Orcs

  In this description I will refer to the orcs as depicted by Tolkien. To understand Tolkien, goblins are interchangeable with Orcs. In other words Orcs and Goblins are the same race.

  Orcs are mischief creatures, gaining pleasure tormenting men. Orcs are an adaptation from goblins, and in many folk tales of the past goblins are misshapen meddlesome little people, associated with earth, living among cracks in rocks, tree roots, etc.

  Tolkien’s depictions of orcs (goblins) are ugly and dangerous creatures, with ability to manipulate rock. They are cruel and fighting wars with dwarves since the days of the ancients, due to living in the same areas, such as caves and earth-worked caverns.

  Tolkien uses some of the same themes as in folk tales to create his creatures, his version of are more extreme and verastal humanoid creature. It is also important to mention that orcs are mentioned in folk-tales before him, orcs often referring to sea beast or serpents with sharp teeth.

Physical Appearance

• Misshapen

• Ugly

• Fangs

• Broad

• Broad faces

• Slanting eyes

• Flat nose

• Wide mouths

• Long arms

• Crooked backs

• Crooked legs

Notes: Orcs come in many different shapes and sizes, some tall as humans, some are short, and some are small as hobbits. There are even crossbreeds between men and orcs, known as “man-high”.

Note: Take note that not all orcs have crooked backs and legs, and vary in height and size.

Types of Orcs

1. The Uruks (Uruk-hai):

• Uruks are physically different and more powerful from other orcs, being large, taller, and black skinned. They have more human-like proportions, with cruel intentions.

2. Snaga (slave)

• Snaga are short and smaller orcs than Uruks, often referred to as slaves. They have longer arms and tolerate the sunlight better.

3. Snufflers (Tracker orcs)

• Snufflers are a small breed of orcs, with dark skin, possessing tracking abilities.

4. Man-High (Cross-breed)

• Man-high are a cross-breed between human and Orc. They are ugly humanoid creature with goblin faces. Note: This is just a brief description of the different types of orcs.

Characteristics

• Mischief

• Brutal

• Cruel

• Dangerous

• Fear sunlight

• Hate

Note: Orcs live underground, infesting tunnels, and mountains. Ancient enemies with dwarves and have fought many wars against each other. Even though they are misshapen they can be crafty and fearless soldiers. They are quick on their feet, manipulate rock, and hate sunshine and come out at night. They are a great threat to humans, elves and dwarves.

Summary

  Above is a description of orcs standardized in fantasy literature by J.R.R Tolkien. As a writer there is no rule that your Orcs have to have the same standard format (cliché) as Tolkien’s. You as the writer can create any type of Orc or goblin that fits your story, no harm, and no foul. Even in Tolkien’s Middle-earth there are many different types of orcs of different sizes, looks, and attitudes, so, by this orcs are a versatile race that can be developed into many different types. Remember as a writer the most important rule to remember is, there is no rules. Write. Create. Enjoy, and let the world of your imagination come to life.

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