Tiber Septim: The Founder of an Empire and the Architect of the Third Reich of cycles in The Elder Scrolls

First Published
Updated: April 2025

Tiber Septim — The Last Emperor Who Redefined an Empire

Understanding the Context

In the sweeping, mythic universe of The Elder Scrolls lore, few figures loom as large as Tiber Septim. Known also as Emperor Tiber Septim, he is more than just a historical ruler—he is the legendary progenitor of the Septim Dynasty, the visionary who unified Tamriel under one banner, and the god whose legacy endures through both mortal ambition and divine worship. Whether you’re a veteran fan of The Elder Scrolls VI or a newcomer curious about the rich tapestry of Middle-Earth’s politics, Tiber Septim is a cornerstone character whose impact still shapes the world centuries after his reign.


Who Was Tiber Septim?

Raised under the name Arthur Ombright, Tiber Septim was born in the late Second Era around 1E 1319. A brilliant warrior and mystic, Arthur was destined for greatness—both in battle and in destiny. Through his unmatched skill and power, he not only unified the warring provinces of Tamriel but also harnessed the volatile forces of the Aether Divine, emerging as a living symbol of power: Tiber Septim, the god-like emperor.

Key Insights

His military reforms, political acumen, and legendary dehydration of magical energy laid the groundwork for an era of unprecedented stability and expansion—commonly called the Septim Era, which marked the true beginning of Tamriel’s unified history.


The Rise of the Septim Empire

Tiber Septim’s ascent was nothing short of epic. After years of strategic conquests, shifting alliances, and divine myths spun around his persona, he declared himself Emperor of all Tamriel in 1E 1422—a proclamation that birthed the Third Cycle of the Empire. Under his rule:

  • The old kingdoms—Altmeri, Argonians, Bretons, Nords, and others—were consolidated into a single imperium.
  • The Septim Dynasty was established, ensuring hereditary rule through bloodline and adoptive imperium.
  • The Blades and Greybeards were formalized as elite orders serving the empire.
  • Religion evolved with him: he was venerated as a god, prefiguring his later deification as Tíritos, the Dawn God—the patron deity of time, order, and renewal.

Final Thoughts

This transformation from mortal ruler to semi-divine figure entrenched the Septims as both political and spiritual rulers for generations.


Tiber Septim’s Legacy in the Modern Age

Though centuries past the height of his empire, Tiber Septim’s influence lingers throughout Skyrim, Cyrodiil, and beyond:

  • Political Symbolism: The word “Septim” remains a title of respect (and sometimes fear) across Tamriel, invoked by emperors, rebels, and scholars alike.
  • Religious Devotion: The veneration of the Imperial Cult and worship of Tíritos persists, with factions like the Third Circle keeping ancient rites alive.
  • Historical Myth: As The Elder Scrolls VI continues to explore Tamriel’s future, references to Tiber Septim remind players of timeless themes—legacy, divine right, and the burden of empire.

Why Tiber Septim Matters in The Elder Scrolls Lore

Tiber Septim embodies the heart of The Elder Scrolls: complex worlds shaped by ambition, shifting alliances, and the fragile balance between mortal governance and destiny. His story asks timeless questions: What defines true divine right? How do empires endure—or decay? And what sacrifices shape forevermore?

Whether you’re restoring a Perthelan sword, mastering the flow of Aetheric powers, or leading rebellions against the moderne empire’s model, understanding Tiber Septim’s vision grounds every choice in a rich, evolving narrative.