Variag

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Differences to the Books

Southron mercenaries as seen in The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim.

Variags, also referred to as Southron mercenaries, were Southrons that hired themselves out as mercenaries to fight against Gondor and its allies, thus often being in league with the servants of Sauron.

The Rohirrim began applying the term "Variag" to any hostile sellsword.

History

Third Age

Notice:

This information is sourced from the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. See canon for more information.

A people of Men opposed to Gondor and often aligned with Mordor, the Variags of Khand owed allegiance to the dozens of local satraps and kings. Traditionally, they fought on horseback, but also had a reputation for using chariots - the most loyal Variags were appointed to the king's personal guard. Regicide, however, was considered a common practice and only recognized as a crime if it failed.

War of the Rohirrim

Many Variags and other nomadic Southrons travelled north from their homeland in Khand and Harad to offer their services as mercenaries to the enemies of Gondor and Rohan. Joining the Dunlendings lodged in Isengard, they were paid by the renegade lord Wulf to fight for him during the War of the Rohirrim.

War of the Ring

Notice:

This information is sourced from the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. See canon for more information.

Variags as depicted in art for Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game

During the War of the Ring, the Khandish kings were bought by the Dark Lord Sauron. The Variags were soon called to join the armies of Mordor in their assault against Gondor.

Appearances

• The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim

References