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{{disambig-more|Galadriel|[[Galadriel (disambiguation)]]}}
{{noldor infobox
{{noldor infobox
| image=[[Image:Sylvia Polster - Galadriel.jpg|250px]]
| name=Galadriel
| name=Galadriel
| othernames=''[[Artanis]]'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Father-name|fn]]),<br/>''[[Nerwen]]'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Amilessë|mn]])<br/>''[[Alatariel]]'' ([[Telerin|T]], [[epessë]])
| image=[[File:Matt Stewart - Galadriel.jpg|250px]]
| titles= Lady of [[Lothlórien]],<br/>Lady of Light,<br/>Lady of the Wood,<br/>Lady of the [[Galadhrim]]
| caption="Galadriel" by [[:Category:Images by Matt Stewart|Matt Stewart]]
| pronun=[[Sindarin|S]], {{IPA|[ɡaˈladri.el]}}
| othernames=''Artanis'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Father-name|fn]])<br/>''Nerwen'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Amilessë|mn]])<br/>''Alatáriel'' ([[Telerin|T]], [[epessë|an]])
| titles=[[Lady of Lórien]], Lady of the Wood, Lady of the [[Galadhrim]], Mistress of Magic<ref>Called thus by [[Faramir (son of Denethor II)|Faramir]] ({{TT|Window}}).</ref>
| position=
| position=
| realm=[[Tirion]]; [[Lindon]]; [[Eregion]]; [[Lothlórien]]
| location=[[Eldamar]]<br/>[[Doriath]]<br/>[[Nargothrond]]<br/>[[Harlindon]]<br/>[[Eregion]]<br/>[[Imladris]]<br/>[[Belfalas]]<br/>[[Lothlórien]]
| affiliation=[[White Council]]
| affiliation=[[White Council]]
| language=[[Quenya]], [[Sindarin]] and [[Silvan]]
| language=[[Quenya]]<br/>[[Sindarin]]<br/>[[Westron]]<br/>[[Silvan Elvish]]<br>Probably [[Telerin]] and [[Vanyarin]]<ref group=note>It is never explicitly told she knew these two languages, but it is not unreasonable to assume that, given her [[Vanyar|Vanyarin]] and [[Teleri|Telerin]] ancestry.</ref>
| birth={{YT|1364}}
| birth={{YT|1362}}
| birthlocation=[[Tirion]]
| birthlocation=[[Eldamar]]
| rule=
| rule={{TA|1981}} - {{TA|3021|n}}
| death=
| sailedwest=[[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| deathlocation=Sailed [[Aman|West]], {{TA|3021}}
| sailedfrom=[[Grey Havens]]
| age=
| age=c. 8,374 years<ref group="note">[[Years of the Sun]]. Each [[Years of the Trees|Year of the Trees]] is equal to 9.582 Years of the Sun, and the Years of the Trees ended in the [[Year of the Trees 1500|year 1500]].</ref>
| notablefor=
| house=[[House of Finarfin]]
| house=[[House of Finarfin]]
| parentage=[[Finarfin]] and [[Eärwen]]
| parentage=[[Finarfin]] and [[Eärwen]]
| siblings=[[Finrod]], [[Angrod]] and [[Aegnor]]
| siblings=[[Finrod]]<br/>[[Angrod]]<br/>[[Aegnor]]
| spouse=[[Celeborn]]
| spouse=[[Celeborn]]
| children=[[Celebrían]]
| children=[[Celebrían]]
| gender=Female
| gender=Female
| height=6 feet, 4 inches (193cm)
| height=6 feet, 4 inches (193 cm)<ref>{{UT|Measures}}</ref>
| hair=Radiant gold-silver
| hair=Radiant gold touched with silver<br />''(see [[Hair of Galadriel]])''
| eyes=
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes
| clothing=White robes
| weapons=
| weapons=
| steed=
| steed=
}}{{Pronounce|Galadriel.mp3|Ardamir}}
}}
{{quote|Very tall [Galadriel and Celeborn] were, and the Lady no less tall than the Lord; and they were grave and beautiful. They were clad wholly in white; and the hair of the Lady was of deep gold… but no sign of age was upon them, unless it were in the depths of their eyes; for these were keen as lances in the starlight, and yet profound, the wells of deep memory.|[[The Lord of the Rings]], ''[[The Mirror of Galadriel]]''}}
{{quote|Very tall [Galadriel and Celeborn] were, and the Lady no less tall than the Lord; and they were grave and beautiful. They were clad wholly in white; and the hair of the Lady was of deep gold… but no sign of age was upon them, unless it were in the depths of their eyes; for these were keen as lances in the starlight, and yet profound, the wells of deep memory.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[The Mirror of Galadriel]]"}}
'''Galadriel''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ɡaˈladri.el]}}) was a [[Noldo]], one of the [[Calaquendi]], and arguably the most famous and powerful elf of the [[Third Age]]. She was one of the bearers of the [[Three Rings]], of [[Nenya]], and with it kept her realm of [[Lothlórien]] free of stain.
'''Galadriel''' was a [[Noldor|Noldorin]] Lady who witnessed [[Middle-earth]] during the Three [[Ages]].
 
Galadriel was born in [[Aman]] as one of the [[Noldor]]. She was the daughter of [[Finarfin]], and younger sister to [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]] (later [[King of Nargothrond]]), [[Angrod]], and [[Aegnor]]. She took part in the [[Exile of the Noldor]], following [[Fëanor]] in his rebellion. However, she opposed the [[Kinslaying at Alqualondë]] and crossed the [[Helcaraxë]] with the rest of [[Fingolfin]]'s followers. After arriving in [[Beleriand]], she lived mainly in [[Doriath]], where she befriended [[Melian]]. Later, with her husband [[Celeborn]], she ruled over the [[Silvan Elves|woodland Elves]] of [[Lothlórien]], and together they had a daughter, [[Celebrían]], who married [[Elrond]].  
 
She is described as "the mightiest and fairest of all the Elves that remained in [[Middle-earth]]",<ref name=Rings>{{S|Rings}}</ref> and the "greatest of Elven women".<ref>{{App|B1}}, p. 1082</ref> Throughout the Third Age it was unknown who wielded the [[Three Rings]],<ref name=Third>{{App|TA}}, pp. 1085-8</ref> but during the [[War of the Ring]], Galadriel revealed to [[Frodo Baggins]] that she was the bearer of [[Nenya]].<ref name=Mirror>{{FR|Mirror}}</ref>{{rp|365}} After the War, she returned to the [[Uttermost West]].


==History==
==History==
===Fostering and Life in Aman===
===Elder Days===
====Life in Aman====
:See also: ''[[#Other versions of the legendarium|Other versions of the legendarium]]''.
Galadriel was born in [[Eldamar]] in the [[Year of the Trees 1362]].<ref>{{MR|P2l}}, p. 106</ref> She was the fourth child of [[Finarfin]], prince of the [[Noldor]], who named her '''''Artanis'''''.<ref name=Finwe>{{PM|Finwe}}, pp. 346-7</ref> Her mother was [[Eärwen]], princess of the [[Falathrim|Teleri]], who named her '''''Nerwen''''' ("Man-maiden"). Galadriel grew beautiful and tall, even for the women of the Noldor, being strong of body, will, and mind, "a match for both the [[loremasters]] and the athletes of the [[Eldar]] in the days of their youth."<ref name=Case>{{PM|Case}}, pp. 337-8</ref>
[[File:Marya Filatova - Galadriel.jpg|left|thumb|''Galadriel'' by [[Marya Filatova]]]]
Indeed, "she was then of Amazon disposition and bound up her hair as a crown when taking part in athletic feats". This custom was the origin of her [[Sindarin]] [[Epessë|name]] '''''Galadriel''''' ("Maiden crowned with gleaming hair"),<ref name=Amazon>{{L|348}}, p. 428</ref> which was given to (and accepted by) her much later, in [[Beleriand]].<ref>{{NM|P3xvi}}, p. 352, note 8</ref> The gleaming of her hair was not a mere poetic reference: [[Hair of Galadriel|her hair]] was held a marvel unmatched. It mingled and surpassed the gold hair of her father and the starlike silver of her mother, so the Eldar said that both [[light]]s of the [[Two Trees]] were captured in her tresses. It was also said that this first gave the idea to her uncle [[Fëanor]] of capturing the merged light of the Trees, which would result in the making of the [[Silmarils]]. He asked her three times for one of her tresses, but she always refused. Fëanor and Galadriel were always unfriends, both being the greatest Eldar in Valinor; and if Fëanor was greater than she, she was wiser, and her wisdom grew with the long years. For she also had an outstanding gift to see into the minds of others, and, though she judged most with kindness, she hated and feared the darkness in Fëanor, not perceiving that the shadow of the same evil had fallen upon the minds of all the Noldor, including her own.<ref name=Case/>
 
There was still bliss in Valinor when she was born, but soon she was influenced by the [[Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor|unrest of the Noldor]] and lost her inner peace ever after. She was proud, like most of the [[House of Finwë]], and like her closest brother [[Finrod]], "she had dreams of far lands and dominions that might be her own to order as she would without tutelage". But deep in herself, she had the noble spirit of the [[Vanyar]], which did not allow her to forget the reverence for the [[Valar]].<ref name=Case/>
 
During the [[Darkening of Valinor]] and the rebellion of Fëanor, Galadriel was the only woman of the Noldor who stood among the rising princes. She swore no [[Oath of Fëanor|oath]], but the [[Speech of Fëanor|words of Fëanor]] concerning [[Middle-earth]] kindled a desire in her heart, as she was eager to see those wide unguarded lands and rule a realm of her own.<ref name=Flight>{{S|Flight}}</ref> Like the rest of the [[House of Finarfin]], she was also supportive of the [[Exile of the Noldor|Exile]] by the desire to aid their [[Sindar|Sindarin]] relatives in Middle-earth.<ref name=Case/>


When a fourth child was born to [[Finarfin]], prince of the Noldor, and [[Eärwen]], princess of the [[Teleri]], her father named her '''[[Artanis]]''', Which is a composite of ''[[arta]]'' and ''[[nís]]''; it means "Noble Woman" in [[Quenya]]. She was unusually tall and strong as she grew, and so Eärwen’s name for her was '''[[Nerwen]]''', "man-maiden".  But the most distinctive thing about her was her hair, which was of a rare silver-gold color, and dazzlingly bright. Her hair reflected her unusually diverse heritage, being half [[Teleri]]n (typified by silver hair), a quarter [[Noldor]]in (typified by dark hair), and a quarter [[Vanyar]]in (typified by golden hair).  Despite her mixed blood, she was identified as a princess of the Noldor, as her father was the third son of [[Finwë]], [[High King of the Noldor]].  Yet according to [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]’s later accounts she lived with her Telerin relatives in [[Alqualondë]].
Even though she was one of the leaders in this revolt,<ref name=RGEO>{{RGEO|Notes}}, p. 60</ref> during the troubles that followed she fought fiercely against Fëanor by defending her mother's kin during the [[Kinslaying at Alqualondë]] and the rape of the ships. Afterwards, she even desired to follow Fëanor to disturb him in all the ways that she could, but nothing could have moved her to return since she had begun her way to exile, as her pride was strong then as it was thereafter.<ref name=Case/> She kept moving forward even under the [[Doom of Mandos]], when her father Finarfin abandoned the march and returned to Valinor, and even when Fëanor left behind the hosts of Fingolfin and the children of Finarfin. Then she, along with Finrod and [[Fingolfin]] and his sons, led her people into the bitter North and crossed the terrors of [[Helcaraxë]]. After many losses, they arrived on the northern shores of the [[Outer Lands]].<ref name=Flight/><ref group=note>The nature of Galadriel's exile (if she was innocent or guilty of pride) and the subsequent idea of a ban upon her return were not defined in Tolkien's first conceptions of Galadriel, so she being a rebel exile was a later reinterpretation. He would also change his mind about it, but for this article we chose this version for having the most complete narratives. For a more complete account of this matter, see the entire ''[[#Other versions of the legendarium]]''.</ref>


It was in Alqualondë that she met [[Celeborn|Teleporno]], a young Telerin prince probably the son or grandson of [[Olwë]] (which would make him Artanis’s uncle or cousin)[[Galadriel#Other Versions of the Legendarium|*]].  They eventually fell in love, and he called her in his own [[Telerin]] tongue '''[[Alatáriel]]''' (later [[Sindarin]]ized as '''Galadriel''' and semi-[[Quenya]]rized as '''[[Altáriel]]''') meaning "Maiden Crowned with Radiant Garland", which referred to her hair.  She had another admirer as well: her half-uncle, [[Fëanor]].  Fëanor, being a lover of beauty and brilliance, noted her shining hair. He may have been inspired by her tresses to make the [[Silmarils]], both being said to capture the light of the [[Two Trees]].  He begged her to spare him some of her hair, but she refused him a single hair three times and he gave up.  She had unusually strong powers of mental perception, and when she looked into his mind, she saw only darkness, hinting at Fëanor's evil nature.
====Arrival to Middle-earth====
[[File:Līga Kļaviņa - Love at First Sight.jpg|thumb|''Love at First Sight'' by [[:Category:Images by Līga Kļaviņa|Līga Kļaviņa]]]]
Once in [[Beleriand]], those of the House of Finarfin were eager to enter [[Doriath]], but King [[Elu Thingol]] received the Noldor coldly, and only allowed entrance to those invited by him after some inquiries.<ref name=Return>{{S|13}}</ref> Finally in {{FA|52}},<ref>{{GA|74}}</ref> Finrod and Galadriel became long guests in Doriath, but her brother eventually departed to the [[Caverns of Narog]] to establish the stronghold of [[Nargothrond]]. Galadriel did not go with him, and remained in Doriath with [[Celeborn]], a kinsman of Thingol, as there was great love between them.<ref name=Noldor>{{S|15}}</ref> Despite their love, they did not marry each other, following the [[Elven life cycle|custom among the Eldar]] of avoiding marriage and child-bearing during the war,<ref name=Scales>{{NM|P1ix}}, pp. 65-6</ref> but they were eventually betrothed till the war ended.<ref name=Ages>{{NM|P1xviii}}, p. 149</ref> Meanwhile, she dwelt with Queen [[Melian]], from whom she learned much of the wisdom of Middle-earth.<ref name=Return/>


During the [[Darkening of Valinor]], she was just as fiery and visionary as Fëanor, although she despised him.  During the troubles that followed she took no part in the atrocities against the Teleri during the [[Kinslaying of Alqualondë]], but urged Teleporno her beloved to sail across the [[Belegaer|Sea]] to [[Middle-earth]] by her side.  He agreed for her sake, and so they both came under the [[Ban of the Valar]]. Their crossing to Middle-earth by ship was the exception&mdash;Fëanor and [[Sons of Fëanor|his sons]] had sailed ''stolen'' Telerin ships, while the vast majority of the other Noldor under [[Fingolfin]] crossed the [[Helcaraxë]] on foot.
The Western Corn necessary to make [[lembas]] had been lost in Beleriand until the Noldor brought new grain back, and it flourished by the grace of the Valar. Galadriel was one of the main inheritors of it and of the art of the making of lembas.<ref>{{NM|P3iv}}, p. 296</ref> It is safe to assume Melian benefited from this.


