A title given to two Dragons, a city and a King of Númenor. In general the title implied wealth and the power that comes with it, at least in the titles of the Númenórean city of Armenelos and its ruler Ar-Pharazôn. Doubtless the connection with wealth was intended in part with the two Dragons who were also given this title, Glaurung and Smaug, though in these cases it also seems to have been applied somewhat literally.
| Armenelos |
The city of the Kings of Númenor, that lay to the east of the Meneltarma near the centre of the island kingdom, is sometimes referred to as 'Armenelos the Golden', presumably in reference to its richly opulent architecture. |
| Ar-Pharazôn |
The last of the Kings of Númenor brought Númenor to the height of its power and military might. Seeking the everlasting life that he imagined was to be found in the Undying Lands, and corrupted by Sauron, he led an armada to Aman, and so brought about the Downfall of his kingdom. |
| Glaurung |
The Dragon Glaurung apparently earned the title 'Golden' because of his golden colour (he is also called the 'Gold-worm of Angband'), though it may also refer to the hunger for gold and treasure that he shared with all his kind. |
| Smaug |
Like Glaurung, Smaug's title of 'Golden' seems to derive partly from his appearance (he was red-golden in colour) and partly from his love of gold. The title no doubt also reflects that fact that his underside was encrusted in gold from the hoard he kept in Erebor. |
These four were the only characters and places to be given the specific title 'the Golden', but there are numerous other related expressions. Among these were things that were actually made of gold, or covered with it: the Golden Gate, Hall and House. Other uses referred to things that were golden yellow in colour: the Golden Flower, Perch, Tree and Wood. The Men of the House of Hador were famous for their golden hair, and from this two related titles of Hador himself emerged: the Golden-haired and Goldenhead.
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- Updated 8 July 2015
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