Orcs of Largashbur, an Orcish stronghold. This multi-step quest involves:

1. Gathering ingredients for a ritual (Troll Fat and a Daedra Heart)
2. Accompanying the Orc chief Yamarz to Fallowstone Cave
3. Defeating a giant and retrieving Shagrol’s Warhammer
4. Returning to Largashbur to complete the ritual

Upon completion, Malacath transforms Shagrol’s Warhammer into Volendrung, granting it to the player.

The Sentience of Volendrung

Volendrung’s personality is characterized by a strong disdain for physical weakness and a preference for direct, forceful solutions. It embodies the values of its patron, Malacath, favoring strength, perseverance, and a no-nonsense approach to challenges. The hammer has been described as having a straightforward, almost thuggish personality, often urging its wielder to pursue the simplest and most direct course of action. For instance, it might encourage breaking down a locked door rather than attempting to pick the lock.

Communication between Volendrung and its wielder typically occurs through subtle mental impressions or urges. The hammer doesn’t speak in a traditional sense but rather imparts its desires and opinions through a series of emotional impulses or sudden thoughts that appear in the wielder’s mind. These communications can range from simple preferences in combat tactics to more complex suggestions about how to approach certain situations. In some cases, the hammer’s influence might be so subtle that the wielder believes the thoughts are their own.

One of Volendrung’s most intriguing abilities is its capacity to choose or reject its user. This selectivity is closely tied to the hammer’s alignment with Malacath’s values and its own preferences. The artifact has been known to break its attunement and disappear if it disapproves of its wielder’s actions or if it’s used in a way that contradicts its nature. For example, Volendrung might reject a wielder who displays cowardice or who uses it to harm Orcs, given Malacath’s fondness for the Orsimer race.

Key aspects of Volendrung’s sentience include:

1. A preference for strength and direct action
2. Communication through mental impressions and urges
3. The ability to break attunement with unworthy wielders
4. A strong dislike for perceived weakness or cowardice

To illustrate how Volendrung’s sentience compares to other sentient weapons in the Elder Scrolls universe, consider this table:

Volendrung’s Influence on Its Wielders

The effects on the user’s strength and abilities are significant. Volendrung’s most notable physical impact is its ability to drain stamina from enemies and transfer it to the wielder. This unique enchantment allows the user to maintain an aggressive fighting style without tiring, effectively enhancing their endurance and combat longevity. Additionally, the hammer’s immense weight and size require great strength to wield effectively, potentially increasing the user’s physical prowess over time through consistent use.

Psychologically, wielding Volendrung can have a transformative effect on its user. The hammer’s sentient nature and strong personality often influence the wielder’s decision-making processes and emotional state. It tends to push its users towards more direct and aggressive solutions, potentially altering their typical behavior patterns. The hammer’s disdain for physical weakness may instill a heightened sense of confidence or even arrogance in its wielder, as they become acutely aware of their enhanced strength and capabilities.

Several notable historical figures have wielded Volendrung throughout Tamriel’s history:

1. The Rourken Clan Chieftain: Used Volendrung to determine the location of Volenfell
2. An unnamed Orcish hero: Defeated Volvagia with the hammer
3. The Hero of Daggerfall: Acquired Volendrung during the events of The Elder Scrolls II
4. Divayth Fyr: Possessed the hammer during the events of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
5. The Hero of Kvatch: Obtained Volendrung in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
6. The Last Dragonborn: Acquired the hammer in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Final Thoughts

Looking back at everything Volendrung represents, it’s clear that this isn’t just another magical hammer in a game full of enchanted weapons. In my opinion, it’s one of the most fascinating artifacts in the entire Elder Scrolls series. The way it connects the ancient Dwemer to the Daedric Prince Malacath, its role in shaping the geography of Tamriel, and its continued influence on events throughout the games – it’s all just mind-blowing. I can’t help but feel a sense of awe every time I see my character wield Volendrung in Skyrim. It’s more than just a powerful tool for smashing enemies; it’s a tangible link to the rich, complex history of the Elder Scrolls world.