Ah, the Dwemer. They were mysterious elves. Advanced in technology, they vanished from Tamriel. It’s a big mystery in The Elder Scrolls. One minute, they worked with dark magic and built machines. The next, they were gone. Disappeared like a skooma addict’s paycheck.
I. Yagrum Bagarn: The Last Living Dwarf?
But is everyone really gone? Legends whisper of a survivor. A lone Dwemer remains. His name is Yagrum Bagarn. Let’s explore the mystery of Yagrum Bagarn, possibly the last of his kind.
Is Yagrum Bagarn Actually a Dwemer?
Let’s clarify this now. Yes, Yagrum Bagarn is a Dwemer. No disguise, no deception. He’s a true Deep Elf, or Dwarf, whichever you prefer. However, use “Dwarf” cautiously in lore discussions.
Yagrum Bagarn: The Solitary Dwemer in a World Without Them
Morrowind is where he resides, in a land of ash and giant mushrooms. Yagrum Bagarn is often called the only Dwemer who survived the Battle of Red Mountain. Across Tamriel, he may be the sole remnant of a fallen civilization. Quite lonely for him in Tel Fyr.
He’s not just any Dwemer; he’s the last known member of his race. Imagine his stories if he were chatty. He could be a walking museum of lost history.
The key to his survival? He was in some Outer Realm when the… *event*… happened. Lucky for him but unfortunate for his kin. Being absent during that moment might have saved him from the fate that met his people. Call it luck.
Yagrum Bagarn’s Great Escape (From Disappearance, Not Actually Escaping Tel Fyr)
To reiterate: Yagrum Bagarn said, “Nah,” to the disappearance memo. He wasn’t in Mundus when disaster struck. Thus, he wasn’t affected by the… *thing*. We’ll discuss that later. Now, imagine Yagrum in an extra-dimensional plane, unaware of the chaos.
His absence during the Great Vanishing is his claim to fame. It’s like the one person who slept through an alarm. Inconvenient for everyone else but he’s still here to tell the tale.
Morrowind and Beyond: Yagrum Bagarn’s Appearances
Find Yagrum Bagarn in Tel Fyr, a giant mushroom tower in Morrowind. If you’ve played the game, you recognize it. His presence isn’t limited to Morrowind, though. He appears in TES: Legends too, Bethesda’s card game. So even in card form, he finds a way into the spotlight.
Corpus and Centurion Legs: Yagrum’s Mobility Challenges
Yagrum isn’t in great health. Sadly, he suffers from Corpus, a unique disease. This magical plague isn’t kind. It makes him immobile. Think of it like a never-ending Netflix binge but without the entertainment.
To get around, Yagrum uses Centurion Spider legs. Yes, he’s strapped to them. These legs are from a mechanical construct his people created. It shows Dwemer ingenuity. Even diseased and possibly alone, he fashioned himself robotic legs. They might not be graceful but they work. Imagine hailing a guar taxi with those.
II. The Dwemer: Masters of Metal and Mystery
Now that we’ve examined Yagrum, let’s look at the Dwemer as a whole. Who were these elves? What made them tick and vanish?
Dwemer: Deep Elves, Dwarves, or Just Confusing?
Dwemer. Deep Elves or Dwarves? It can confuse anyone. Officially, they’re Dwemer, an elven race. “Deep Elves” emphasizes their subterranean ties. And then “Dwarves,” a nickname from humans who labeled them based on size and living conditions.
Don’t picture Gimli or dwarves from other tales. The Dwemer were elves focused on engineering rather than nature. They were remnants of early Aldmer, preferring technology over nature worship.
Advanced Tech and Culture: Dwemer’s Calling Card
The Dwemer were famous for their technological skills. These weren’t your run-of-the-mill magic users. They engaged in enchantment but loved gears and automatons more. They were the inventors of ancient Tamriel, creating clockwork gods and steam-powered machines.
Their culture was sophisticated. They crafted machines and explored metaphysics. They sought innovation and reason above all else. This fixation may have led to their downfall.
Dwemer Looks: Not Your Typical Elf
Physically, Dwemer looked different from typical elves. Their skin tones varied from pale to slate blue-grey. Imagine encountering a blue-skinned elf with a beard in a Dwemer ruin. Quite the sight!
The height and beard discussion is intriguing too. Some portray them as short and stocky with beards. Others show them as tall like other elves or humans. Maybe their height varied based on perspective.
Dwemer Lifespan: Practically Immortal? (Maybe)
Let’s speculate about their lifespan. Were Dwemer immortal? Officially no. However, they might have been *functionally* immortal from their connection to the Heart of Lorkhan.