===First Age===
Years passed in Doriath, and Galadriel became dear to Melian, and they spoke often to one another about Valinor. Melian was eager to learn the causes of the [[Exile of the Noldor]], but Galadriel would tell her nothing of what occurred after the death of the Trees. In the year {{FA|66|n}},<ref>{{GA|91}}</ref> Melian asked her directly about this, and Galadriel revealed the story of the [[Silmarils]] and how the Noldor fled from Aman against the will of the Valar, though she still left out the Oath of Fëanor, the Kinslaying, and the burning of the Ships at [[Losgar]]. Melian was able to discern a darkness that was left unsaid, but Galadriel refused to tell her more. Thus, Thingol became concerned regarding the Noldor, and he was informed soon afterwards of the Noldor's dark deeds in Aman, and it chanced that the children of Finarfin were visiting Galadriel in Doriath. Egged on by his accusing words, [[Angrod]] told everything, and Galadriel's brothers departed heavy-hearted.<ref name=Noldor/>
[[File:Ten Thousand Leaves - Galadriel and Melian.jpeg|thumb|left|''Galadriel and Melian'' by [[:Category:Images by Ten Thousand Leaves|Ten Thousand Leaves]]]]
Despite all this, Galadriel stayed in Doriath until {{FA|102|n}},<ref name=Nargothrond>{{GA|108}}</ref> when the kingdom of [[Nargothrond]] was finished and a feast was held for all the children of Finarfin. She dwelt for a while in Nargothrond, and in this time she asked Finrod why he remained unmarried. Her brother answered with dark [[foresight]]s about his kingdom.<ref name=Noldor/> Back in Doriath, in {{FA|420|n}},<ref>{{GA|129}}</ref> Galadriel heard another foretelling, as Melian told her about [[Beren|a Man]] who shall cross into Doriath moved by a doom greater than the [[Girdle of Melian]].<ref>{{S|17}}</ref>


Once in [[Beleriand]] they were welcomed by King [[Thingol]] of [[Doriath]], as both were Telerin in origin.  Thingol knew nothing of what had happened to his brother [[Olwë]] and the [[Calaquendi]], and they brought news.  But they said nothing about the Kinslaying.  Teleporno was Sindarinized as ''[[Celeborn]]'', and Artanis adopted Teleporno’s pet name for her, ''Alatáriel'', in its Sindarin form: ''Galadriel''. [[Image:456px-Donato_Giancola_-_Galadriel_and_the_mirror.jpg|right|thumb|''Galadriel and the mirror'' by [[Donato Giancola]] ]]
Galadriel did not have any significant role in the general course of events in the [[War of the Jewels]], but she might have been well informed of the deaths of her brothers [[Angrod]] and [[Aegnor]] during the [[Dagor Bragollach]]; and of Finrod's, while he was held in captivity by [[Sauron]] in the year {{FA|465|n}}.<ref>{{GA|§198-199}}</ref> At some point before the [[Fall of Nargothrond]] in {{FA|495|n}},<ref>{{GA|275}}</ref> she and Celeborn passed over [[Blue Mountains|the mountains]]<ref name=Mirror/>{{rp|357}} to [[Eriador]], far from the turmoil of the last years of the [[First Age]].
After the rest of the Noldor arrived in Beleriand and the great [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] was fought, Galadriel re-established contact with her brothers, though her hate for the orphaned sons of Fëanor was still strong.  She learned much from [[Melian]] during her days in Doriath, and occasionally spent time in [[Nargothrond]] with her eldest brother [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]].  She and Melian became friends, speaking often to one another about Valinor.  Melian was eager to learn of the happenings of the Exile, but Galadriel would tell her nothing of what occurred after the death of the Trees.  Eventually, however, as Melian’s guesses became more shrewd and accurate, Galadriel told her more, except for that of the death of Finwë, the Kinslaying, and the [[burning of the Ships]] at [[Losgar]].  Melian was able to discern some, and the rest came in rumors to Thingol’s ears.  At last, egged on by the accusing words of Thingol, Angrod told all.  Galadriel escaped being removed from Doriath by Thingol’s sympathy to the houses of Finarfin and [[Fingolfin]] for the wrongs they had suffered.  All the same, she moved for a time to Nargothrond to live with Finrod.  By [[First Age 300|300]], however, she had gone back to live in Doriath.  Presumably, her husband lived with her there in peace.


Precisely where the twain were during the [[Sack of Nargothrond|destruction of Nargothrond]] in [[First Age 495| 495]] and [[Sack of Doriath|Doriath]] in [[First Age 503|503]]/[[First Age 506|506]] is unknown; perhaps they were there during the sacks and escaped one or both.  It is not unlikely that after the destruction of the latter they went either to the [[Havens of Sirion]] or with their Telerin kin to the [[Isle of Balar]] with [[Círdan]].  If the former, they escaped the [[Third Kinslaying]] there, and either went into hiding in Beleriand or, more probably, went to the Isle of Balar. During the [[War of Wrath]], given the choice whether to stay in Middle-earth or not, they surprisingly decided to remain. Galadriel was still very proud, even arrogant, and refused to accept the pardon of the [[Valar]]. Either Celeborn felt the same way, or stayed for the sake of his wife.
After the [[War of Wrath]] at the end of the [[First Age]], [[Eönwë]], herald of [[Manwë]], summoned the [[Elves of Beleriand]] to the West, so they were received in [[Tol Eressëa]] and under the pardon of the Valar. However, some did not wish to leave Middle-earth, such as Celeborn.<ref name=Earendil>{{S|24}}</ref> Being one of the chief leaders of the Noldorin rebellion, Galadriel was not allowed to return<ref>{{L|297}}, p. 386</ref> and a ban was set upon her, to which she replied that she had no wish to do so.<ref name=RGEO/> The same pride that led her out of Aman still moved her, and she rejected the pardon of the Valar,<ref name=Case/> for as she had once lived in Aman itself, Eressëa seemed only a "second best". She was also moved by love for Celeborn, to whom she probably married around this time.<ref name=Scales/><ref group=note>The marriage of Galadriel and Celeborn, as well as when they crossed over the mountains, was not well defined by Tolkien. See ''[[#Unsolved contradictions]]''.</ref>


===Second Age===
===Second Age===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Galadriel and Celeborn at Lake Evendim.jpg|thumb|''Galadriel and Celeborn at Lake Evendim'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
At the beginning of the Second Age, Celeborn and Galadriel dwelt for a time in [[Lindon]], south of the [[Lune]], while [[Gil-galad]] ruled in the north.<ref name=Second>{{App|B1}}, pp. 1082-4</ref> Both left Lindon before the years 10-20, when [[Gil-galad]] became king in that land, apparently thanks to her influence.<ref>{{NM|P1xi}}, p. 81</ref> They entered [[Eriador]] and dwelt for a while around [[Lake Nenuial]], being followed by many Noldor, [[Grey-elves]] and [[Green-elves]]. They were considered the Lord and Lady of the Eldar in Eriador.<ref name=Concerning>{{UT|Concerning}}</ref>{{rp|234}} Probably around {{SA|300}},<ref group=note>The birth-year of Celebrían was not well defined by Tolkien. See ''[[#Unsolved contradictions]]''.</ref> Galadriel and Celeborn had a daughter: [[Celebrían]].<ref name=Scales/>
Circa the year {{SA|500|n}}, [[Sauron]] began to stir in Middle-earth again,<ref name=Second/> but his name was not known. He was, however, perceived by Galadriel, who noticed there was a controlling evil, and that it was spreading above the world, coming from the East beyond the [[Misty Mountains]]. She also thought this 'residue of evil' could only be fought with an alliance of all its enemies. Therefore, she and Celeborn moved eastwards and got established in the realm of [[Eregion]] near [[Khazad-dûm]].<ref group=note>In the source used here, Galadriel and Celeborn are described as the first founders of Eregion, but later sources mention Celebrimbor as founder and lord of Eregion before their coming. See ''[[#Unsolved contradictions]]''.</ref> Celeborn was not fond of [[Dwarves]], but she saw the importance of getting close to them, for she saw military interests even with them. Also, she was a Noldo, and therefore close to them in mind and in the passion for crafts; and in Valinor she had learned from [[Yavanna]] and [[Aulë]], the creator of the Dwarves himself.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|235}}
Some Noldor were also interested in establishing a realm near Khazad-dûm because they knew [[mithril]] had been discovered there. Therefore, many Elven-smiths came to Eregion and created good relations with the Dwarves. [[Celebrimbor]], a descendant of [[Fëanor]] (and therefore a distant cousin of Galadriel), was the greatest of the craft-men and the Lord of Eregion.<ref name=Second/> He was its main builder and in {{SA|750|n}} [[Ost-in-Edhil]], the main city of the realm, was begun. The power of Galadriel and Celeborn also grew: thanks to the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm, they had contact with the [[Nandor|Nandorin]] realm of [[Lórinand]], on the other side of the Misty Mountains. Thanks to Galadriel's influence upon Lórinand, Sauron's machinations there were fruitless.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|236}} She also got in contact with [[Númenor]], having a meeting with King [[Aldarion]] when he came to [[Tharbad]] around {{SA|883|n}}-884.<ref>{{UT|4}}, ''The further course of the narrative'', pp. 205-6</ref>
[[File:Alan Lee - Galadriel in Moria.jpg|thumb|''Galadriel in Moria'' by [[Alan Lee]]]]
About the year {{SA|1200|n}}, Sauron came in disguise to Eriador, but he was only welcomed in Eregion by Celebrimbor and the Elven-smiths, who were interested in his advice on craftsmanship.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|236}} Galadriel was not deceived, and rejected him, saying that he was not in the training of Aulë as he claimed.<ref>{{UT|Galadriel}}, "Notes", p. 254, note 7</ref> "''He perceived at once that Galadriel would be his chief adversary and obstacle, and he endeavoured therefore to placate her, bearing her scorn with outward patience and courtesy''". At the same time, without her knowledge, Sauron influenced Celebrimbor and his [[Gwaith-i-Mírdain]] against Galadriel and Celeborn. Finally, he moved them to expell Galadriel from Eregion at some time between {{SA|1350|n}} and 1400.<ref group=note>As in the previous note, the source used here presents Celebrimbor as a subordinate of Galadriel and Celeborn, so in this episode he leads a coup against them.</ref> Thus, Galadriel and Celebrían left through Khazad-dûm to Lórinand, although Celeborn would not enter the Dwarvish realm and remained in Eregion.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|237}}


Galadriel and her husband stayed in [[Lindon]], the kingdom of Galadriel’s grandnephew [[Gil-galad]].  There they stayed for a while, ruling over a fiefdom of Noldor. Eventually they established or moved to [[Eregion]].  Celebrimbor lived there, and gradually grew in importance among the smiths. Perhaps because of Galadriel’s detestation (Celebrimbor being the last of the [[House of Fëanor]], though Celebrimbor had refused and forsaken them for their evil deeds), Celeborn and Galadriel made contact with the [[Nandor]] of [[Amdír]], who dwelt in a forest realm called [[Lórinand]].  They eventually crossed the [[Misty Mountains|Hithaeglir]] through [[Khazad-dûm]] and relocated to there, becoming great among the Wood-elves.
When Sauron made [[the One Ring]] in {{SA|1600}}, his treachery was discovered by Celebrimbor.<ref name=Second/> The elven-smith came to Lórinand, seeking counsel from Galadriel. They did not find the strength to destroy the [[Rings of Power]], but she advised him to hide the [[Three Rings]] of the Elves where Sauron could not find them. Therefore he gave her [[Nenya]], the White Ring, and the other Rings were given to other Elven lords.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|237}} This was done in {{SA|1693|n}}, the same year Sauron began [[War of the Elves and Sauron|the war against the Elves]].<ref name=Second/>


Though Galadriel urged Celebrimbor against it, the Noldo collaborated with [[Annatar]] on the great process of making [[Rings of Power]]. By Annatar’s help, the Elves of Eregion created many rings, but both Celebrimbor and Annatar created greater rings of their own in secret. Celebrimbor wrought the [[Three Rings]] of the Elves, which were far more powerful than the lesser rings. Annatar, however, wrought [[the One Ring]].  When he placed it on his finger, the Elves were aware of his treachery, and took off their rings. Celebrimbor, afraid for his life but even more for the safety of the Three Rings, sent them to two of the [[Wise]]: [[Narya]] and [[Vilya]] for Gil-galad (who eventually gave Narya to Círdan), and [[Nenya]] for Galadriel. Very few even of the [[Eldar]] knew who hid each of these Rings.  Celebrimbor was slain by [[Sauron]] not long after, and Eregion was laid waste.  But the Three Rings were safe.
With the invasion of Eriador, [[Sack of Eregion|Eregion was destroyed]] and Celebrimbor killed. Despite using torture, Sauron could not learn from him where the Elven Rings were, although he suspected they were kept by Galadriel and Gil-galad.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|238}} But thanks to the military intervention of [[Númenor]], Sauron was defeated in {{SA|1700|n}}.<ref name=Second/> Soon afterwards, Galadriel was affected by [[sea-longing]], and she decided to leave Lórinand and dwell beside the sea.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|240}} As one of the [[High-elves]], her yearning for the sea was unavoidable, and now she became burdened with the desire to cross to the Blessed Realm, but the ban upon her impeded it.<ref name=RGEO/> Thus she did not go to the sea yet, but crossed west of the mountains through Khazad-dûm with Celebrían. Seeking Celeborn, they travelled to [[Imladris]], a refuge created by [[Elrond]] during the war. Once there, a [[White Council|Council]] was held, in which it was decided that Imladris would be the Elvish stronghold in the East, rather than the desolate Eregion.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|239-40}}


[[Image:Angus McBride - Galadriel.gif|thumb|left|250px|''Galadriel'' by [[Angus McBride]]]]In time Amdír, King of Lórinand, was slain in the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] during the [[War of the Last Alliance]].  Celeborn may have participated in the war, but the greatest effect it had on the twain (and Lórinand) was the destruction of Sauron and the loss of [[the One Ring]].  Galadriel was now free to use her ring.  With Nenya, the Ring of Water, Galadriel made the realm of Lórinand even greater. With the power of her ring, she protected it from the intrusion of evils throughout the [[Third Age]].
Galadriel, Celeborn and Celebrían dwelt a long time in Imladris, but at some point they left and moved near the sea, to [[Belfalas]], at the place later known as [[Dol Amroth]]. There were few inhabitants there, but they were visited by Nandorin parties.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|238}} Apparently, they returned to Lórien twice before the [[Last Alliance]] and the end of the Second Age,<ref name=Amroth>{{UT|Amroth}}, pp. 243-5</ref> but of their whereabouts during the final millennia of that Age nothing else is known.


===Third Age===
===Third Age===
====Rule in Lórien====
In early [[Third Age]], in the year {{TA|109|n}}, Galadriel and Celeborn's daughter [[Celebrían]] wedded [[Elrond]] the [[Half-elven]].<ref name=Third/> But they did not stay at first with her, for Galadriel was filled with [[Foresight|foreboding]], and was concerned about the growing shadow in [[Mirkwood]] and [[Dol Guldur]]. Therefore she and Celeborn made long journeys investigating [[Rhovanion]], going from [[Gondor]] and the borders of [[Mordor]] to [[Thranduil]] in the north. They also stayed a long time in Lórien with king [[Amroth]], for Galadriel saw with her wisdom that this prosperous realm could be a stronghold against the growing Shadow, if it had better rule.<ref name=Amroth/> At this point, the [[Istari]] arrived in Middle-earth, and only Galadriel, Elrond and [[Círdan]] knew [[Valinor|where]] they came from.<ref name=Rings/> Around the year {{TA|1100|n}}, the [[Wise]] (including Galadriel as one the chief Eldar) were well aware of the evil dwelling in Dol Guldur, but thought it was one of the [[Nazgûl]].<ref name=Third/>
After their enquiries, Galadriel and Celeborn passed over the mountains to Imladris, and there dwelt for many years with their kin.<ref name=Amroth/>


When [[Amroth]] son of Amdír perished, Celeborn and Galadriel ruled Lórinand (now known as [[Lothlórien]] or Lórien) jointly, and were called the [[Lord and Lady]].  Lothlórien blossomed, and Galadriel planted the [[mallorn]] seeds brought with her from Lindon, the only mallorns east of the Sea.  They established [[Caras Galadhon]], and the realm of Lothlórien was one of light and life. It was during their days of power and glory in Lothlórien (either before or after the deaths of Amdír and Amroth) that Galadriel bore her first and only child: a daughter exceedingly fair named [[Celebrían]].  She married [[Elrond]], a close friend of Galadriel’s and bearer of [[Vilya]] after the death of Gil-galad during the Alliance.  Celeborn and Galadriel had three grandchildren by her, one of whom, [[Arwen]], they were especially close to.  But Celebrían was waylaid and tortured by [[Orcs]] in [[Third Age 2509|2509]], and passed West over the sea.
Between the years {{TA|1980}}-{{TA|1981|n}}, [[Durin's Bane|a terror]] appeared in Khazad-dûm and the Dwarves abandoned the realm, while the many Silvan Elves from Lórien had to flee south.<ref name=Third/> To make things worse, Amroth was lost, leaving no heir, and the Elven realm was left without a ruler. Therefore Celeborn and Galadriel went there, welcomed by the people, and took up the rule jointly, but refused to take the [[King of Lórien|royal title]] and were called the [[Lord and Lady of Galadhrim]]. Saving the realm from the perils of the moment, they dwelt and ruled permanently there.<ref name=Amroth/>


