Minotaurs (from Men of Tor or Men of Taur), also called man-bulls or bull-men, are a species of beastfolk with the body of a man and the head of a bull. They are said to possess only rudimentary intelligence and are commonly perceived as savage monsters by the civilized people of Tamriel. Although excessively male as a species, female minotaurs do exist. Minotaurs are social creatures, and often appear in groups numbering twenty or more. The largest male dominates this clan structure and has breeding rights with all females of reproductive age. Younger males will often challenge this dominant male in a fight to the death. The most powerful individuals are referred to as "minotaur lords". Minotaurs are notoriously strong and difficult to fight, as they can easily swing heavy weapons with one hand and their horns have the ability to tear through the toughest armor. For this reason, they are often displayed as prestigious hunting prizes. They are also hunted for their horns, which are very valuable for use in alchemy. Although found throughout Tamriel, minotaurs are mostly confined to the province of Cyrodiil.
Following the Alessian Slave Rebellion the minotaurs seemingly lived peacefully alongside the Nedes of Cyrodiil, but were always a target of suspicion and fear because of their size and strength. With the rise of the Alessian Order, minotaurs were redefined as monsters no better than ogres or trolls and were driven into the forests, destroying whatever culture they previously possessed. During the early First Era, minotaurs were much more common throughout the wilderness of Tamriel, although they were not entirely wiped out by the Alessians and continue to roam the backwoods and hills of Cyrodiil. They are most commonly found in the Colovian Highlands and the Gold Coast region.
Minotaurs served as the protectors of the unicorn at Harcane Grove, which was killed in 3E 433 for the glory of Hircine.
Gallery
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ArenaMinotaur.gif
A minotaur (Arena)
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A minotaur (Oblivion)
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A minotaur lord
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A Dreamworld minotaur