This belief suggests their experimentation with that artifact offered extended life or immortality unless faced with violence. Dwemer obsessed with defying mortality messing with a god’s heart seems dangerous.
No Gods, No Masters: Dwemer Religion (or Lack Thereof)
Religion shaped most races in Tamriel, but not for Dwemer. Their religious beliefs are puzzling. Did they even have religion?
If so, it was unique. The Dwemer did not worship gods. None at all. This sets them apart from most races in Tamriel, who pray to Aedra, Daedra, ancestors, or other powers. The Dwemer valued logic and reason. Gods? Just powerful beings, not worthy of worship. This skepticism feels edgy. Imagine Dwemer debates: “Gods? Prove it!”
Theological discussions in Dwemer society must have been lively. The Dwemer engineers likely scoffed at divine intervention. Their view was grounded in reason. Now, let’s dive into their diet. What did these underground elves consume? Forget fancy elven meals. The Dwemer diet was practical and utilitarian.
Kwama-based food and insect meats were staples. Kwama are giant, insect-like creatures found in Morrowind. The Dwemer used them for food and armor. Insect meat? Protein is protein. Fungi were also vital. Living underground gave access to many mushrooms and fungal varieties. Pair that with bug meat, and you have a Dwemer delicacy.
This may not sound appetizing to surface dwellers. For the Dwemer, it was nutritious and readily available. It sustained them while they worked in their workshops. Bon appétit, Dwemer style, indeed!
III. The Great Disappearance: Where Did the Dwemer Go?
The million-gold question: where did the Dwemer vanish? One moment they were there, working on robots and seeking godhood. The next, they were gone. The disappearance of the Dwemer is a central mystery, filled with theories, speculation, and existential dread. Let’s explore some leading theories.
Theories Abound: Unraveling the Dwemer Mystery
Theories about the Dwemer’s disappearance abound. Countless forum debates and lore discussions revolve around this topic. Everyone has a preferred theory. Let’s examine some popular ones.
Tampering with the Heart of Lorkhan: Playing with Fire, Literally
The most accepted theory points to the Dwemer’s meddling with the Heart of Lorkhan. This powerful Aedric artifact should not be trifled with. But the Dwemer, in their ambition, decided to harness its power. They believed they could achieve godhood through this grand technological effort. What could go wrong?
Instead of ascending, they disappeared. Poof. Vaporized from existence. The lesson? Don’t tamper with divine artifacts unless you’re ready for consequences. Perhaps involving your entire race ceasing to exist.
Oblivion or Another Dimension: The Great Escape (or Not)
An alternative theory suggests the Dwemer were transported somewhere else instead of disappearing entirely. Oblivion, the chaotic realm of the Daedra, is one option. Imagine a legion of confused Dwemer in a Daedric realm. Chaos would ensue, likely involving steam-powered machines.
Perhaps they were sent to another dimension entirely. In some hidden realm beyond Oblivion or Aetherius, they may remain unaware that they are thought to be gone. Or perhaps, they struggle against interdimensional foes and wish they had stuck to building machines.
Achieving CHIM: Waking Up from the Dream
CHIM, the “secret syllable of royalty,” is a complex concept. It involves realizing that reality is a dream and that you are a character within it. Some theories say that the Dwemer discovered CHIM in their quest for truth.
Upon realizing existence’s dreamlike quality, they awakened or ascended. Maybe they were erased. It’s unclear what happens when an entire race achieves CHIM, but their disappearance fits the criteria for a significant metaphysical event.
Absorption into Numidium: Becoming the Brass God
Numidium, the Brass God, is a colossal Dwemer automaton central to disappearance theories. One theory suggests that the Dwemer merged with Numidium. Their entire race potentially became part of their ultimate creation. Imagine their consciousness melding with this machine.
Kagrenac, the chief architect, sought to use the Heart to power Numidium, binding his people to it. Was this intended godhood or an accidental merging? The result remains the same: Dwemer vanished, while Numidium powered up.
Extinction: The Unpleasant Possibility
Then comes a less exciting theory: extinction. Perhaps the Dwemer simply died. Not in dramatic fashion, but through war, disease, or catastrophe. It’s less thrilling than magical travel but sometimes reality feels mundane.
Maybe they vanished due to a plague or civil strife that decimated them. Or perhaps they lost hope and wandered off into wilderness. Even technologically advanced elves can face extinction.
The Battle of Red Mountain: Ground Zero for the Vanishing
No matter the cause, the when and where are agreed upon: the Battle of Red Mountain. This legendary conflict between the Dwemer and Chimer led directly to the Dwemer’s disappearance. It was the climax of escalating tensions, driven by differences in faith and pride.