In [[Third Age 2463|2463]] the [[White Council]] was formed. Galadriel, being one of the [[Wise]] and the greatest threat to Sauron alive, was one of the members. Celeborn may have been as well, but this is not known for sure.  She was a good friend of [[Gandalf]], and recommended that he be made head of the Council. But this distinction fell instead to [[Saruman]], whom she distrusted.
As the shadow of Dol Guldur grew again, the [[White Council]] was formed in {{TA|2463|n}}.<ref name=Third/> It was summoned by Galadriel,<ref>{{FR|II7}}, p. 357</ref> who, being a good friend of [[Gandalf]], recommended that he be made head of the Council. But this distinction fell instead to [[Saruman]].<ref name=Rings/>


[[Image:Billy Mosig - The Mirror of Galadriel.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''The Mirror of Galadriel'' by [[Billy Mosig]]]]During the [[War of the Ring]], Galadriel met the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] in [[Third Age 3019|3019]].  She especially was attentive to the [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] [[Frodo Baggins]], who was the bearer of [[the One Ring]]. She showed him Nenya, and let him gaze into her [[Mirror of Galadriel|mirror]] of seeing.  He offered her the One Ring, and despite the extreme temptation, she resisted it successfully.  She sent the Fellowship off on their quest furnished with [[Gifts_of_Galadriel|gifts]].  The two most important gifts she gave were to [[Aragorn]], whom she knew well and liked, and a [[Dwarves|dwarf]] named [[Gimli]].  To Aragorn she gave the [[Elfstone]], which she and her daughter Celebrían had worn.  She was unsure as to what to give Gimli, and asked what he wanted.  After complimenting her beauty, he requested a single strand of her hair.  Galadriel remembered the posing of a similar question by Fëanor, but had searched Gimli’s heart and knew that his intentions were pure. She rewarded him with three strands, which he was later to put into an imperishable crystal in memory of her.
In {{TA|2510|n}}, her daughter Celebrían departed to the West after being wounded by Orcs.<ref name=Third/> The same year, she aided [[Eorl]] and his [[Rohirrim|riders]] in the [[Battle of the Field of Celebrant]], creating a white mist that drove out the shadows from Dol Guldur.<ref>{{UT|8b}}, pp. 298-9</ref>


Not long after the departure of the Fellowship she received the resurrected Gandalf.  She reclothed and refurnished him, giving him a new staff.  After Gandalf left, Lothlórien was subjected to three successive attacks by armies coming out of [[Dol Guldur]]. By the power of her Ring they were thrice repulsed.  Celeborn then led [[Fall of Dol Guldur|an attack on Dol Guldur]] itself.  Once the dark fortress was in the hands of the Galadhrim, Galadriel came, threw down its walls, and purified it of its evil.  It was her last act of power, for the One Ring was destroyed, and the strength of Nenya waned and eventually vanished almost completely.
The White Council would not take action until Gandalf discovered that the shadow growing in Dol Guldur was [[Sauron]]. After deliberating, the Council joined forces and drove Sauron out of Dol Guldur in {{TA|2941|n}}.<ref name=Third/>


===Return to Valinor===
Some years later, [[Aragorn]] entered Lothlórien after many travels, and was admitted by Galadriel. She bade him change his worn-out clothes and dressed him like a proper prince. At that time, Aragorn became betrothed to her granddaughter [[Arwen]].<ref>{{App|A1v}}, p. 1060</ref>


Galadriel attended the wedding of Aragorn with Arwen, then returned to Lothlórien. But in [[Third Age 3021|3021]], two years later, she bade farewell to Celeborn her husband and went West to Valinor. With her went the other two bearers of the Rings, Gandalf and Elrond, and Frodo and Bilbo Baggins who had borne the One Ring. They passed West, and came never again to Middle-earth.  There in Valinor Galadriel must have tried to heal Frodo of his spiritual wounds. Whether she was successful or not is unknown. But sometime later during the [[Fourth Age]] she received Celeborn, her husband. And in [[Fourth Age 120]], it is said, she received Gimli her admirer, who died in Valinor.
====War of the Ring====
[[File:Ralph Damiani - The Trial.png|thumb|right|''The Trial'' by [[:Category:Images by Ralph Damiani|Ralph Damiani]]]]
Galadriel and Celeborn were well informed about the [[Company of the Ring]], its members and their mission, before its coming to Lothlórien, perhaps informed by messages from Rivendell.<ref>{{FR|II6}}, p. 350</ref> In the evening of [[17 January]] of {{TA|3019}}, the Company arrived at [[Caras Galadhon]].<ref name=Great>{{App|B3}}, pp. 1092-4</ref> Coming to the [[talan]] of the Lady and Lord, each member was greeted by name by Celeborn. Noticing that Gandalf was missing, Galadriel asked where he was, for she wished to speak with him. Hearing that they had encountered [[Durin's Bane]] and that this was in fact a [[Balrog]] from ancient times, Celeborn criticized the passing of the Company through Moria. However, Galadriel was more sympathetic, especially towards [[Gimli]], who bowed to her in respect. Before inviting the members of the Company to rest and heal there, she looked deep into their eyes and they all felt their hearts exposed.<ref name=Mirror/>{{rp|354-7}}


==Characteristics==
A month later, in [[15 February]],<ref name=Great/> [[Frodo Baggins]] the [[Ringbearer|bearer of the One Ring]], was walking in the evening with [[Sam]] when they encountered Galadriel. She led them to an enclosed garden and showed them a silver basin. Filling it with water, a [[Mirror of Galadriel|Mirror]] was formed, which allowed them to see things that were and that might come. Frodo saw the [[Eye of Sauron]], and she explained that she knew well Frodo's mind, for Sauron also tried to look into hers. She also [[Keepers of the Three Rings|kept]] a [[Ring of Power]], and showing him [[Nenya]], the Ring of Adamant, she explained that its power would disappear once Frodo destroyed the One, and Lórien would fade. Then Frodo offered the One Ring to her, and she laughed in response, saying: "''I do not deny that my heart has greatly desired to ask what you offer.''" Then she began to ponder how powerful she would become with the Ring's power, and from Nenya came a great light that covered her overwhelming height. But the light faded and she laughed again, saying: "''I pass the test. I will diminish, and go into the West, and remain Galadriel''."<ref name=Mirror/>{{rp|360-6}} Indeed, with this rejection of temptation and her long opposition against Sauron, the ban upon her return to Aman was finally lifted.<ref name=RGEO/>


Galadriel was very beautiful, her hair being the most notable feature about her.  It reminded the Eldar of the light of the [[Two Trees]]. Galadriel, at least in her earlier years, was of a somewhat proud and rebellious nature.  She was free-spirited, and during her time in Aman had many dreams of wide unexplored lands. Her favorite brother was Finrod, for he, too, shared this vision. She could explore the minds and hearts of others, and her gaze was seeing.  It may be because of her unusual beauty and power that she became proud.
That night, the Lord and Lady summoned the Company and spoke of their departure, which was appointed for the following morning. The next day, she sent the Fellowship off on their Quest, furnished with [[Gifts of Galadriel|gifts]] for all the members, including [[lembas]] and [[Elven cloaks]]. Later, a farewell party was held, which the Lord and Lady attended in a [[Swan-ships|swan boat]]; from it, Galadriel sang [[Galadriel's Song of Eldamar|a song about Eldamar]]. After everyone ate and drank, she proceed to give [[Gifts of Galadriel|specific gifts]] to each member.<ref name=Farewell>{{FR|II8}}, pp. 367-78</ref>


But by the Third Age she is also seen to act with wisdom and gentleness. In ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', she appears very gentle, firm, and wise. She was revered even more than Celeborn by the Galadhrim and all who met her.
Among the gifts was the [[Elfstone]], which she gave to Aragorn from Arwen "''as a token of hope''".<ref name=Farewell/> The jewel was also in part a bridal gift and a token of the future wedding of Arwen and Aragorn, done following the [[Elven customs|Noldorin custom]] in which the bride's mother should give to the bridegroom a jewel (Arwen's mother Celebrían had departed long ago, so Galadriel did it in her place).<ref>{{MR|P3II3}}, p. 211</ref> Galadriel stated she was unsure as to what to give Gimli, and asked what he wanted. After complimenting her beauty, he requested a single strand of [[Hair of Galadriel|her hair]]. Instead, she rewarded him with three strands, which he promised to put into an imperishable crystal in memory of her. And last, to Frodo, she gave a [[Phial of Galadriel|a small crystal phial]] specially prepared by her, which contained the [[Light of Valinor|light]] of the [[star of Eärendil]].<ref name=Farewell/>
 
The Company saw her one last time while sailing down to the [[Anduin]]: a shining figure, all clad in white, raising her arms, and Frodo was able to hear her clearly reciting [[Namárië|a long poem in Elvish]] despite the distance.<ref name=Farewell/>
 
On [[17 February|the following day]], a resurrected Gandalf was brought to Lórien by [[Gwaihir]],<ref name=Great/> who was sent by Galadriel. He was received in Caras Galadhon, and was healed and clothed in white. He also took and gave counsel. Before he left, Galadriel gave him [[Galadriel's messages|some prophetic messages]] for Aragorn, [[Legolas]] and Gimli.<ref>{{TT|III5}}, pp. 502-3</ref>
 
The land of Lórien was not exempt from the battles of the [[War of the Ring]]: between [[11 March|11]] and [[18 March]], the [[Galadhrim]] suffered [[assaults on Lothlórien|three assaults]] from Dol Guldur.<ref name=Great/> After the [[Fall of Barad-dûr]], Celeborn crossed the Anduin with a host and began the [[Fall of Dol Guldur|destruction of Dol Guldur]].<ref name=Chief>{{App|B4}}, pp. 1095-6</ref> Soon afterward, Galadriel threw down the walls of the fortress and opened its pits.<ref name=Great/>
 
====Later history====
[[File:Victoria Clare - On the Road to the Grey Havens.jpg|thumb|''On the Road to the Grey Havens'' by [[:Category:Images by Victoria Clare|Victoria Clare]]]]
Galadriel, Celeborn and their company attended the wedding of Aragorn and Arwen. Soon afterward they joined the crowded funeral riding of King [[Théoden]] to [[Rohan]]. After the funerals in the [[Golden Hall]], they continued their travel northwards with other companions and halted in [[Isengard]]. [[Treebeard]] reveals that he had freed Saruman, and regrets that he will not see Galadriel and [[Celeborn]] again. Celeborn replied that he is unsure but Galadriel affirmed that it would be her last meeting with him, giving Treebeard some [[Arda Healed|cryptic words]]. They continued on their way and encountered [[Saruman]], who, released by [[Fangorn]], snapped that she always had hated him, and now he would find comfort knowing that her realm was destroyed as well as his.<ref>{{RK|VI6}}, pp. 976, 983, 985</ref>
 
Two years later, on [[22 September]] {{TA|3021|n}},<ref name=Chief/> Frodo and Sam encountered a [[Wandering Companies|Wandering Company]] while travelling around [[the Shire]], and found that Elrond, Galadriel and [[Bilbo]] were part of it. Nenya was visible on Galadriel's finger, and she seemed to shine like the moon. Frodo decided to depart with them and the hobbits joined the company, led by Elrond and Galadriel.<ref name=Havens>{{RK|VI9}}, pp. 1027-30</ref> On [[29 September]], they reached the [[Grey Havens]] and departed over the Sea. Thus ended the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Chief/>
 
Sometime later during the [[Fourth Age]], she received Celeborn, her husband.<ref>{{FR|Prologue}}, pp. 15-6</ref> And in {{FoA|120}},<ref>{{App|B5}}, p. 1098</ref> it is said that [[Gimli]] went to the West out of his desire to see Galadriel again. He may have been allowed thanks to her intervention.<ref>{{App|A3}}, p. 1081</ref>


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Galadriel.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Galadriel'' is a [[Sindarin]] name translated by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] as "maiden crowned with a garland of bright radiance",<ref name=Finwe/> "Maiden crowned with gleaming hair",<ref name=Amazon></ref> "glittering garland",<ref>{{L|345}}, p. 423</ref> and "maiden crowned with a radiant garland".<ref name=SApp>{{S|Appendix}}, ''kal-''</ref><ref>{{HM|RC}}, pp. 44-5</ref> ''Galadriel'' consists of ''[[galad]]'' ("light, radiance") + ''[[rî]]'' ("crown").<ref name=Finwe/> It was an [[epessë]] given to her in her youth because, while doing exercise, she usually bound up her long golden hair as a crown.<ref name=Amazon>{{L|348}}, p. 428</ref>


''[[Galadriel]]'' is a [[Sindarin]] name translated by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] as "glittering garland",<ref>{{L|345}}, p. 423</ref> "Maiden crowned with gleaming hair",<ref>{{L|348}}, p. 428</ref> and "maiden crowned with a radiant garland".<ref name=SApp>{{S|Appendix}}</ref><ref>{{HM|RC}}, pp. 44-45</ref> It has been suggested that ''Galadriel'' consists of ''[[galad]]'' ("light, radiance") + ''[[rî]]'' ("crown") + ''[[iell]]'' ("daughter").<ref>[http://www.tolkiendil.com/langues/english/i-lam_arth/compound_sindarin_names#g Compound Sindarin Names] at [http://www.tolkiendil.com/ Tolkiendil.com] (accessed 19 June 2011)</ref> Tolkien notes that the element ''galad'' had no relation to Sindarin ''[[galadh]]'' ("tree", or Silvan ''galad'' "tree"), but that such a connexion often was made and her name then became ''Galadhriel''.<ref>{{MR|P3I5}}, p. 182 (commentary to §42)</ref><ref name=SApp/>
Tolkien notes that the element ''galad'' had no relation to Sindarin ''[[galadh]]'' or [[Silvan]] ''galað'' ("tree").<ref name=SApp/><ref>{{MR|P3I5}}, p. 182 (commentary to §42)</ref> Due to this coincidence the name ''Galadriel'' was occasionally rendered as '''''Galadhriel''''', as Tolkien explains:
{{blockquote|When Celeborn and Galadriel became the rulers of the <nowiki>[</nowiki>[[Galadhrim]]<nowiki>]</nowiki>, the name of Galadriel became associated with trees, an association that was aided by the name of her husband, which also appeared to contain a tree-word; so that outside [[Lórien]] among those whose memories of the ancient days and Galadriel's history had grown dim her name was often altered to 'Galadhriel', though never in Lórien itself.<ref>{{UT|6e}}, p. 267</ref>}}


==Other Versions of the Legendarium==
==Other names==
At the time of her birth, [[Finarfin]] named his only daughter '''''Artanis'''''. Her [[father-name]] meant "Noble Woman" in [[Quenya]], from ''[[arta]]'' + ''[[nís]]''.<ref name=Finwe/>


There is a bit of befuddlement and confusion in the story of Galadriel, which Tolkien revised multiple times.  Originally, and in the published ''[[The Silmarillion|Silmarillion]]'', Galadriel supported Fëanor and even fought at Alqualondë.  Then she met Celeborn in [[Doriath]], for Celeborn was one of the Sindar.  This earlier account explains the difficulty of Celeborn and Galadriel being so closely related (the Eldar did not marry that close).  Though it’s possible that Galadriel and Celeborn rebelliously defied the customs and laws, it is primarily because of this difficulty that some [[Tolkienists]] take the earlier account as canon.
Due to Artanis's height and her great strength of body and will, Eärwen chose the [[Quenya]] name '''''Nerwen''''', meaning "man-maiden".<ref name=Case/>


