The Silmarillion chronicles the history of Middle-earth from its creation through a divine song to the end of the Third Age. The narrative details the rebellion of the fallen Vala Melkor and the theft of the Silmarils—three holy gems containing the light of the Two Trees of Valinor. This theft drives the Noldorin Elves into exile, where they wage a centuries-long war against Melkor, now called Morgoth. Specific accounts include the tragic romance of Beren and Lúthien, the downfall of the island kingdom of Númenor, and the eventual rise of the Ring-maker Sauron.
This book serves readers who want a historical and mythological foundation for the legends mentioned in The Lord of the Rings. It appeals to those interested in complex genealogies, invented languages, and the internal logic of a secondary world. A reader finishes this work with a technical understanding of the origins of the Wizards, the Elven rings, and the ancient lineages of Men. They gain a comprehensive map of the celestial and terrestrial hierarchy that governs Tolkien’s universe.
Deep; a demanding read.
Best for readers like The Deep Diver. Which reader are you?
Insights from The Silmarillion
“For the less shall not be the more.”
Feanor creates the most beautiful objects in existence. Then his pride burns everything he loves to the ground.
“The world was young, the mountains tall.”
Luthien chooses a mortal life to stay with Beren. It makes their quiet love feel bigger than the wars of gods.
“Then the discord of Melkor rose above it.”
Melkor starts by wanting to create his own music. He ends up just trying to drown out everyone else.
“I go now to my long rest in the timeless halls.”
Finrod dies in a dark pit to keep a promise. He was a king but acted like a true friend.
- Published
- 1977
- Publisher
- Houghton Mifflin Company
- ISBN
- 9780618391110
- Language
- EN
Quotes by J.R.R. Tolkien
More →Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.
The Fellowship of the Ring
Not all those who wander are lost.
The Fellowship of the Ring
