Beorn;

Beorn; Was a Skin-changer of the Vales of Anduin and Thrived around 3rd age 2941; and died some time before 3rd age 3018. He was the founder of the Beornings and was known as the "warrior" or the "bear". He dwelt near the western eaves of Mirkwood, who could take the form of a Man or a huge black bear. He played a great part in the victory over the Goblins at the Battle of Five Armies. In terms of technicality, Tolkien makes it clear in his letters that despite his remarkable qualities, Beorn was nonetheless a Mortal Man. Assuming that his lifespan was typical of ordinary Men, it's unlikely that he survived much beyond 3rd age 3000. The etymology of Beorn's name is interesting. The Old English word originally meant 'bear', but evolved over the centuries to the point where it came to mean 'warrior'. So, Beorn's ability to transform from a bear to a man echoes the linguistic development of his name. I love this character in the Legendarium by the way. #tolkien #thehobbit #jrrtolkien#tolkienologist #arda #mirkwood #arda #letstalkarda#beorn #lotr #bear #middleearth