orcs

Orcs are a fictional humanoid species that appears in fantasy literature, games, and media. They are typically depicted as warlike and aggressive, often serving as antagonists to human or elven protagonists. The concept originated in early 20th-century fantasy and was popularized by J. R. R. Tolkien, who presented orcs as corrupted beings created by Morgoth and later serving Sauron. Tolkien's accounts vary on origin; some passages describe orcs as corrupted or twisted elves, others suggest a separate race formed by Morgoth's evil. Despite inconsistencies, the idea of orcs as organized military forces became a staple in fantasy worlds.

In many settings, orcs have physical traits such as muscular builds, coarse features, and skin tones ranging from green to brown. They commonly form tribal or clan-based societies led by chieftains or warlords. Culture, when depicted, often emphasizes martial prowess, endurance, and discipline, but depictions vary from brutal invaders to honorable warriors within harsh social codes.

In Dungeons & Dragons, orcs are a playable or adversarial humanoid race, typically aligned with chaotic evil in early editions but later versions emphasize cultural variety. In the Warcraft universe, orcs are a distinct culture with tribes and a history shaped by war with humans, demonic corruption, and a strong sense of honor and family.

Encompassing both villainous stereotypes and evolving, nuanced portrayals, orcs remain a dominant fixture in fantasy and popular culture, used to explore themes of courage, conflict, and otherness.