The Chimer saw the Dwemer’s Heart meddling as heretical. The Battle of Red Mountain represented a clash between tradition and technology. Amidst the conflict, the Dwemer vanished without a trace. One moment they fought, then silence framed the battlefield.
The victorious Chimer were bewildered by this sudden absence. It was not simply a military event; it became one of Tamrielic history’s greatest mysteries.
Kagrenac’s Tools: The Instruments of Doom (or Godhood?)
Central to the Heart of Lorkhan affair and the disappearance are Kagrenac’s Tools. Kagrenac was a prominent engineer and priest behind the Heart project. He created three legendary artifacts: Keening, Sunder, and Wraithguard.
These were not average tools; they were meant to manipulate divine power. Wraithguard, a gauntlet, protected the wearer from the Heart’s energy. Sunder, used for hammering divine energies into shape, and Keening, a dagger designed to extract power from the Heart’s influence.
The purpose of these tools is wrapped in mystery and debated accounts. However, it’s clear they played significant roles during the Battle of Red Mountain.
The prevailing theory holds that Kagrenac used these tools during this critical moment. Following their mysterious disappearance, the fate of the tools remains unknown.
with specific rituals, to bind the Dwemer race to the Heart of Lorkhan. The intention? Perhaps godhood, perhaps something else entirely. But whatever Kagrenac was aiming for, it went horribly wrong. Instead of becoming gods, the Dwemer disappeared. The tools used for their elevation may have erased them from existence. Talk about a design flaw.
The Dwemer’s Godhood Ambitions: Reaching for the Divine
Let’s hammer this point home: the Dwemer aimed to become gods. Morrowind lore states that the Dwemer found the Heart of Lorkhan and intended to use it for divinity. Kagrenac was their architect, the elf who dared to dream of Dwemer godhood. It was bold, a testament to their hubris and belief in their capabilities. “Gods? We can do that!”
Their attempt to achieve godhood was the peak of their culture, their philosophy, and pursuit of power. It was an ultimate expression of Dwemer ambition and also their ultimate downfall. They reached for the divine. Instead of godhood, they grasped nothingness. The Dwemer’s ambition is a cautionary tale; some things are best left untouched, especially when they involve hearts of dead gods and profane engineering.
IV. Dwemer and the World: Relations and Regions
The Dwemer didn’t exist in a vacuum. They interacted with other races, shaped Tamriel, and left their mark on history. Let’s explore the Dwemer in relation to other races and regions, their allies, enemies, and the places they called home.
Dwemer Kinship: Blood Relations with Other Mer
The Dwemer were Mer, elves. This means they were relatives of other elven races, even if they wouldn’t admit it after too many sujamma. Their Aldmer ancestry links them to the Altmer, Bosmer, Dunmer, and even the Falmer. Despite differences, there was a shared elven heritage; they’re the eccentric, tech-minded cousins at the elven family reunion.
Remember this shared ancestry. Underneath metal armor and gadgets, the Dwemer were still elves, yet took a sharp turn from traditional ways. Their bloodline connected them to the broader Mer race while their culture and disappearance set them apart.
Conflict with the Chimer: The War of Faith and Technology
Ah, the Chimer, ancestors of the Dunmer. The relationship between Dwemer and Chimer was complicated. It ultimately led to the Battle of Red Mountain and the disappearance of the Dwemer. It was multi-faceted but rooted in ideology. The rational Dwemer clashed with the deeply religious Chimer.
The War of the First Council lasted around 32 years and had devastating consequences for both sides. It began due to religious differences, territorial disputes, and power struggles. The Dwemer and Chimer contended for control of Morrowind (then called Resdayn). Their conflicting cultures led to war. It was a tragic conflict, a civil war between elven cousins that ended with one civilization’s disappearance.
Dwemer Rule in Morrowind: Contested Territory
The Dwemer ruled Morrowind for a time, but their authority faced constant challenges from the Chimer. Morrowind, or Dwemereth, was the heartland of Dwemer civilization. They built underground cities and mined its resources while claiming it as their domain. But the Chimer viewed them as invaders and weren’t about to let them control all of Morrowind.
This dispute caused constant friction that erupted into open warfare. Morrowind became the battleground, ultimately a grave for Dwemer civilization. The struggle for Morrowind defined Dwemer-Chimer relations and influenced history for millennia.
Dwemereth: Morrowind’s Dwemer Past
Before it was Morrowind, it was Dwemereth or Dunmereth or Veloth or Resdayn. Morrowind has had many names. But Dwemereth stands out as “Dwemer Land,” reflecting their connection to the area and dominance. The Nords referred to it as Dunmereth or Dwemereth interchangeably, showing intertwined histories.