The later account is the one used here, being considered more canon by most (being written and used later than other accounts). It is found in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''.
'''''Alatáriel''''' was the [[Telerin]] name given to Galadriel by [[Celeborn]], meaning "Maiden Crowned with Radiant Garland", which referred to her hair.<ref name=Finwe/> The Quenya form of this name was '''''Altáriel''''', although the proper form would have been '''''Ñaltariel'''''. Its [[Sindarin]] cognate '''''Galadriel''''' was chosen by her to be her Sindarin name, because it was the most beautiful of her names and had been given to her as an [[epessë]] by her lover, Teleporno of the Teleri, whom she wedded later in Beleriand.<ref name=Finwe/><ref group="note">''Teleporno'' was the Teleri-styled named for Lord Celeborn: "It is only of course in the late version that Celeborn appears with a High-elven, rather than Sindarin, name: ''Teleporno''", {{UT|6e}}, p. 266</ref>


== Genealogy ==
== Genealogy ==
              [[Finarfin]] = [[Eärwen]]
<div style="overflow-x: scroll; overflow-y: hidden; border: 1px solid #AAAAAA; padding: 3px; background: #EEEEEE;">
                        |
{{familytree/start}}
    -------------------|-------------------
{{familytree| MIR |y|~|~|~|~|~|~| FIN |y| IND | | | | | | | | OLW | | | | | | | |MIR=[[Míriel]]</br><small>''d. {{YT|1170}}''</small>|FIN=[[Finwë]]</br><small>''d. {{YT|1495}}''</small>|IND=[[Indis]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|OLW=[[Olwë]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>}}
    |       |                   |         |
{{familytree| | | |!| | | |,|-|-|-|v|-|^|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | | |}}
    |       |                   |         |
{{familytree| | | FEA | | FDS | | FNG | | IRM | | FRF |y| EAW | | SON | | | | | |FEA=[[Fëanor]]</br><small>''{{YT|1169}} - {{YT|1497|n}}''</small>|FDS=[[Findis]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|FNG=[[Fingolfin]]</br><small>''{{YT|1190}} - {{FA|456}}''</small>|IRM=[[Írimë]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|FRF=[[Finarfin]]</br><small>''b. {{YT|1230}}''</small>|EAW=[[Eärwen]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|SON=''unknown sons''}}
[[Finrod]]   [[Angrod]] = [[Eldalótë]]   [[Aegnor]]   '''GALADRIEL''' = [[Celeborn]]
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | | | |}}
            |                                   |
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | FRD | | ANG |y| ELD | | AEG | | GAL |y| CEL |FRD=[[Finrod]]</br><small>''{{YT|1300}} - {{FA|465}}''</small>|ANG=[[Angrod]]</br><small>''d. {{FA|455}}''</small>|AEG=[[Aegnor]]</br><small>''d. {{FA|455}}''</small>|GAL='''GALADRIEL'''</br><small>''b. {{YT|1362}}''</small>|ELD=[[Eldalótë]]</br><small>''b. {{YT}}''</small>|CEL=[[Celeborn]]</br><small>''b. {{FA}}''</small>}}
            |                                   |
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |}}
        [[Orodreth]]                             [[Celebrían]] = [[Elrond]]
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | ORO | | | | | | ELR |y| CLB | | |ORO=[[Orodreth]]</br><small>''d. {{FA|495}}''</small>|CLB=[[Celebrían]]</br><small>''b. {{SA|300}}''</small>|ELR=[[Elrond]]</br><small>''b. {{FA|532}}''</small>}}
            |                                         |
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| |}}
      ------|------                                    |
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | FIL | | GIL | | ELL | | ELO | | ARW |GIL=[[Gil-galad]]</br><small>''d. {{SA|3441}}''</small>|FIL=[[Finduilas]]<sup>[[Finduilas#Notes|NB]]</sup></br><small>''{{FA|272}} - {{FA|495|n}}''</small>|ELL=[[Elladan]]</br><small>''b. {{TA|130}}''</small>|ELO=[[Elrohir]]</br><small>''b. {{TA|130}}''</small>|ARW=[[Arwen]]</br><small>''{{TA|241}} - {{FoA|121}}''</small>}}
      |             |                                   |
{{familytree/end}}
      |            |                                  |
</div>
  [[Gil-galad]]   [[Finduilas]]                               |
 
                                                    [[Arwen]] = [[Aragorn|Aragorn Elessar]]
==Other versions of the legendarium==
[[File:Alan Lee - Galadriel.jpg|thumb|''Galadriel sketch'' by [[Alan Lee]]]]
{{quote|There is no part of the history of Middle-earth more full of problems than the story of Galadriel and Celeborn...|[[Christopher Tolkien]] in "[[The History of Galadriel and Celeborn]]"}}
 
===The History of ''The Lord of the Rings''===
The first appearance of the character of Galadriel in the [[legendarium]] was during the composition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. The first reference [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] ever made to her was in some notes for the "[[Lothlórien (chapter)|Lothlórien]]" chapter, which mentioned that a "Lord of Galadrim and a Lady" went to the White Council. The following phrases are a stub of them receiving the Company of the Ring, both clad in white and with white hair. In other isolated notes about this chapter, Tolkien wondered "if Galadriel is alone and is wife of Elrond."<ref>{{TI|XII}}, pp. 233, 236</ref>
 
The first mention of "Keleborn and Galadriel" by name was in the narrative of the [[The Mirror of Galadriel|following chapter]], although Tolkien considered other Elvish names before writing ''Galadriel'' in ink.<ref name=Galadriel>{{TI|XIII}}</ref>{{rp|261}} There Galadriel describes Keleborn and herself as "''wise beyond the measure of the Elves of Middle-earth''", and says that they "''have dwelt there since the Mountains were reared and the Sun was young''", from which [[Christopher Tolkien]] deduced they were both conceived as [[exiled Noldor]].<ref name=Galadriel/>{{rp|263}} After the episode with the Company, both names are changed, so she became ''Galadrien'' ("tree-lady") in the next pages.<ref name=Galadriel/>{{rp|249}} Other notable details that were altered later include the white colour of her hair,<ref name=Galadriel/>{{rp|256}} that she was the keeper of the [[Ring of Earth]],<ref name=Galadriel/>{{rp|252}} and that after the departure of the Company, Frodo was supposed to never see Galadriel ever again.<ref>{{TI|XIVviii}}, p. 286</ref>
 
In a list of matters "to be explained before the end", Tolkien wondered about what happened with Galadriel after the War of the Ring:
 
{{blockquote|They learn [...] that Nazgûl razed Lórien and Keleborn fled with a remnant to [[Mirkwood]]. Galadriel was lost or was hidden. Or shall Lórien be left slowly to fade? Yes. Galadriel parts with Keleborn who elects to stay in the world and [?woods]. She is seen by Frodo in old age, when he and Sam see Galadriel and Bilbo...<ref>{{TI|XXVI}}, p. 451, note 18</ref>}}
 
In sum, earlier and rejected names during the composition of ''The Lord of the Rings'' were ''Finduilas'', ''Rhien'', ''Galdrin'', ''Galdrien'', ''Galadhrien'', and ''Galadrien''.<ref>{{TI|Index}}, p. 480, entry "Galadriel"</ref>
 
===Expanding the First Age===
In the [[Appendix F]] of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien had already stated that Galadriel was "of the royal house of Finrod, father of Felagund, Lord of Nargothrond" (in the Second Edition, Tolkien changed the names to ''Finarfin'' and ''Finrod Felagund'', respectively). Although not using much detail, Tolkien was thus introducing Galadriel in "The Silmarillion" tradition, and having finished ''The Lord of the Rings'', he began the work of expanding the backstory of the character. Galadriel enters this tradition in the ''[[Annals of Aman]]'', in which she is first mentioned when Tolkien decided the children of Finrod (later Finarfin) would be related to Thingol through Eärwen.<ref>{{MR|P2l}}, p. 104, §85</ref> In the ''Annals'', written after the publication of ''The Lord of the Rings'',<ref>{{MR|P2}}, p. 48</ref> Galadriel stands out by being valiant and the only woman leading the Exile of the Noldor,<ref>{{AA|§135, 163}}</ref> but there is no explanation of the nature of her rebellion or its later impact on her life.
 
Indeed, [[Christopher Tolkien]] explains that when the chapter "Farewell to Lórien" was written, his father had not conceived the idea of a ban upon Galadriel's return due to her role in the Flight of the Noldor.<ref name=History>{{UT|6}}, pp. 228-9</ref> In a letter from [[1953]] (even before ''The Lord of the Rings'' was published), Tolkien did not object to the comparison of Galadriel with the [[Virgin Mary]],<ref>{{L|142}}, p. 172</ref> [[#Rebel exile|a comparison he would object]] to later.
 
Written in the same years, the ''[[Grey Annals]]'' follow the ''Annals of Aman'', telling the chronology of Beleriand, mainly after the Return of the Noldor. Here Galadriel's rol is briefly expanded, limited to her relation with Melian and a conversation with her brother Finrod.<ref>{{WJ|P1}}, pp. 35, 40-2, 44, 50</ref> The darkness pending upon all the Noldor is explicitly mentioned, but the same happens with the innocence of the children of Finrod (later Finarfin) during the discussions with Thingol and Melian. Sadly, Tolkien left these ''Annals'' unfinished at the point of the [[Wanderings of Húrin]], so nothing is told about Galadriel at the end of the First Age, neither about her relation with Celeborn.<ref group=note>Notice that both ''Annals'' were (on the matter of Galadriel) the source used by Christopher Tolkien for his edition of the ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]''. For more details see ''[[#The published Silmarillion]]''.</ref>
 
===Expanding the Second Age===
After the publication of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Tolkien most expanded the story of Galadriel in the Second Age in "[[Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn]]". This manuscript is the only full narrative dealing with this matter, but sadly it is a stub full of corrections, and Tolkien never solved some contradictions that would be raised later.<ref group=note>Notice that this text is the main source for the "[[#Second Age|Second Age]]" section of this article, in which the contradictions have been deliberately overlooked. For more details see ''[[#Unsolved contradictions]]''.</ref> Christopher comments that what is now remarkable is that there is still no presence of the idea of a ban upon Galadriel's return: she stays in Middle-earth out of her love for Celeborn. There could be some pride on her part, as she was eager to visit Middle-earth, but later she stays in Eriador after the first fall of Sauron as a sort of duty until he was finally defeated.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|233-4}}
 
The first clear mention of pride in Galadriel's decision is probably in one of many manuscripts written c. [[1959]] dealing with Elven growing. In this text it is briefly mentioned that Galadriel rejected coming back to the West and live in [[Eressëa]], moved by her love for Celeborn and (told in a footnote) maybe by her pride, as she had lived in Aman as a princess, so the Lonely Isle would be a "second best".<ref name=Scales/> We see here that she was allowed to return to the West, but limited to Eressëa, far from the blessed lands (this is, Valinor and Eldamar). There is a sort of ban, not particularly against her, but her pride stands out, as it will become in an essential aspect of her character in the following "phase" of her development.
 
===Rebel exile===
In mid-[[1967]], Tolkien wrote long drafts of a letter, in which he first mentioned the idea of Galadriel not being allowed to return after the First Age as a punishment for being one of the leaders of the Noldor rebellion. Also, in a footnote, he interprets the ''[[Namárië]]'' as Galadriel's wish that Frodo might go West, as she cannot, believing she is to remain in Middle-earth forever. And more radically, Tolkien interprets the test of the Ring as granting Galadriel permission to return to Aman.<ref>{{L|297}}, p. 386</ref> Christopher Tolkien does not believe that this letter is proof that the ban was present when such passages were written.<ref name=History/> Given all this, we can well affirm that what is said in this letter are reinterpretations made a posteriori.
 
Just two months later, ''[[The Road Goes Ever On: A Song Cycle]]'' was published in the United States, in which Tolkien included a brief biography of Galadriel in notes to the ''Namárië''. Not only the Elvish poem, but the line "''What ship will carry me again across such a wide sea?''" of the poem mentioned above, are interpreted here as expressions of Galadriel's longing, unable to return to the West. Her arrogance is connected to her rebellious role, since she replied proudly to the prohibition by saying she had no desire to return.<ref name=RGEO/>
 
It is strange that Tolkien's new vision was so clear at this time, since there does not seem to be any intermediate text in which he considered this version or others. Now, he would go ahead with this vision, so it would also affect the character's background in the First Age.
 
Written in [[1968]] or later, ''[[The Shibboleth of Fëanor]]'' includes a long passage about Galadriel during her life in Aman and during the Exile. It is the first place that highlights her enmity with Fëanor before the Exile, and also her independence from him, since her desire to see and rule distant lands was already present in her before Fëanor's speech. Her role during the Flight of the Noldor is described as courageous and blameless: she had a legitimate desire to help her Teleri kin in Middle-earth, and she fought fiercely against Fëanor in the Kinslaying at Alqualondë. However, she is guilty of pride, not only in her departure, as here she is granted forgiveness after Morgoth's defeat, but she rejects it.<ref name=Case/>
 
A few years later, in [[1971]], we see that this conception of Galadriel still remains. In response to a letter, Tolkien acknowledges the influence of the figure of the Virgin Mary on the character of Galadriel, but now points out a radical difference: Galadriel was a penitent with a past marked by pride and rebellion against divine authorities.<ref>{{L|320}}, p. 407</ref>
 
===Unstained exile===
In a letter written in August [[1973]] (one month before his death), Tolkien gave a completely different description of Galadriel:
 
{{blockquote|Galadriel was 'unstained': she had committed no evil deeds. She was an enemy of Fëanor. She did not reach Middle-earth with the other Noldor, but independently. Her reasons for desiring to go to Middle-earth were legitimate, and she would have been permitted to depart, but for the misfortune that before she set out the revolt of Fëanor broke out, and she became involved in the desperate measures of Manwë, and the ban on all emigrations.<ref>{{L|353}}, p. 431</ref>}}
[[File:Elena Kukanova - Artanis sketch.jpg|thumb|''Artanis'' by [[:Category:Images by Elena Kukanova|Elena Kukanova]]]]
This was not an isolated idea; around the same time he wrote an outline of the revised backstory of Galadriel, which he could not carry into narrative, as it ended up being probably his last writing related to the legendarium. Here Galadriel is described as totally opposed to Fëanor from the beginning, and she felt confined in Aman and desired to depart to Middle-earth in order to exercise her talents: "for being brilliant in mind and swift in action she had early absorbed all of what she was capable of the teaching which the Valar thought fit to give the Eldar". Manwë was probably aware of her desire and he had not forbidden her to depart, nor given permission yet. Nonetheless, Galadriel did not remain inactive and thought in the ships of the Teleri, so she dwelt in Alqualondë with her mother's kin. There she met Celeborn (here a Telerin prince and her cousin), and both planned to build a boat and seek the permission of the Valar to depart to Middle-earth.
 
But then Melkor and Ungoliant destroyed the [[Two Trees]], and Fëanor began his rebellion, in which Galadriel had no part. "Indeed, she and Celeborn fought heroically in defence of Alqualondë against the assault of the Noldor, and Celeborn's ship was saved from them". Now Galadriel sailed in despair without asking Manwë, and indeed she would have been told to stay in Valinor in that hour, despite her desire being legitimate; and thus the ban against departure fell upon her and she was forbidden to return. She and Celeborn reached Middle-earth before Fëanor, finding Círdan's haven and being received with joy. They did not join the war against Morgoth, which they considered hopeless without the help of the Valar, and instead they recommended going eastwards and befriending the [[Dark Elves]] and Men living there. But the Elves of Beleriand did not heed these counsels, so both of them crossed the Ered Lindon before the end of the First Age. They were granted permission to return by the Valar, but they rejected it.
 
Christopher Tolkien explains that this change probably had its roots in the philosophical implications of Galadriel's power in Middle-earth. He is certain that his father had the intention of changing all the narrative of "The Silmarillion" related to the backstory of Galadriel, despite what was already written: after all, she was not part of the story of the Noldor in the first place and the book had not been published. The only notable problem is in the backstory of Celeborn, which contradicts what was already published in J.R.R. Tolkien's life.<ref name=History/>{{rp|231-3}}
 
===Unsolved contradictions===
As can be seen, the development of Galadriel throughout Tolkien's texts is mainly structured around the nature of her exile and ban from Aman. In this subsection we present other aspects of her that are better explained separately for order's sake. In the mentioned texts there are some loose contradictions that can be easily explained as mere mistakes. A noticeable case is Galadriel using [[Nenya]] during the Second Age in "[[Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn]]", which contradicts everything we know about the [[Rings of Power]] in ''The Lord of the Rings''. On the contrary, the contradictions presented in this subsection result from the several revisions and we cannot know how Tolkien would have solved them.
 
