The Forgotten Regions: Dwarves and Elves in Harad and Khand

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s expansive legendarium, the regions south of Gondor, particularly Harad and Khand, are indeed less explored compared to other areas like Eriador or Rohan. However, there are some intriguing references to the presence of dwarves and elves in these regions, though their stories are not extensively detailed.

Dwarves

Dwarven Settlements

While there are no major dwarf settlements explicitly mentioned in Harad or Khand, dwarves are known to have traveled and traded across Middle-earth. The Dwarves of Durin’s folk from the Lonely Mountain and Moria may have had some interactions with the peoples of Harad, but Tolkien does not provide specific accounts of dwarves living permanently in those areas.

Trade and Influence

Dwarves are renowned for their craftsmanship and trade, making it plausible that they could have had some influence or presence in the southern regions, especially in the context of trade routes. Whether through permanent settlements or occasional trade expeditions, the dwarven presence in these lands could have been significant.

Elves

Elven Presence

The Elves of Middle-earth primarily inhabit regions like Valinor, Lindon, Rivendell, Lothlórien, and Mirkwood. However, there are references to the Teleri and the Sindarin Elves who may have traveled through these southern lands during the Second Age or earlier, particularly during the migrations after the War of Wrath.

Legends and Stories

In the expansive legendarium, the presence of elves in Harad and Khand remains mostly untold. While the specific accounts are sparse, it’s not outside the realm of possibility that these elves played significant roles or had settlements in these less-explored regions.

Harad and Khand

Harad

This region is primarily depicted as home to various human tribes and cultures often at odds with Gondor. The inhabitants of Harad are described in more detail, particularly during the events of moments when their influence becomes significant. However, despite their detailed depiction, the background stories and legends surrounding Harad remain largely unexplored.

Khand

This area is even less developed in Tolkien’s works, often mentioned in the context of being a dark and dangerous land. Khand is known for its association with the Easterlings, a group of human tribes that move into Middle-earth from the east. The culture and history of Khand remain largely speculative, leaving much room for imagination and creative exploration.

Conclusion

While there are no well-documented dwarf or elf settlements in Harad or Khand, it is not outside the realm of possibility within Tolkien’s expansive universe. The focus on human societies in these regions leaves a lot to the imagination and many fans speculate about the untold stories that could exist in these lesser-explored lands. The potential for rich narratives and cultural development in Harad and Khand is vast, offering a wealth of material for both scholars and fans alike.