An Essay on the Mammoths of Skyrim

The mammoths of Skyrim are truly remarkable creatures, standing nearly twenty feet tall, and covered in fur. A long snout and four ivory tusks protrude from its face, making the beast easily recognizable. They can be found in many of Skyrim’s holds, in particular, Whiterun, the Pale, and Eastmarch. They are often seen alongside the fearsome giants, which may explain why little is truly known about the mammoths. The aim of this essay is to provide some insight on these magnificent creatures.

Firstly, what is the relationship between the mammoths and the giants? We know that the giants herd the mammoths, but to what end? Sacks of mammoth cheese can be found in most giant camps, suggesting that the giants rely on them for food, but it seems that the mammoths are not seen as mere cattle, but are prized companions. Giant-tamed mammoths are distinguishable by the intricate carvings in their tusks, revealing that a great deal of care is shown towards them.

It is interesting to note that mammoth skulls found in the wild have no markings upon their tusks. What happens to the remains of tamed mammoths? Some travelers have observed giants standing forlornly beside mammoth corpses, as if they were in mourning. While this may well be true, it may be that they are waiting for the body to decompose so they can transport the bones to their camp. Indeed, many mammoth skulls can be found in giant camps, placed up high, almost as if they were objects to be revered.

Some scholars say that the mammoths are held in such high regard because they are, in fact, female giants. Needless to say, this has unpleasant implications, but they reason that it is why there are only male giants in Skyrim. There are a few flaws with this argument. If the absence of female giants can be explained by this, then why do we not see any giant children? Furthermore, the existence of wild mammoths shows that they can reproduce without the intervention of giants.

It seems unlikely that the mammoths are used as mates, but the fact remains that giants hold them in great esteem. In comparison, the more civilized races of Tamriel treat them terribly. It could still be said that we value them, though mainly for their tusks, fur, and meat.

Mammoth tusks can be made into many things. When ground into a fine powder, a tusk can be used as an ingredient in alchemy. It has the potential to restore stamina, but can just as easily create a poison that causes a person to run away in fear. Ultimately, it is not too useful, so people tend not to turn the tusks into powder. As a result, this ingredient is very rare.

Tusks can also be used to create jewelry. Ivory rings are popular among the upper class citizens of Skyrim. Not to mention, the tusks themselves are valued as trophies.

The khajiit in particular seem to have an obsession with mammoth tusks and fur; khajiit caravans in Skyrim seek the tusks, and traders as far as Anequina and Pellitine are known to sell mammoth hides.

Furthermore, a mammoth has enough meat to feed a dozen people for over a month. The snout is the tastiest part, but the rest of the meat is invaluable to smaller communities.

It is regretful that we mainly interact with the mammoths by butchering them, as they truly are wonderful beasts. While the giants are seen as uncivilized by many, their relationship with the mammoths may just be something to be envied. This is exemplified in the poem Ode to the Tundrastriders:

One in nature, each relying upon the other, more than just man and beast, but equals who need one another to survive.