;:Galadriel in Nargothrond
In the ''[[Grey Annals]]'' it is written that Galadriel went from Doriath to Nargothrond "and dwelt there for a while" after Finrod had completed its building.<ref name=Nargothrond/> But while expanding the ''[[The Later Quenta Silmarillion|Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Tolkien wrote: "Yet Galadriel his sister went never to Nargothrond, for she remained long in Doriath", and revised it with "Yet Galaðriel his sister dwelt never in Nargothrond".<ref>{{WJ|10}}, p. 178</ref> It is unclear which version was written as definitive, but Christopher Tolkien chose the former one for [[Of the Noldor in Beleriand|Chapter 15]] of his edition of ''The Silmarillion''.
 
;:Passing over the mountains
Christopher Tolkien explains that in the first conception, Galadriel went to the east from Beleriand alone and found Celeborn (probably of [[Nandor|Nandorin]] origin) in Lórien. Hence in the chapter "[[The Mirror of Galadriel]]" she said Celeborn dwelt in the West before the Dawn, and that she crossed the mountains from Beleriand (apparently alone). This contradicts the information in [[Appendix B]] of ''The Lord of the Rings'' and in ''[[The Road Goes Ever On (book)|The Road Goes Ever On]]'', in which Celeborn is a Sinda who accompanied Galadriel from Lindon.<ref name=History/>{{rp|228}}


== Portrayal in Adaptations ==
The time when she passed over the mountains is also contradictory, as Galadriel said that it was "''ere the fall of Nargothrond and Gondolin''", yet in Appendix B it is stated that at the beginning of the Second Age she was still dwelling in Lindon, before passing over the mountains. This contradiction in the same work must have been due to a mistake during revision.<ref group=note>It is possible, however, that Galadriel first left Beleriand to avoid the cataclysmic war, later came to Lindon to join the surviving exiles, and crossed the Ered Luin again looking for a settlement.</ref>
<gallery>
Image:Ralph Bakshi's Galadriel.jpg|Galadriel as portrayed in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]].
Image:Peter Jackson's Galadriel.jpg|[[Cate Blanchett]] as Galadriel in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]].
Image:Galadriel lotr fotr.JPG|Galadriel as portrayed in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]].
</gallery>  


'''1978: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)]]'':'''
;:Marriage of Galadriel and Celeborn
In Appendix B, while describing the beginning of the Second Age, it is said that Celeborn dwelt in [[Harlindon|south Lindon]] with his wife Galadriel, so it appears that they were married at this point.<ref name=Second/> In a manuscript from c. [[1959]], Tolkien said that Galadriel and Celeborn probably married "soon after the overthrow of Morgoth", before they crossed the Mountains.<ref name=Scales/> Another manuscript from the same period states the same, but in its following notes Tolkien wrote that Galadriel did not marry Celeborn until they were settled (in Lake Nenuial, as understood by the context).<ref>{{NM|P1x}}, p. 73</ref> In a manuscript from [[1965]], while Tolkien pondered about Amroth being their child, he wrote that Galadriel and Celeborn were betrothed, but did not marry until the confusion of the War of Wrath and the beginning of the Second Age had ended (till S.A. 24).<ref name=Ages/>
 
;:Birth-year of Celebrían
The year and the place of Celebrían's birth was never definite. Tolkien considered as early as year 9 of the Second Age, and as late as 350 (850 was also considered, but as a mere conjecture). For details and references see ''[[Celebrían#Other versions of the legendarium]]''.
 
;:Mother of Amroth
In "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn", both Celebrían and [[Amroth]] are children of Galadriel and Celeborn,<ref name=Concerning/> but in later texts dating from [[1969]], Tolkien made Amroth the son of [[Amdír]].<ref>{{UT|Amroth}}, p. 244</ref> For more details see ''[[Amroth#Other versions of the legendarium]]''.
 
;:Founder of Eregion
In Appendix B, it is said that at the beginning of the Second Age, the Noldor went to [[Eregion]] out of their interest for the [[mithril]] in [[Moria]]. Besides, Celebrimbor is called "Lord of Eregion", with no mention of his relation with Galadriel.<ref name=Second/> In "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn", Galadriel and Celeborn are described as the founders of Eregion, a place chosen by Galadriel out of her desire to gather the Elven and the Dwarvish races against the increasing evil in Middle-earth. Celebrimbor is the chief builder of the realm, but is not mentioned as its lord, although he later seizes the power there.<ref name=Concerning/>{{rp|235-7}} Celebrimbor as the founder appears only in a linguistic work, in which Tolkien simply mentions "the settlement at Eregion under Celebrimbor".<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 53</ref> It is unclear if these texts are necessarily contradictory, but it is clear that trying to explain the rule in Eregion remains problematic.
 
===The published ''Silmarillion''===
Christopher Tolkien was aware of his father's [[#Unstained exile|latest conception]], in which Galadriel left Aman free of any guilt. However, as this was a mere projected idea, he had to make use of the completed narratives for his edition of ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', in which she is a rebel leader.<ref name=History/>{{rp|232-3}} It is notable that in this work there is no explanation of Galadriel's reasons for remaining in Middle-earth after the War of Wrath, save that Celeborn was unwilling to leave,<ref name=Earendil/> nor is there any mention of a ban against her return or her concerns about the remaining evil. This way, Christopher did not choose any particular position and let the reader guess, but also stripped this character of all development in relation to ''The Lord of the Rings''.
 
[[Douglas C. Kane]] noted that Christopher Tolkien, for his edition, removed some statements on Galadriel from his father's work: [[Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Eldalië|Chapter 5]]'s original text said that Galadriel was "the most valiant" lady of the [[house of Finwë]]; and [[Of the Flight of the Noldor|Chapter 9]]'s mentioned her as "Galadriel the valiant and fair". According to Kane, Galadriel is not the only female character inexplicably diminished by Christopher's editorial choices.<ref>[[Douglas C. Kane]], ''[[Arda Reconstructed: The Creation of the Published Silmarillion]]'' ([[2009]]), pp. 74, 114, 252</ref>
 
==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Galadriel in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Galadriel.jpg|Galadriel as portrayed in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Galadriel.jpg|[[Cate Blanchett]] as Galadriel in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring (video game) - Galadriel.JPG|Galadriel as portrayed in Vivendi's ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Galadriel.jpg|Galadriel in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey - Galadriel.jpg|[[Cate Blanchett]] as Galadriel in [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]
|File:Shadow of Mordor - Galadriel.png|Galadriel as portrayed in ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]''
|File:The Rings of Power (TV series) - Galadriel in Tirharad.jpg|[[Morfydd Clark]] as Galadriel in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]''
|File:The Rings of Power (TV series) - Young Galadriel.jpg|[[Amelie Child Villiers]] as Young Galadriel in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]''
}}
 
===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Galadriel is voiced by [[Annette Crosbie]].
:Galadriel is voiced by [[Annette Crosbie]].


'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Rings]]'':'''
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:The voice of Galadriel is provided by [[Marian Diamond]].
:Galadriel is played by [[Cate Blanchett]]. Galadriel narrates the [[Prologue: One Ring to Rule Them All...|Prologue]], explaining the creation of the Rings of Power and the War of the Last Alliance. Earlier plans considered were to have either Frodo or Gandalf narrate the Prologue, but this was dropped: Frodo was not alive until thousands of years after these events happened, and although Gandalf was alive, he was not present in Middle-earth at the time; the Wizards came some one thousand years after the Prologue ends. Thus Galadriel narrates the Prologue, because she had first-hand accounts of this history and actively participated in its events.


'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Galadriel is played by [[Cate Blanchett]]. Galadriel narrates the Prologue, explaining the creation of the Rings of Power and the War of the Last Alliance. Earlier plans considered were to have either Frodo or Gandalf narrate the Prologue, but this was dropped: Frodo was not alive until thousands of years after these events happened, and although Gandalf was alive, he was not present in Middle-earth at the time; the Wizards came some one thousand years after the Prologue ends. Thus Galadriel narrates the Prologue, because she had first-hand accounts of this history and actively participated in its events.  
:Galadriel frequently consults [[ósanwë|telepathically]] with Elrond; in the books there is no clear indication of how Galadriel knew about the coming of the Fellowship. In the film, unlike the book, Galadriel and [[Elrond]] send an army of [[Elves]] - led by [[Haldir]] - to [[Battle of the Hornburg|Helm's Deep]] to aid the [[Rohirrim]]. In the DVD commentary, [[Peter Jackson]] and his fellow writers explain that they worried audiences would wonder why the Elves do not seem to be helping in the war, while at the same time, they felt that actually inserting an entire separate battle scene at Lothlórien would take up too much screen time and resources.
 
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:A spiritual apparition of Lady Galadriel appears to provide Frodo strength following his passage through Shelob's Lair soon after he uses the Phial that she gave him. She is later seen leaving Middle-earth along with other Ring-bearers, but in film version her husband Celeborn departs with her at the same time.
 
'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:Cate Blanchett reprised her role as Galadriel, although the character is absent from the novel.<ref name="PJCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Peter Jackson]]|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150168211921558|articlename=Production begins in New Zealand on The Hobbit|dated=20-March-2011|website=[http://www.facebook.com/ Facebook]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> She appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Saruman]], [[Gandalf]] and [[Elrond]].Later, right before [[Thorin and Company|Thorin and his Company]] enter in [[Mirkwood]], she telepathically urges Gandalf to further seek the true identity of the [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]]. Finally, during the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], Galadriel plays a larger role. She first rescues Gandalf from captivity, and is ultimately the one to drive Sauron from the fortress using her [[Phial of Galadriel|phial]], although weakened by the amount of power she used.
 
===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit]]:'''
:Galadriel is portrayed by [[Heidi Krohn]]. She appears only in the episode ''Lórien'', and she is featured as a reflection on the surface of the lake.
 
'''2022: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]:'''
:Galadriel is portrayed by [[Morfydd Clark]] as one of the central characters of the series.<ref>{{webcite|author=Alice Jones|articleurl=https://inews.co.uk/culture//film/morfydd-clark-saint-maud-baftas-lord-of-the-rings-946160|articlename=Morfydd Clark on Saint Maud and Lord of the Rings: ‘I am so frightened of loneliness’
|dated=10-August-2021|website=[https://inews.co.uk inews.co.uk]|accessed=07-April-2021}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=Justin Kroll|articleurl=https://variety.com/2019/tv/news/lord-of-the-rings-series-galadriel-morfydd-clark-1203446284/ |articlename='Lord of the Rings' Series Taps Morfydd Clark as Young Galadriel (EXCLUSIVE)|dated=10-August-2021|website=[https://variety..com Variety]|accessed=17-December-2019}}</ref> Lady [[Amelie Child Villiers]] portrays Young Galadriel in [[A Shadow of the Past|Episode 1]] as a child.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9788618/fullcredits|articlename=Full Cast & Crew|dated=|website=IMDB|accessed=2 September 2022}}</ref>
 
===Radio series===
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Galadriel is provided by [[Marian Diamond]]. In addition to the Lothlórien episodes, the voice of Galadriel is heard in Shelob's Lair as a reminder to use the phial, and she appears with Elrond in the final episode in the Shire, as they journey towards the Grey Havens.
 
'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Galadriel is provided by Soňa Norisová. Norisová also provides most of the singing in the series (including the opening and closing titles theme and series closing song), alluding to Galadriel being a secondary storyteller (with Bilbo Baggins serving as the series' primary storyteller).


'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
===Games===
'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:Galadriel, voiced by [[Jennifer Hale]], is the narrator of the Prologue and the Epilogue, and appears in Lothlórien.
:Galadriel, voiced by [[Jennifer Hale]], is the narrator of the Prologue and the Epilogue, and appears in Lothlórien.


'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Galadriel frequently seems to be consulting telepathically with Elrond; there is some indication from the books that the two were able to communicate in some way, but the specific instances in the movies have no direct counterparts in the books. Further, the notion that Galadriel would send her warriors to assist at [[Helm's Deep]] is practically unthinkable in the context of the books, where [[Lothlórien]] was itself under threat of attack at the time.
:Galadriel is the strongest of "Hero" units available to the Free Peoples. If a player's army manages to spot [[Gollum]] on the battlefield, take The One Ring from him and deliver it to their forces, the option to "summon" Galadriel unlocks for a large amount of resources. Thus, Lady Galadriel is represented as succumbing to corruption of The Ring, similar to the respective scene in the ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' movie.


'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Galadriel is a non-playable character, who narrates cutscenes. She is first seen during [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]] Book VI [[The Shadowy Abyss]]. The player can find her at [[Caras Galadhon]].
:Introduced in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]'', Galadriel plays a prominent role during the Epic storyline with guidance and support. During the final days of the [[War of the Ring]], Galadriel assembles the Council of Elven Lords, where it is decided to bring their armies against [[Dol Guldur]]. After she brings down the walls of Dol Guldur, Galadriel accompanies Arwen on her journey south to her wedding, and they visit the site of [[Celebrian]]'s captivity in the [[Misty Mountains]] together. Afterwards, she and Celeborn join the procession of [[Elrond]]'s house and travel to [[Minas Tirith]] to attend the wedding of Arwen and Aragorn.
 
'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Galadriel is featured in the game, although she is a non-playable character. She is voiced by [[Jennifer Hale]] and she narrates the prologue in a showing of the game.


'''2012-13: ''[[The Hobbit films]]'':'''
'''2017: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of War]]:'''
: Cate Blanchett will return to her role as Galadriel in Peter Jackson's adaptation of The Hobbit.
:Galadriel is featured in the game, although she is a non-playable character, with [[Jennifer Hale]] reprising her role from the game.


== See Also ==
{{references|notes}}
* [[:Category:Images of Galadriel|Images of Galadriel]]
{{seq-start}}
{{references}}
{{seq-head
| race=noldor
| house=[[House of Finarfin]]<small><br/>Cadet branch of [[House of Finwë]]</small>
| born={{YT|1362}}
| died=Sailed west on [[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
}}
{{seq
| pvac=None
| prev=''[[Celebrimbor]], as its creator''
| list=[[Three Keepers|Keeper]] of [[Nenya]]
| dates=c. {{SA|1600}} - after [[29 September]], {{TA|3021}}
| next=Presumably, still Galadriel
| nvac=None
}}
{{seq
| pvac=None
| prev=''[[Amroth]], as [[King of Lórien]]''
| list=[[Lord and Lady of Lórien|Lady of Lórien]]
| dates={{TA|1981}} - [[29 September]], {{TA|3021|n}} (with [[Celeborn]])
| next=[[Celeborn]]
}}
{{seq-end}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
{{lordoftheringsfilms}}
[[Category:Calaquendi]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:First Age characters]]
[[Category:House of Finarfin]]
[[Category:House of Finarfin]]
[[Category:House of Olwë]]
[[Category:Noldor]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Rulers in Middle-earth]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[de:Galadriel]]
[[de:Galadriel]]
[[fa:گالادریل]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/noldor/galadriel]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/noldor/galadriel]]
[[fi:Galadriel]]
[[fi:Galadriel]]

Latest revision as of 16:13, 9 March 2024

The name Galadriel refers to more than one character, item or concept. For a list of other meanings, see Galadriel (disambiguation).
Galadriel
Noldo
Matt Stewart - Galadriel.jpg
"Galadriel" by Matt Stewart
Biographical Information
PronunciationS, [ɡaˈladri.el]
Other namesArtanis (Q, fn)
Nerwen (Q, mn)
Alatáriel (T, an)
TitlesLady of Lórien, Lady of the Wood, Lady of the Galadhrim, Mistress of Magic[1]
LocationEldamar
Doriath
Nargothrond
Harlindon
Eregion
Imladris
Belfalas
Lothlórien
AffiliationWhite Council
LanguageQuenya
Sindarin
Westron
Silvan Elvish
Probably Telerin and Vanyarin[note 1]
BirthY.T. 1362
Eldamar
RuleT.A. 1981 - 3021
Sailed west29 September, T.A. 3021 (aged c. 8,374 years[note 2])
Grey Havens
Family
HouseHouse of Finarfin
ParentageFinarfin and Eärwen
SiblingsFinrod
Angrod
Aegnor
SpouseCeleborn
ChildrenCelebrían
Physical Description
GenderFemale
Height6 feet, 4 inches (193 cm)[2]
Hair colorRadiant gold touched with silver
(see Hair of Galadriel)
ClothingWhite robes
GalleryImages of Galadriel
"Very tall [Galadriel and Celeborn] were, and the Lady no less tall than the Lord; and they were grave and beautiful. They were clad wholly in white; and the hair of the Lady was of deep gold… but no sign of age was upon them, unless it were in the depths of their eyes; for these were keen as lances in the starlight, and yet profound, the wells of deep memory."
The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Mirror of Galadriel"

Galadriel was a Noldorin Lady who witnessed Middle-earth during the Three Ages.

