ESO: Who Do the Thalmor Worship?

In the vast fantasy world of The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO), the Thalmor are a powerful and enigmatic faction that hold significant sway over the political and religious landscape of Tamriel. Their unwavering devotion to a particular deity has been a subject of much speculation and debate among scholars and fans alike. Join us as we delve deep into the beliefs and practices of the Thalmor, uncovering the divine entity they venerate.

A Historical Perspective

The Thalmor emerged as a prominent force in the Second Era, originating from the Summerset Isles, home to the High Elves, or Altmer. Their origins can be traced back to the ancient Altmer priesthood, known as the Psijics, who delved into the arcane and sought communion with divine beings. Over time, a schism arose within the priesthood, leading to the formation of the Thalmor, who embraced a more militant and nationalist interpretation of the Psijic teachings.

The Divine Entity: Auri-El vs. Lorkhan

At the heart of the Thalmor's beliefs lies the veneration of Auri-El, the Elven God of Time. In Elven mythology, Auri-El is considered the chief deity, the creator of Mer (Elves) and the rightful ruler of Nirn. The Thalmor believe that Auri-El's true form is that of a golden eagle, a symbol that adorns their banners and represents their unwavering faith.

In contrast to the reverence for Auri-El, the Thalmor hold a deep contempt for Lorkhan, the trickster deity who is credited with creating mortals (Men). They believe that Lorkhan's deception led to the sundering of Nirn and the separation of the Mer from their divine origins. The Thalmor seek to rectify this perceived wrong by purging all traces of Lorkhan's influence from Tamriel.

The Aldmeri Dominion

The Thalmor's influence extends beyond the Summerset Isles. They have established the Aldmeri Dominion, a confederation that includes the provinces of Valenwood, the ancestral home of the Bosmer, and Elsweyr, inhabited by the Khajiit. The Dominion's ultimate goal is to restore the ancient Elven Empire and establish the supremacy of the Mer over all other races.

Suppression of Other Religions

The Thalmor's religious beliefs have led to the suppression of other faiths throughout the Dominion. They have persecuted followers of the Nine Divines, the Imperial pantheon, and the Daedra, the chaotic spirits of Oblivion. The Thalmor believe that these other religions are corrupt and a threat to their own divinely ordained supremacy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming that all Thalmor are evil: While the Thalmor's beliefs and practices may be seen as oppressive or even sinister, it's important to remember that not all members of the faction are inherently evil. Some are simply misguided, while others may have legitimate reasons for their actions.

  

• Overlooking the Thalmor's cultural significance: The Thalmor's religion and traditions are deeply rooted in Elven history and culture. Understanding their beliefs can provide valuable insights into the motivations and complexities of the Altmer people.

• Ignoring the potential for redemption: Even the most zealous of Thalmor can experience a change of heart. Through dialogue, diplomacy, or personal experiences, it is possible to sway some members of the faction away from their extremist views.

Conclusion

The Thalmor's worship of Auri-El and their suppression of other religions are key aspects of their ideology and their political agenda in ESO. By delving into the beliefs and practices of this powerful faction, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry of Tamriel's religious landscape and the ongoing struggle for power and dominance that shapes its history.

Additional Resources:

• The Elder Scrolls Wiki: Thalmor
• ESO Lore: The Thalmor
• The Prophecy of Aldmeri Dominion