Brandir was a member of the Second House of the Edain. He inherited the leadership of his people after the Nirnaeth Arnoediad. At that time, they dwelt in the Forest of Brethil.

He fortified Amon Obel with a stockade, the Ephel Brandir, and he forbade open acts against Morgoth's forces. Brandir hoped to ride out the storm of Morgoth's wrath by hiding his people in the forest.

These peaceful plans were upset when Túrin arrived in their camp. Soon after that, Nienor also arrived, and Brandir fell in love with her. However, Nienor fell in love with Túrin and married him.

When Túrin left the Forest to find Glaurung, Brandir refused to accompany him, and so he was shamed in front of his people. When Brandir thought that Túrin was dead, he still loved Nienor and he went to her, but she escaped him and rushed towards the scene of Túrin's battle. Brandir followed her and saw her fling herself into the waters of the River Teiglin after having her enchantment removed by Glaurung.

The lame chieftain made his way back to Ephel Brandir, followed soon after by Túrin. They quarrelled, and Brandir was slain.