I want to begin anew, with one of two character types in mind. The first being a stalwart, law-abiding Nord Crusader - using blunt weapons, heavy armour and Restorative magic. And the second being a Breton/Imperial rogue/mage hybrid - using magic exclusively with no armour. Question is, if I wanted to roleplay either, what would I go about roleplaying with each? I'm asking those who've played other games, or do D&D, or whatever.

I'd imagine the Crusader joining the Imperial Legion, plundering dungeons, thwarting evil beings, smiting savage beasts - and doing nothing intentionally unlawful (ex. stealing, murdering, etc.). Would he do things like mine/hunt/smith, or does he rely on equipment he finds? And the rogue/mage - I understand the rogue part (stealing, pickpocketing, smoothtalking). But what about the mage part? What would a mage NOT be caught doing? Would he not swim, plunder ruins, hunt or mine? Do mages seek out treasure and adventure, or are they your typical snobbish spellcaster; reading books incessantly and otherwise being stagnant (as in a dorm, or home). I'm just asking for guidance on these classes to those who do D&D, or have roleplayed these classes in other games. Even pointing to a website I can check out myself would help.

Thanks.

Do both. Seriously, the game supports those wanting a JOAT.

There used to be a class called Nightblades. They were the quintessential Thief/Mage hybrid. They were sneaky, liked to backstab enemies, and liked to steal things, all while using Illusion and Alteration magicks to enhance their stealth and confound their enemies.

Not all mages are the scholarly "sit around the dorms and read books" types.

I like being a Rogue only, not Rogue Hybrid...

I'm having ALOT of fun with my Rogue. It kinda reminds me of Russell Crowe in the Robin Hood movie.. You know ? Expert with Bow n Arrow but also really good with a Sword.

My current guy (of whom my Avatar displays) is essentially a Conan the Barbarian if you will. He's a sneaky thief that's good with two-handers. Wears light armor and never uses magic. Maybe that will give you some ideas.

That's the kind of character I usually play (with the last being one). Wanted to be a type of character I haven't been (a mage), with one I've played in Oblivion (thief/warrior). With only magic to rely on, no armour and no weapons. Those are the restrictions.

I don't see a nord crusader siding with the imperials, but that's just me. I think an imperial crusader would be more fun to roleplay. As a pious zealot, between bouts of undead smiting, he should spend time praying at shrines and temples and studying religious texts which he would procure in ancient ruins. He would have no time for crafting professions. He would slay on sight any heathens or worshipers of false gods, such as the Talos priest in Whiterun.