Caranthir

Caranthir is a fictional character in J. R. R. Tolkien's legendarium. He is a Noldorin prince, the son of Finarfin, and thus the brother of Finrod Felagund, Galadriel, Angrod, and Aegnor. Along with his kin, he was among the Noldor who returned from Valinor to Middle-earth during the exodus that followed the misfortunes surrounding the Silmarils. The Silmarillion and related texts provide relatively few details about his life beyond his lineage and his general role within the history of the Noldor in Beleriand.

Caranthir is depicted as one of the more blunt and austere members of the Noldorin princes. Tolkien's writings suggest a temperament that could be contentious, which in the lore contributed to the complex relations among the Noldor and their realms in exile. He is said to have taken part in the wars against Morgoth in Beleriand, though the sources differ on specific deeds or campaigns and on where his power and influence were centered.

Within Tolkien's narrative, Caranthir serves to illustrate the internal dynamics of the Noldor and the long shadow of their oath to reclaim the Silmarils. His position as a prince of Finarfin situates him among the more reconciled wing of the Noldor, in contrast to the more prideful factions of Feanor's house. The character's limited depiction has led to varied interpretations in downstream adaptations and analyses.