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The Silmarillion
384 pages, 2014
The Silmarillion is an epic tale of the world's creation and the First Age, told by J.R.R. Tolkien in his works The Lord of the Rings, Unfinished Tales, and The History of Middle-earth series. It is the ancient drama to which characters such as Elrond and Galadriel look back and in whose events some, such as Fëanor and Morgoth, took part.
Within the Silmarils were jewels created by Fëanor, the most gifted of Elves. They held within them the pure Light of Valinor before the Trees themselves were destroyed by Morgoth, a Dark Lord.
Thereafter, only living beings held this Light within themselves, so it was that Morgoth stole these jewels and placed them in his crown when he ruled over Middle-earth. The Silmarillion is an epic history of rebellion against good and evil.
In The Silmarillion, J.R.R. Tolkien explores the concept of creation. He shows us that creation is not just about making something new, but also about giving it meaning and purpose. This can inspire us to see our own creative endeavors in a new light.
Tolkien's book is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed. Many characters in the book suffer because of their insatiable desire for the Silmarils, precious jewels. This can serve as a reminder to keep our own desires in check.
The Silmarillion is essentially a history book of a fictional world. It shows us how the past shapes the present and the future. This can encourage us to take a look at our own history and learn from it.
In his book, Tolkien doesn't present good and evil as black and white. Instead, he shows us that they are complex and intertwined. This can help us understand that people are not simply 'good' or 'bad', but a mix of both.
Tolkien, a linguist himself, created several languages for his fictional world. The Silmarillion is a testament to the beauty and power of language. It can inspire us to explore and appreciate the languages of our own world.
Quotes 4
Tolkien's The Silmarillion is a masterclass in world-building, a true testament to the power of imagination.
George R.R. Martin - Game of Thrones AuthorThe Silmarillion is a book that demands to be read, not just for its stories, but for the sheer scope of its vision.
Neil Gaiman - Fantasy Fiction WriterMy father's work, The Silmarillion, is a profound exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a fantastical narrative.
Christopher Tolkien - Tolkien's Literary ExecutorThe Silmarillion is a testament to the power of storytelling, a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.
Stephen King - Horror Fiction Author