Galadriel was born in Aman as one of the Noldor. She was the daughter of Finarfin, and younger sister to Finrod Felagund (later King of Nargothrond), Angrod, and Aegnor. She took part in the Exile of the Noldor, following Fëanor in his rebellion. However, she opposed the Kinslaying at Alqualondë and crossed the Helcaraxë with the rest of Fingolfin's followers. After arriving in Beleriand, she lived mainly in Doriath, where she befriended Melian. Later, with her husband Celeborn, she ruled over the woodland Elves of Lothlórien, and together they had a daughter, Celebrían, who married Elrond.

She is described as "the mightiest and fairest of all the Elves that remained in Middle-earth",[3] and the "greatest of Elven women".[4] Throughout the Third Age it was unknown who wielded the Three Rings,[5] but during the War of the Ring, Galadriel revealed to Frodo Baggins that she was the bearer of Nenya.[6]:365 After the War, she returned to the Uttermost West.

History[edit | edit source]

Elder Days[edit | edit source]

Life in Aman[edit | edit source]

See also: Other versions of the legendarium.

Galadriel was born in Eldamar in the Year of the Trees 1362.[7] She was the fourth child of Finarfin, prince of the Noldor, who named her Artanis.[8] Her mother was Eärwen, princess of the Teleri, who named her Nerwen ("Man-maiden"). Galadriel grew beautiful and tall, even for the women of the Noldor, being strong of body, will, and mind, "a match for both the loremasters and the athletes of the Eldar in the days of their youth."[9]

Galadriel by Marya Filatova

Indeed, "she was then of Amazon disposition and bound up her hair as a crown when taking part in athletic feats". This custom was the origin of her Sindarin name Galadriel ("Maiden crowned with gleaming hair"),[10] which was given to (and accepted by) her much later, in Beleriand.[11] The gleaming of her hair was not a mere poetic reference: her hair was held a marvel unmatched. It mingled and surpassed the gold hair of her father and the starlike silver of her mother, so the Eldar said that both lights of the Two Trees were captured in her tresses. It was also said that this first gave the idea to her uncle Fëanor of capturing the merged light of the Trees, which would result in the making of the Silmarils. He asked her three times for one of her tresses, but she always refused. Fëanor and Galadriel were always unfriends, both being the greatest Eldar in Valinor; and if Fëanor was greater than she, she was wiser, and her wisdom grew with the long years. For she also had an outstanding gift to see into the minds of others, and, though she judged most with kindness, she hated and feared the darkness in Fëanor, not perceiving that the shadow of the same evil had fallen upon the minds of all the Noldor, including her own.[9]

There was still bliss in Valinor when she was born, but soon she was influenced by the unrest of the Noldor and lost her inner peace ever after. She was proud, like most of the House of Finwë, and like her closest brother Finrod, "she had dreams of far lands and dominions that might be her own to order as she would without tutelage". But deep in herself, she had the noble spirit of the Vanyar, which did not allow her to forget the reverence for the Valar.[9]

During the Darkening of Valinor and the rebellion of Fëanor, Galadriel was the only woman of the Noldor who stood among the rising princes. She swore no oath, but the words of Fëanor concerning Middle-earth kindled a desire in her heart, as she was eager to see those wide unguarded lands and rule a realm of her own.[12] Like the rest of the House of Finarfin, she was also supportive of the Exile by the desire to aid their Sindarin relatives in Middle-earth.[9]

Even though she was one of the leaders in this revolt,[13] during the troubles that followed she fought fiercely against Fëanor by defending her mother's kin during the Kinslaying at Alqualondë and the rape of the ships. Afterwards, she even desired to follow Fëanor to disturb him in all the ways that she could, but nothing could have moved her to return since she had begun her way to exile, as her pride was strong then as it was thereafter.[9] She kept moving forward even under the Doom of Mandos, when her father Finarfin abandoned the march and returned to Valinor, and even when Fëanor left behind the hosts of Fingolfin and the children of Finarfin. Then she, along with Finrod and Fingolfin and his sons, led her people into the bitter North and crossed the terrors of Helcaraxë. After many losses, they arrived on the northern shores of the Outer Lands.[12][note 3]

Arrival to Middle-earth[edit | edit source]

Love at First Sight by Līga Kļaviņa

Once in Beleriand, those of the House of Finarfin were eager to enter Doriath, but King Elu Thingol received the Noldor coldly, and only allowed entrance to those invited by him after some inquiries.[14] Finally in F.A. 52,[15] Finrod and Galadriel became long guests in Doriath, but her brother eventually departed to the Caverns of Narog to establish the stronghold of Nargothrond. Galadriel did not go with him, and remained in Doriath with Celeborn, a kinsman of Thingol, as there was great love between them.[16] Despite their love, they did not marry each other, following the custom among the Eldar of avoiding marriage and child-bearing during the war,[17] but they were eventually betrothed till the war ended.[18] Meanwhile, she dwelt with Queen Melian, from whom she learned much of the wisdom of Middle-earth.[14]

The Western Corn necessary to make lembas had been lost in Beleriand until the Noldor brought new grain back, and it flourished by the grace of the Valar. Galadriel was one of the main inheritors of it and of the art of the making of lembas.[19] It is safe to assume Melian benefited from this.

Years passed in Doriath, and Galadriel became dear to Melian, and they spoke often to one another about Valinor. Melian was eager to learn the causes of the Exile of the Noldor, but Galadriel would tell her nothing of what occurred after the death of the Trees. In the year 66,[20] Melian asked her directly about this, and Galadriel revealed the story of the Silmarils and how the Noldor fled from Aman against the will of the Valar, though she still left out the Oath of Fëanor, the Kinslaying, and the burning of the Ships at Losgar. Melian was able to discern a darkness that was left unsaid, but Galadriel refused to tell her more. Thus, Thingol became concerned regarding the Noldor, and he was informed soon afterwards of the Noldor's dark deeds in Aman, and it chanced that the children of Finarfin were visiting Galadriel in Doriath. Egged on by his accusing words, Angrod told everything, and Galadriel's brothers departed heavy-hearted.[16]

Galadriel and Melian by Ten Thousand Leaves

Despite all this, Galadriel stayed in Doriath until 102,[21] when the kingdom of Nargothrond was finished and a feast was held for all the children of Finarfin. She dwelt for a while in Nargothrond, and in this time she asked Finrod why he remained unmarried. Her brother answered with dark foresights about his kingdom.[16] Back in Doriath, in 420,[22] Galadriel heard another foretelling, as Melian told her about a Man who shall cross into Doriath moved by a doom greater than the Girdle of Melian.[23]

Galadriel did not have any significant role in the general course of events in the War of the Jewels, but she might have been well informed of the deaths of her brothers Angrod and Aegnor during the Dagor Bragollach; and of Finrod's, while he was held in captivity by Sauron in the year 465.[24] At some point before the Fall of Nargothrond in 495,[25] she and Celeborn passed over the mountains[6]:357 to Eriador, far from the turmoil of the last years of the First Age.

After the War of Wrath at the end of the First Age, Eönwë, herald of Manwë, summoned the Elves of Beleriand to the West, so they were received in Tol Eressëa and under the pardon of the Valar. However, some did not wish to leave Middle-earth, such as Celeborn.[26] Being one of the chief leaders of the Noldorin rebellion, Galadriel was not allowed to return[27] and a ban was set upon her, to which she replied that she had no wish to do so.[13] The same pride that led her out of Aman still moved her, and she rejected the pardon of the Valar,[9] for as she had once lived in Aman itself, Eressëa seemed only a "second best". She was also moved by love for Celeborn, to whom she probably married around this time.[17][note 4]

Second Age[edit | edit source]

Galadriel and Celeborn at Lake Evendim by Ted Nasmith

At the beginning of the Second Age, Celeborn and Galadriel dwelt for a time in Lindon, south of the Lune, while Gil-galad ruled in the north.[28] Both left Lindon before the years 10-20, when Gil-galad became king in that land, apparently thanks to her influence.[29] They entered Eriador and dwelt for a while around Lake Nenuial, being followed by many Noldor, Grey-elves and Green-elves. They were considered the Lord and Lady of the Eldar in Eriador.[30]:234 Probably around S.A. 300,[note 5] Galadriel and Celeborn had a daughter: Celebrían.[17]

Circa the year 500, Sauron began to stir in Middle-earth again,[28] but his name was not known. He was, however, perceived by Galadriel, who noticed there was a controlling evil, and that it was spreading above the world, coming from the East beyond the Misty Mountains. She also thought this 'residue of evil' could only be fought with an alliance of all its enemies. Therefore, she and Celeborn moved eastwards and got established in the realm of Eregion near Khazad-dûm.[note 6] Celeborn was not fond of Dwarves, but she saw the importance of getting close to them, for she saw military interests even with them. Also, she was a Noldo, and therefore close to them in mind and in the passion for crafts; and in Valinor she had learned from Yavanna and Aulë, the creator of the Dwarves himself.[30]:235

Some Noldor were also interested in establishing a realm near Khazad-dûm because they knew mithril had been discovered there. Therefore, many Elven-smiths came to Eregion and created good relations with the Dwarves. Celebrimbor, a descendant of Fëanor (and therefore a distant cousin of Galadriel), was the greatest of the craft-men and the Lord of Eregion.[28] He was its main builder and in 750 Ost-in-Edhil, the main city of the realm, was begun. The power of Galadriel and Celeborn also grew: thanks to the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm, they had contact with the Nandorin realm of Lórinand, on the other side of the Misty Mountains. Thanks to Galadriel's influence upon Lórinand, Sauron's machinations there were fruitless.[30]:236 She also got in contact with Númenor, having a meeting with King Aldarion when he came to Tharbad around 883-884.[31]

Galadriel in Moria by Alan Lee

About the year 1200, Sauron came in disguise to Eriador, but he was only welcomed in Eregion by Celebrimbor and the Elven-smiths, who were interested in his advice on craftsmanship.[30]:236 Galadriel was not deceived, and rejected him, saying that he was not in the training of Aulë as he claimed.[32] "He perceived at once that Galadriel would be his chief adversary and obstacle, and he endeavoured therefore to placate her, bearing her scorn with outward patience and courtesy". At the same time, without her knowledge, Sauron influenced Celebrimbor and his Gwaith-i-Mírdain against Galadriel and Celeborn. Finally, he moved them to expell Galadriel from Eregion at some time between 1350 and 1400.[note 7] Thus, Galadriel and Celebrían left through Khazad-dûm to Lórinand, although Celeborn would not enter the Dwarvish realm and remained in Eregion.[30]:237

When Sauron made the One Ring in S.A. 1600, his treachery was discovered by Celebrimbor.[28] The elven-smith came to Lórinand, seeking counsel from Galadriel. They did not find the strength to destroy the Rings of Power, but she advised him to hide the Three Rings of the Elves where Sauron could not find them. Therefore he gave her Nenya, the White Ring, and the other Rings were given to other Elven lords.[30]:237 This was done in 1693, the same year Sauron began the war against the Elves.[28]

With the invasion of Eriador, Eregion was destroyed and Celebrimbor killed. Despite using torture, Sauron could not learn from him where the Elven Rings were, although he suspected they were kept by Galadriel and Gil-galad.[30]:238 But thanks to the military intervention of Númenor, Sauron was defeated in 1700.[28] Soon afterwards, Galadriel was affected by sea-longing, and she decided to leave Lórinand and dwell beside the sea.[30]:240 As one of the High-elves, her yearning for the sea was unavoidable, and now she became burdened with the desire to cross to the Blessed Realm, but the ban upon her impeded it.[13] Thus she did not go to the sea yet, but crossed west of the mountains through Khazad-dûm with Celebrían. Seeking Celeborn, they travelled to Imladris, a refuge created by Elrond during the war. Once there, a Council was held, in which it was decided that Imladris would be the Elvish stronghold in the East, rather than the desolate Eregion.[30]:239-40

Galadriel, Celeborn and Celebrían dwelt a long time in Imladris, but at some point they left and moved near the sea, to Belfalas, at the place later known as Dol Amroth. There were few inhabitants there, but they were visited by Nandorin parties.[30]:238 Apparently, they returned to Lórien twice before the Last Alliance and the end of the Second Age,[33] but of their whereabouts during the final millennia of that Age nothing else is known.

Third Age[edit | edit source]

Rule in Lórien[edit | edit source]

In early Third Age, in the year 109, Galadriel and Celeborn's daughter Celebrían wedded Elrond the Half-elven.[5] But they did not stay at first with her, for Galadriel was filled with foreboding, and was concerned about the growing shadow in Mirkwood and Dol Guldur. Therefore she and Celeborn made long journeys investigating Rhovanion, going from Gondor and the borders of Mordor to Thranduil in the north. They also stayed a long time in Lórien with king Amroth, for Galadriel saw with her wisdom that this prosperous realm could be a stronghold against the growing Shadow, if it had better rule.[33] At this point, the Istari arrived in Middle-earth, and only Galadriel, Elrond and Círdan knew where they came from.[3] Around the year 1100, the Wise (including Galadriel as one the chief Eldar) were well aware of the evil dwelling in Dol Guldur, but thought it was one of the Nazgûl.[5]

After their enquiries, Galadriel and Celeborn passed over the mountains to Imladris, and there dwelt for many years with their kin.[33]

Between the years T.A. 1980-1981, a terror appeared in Khazad-dûm and the Dwarves abandoned the realm, while the many Silvan Elves from Lórien had to flee south.[5] To make things worse, Amroth was lost, leaving no heir, and the Elven realm was left without a ruler. Therefore Celeborn and Galadriel went there, welcomed by the people, and took up the rule jointly, but refused to take the royal title and were called the Lord and Lady of Galadhrim. Saving the realm from the perils of the moment, they dwelt and ruled permanently there.[33]

As the shadow of Dol Guldur grew again, the White Council was formed in 2463.[5] It was summoned by Galadriel,[34] who, being a good friend of Gandalf, recommended that he be made head of the Council. But this distinction fell instead to Saruman.[3]

In 2510, her daughter Celebrían departed to the West after being wounded by Orcs.[5] The same year, she aided Eorl and his riders in the Battle of the Field of Celebrant, creating a white mist that drove out the shadows from Dol Guldur.[35]

The White Council would not take action until Gandalf discovered that the shadow growing in Dol Guldur was Sauron. After deliberating, the Council joined forces and drove Sauron out of Dol Guldur in 2941.[5]

Some years later, Aragorn entered Lothlórien after many travels, and was admitted by Galadriel. She bade him change his worn-out clothes and dressed him like a proper prince. At that time, Aragorn became betrothed to her granddaughter Arwen.[36]

War of the Ring[edit | edit source]

The Trial by Ralph Damiani

Galadriel and Celeborn were well informed about the Company of the Ring, its members and their mission, before its coming to Lothlórien, perhaps informed by messages from Rivendell.[37] In the evening of 17 January of T.A. 3019, the Company arrived at Caras Galadhon.[38] Coming to the talan of the Lady and Lord, each member was greeted by name by Celeborn. Noticing that Gandalf was missing, Galadriel asked where he was, for she wished to speak with him. Hearing that they had encountered Durin's Bane and that this was in fact a Balrog from ancient times, Celeborn criticized the passing of the Company through Moria. However, Galadriel was more sympathetic, especially towards Gimli, who bowed to her in respect. Before inviting the members of the Company to rest and heal there, she looked deep into their eyes and they all felt their hearts exposed.[6]:354-7

