Planes of Oblivion

Introduction

The Planes of Oblivion are a significant aspect of the fictional universe known as the Elder Scrolls series, a popular franchise of action role-playing video games. Oblivion is the realm of the Daedra, powerful entities that exist outside the mortal plane of Nirn. Each plane is ruled by a Daedric Prince, each with unique characteristics, environments, and inhabitants. These planes are diverse, ranging from the fiery landscapes of Mehrunes Dagon's Deadlands to the surreal and chaotic realm of Sheogorath's Shivering Isles.

Structure and Nature of Oblivion

Oblivion is not a single place but a collection of distinct planes, each governed by its own set of rules and aesthetics. The nature of these planes is deeply tied to the personality and domain of their respective Daedric Princes. The planes are often described as being infinite in size, though they can be traversed and explored in a finite manner by mortals.

Daedric Princes and Their Realms

There are seventeen known Daedric Princes, each ruling over a specific plane of Oblivion. Some of the most notable include:

**Mehrunes Dagon** - The Deadlands: Characterized by its fiery, volcanic landscape, the Deadlands are a reflection of Dagon's destructive nature. The plane is filled with lava rivers, jagged rocks, and towering spires.

**Sheogorath** - The Shivering Isles: A realm of madness divided into two contrasting regions, Mania and Dementia. The Shivering Isles reflect Sheogorath's chaotic and unpredictable nature.

**Molag Bal** - Coldharbour: A dark, twisted version of Nirn, Coldharbour is a realm of despair and suffering, mirroring Molag Bal's dominion over domination and enslavement.

**Azura** - Moonshadow: Known for its ethereal beauty, Moonshadow is a realm of vibrant colors and perpetual twilight, reflecting Azura's association with dusk and dawn.

**Boethiah** - Attribution's Share: A plane of constant conflict and strife, where followers of Boethiah engage in endless battles to prove their worth.

Interaction with the Mortal Realm

The interaction between Oblivion and the mortal realm of Nirn is a central theme in the Elder Scrolls series. The Daedric Princes often influence events in Nirn, either directly or through their followers. Mortals can enter Oblivion through magical portals, often at great risk, as the realms are fraught with danger and unpredictability.

The Role of Daedra

Daedra are the inhabitants of Oblivion and serve various roles within their respective planes. Unlike the mortal races of Nirn, Daedra are immortal and cannot be permanently killed; they merely return to Oblivion upon defeat.

Types of Daedra

Daedra come in many forms, each serving different functions within their realms:

**Dremora**: Warrior-like Daedra often serving as soldiers and enforcers for the Daedric Princes. They are known for their martial prowess and loyalty.

**Scamps**: Small, mischievous Daedra often used as servants or scouts. They are less powerful but can be troublesome in large numbers.

**Atronachs**: Elemental Daedra that embody the forces of nature, such as fire, frost, and storm. They are often summoned by mages to serve as guardians.

**Golden Saints and Dark Seducers**: Unique to the Shivering Isles, these Daedra represent the duality of Sheogorath's realm, with Golden Saints embodying order and Dark Seducers embodying chaos.

The Influence of Oblivion on Nirn

The influence of Oblivion on Nirn is profound, often manifesting through cults, artifacts, and direct interventions by the Daedric Princes. The most notable event is the Oblivion Crisis, where Mehrunes Dagon attempted to merge his realm with Nirn, resulting in widespread chaos and destruction.

The Oblivion Crisis

The Oblivion Crisis was a cataclysmic event that occurred during the Third Era, as depicted in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Mehrunes Dagon sought to invade Nirn by opening Oblivion Gates across the continent of Tamriel. These gates allowed Daedra to pour into the mortal realm, wreaking havoc until they were closed by the efforts of the Hero of Kvatch and the last of the Septim bloodline.

Daedric Artifacts

Daedric Princes often bestow powerful artifacts upon their followers, which can significantly impact the balance of power in Nirn. These artifacts are imbued with the essence of their respective Prince and often require great trials to obtain. Examples include the Mace of Molag Bal, Azura's Star, and the Wabbajack.

Cultural and Religious Significance

In the cultures of Tamriel, the Daedric Princes and their realms hold significant religious and mythological importance. While some view the Daedra as malevolent beings to be feared, others see them as powerful patrons capable of granting boons and knowledge.

Worship and Cults

Daedric worship is widespread in Tamriel, with many cults dedicated to individual Princes. These cults often operate in secrecy due to the dangerous and unpredictable nature of Daedric influence. However, in some regions, such as Morrowind, Daedric worship is more openly practiced and integrated into local customs.

The Tribunal and Daedric Relations

In Morrowind, the Tribunal, a trio of god-kings, maintained a complex relationship with the Daedric Princes. While they sought to suppress Daedric worship, they also acknowledged the power and influence of the Daedra, often negotiating with them to maintain balance and order.

Conclusion

The Planes of Oblivion are a rich and intricate aspect of the Elder Scrolls universe, offering a diverse array of environments, creatures, and narratives. They serve as a backdrop for many of the series' most memorable events and continue to captivate players with their mysterious and otherworldly nature.