When you hear “Dwemereth,” think “ancient Morrowind.” This was the land before the Dunmer. The Dwemer ruled from underground cities while the surface world was likely different. It’s a reminder that Morrowind’s history has layers and beneath ash lies a vanished civilization’s legacy.
“Dwarves”: A Human Misnomer
Let’s look again at the “Dwarf” nickname. Humans were primarily responsible for labeling the Dwemer as Dwarves. Why? Because they were perceived as short and lived underground. “Short underground folk? Must be Dwarves!” This is a case of human oversimplification and a bit of ignorance.
Some stories falsely portrayed the Dwemer as small with beards, reinforcing stereotypes. While some might have been shorter than average elves, generally they were same height as elves or men. The “Dwarf” nickname reflects human perception rather than reality, reminding us names can be misleading.
Dwemer vs. Duergar: No Relation (Despite Similar Names)
Let’s briefly discuss Dwemer and Duergar. Similar names but no relation in Elder Scrolls lore. Duergar are from D&D as evil dwarves associated with darkness and mind flayers. They are grim and unpleasant while Dwemer were not inherently evil.
The Duergar’s story involves being enslaved by mind flayers leading to bitterness towards shield dwarves. Interesting backstory but completely unrelated to the Dwemer. The name similarity is pure coincidence; don’t mix up Dwemer ruins with Duergar strongholds; they’re distinct races in distinct universes.
V. Dwemer Gadgets and Gizmos: Artifacts and Technology
Dwemer technology is legendary: Automatons, steam power, intricate metalwork, powerful artifacts. The Dwemer left a legacy of technological marvels that fascinate scholars and adventurers alike. Let’s delve into Dwemer artifacts and technology.
Dwemer Metal: The Stuff of Legends (and Armor)
Dwemer metal is strong, lightweight with a golden sheen. It is used for armor, weapons, and automatons. Dwarven Metal Ingots are made by smelting Dwemer scrap metal. Adventurers explore ruins for this scrap metal since they can create items with it.
Interestingly, some items like bent scrap metal or large plate metal smelt better than raw materials. They yield more ingots per weight unit, making them valuable for aspiring smiths. The Dwemer may have designed their scrap metal to be efficiently recycled by future adventurers.
Dwemer Ruins: Steam-Powered Relics
Dwemer ruins are scattered across Tamriel, particularly in Morrowind and Skyrim. These complexes showcase Dwemer ingenuity and engineering prowess. Contrary to misconceptions, they were primarily steam-powered – not electricity or magic but simple steam machinery.
Some mistakenly assume Dwemer technology was electric; however, steam mechanisms power their ruins’ heart. From automatons to elevators, steam drove their creations; it’s a testament to their mechanical mastery.
Engineering helped the Dwemer create machines. They used steam power for intricate devices. Exploring a Dwemer ruin brings you to a world of gears and hissing valves, a glimpse into their past.
Dwemer Artifact Trade: Forbidden Goods
Dwemer artifacts have great value. They are also illegal under Imperial law. Trading these artifacts is forbidden. This rule aims to stop the looting of Dwemer ruins and to prevent misuse of Dwemer technology. Still, forbidden trades create black markets. Collectors and scholars seek these artifacts. Some wish to use Dwemer technology for personal gain.
If you plan to start a Dwemer artifact import/export business, heed this warning. The Imperial authorities may oppose your ventures. For adventurers in Dwemer ruins, the temptation remains strong. Valuable artifacts call out, even at the risk of the law.
Dwemer Weapons: From Swords to Firebolt Rifles
Dwemer weaponry shows great variety and effectiveness. Swords, axes, and unique contraptions highlight their design skills. Legends tell of the “Dwemer Firebolt Rifle.” This weapon, said to be for the great king Dumac alone, indicates advanced ranged weaponry.
The Firebolt Rifle implies Dwemer experiments with projectile weapons went far beyond bows. Picture a rifle shooting bolts of fire, thanks to Dwemer engineering. Such a weapon could spell doom for those who encounter it. It showcases the Dwemer’s power for creation and destruction.
Dwemer Cogs: Quest Items and Collectibles
Dwemer Cogs are common in their ruins. These gears seem simple but are incredibly useful. In Skyrim, they are key for “Arniel’s Endeavor,” needing ten cogs. Known as “dwarven cogs,” this term reflects their human nickname. Beyond quests, Dwemer Cogs remain just that—gears.
If you’re collecting Dwemer Cogs, visit the Dwemer Museum, Mzinchaleft, and Avanchnzel. Mzinchaleft holds many treasures.