A month later, in 15 February,[38] Frodo Baggins the bearer of the One Ring, was walking in the evening with Sam when they encountered Galadriel. She led them to an enclosed garden and showed them a silver basin. Filling it with water, a Mirror was formed, which allowed them to see things that were and that might come. Frodo saw the Eye of Sauron, and she explained that she knew well Frodo's mind, for Sauron also tried to look into hers. She also kept a Ring of Power, and showing him Nenya, the Ring of Adamant, she explained that its power would disappear once Frodo destroyed the One, and Lórien would fade. Then Frodo offered the One Ring to her, and she laughed in response, saying: "I do not deny that my heart has greatly desired to ask what you offer." Then she began to ponder how powerful she would become with the Ring's power, and from Nenya came a great light that covered her overwhelming height. But the light faded and she laughed again, saying: "I pass the test. I will diminish, and go into the West, and remain Galadriel."[6]:360-6 Indeed, with this rejection of temptation and her long opposition against Sauron, the ban upon her return to Aman was finally lifted.[13]

That night, the Lord and Lady summoned the Company and spoke of their departure, which was appointed for the following morning. The next day, she sent the Fellowship off on their Quest, furnished with gifts for all the members, including lembas and Elven cloaks. Later, a farewell party was held, which the Lord and Lady attended in a swan boat; from it, Galadriel sang a song about Eldamar. After everyone ate and drank, she proceed to give specific gifts to each member.[39]

Among the gifts was the Elfstone, which she gave to Aragorn from Arwen "as a token of hope".[39] The jewel was also in part a bridal gift and a token of the future wedding of Arwen and Aragorn, done following the Noldorin custom in which the bride's mother should give to the bridegroom a jewel (Arwen's mother Celebrían had departed long ago, so Galadriel did it in her place).[40] Galadriel stated she was unsure as to what to give Gimli, and asked what he wanted. After complimenting her beauty, he requested a single strand of her hair. Instead, she rewarded him with three strands, which he promised to put into an imperishable crystal in memory of her. And last, to Frodo, she gave a a small crystal phial specially prepared by her, which contained the light of the star of Eärendil.[39]

The Company saw her one last time while sailing down to the Anduin: a shining figure, all clad in white, raising her arms, and Frodo was able to hear her clearly reciting a long poem in Elvish despite the distance.[39]

On the following day, a resurrected Gandalf was brought to Lórien by Gwaihir,[38] who was sent by Galadriel. He was received in Caras Galadhon, and was healed and clothed in white. He also took and gave counsel. Before he left, Galadriel gave him some prophetic messages for Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli.[41]

The land of Lórien was not exempt from the battles of the War of the Ring: between 11 and 18 March, the Galadhrim suffered three assaults from Dol Guldur.[38] After the Fall of Barad-dûr, Celeborn crossed the Anduin with a host and began the destruction of Dol Guldur.[42] Soon afterward, Galadriel threw down the walls of the fortress and opened its pits.[38]

Later history[edit | edit source]

On the Road to the Grey Havens by Victoria Clare

Galadriel, Celeborn and their company attended the wedding of Aragorn and Arwen. Soon afterward they joined the crowded funeral riding of King Théoden to Rohan. After the funerals in the Golden Hall, they continued their travel northwards with other companions and halted in Isengard. Treebeard reveals that he had freed Saruman, and regrets that he will not see Galadriel and Celeborn again. Celeborn replied that he is unsure but Galadriel affirmed that it would be her last meeting with him, giving Treebeard some cryptic words. They continued on their way and encountered Saruman, who, released by Fangorn, snapped that she always had hated him, and now he would find comfort knowing that her realm was destroyed as well as his.[43]

Two years later, on 22 September 3021,[42] Frodo and Sam encountered a Wandering Company while travelling around the Shire, and found that Elrond, Galadriel and Bilbo were part of it. Nenya was visible on Galadriel's finger, and she seemed to shine like the moon. Frodo decided to depart with them and the hobbits joined the company, led by Elrond and Galadriel.[44] On 29 September, they reached the Grey Havens and departed over the Sea. Thus ended the Third Age.[42]

Sometime later during the Fourth Age, she received Celeborn, her husband.[45] And in Fo.A. 120,[46] it is said that Gimli went to the West out of his desire to see Galadriel again. He may have been allowed thanks to her intervention.[47]

Etymology[edit | edit source]

Galadriel is a Sindarin name translated by Tolkien as "maiden crowned with a garland of bright radiance",[8] "Maiden crowned with gleaming hair",[10] "glittering garland",[48] and "maiden crowned with a radiant garland".[49][50] Galadriel consists of galad ("light, radiance") + ("crown").[8] It was an epessë given to her in her youth because, while doing exercise, she usually bound up her long golden hair as a crown.[10]

Tolkien notes that the element galad had no relation to Sindarin galadh or Silvan galað ("tree").[49][51] Due to this coincidence the name Galadriel was occasionally rendered as Galadhriel, as Tolkien explains:

When Celeborn and Galadriel became the rulers of the [Galadhrim], the name of Galadriel became associated with trees, an association that was aided by the name of her husband, which also appeared to contain a tree-word; so that outside Lórien among those whose memories of the ancient days and Galadriel's history had grown dim her name was often altered to 'Galadhriel', though never in Lórien itself.[52]

Other names[edit | edit source]

At the time of her birth, Finarfin named his only daughter Artanis. Her father-name meant "Noble Woman" in Quenya, from arta + nís.[8]

Due to Artanis's height and her great strength of body and will, Eärwen chose the Quenya name Nerwen, meaning "man-maiden".[9]

Alatáriel was the Telerin name given to Galadriel by Celeborn, meaning "Maiden Crowned with Radiant Garland", which referred to her hair.[8] The Quenya form of this name was Altáriel, although the proper form would have been Ñaltariel. Its Sindarin cognate Galadriel was chosen by her to be her Sindarin name, because it was the most beautiful of her names and had been given to her as an epessë by her lover, Teleporno of the Teleri, whom she wedded later in Beleriand.[8][note 8]

Genealogy[edit | edit source]

Míriel
d. Y.T. 1170
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Finwë
d. Y.T. 1495
 
Indis
b. Y.T.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Olwë
b. Y.T.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fëanor
Y.T. 1169 - 1497
 
Findis
b. Y.T.
 
Fingolfin
Y.T. 1190 - F.A. 456
 
Írimë
b. Y.T.
 
Finarfin
b. Y.T. 1230
 
Eärwen
b. Y.T.
 
unknown sons
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Finrod
Y.T. 1300 - F.A. 465
 
Angrod
d. F.A. 455
 
Eldalótë
b. Y.T.
 
Aegnor
d. F.A. 455
 
GALADRIEL
b. Y.T. 1362
 
Celeborn
b. F.A.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Orodreth
d. F.A. 495
 
 
 
 
 
Elrond
b. F.A. 532
 
Celebrían
b. S.A. 300
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FinduilasNB
F.A. 272 - 495
 
Gil-galad
d. S.A. 3441
 
Elladan
b. T.A. 130
 
Elrohir
b. T.A. 130
 
Arwen
T.A. 241 - Fo.A. 121

Other versions of the legendarium[edit | edit source]

Galadriel sketch by Alan Lee
"There is no part of the history of Middle-earth more full of problems than the story of Galadriel and Celeborn..."
Christopher Tolkien in "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn"

The History of The Lord of the Rings[edit | edit source]

The first appearance of the character of Galadriel in the legendarium was during the composition of The Lord of the Rings. The first reference J.R.R. Tolkien ever made to her was in some notes for the "Lothlórien" chapter, which mentioned that a "Lord of Galadrim and a Lady" went to the White Council. The following phrases are a stub of them receiving the Company of the Ring, both clad in white and with white hair. In other isolated notes about this chapter, Tolkien wondered "if Galadriel is alone and is wife of Elrond."[53]

The first mention of "Keleborn and Galadriel" by name was in the narrative of the following chapter, although Tolkien considered other Elvish names before writing Galadriel in ink.[54]:261 There Galadriel describes Keleborn and herself as "wise beyond the measure of the Elves of Middle-earth", and says that they "have dwelt there since the Mountains were reared and the Sun was young", from which Christopher Tolkien deduced they were both conceived as exiled Noldor.[54]:263 After the episode with the Company, both names are changed, so she became Galadrien ("tree-lady") in the next pages.[54]:249 Other notable details that were altered later include the white colour of her hair,[54]:256 that she was the keeper of the Ring of Earth,[54]:252 and that after the departure of the Company, Frodo was supposed to never see Galadriel ever again.[55]

In a list of matters "to be explained before the end", Tolkien wondered about what happened with Galadriel after the War of the Ring:

They learn [...] that Nazgûl razed Lórien and Keleborn fled with a remnant to Mirkwood. Galadriel was lost or was hidden. Or shall Lórien be left slowly to fade? Yes. Galadriel parts with Keleborn who elects to stay in the world and [?woods]. She is seen by Frodo in old age, when he and Sam see Galadriel and Bilbo...[56]

In sum, earlier and rejected names during the composition of The Lord of the Rings were Finduilas, Rhien, Galdrin, Galdrien, Galadhrien, and Galadrien.[57]

Expanding the First Age[edit | edit source]

In the Appendix F of The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien had already stated that Galadriel was "of the royal house of Finrod, father of Felagund, Lord of Nargothrond" (in the Second Edition, Tolkien changed the names to Finarfin and Finrod Felagund, respectively). Although not using much detail, Tolkien was thus introducing Galadriel in "The Silmarillion" tradition, and having finished The Lord of the Rings, he began the work of expanding the backstory of the character. Galadriel enters this tradition in the Annals of Aman, in which she is first mentioned when Tolkien decided the children of Finrod (later Finarfin) would be related to Thingol through Eärwen.[58] In the Annals, written after the publication of The Lord of the Rings,[59] Galadriel stands out by being valiant and the only woman leading the Exile of the Noldor,[60] but there is no explanation of the nature of her rebellion or its later impact on her life.

Indeed, Christopher Tolkien explains that when the chapter "Farewell to Lórien" was written, his father had not conceived the idea of a ban upon Galadriel's return due to her role in the Flight of the Noldor.[61] In a letter from 1953 (even before The Lord of the Rings was published), Tolkien did not object to the comparison of Galadriel with the Virgin Mary,[62] a comparison he would object to later.

Written in the same years, the Grey Annals follow the Annals of Aman, telling the chronology of Beleriand, mainly after the Return of the Noldor. Here Galadriel's rol is briefly expanded, limited to her relation with Melian and a conversation with her brother Finrod.[63] The darkness pending upon all the Noldor is explicitly mentioned, but the same happens with the innocence of the children of Finrod (later Finarfin) during the discussions with Thingol and Melian. Sadly, Tolkien left these Annals unfinished at the point of the Wanderings of Húrin, so nothing is told about Galadriel at the end of the First Age, neither about her relation with Celeborn.[note 9]

Expanding the Second Age[edit | edit source]

After the publication of The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien most expanded the story of Galadriel in the Second Age in "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn". This manuscript is the only full narrative dealing with this matter, but sadly it is a stub full of corrections, and Tolkien never solved some contradictions that would be raised later.[note 10] Christopher comments that what is now remarkable is that there is still no presence of the idea of a ban upon Galadriel's return: she stays in Middle-earth out of her love for Celeborn. There could be some pride on her part, as she was eager to visit Middle-earth, but later she stays in Eriador after the first fall of Sauron as a sort of duty until he was finally defeated.[30]:233-4

The first clear mention of pride in Galadriel's decision is probably in one of many manuscripts written c. 1959 dealing with Elven growing. In this text it is briefly mentioned that Galadriel rejected coming back to the West and live in Eressëa, moved by her love for Celeborn and (told in a footnote) maybe by her pride, as she had lived in Aman as a princess, so the Lonely Isle would be a "second best".[17] We see here that she was allowed to return to the West, but limited to Eressëa, far from the blessed lands (this is, Valinor and Eldamar). There is a sort of ban, not particularly against her, but her pride stands out, as it will become in an essential aspect of her character in the following "phase" of her development.

Rebel exile[edit | edit source]

In mid-1967, Tolkien wrote long drafts of a letter, in which he first mentioned the idea of Galadriel not being allowed to return after the First Age as a punishment for being one of the leaders of the Noldor rebellion. Also, in a footnote, he interprets the Namárië as Galadriel's wish that Frodo might go West, as she cannot, believing she is to remain in Middle-earth forever. And more radically, Tolkien interprets the test of the Ring as granting Galadriel permission to return to Aman.[64] Christopher Tolkien does not believe that this letter is proof that the ban was present when such passages were written.[61] Given all this, we can well affirm that what is said in this letter are reinterpretations made a posteriori.

Just two months later, The Road Goes Ever On: A Song Cycle was published in the United States, in which Tolkien included a brief biography of Galadriel in notes to the Namárië. Not only the Elvish poem, but the line "What ship will carry me again across such a wide sea?" of the poem mentioned above, are interpreted here as expressions of Galadriel's longing, unable to return to the West. Her arrogance is connected to her rebellious role, since she replied proudly to the prohibition by saying she had no desire to return.[13]

It is strange that Tolkien's new vision was so clear at this time, since there does not seem to be any intermediate text in which he considered this version or others. Now, he would go ahead with this vision, so it would also affect the character's background in the First Age.

Written in 1968 or later, The Shibboleth of Fëanor includes a long passage about Galadriel during her life in Aman and during the Exile. It is the first place that highlights her enmity with Fëanor before the Exile, and also her independence from him, since her desire to see and rule distant lands was already present in her before Fëanor's speech. Her role during the Flight of the Noldor is described as courageous and blameless: she had a legitimate desire to help her Teleri kin in Middle-earth, and she fought fiercely against Fëanor in the Kinslaying at Alqualondë. However, she is guilty of pride, not only in her departure, as here she is granted forgiveness after Morgoth's defeat, but she rejects it.[9]

A few years later, in 1971, we see that this conception of Galadriel still remains. In response to a letter, Tolkien acknowledges the influence of the figure of the Virgin Mary on the character of Galadriel, but now points out a radical difference: Galadriel was a penitent with a past marked by pride and rebellion against divine authorities.[65]

Unstained exile[edit | edit source]

In a letter written in August 1973 (one month before his death), Tolkien gave a completely different description of Galadriel:

Galadriel was 'unstained': she had committed no evil deeds. She was an enemy of Fëanor. She did not reach Middle-earth with the other Noldor, but independently. Her reasons for desiring to go to Middle-earth were legitimate, and she would have been permitted to depart, but for the misfortune that before she set out the revolt of Fëanor broke out, and she became involved in the desperate measures of Manwë, and the ban on all emigrations.[66]

Artanis by Elena Kukanova

This was not an isolated idea; around the same time he wrote an outline of the revised backstory of Galadriel, which he could not carry into narrative, as it ended up being probably his last writing related to the legendarium. Here Galadriel is described as totally opposed to Fëanor from the beginning, and she felt confined in Aman and desired to depart to Middle-earth in order to exercise her talents: "for being brilliant in mind and swift in action she had early absorbed all of what she was capable of the teaching which the Valar thought fit to give the Eldar". Manwë was probably aware of her desire and he had not forbidden her to depart, nor given permission yet. Nonetheless, Galadriel did not remain inactive and thought in the ships of the Teleri, so she dwelt in Alqualondë with her mother's kin. There she met Celeborn (here a Telerin prince and her cousin), and both planned to build a boat and seek the permission of the Valar to depart to Middle-earth.

But then Melkor and Ungoliant destroyed the Two Trees, and Fëanor began his rebellion, in which Galadriel had no part. "Indeed, she and Celeborn fought heroically in defence of Alqualondë against the assault of the Noldor, and Celeborn's ship was saved from them". Now Galadriel sailed in despair without asking Manwë, and indeed she would have been told to stay in Valinor in that hour, despite her desire being legitimate; and thus the ban against departure fell upon her and she was forbidden to return. She and Celeborn reached Middle-earth before Fëanor, finding Círdan's haven and being received with joy. They did not join the war against Morgoth, which they considered hopeless without the help of the Valar, and instead they recommended going eastwards and befriending the Dark Elves and Men living there. But the Elves of Beleriand did not heed these counsels, so both of them crossed the Ered Lindon before the end of the First Age. They were granted permission to return by the Valar, but they rejected it.

Christopher Tolkien explains that this change probably had its roots in the philosophical implications of Galadriel's power in Middle-earth. He is certain that his father had the intention of changing all the narrative of "The Silmarillion" related to the backstory of Galadriel, despite what was already written: after all, she was not part of the story of the Noldor in the first place and the book had not been published. The only notable problem is in the backstory of Celeborn, which contradicts what was already published in J.R.R. Tolkien's life.[61]:231-3

Unsolved contradictions[edit | edit source]

As can be seen, the development of Galadriel throughout Tolkien's texts is mainly structured around the nature of her exile and ban from Aman. In this subsection we present other aspects of her that are better explained separately for order's sake. In the mentioned texts there are some loose contradictions that can be easily explained as mere mistakes. A noticeable case is Galadriel using Nenya during the Second Age in "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn", which contradicts everything we know about the Rings of Power in The Lord of the Rings. On the contrary, the contradictions presented in this subsection result from the several revisions and we cannot know how Tolkien would have solved them.

Galadriel in Nargothrond

In the Grey Annals it is written that Galadriel went from Doriath to Nargothrond "and dwelt there for a while" after Finrod had completed its building.[21] But while expanding the Quenta Silmarillion, Tolkien wrote: "Yet Galadriel his sister went never to Nargothrond, for she remained long in Doriath", and revised it with "Yet Galaðriel his sister dwelt never in Nargothrond".[67] It is unclear which version was written as definitive, but Christopher Tolkien chose the former one for Chapter 15 of his edition of The Silmarillion.

Passing over the mountains

Christopher Tolkien explains that in the first conception, Galadriel went to the east from Beleriand alone and found Celeborn (probably of Nandorin origin) in Lórien. Hence in the chapter "The Mirror of Galadriel" she said Celeborn dwelt in the West before the Dawn, and that she crossed the mountains from Beleriand (apparently alone). This contradicts the information in Appendix B of The Lord of the Rings and in The Road Goes Ever On, in which Celeborn is a Sinda who accompanied Galadriel from Lindon.[61]:228

The time when she passed over the mountains is also contradictory, as Galadriel said that it was "ere the fall of Nargothrond and Gondolin", yet in Appendix B it is stated that at the beginning of the Second Age she was still dwelling in Lindon, before passing over the mountains. This contradiction in the same work must have been due to a mistake during revision.[note 11]

Marriage of Galadriel and Celeborn

In Appendix B, while describing the beginning of the Second Age, it is said that Celeborn dwelt in south Lindon with his wife Galadriel, so it appears that they were married at this point.[28] In a manuscript from c. 1959, Tolkien said that Galadriel and Celeborn probably married "soon after the overthrow of Morgoth", before they crossed the Mountains.[17] Another manuscript from the same period states the same, but in its following notes Tolkien wrote that Galadriel did not marry Celeborn until they were settled (in Lake Nenuial, as understood by the context).[68] In a manuscript from 1965, while Tolkien pondered about Amroth being their child, he wrote that Galadriel and Celeborn were betrothed, but did not marry until the confusion of the War of Wrath and the beginning of the Second Age had ended (till S.A. 24).[18]

Birth-year of Celebrían

The year and the place of Celebrían's birth was never definite. Tolkien considered as early as year 9 of the Second Age, and as late as 350 (850 was also considered, but as a mere conjecture). For details and references see Celebrían#Other versions of the legendarium.

Mother of Amroth

In "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn", both Celebrían and Amroth are children of Galadriel and Celeborn,[30] but in later texts dating from 1969, Tolkien made Amroth the son of Amdír.[69] For more details see Amroth#Other versions of the legendarium.

Founder of Eregion

In Appendix B, it is said that at the beginning of the Second Age, the Noldor went to Eregion out of their interest for the mithril in Moria. Besides, Celebrimbor is called "Lord of Eregion", with no mention of his relation with Galadriel.[28] In "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn", Galadriel and Celeborn are described as the founders of Eregion, a place chosen by Galadriel out of her desire to gather the Elven and the Dwarvish races against the increasing evil in Middle-earth. Celebrimbor is the chief builder of the realm, but is not mentioned as its lord, although he later seizes the power there.[30]:235-7 Celebrimbor as the founder appears only in a linguistic work, in which Tolkien simply mentions "the settlement at Eregion under Celebrimbor".[70] It is unclear if these texts are necessarily contradictory, but it is clear that trying to explain the rule in Eregion remains problematic.

The published Silmarillion[edit | edit source]

Christopher Tolkien was aware of his father's latest conception, in which Galadriel left Aman free of any guilt. However, as this was a mere projected idea, he had to make use of the completed narratives for his edition of The Silmarillion, in which she is a rebel leader.[61]:232-3 It is notable that in this work there is no explanation of Galadriel's reasons for remaining in Middle-earth after the War of Wrath, save that Celeborn was unwilling to leave,[26] nor is there any mention of a ban against her return or her concerns about the remaining evil. This way, Christopher did not choose any particular position and let the reader guess, but also stripped this character of all development in relation to The Lord of the Rings.

Douglas C. Kane noted that Christopher Tolkien, for his edition, removed some statements on Galadriel from his father's work: Chapter 5's original text said that Galadriel was "the most valiant" lady of the house of Finwë; and Chapter 9's mentioned her as "Galadriel the valiant and fair". According to Kane, Galadriel is not the only female character inexplicably diminished by Christopher's editorial choices.[71]

Portrayal in adaptations[edit | edit source]

Galadriel in adaptations
Galadriel as portrayed in The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)  
Galadriel as portrayed in Vivendi's The Fellowship of the Ring  
Galadriel as portrayed in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor  

Films[edit | edit source]

1978: The Lord of the Rings (1978 film):

Galadriel is voiced by Annette Crosbie.

2001: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring:

Galadriel is played by Cate Blanchett. Galadriel narrates the Prologue, explaining the creation of the Rings of Power and the War of the Last Alliance. Earlier plans considered were to have either Frodo or Gandalf narrate the Prologue, but this was dropped: Frodo was not alive until thousands of years after these events happened, and although Gandalf was alive, he was not present in Middle-earth at the time; the Wizards came some one thousand years after the Prologue ends. Thus Galadriel narrates the Prologue, because she had first-hand accounts of this history and actively participated in its events.

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers:

Galadriel frequently consults telepathically with Elrond; in the books there is no clear indication of how Galadriel knew about the coming of the Fellowship. In the film, unlike the book, Galadriel and Elrond send an army of Elves - led by Haldir - to Helm's Deep to aid the Rohirrim. In the DVD commentary, Peter Jackson and his fellow writers explain that they worried audiences would wonder why the Elves do not seem to be helping in the war, while at the same time, they felt that actually inserting an entire separate battle scene at Lothlórien would take up too much screen time and resources.

2003: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King:

A spiritual apparition of Lady Galadriel appears to provide Frodo strength following his passage through Shelob's Lair soon after he uses the Phial that she gave him. She is later seen leaving Middle-earth along with other Ring-bearers, but in film version her husband Celeborn departs with her at the same time.

2012-14: The Hobbit (film series):

Cate Blanchett reprised her role as Galadriel, although the character is absent from the novel.[72] She appears as part of the White Council alongside Saruman, Gandalf and Elrond.Later, right before Thorin and his Company enter in Mirkwood, she telepathically urges Gandalf to further seek the true identity of the Necromancer. Finally, during the attack on Dol Guldur, Galadriel plays a larger role. She first rescues Gandalf from captivity, and is ultimately the one to drive Sauron from the fortress using her phial, although weakened by the amount of power she used.

Television[edit | edit source]

1993: Hobitit:

Galadriel is portrayed by Heidi Krohn. She appears only in the episode Lórien, and she is featured as a reflection on the surface of the lake.

2022: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power:

Galadriel is portrayed by Morfydd Clark as one of the central characters of the series.[73][74] Lady Amelie Child Villiers portrays Young Galadriel in Episode 1 as a child.[75]

Radio series[edit | edit source]

1981: The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series):

The voice of Galadriel is provided by Marian Diamond. In addition to the Lothlórien episodes, the voice of Galadriel is heard in Shelob's Lair as a reminder to use the phial, and she appears with Elrond in the final episode in the Shire, as they journey towards the Grey Havens.

2001-2003: Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series):

The voice of Galadriel is provided by Soňa Norisová. Norisová also provides most of the singing in the series (including the opening and closing titles theme and series closing song), alluding to Galadriel being a secondary storyteller (with Bilbo Baggins serving as the series' primary storyteller).

Games[edit | edit source]

2002: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game):

Galadriel, voiced by Jennifer Hale, is the narrator of the Prologue and the Epilogue, and appears in Lothlórien.

2006: The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II:

Galadriel is the strongest of "Hero" units available to the Free Peoples. If a player's army manages to spot Gollum on the battlefield, take The One Ring from him and deliver it to their forces, the option to "summon" Galadriel unlocks for a large amount of resources. Thus, Lady Galadriel is represented as succumbing to corruption of The Ring, similar to the respective scene in the The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring movie.

2007: The Lord of the Rings Online:

Introduced in The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria, Galadriel plays a prominent role during the Epic storyline with guidance and support. During the final days of the War of the Ring, Galadriel assembles the Council of Elven Lords, where it is decided to bring their armies against Dol Guldur. After she brings down the walls of Dol Guldur, Galadriel accompanies Arwen on her journey south to her wedding, and they visit the site of Celebrian's captivity in the Misty Mountains together. Afterwards, she and Celeborn join the procession of Elrond's house and travel to Minas Tirith to attend the wedding of Arwen and Aragorn.

2014: Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor:

Galadriel is featured in the game, although she is a non-playable character. She is voiced by Jennifer Hale and she narrates the prologue in a showing of the game.

2017: Middle-earth: Shadow of War:

Galadriel is featured in the game, although she is a non-playable character, with Jennifer Hale reprising her role from the game.

Notes

  1. It is never explicitly told she knew these two languages, but it is not unreasonable to assume that, given her Vanyarin and Telerin ancestry.
  2. Years of the Sun. Each Year of the Trees is equal to 9.582 Years of the Sun, and the Years of the Trees ended in the year 1500.
  3. The nature of Galadriel's exile (if she was innocent or guilty of pride) and the subsequent idea of a ban upon her return were not defined in Tolkien's first conceptions of Galadriel, so she being a rebel exile was a later reinterpretation. He would also change his mind about it, but for this article we chose this version for having the most complete narratives. For a more complete account of this matter, see the entire #Other versions of the legendarium.
  4. The marriage of Galadriel and Celeborn, as well as when they crossed over the mountains, was not well defined by Tolkien. See #Unsolved contradictions.
  5. The birth-year of Celebrían was not well defined by Tolkien. See #Unsolved contradictions.
  6. In the source used here, Galadriel and Celeborn are described as the first founders of Eregion, but later sources mention Celebrimbor as founder and lord of Eregion before their coming. See #Unsolved contradictions.
  7. As in the previous note, the source used here presents Celebrimbor as a subordinate of Galadriel and Celeborn, so in this episode he leads a coup against them.
  8. Teleporno was the Teleri-styled named for Lord Celeborn: "It is only of course in the late version that Celeborn appears with a High-elven, rather than Sindarin, name: Teleporno", J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Appendix E: The Names of Celeborn and Galadriel", p. 266
  9. Notice that both Annals were (on the matter of Galadriel) the source used by Christopher Tolkien for his edition of the Quenta Silmarillion. For more details see #The published Silmarillion.
  10. Notice that this text is the main source for the "Second Age" section of this article, in which the contradictions have been deliberately overlooked. For more details see #Unsolved contradictions.
  11. It is possible, however, that Galadriel first left Beleriand to avoid the cataclysmic war, later came to Lindon to join the surviving exiles, and crossed the Ered Luin again looking for a settlement.

References

  1. Called thus by Faramir (J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The Window on the West").
  2. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The Disaster of the Gladden Fields", "Appendix: Númenórean Linear Measures"
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age"
  4. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Second Age", p. 1082
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Third Age", pp. 1085-8
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Mirror of Galadriel"
  7. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "Part Two. The Annals of Aman: Commentary on the fourth section of the Annals of Aman", p. 106
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Peoples of Middle-earth, "XI. The Shibboleth of Fëanor", "The names of Finwë's descendants", pp. 346-7
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 9.5 9.6 9.7 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Peoples of Middle-earth, "XI. The Shibboleth of Fëanor", "The case of the Quenya change of Þ to s", pp. 337-8
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 348, (dated 6 March 1973), p. 428
  11. J.R.R. Tolkien, Carl F. Hostetter (ed.), The Nature of Middle-earth, "Part Three. The World, its Lands, and its Inhabitants: XVI. Galadriel and Celeborn", p. 352, note 8
  12. 12.0 12.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Flight of the Noldor"
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, "Notes and Translations", in The Road Goes Ever On (J.R.R. Tolkien, Donald Swann), p. 60
  14. 14.0 14.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Return of the Noldor"
  15. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §74
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Noldor in Beleriand"
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, Carl F. Hostetter (ed.), The Nature of Middle-earth, "Part One. Time and Ageing: IX. Time-scales and Rates of Growth", pp. 65-6
  18. 18.0 18.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Carl F. Hostetter (ed.), The Nature of Middle-earth, "Part One. Time and Ageing: XVIII. Elvish Ages & Númenórean", p. 149
  19. J.R.R. Tolkien, Carl F. Hostetter (ed.), The Nature of Middle-earth, "Part Three. The World, its Lands, and its Inhabitants: IV. The Making of Lembas", p. 296
  20. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §91
  21. 21.0 21.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §108
  22. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §129
  23. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Coming of Men into the West"
  24. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §§198-199
  25. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The War of the Jewels, "The Grey Annals": §275
  26. 26.0 26.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath"
  27. J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 297, (dated August 1967), p. 386
  28. 28.0 28.1 28.2 28.3 28.4 28.5 28.6 28.7 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Second Age", pp. 1082-4
  29. J.R.R. Tolkien, Carl F. Hostetter (ed.), The Nature of Middle-earth, "Part One. Time and Ageing: XI. Ageing of Elves", p. 81
  30. 30.00 30.01 30.02 30.03 30.04 30.05 30.06 30.07 30.08 30.09 30.10 30.11 30.12 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Concerning Galadriel and Celeborn"
  31. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "Aldarion and Erendis: The Mariner's Wife", The further course of the narrative, pp. 205-6
  32. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Notes", p. 254, note 7
  33. 33.0 33.1 33.2 33.3 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Amroth and Nimrodel", pp. 243-5
  34. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "The Mirror of Galadriel", p. 357
  35. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "Cirion and Eorl and the Friendship of Gondor and Rohan", "(ii) The Ride of Eorl", pp. 298-9
  36. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A, "The Númenorean Kings", "The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen", p. 1060
  37. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Lothlórien", p. 350
  38. 38.0 38.1 38.2 38.3 38.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Great Years", pp. 1092-4
  39. 39.0 39.1 39.2 39.3 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, "Farewell to Lórien", pp. 367-78
  40. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "Part Three. The Later Quenta Silmarillion: (II) The Second Phase: Laws and Customs among the Eldar", p. 211
  41. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers, "The White Rider", pp. 502-3
  42. 42.0 42.1 42.2 J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "The Chief Days from the Fall of Barad-dûr to the End of the Third Age", pp. 1095-6
  43. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "Many Partings", pp. 976, 983, 985
  44. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, "The Grey Havens", pp. 1027-30
  45. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, "Prologue", pp. 15-6
  46. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix B, "Later Events Concerning the Members of the Fellowship of the Ring", p. 1098
  47. J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A, "Durin's Folk", p. 1081
  48. J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter, Christopher Tolkien (eds.), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letter 345, (dated 30 November 1972), p. 423
  49. 49.0 49.1 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Silmarillion, "Appendix: Elements in Quenya and Sindarin Names", kal-
  50. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull (eds), The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion, pp. 44-5
  51. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "Part Three. The Later Quenta Silmarillion: (I) The First Phase: 5. Of Eldanor and the Princes of the Eldalië", p. 182 (commentary to §42)
  52. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Unfinished Tales, "The History of Galadriel and Celeborn", "Appendix E: The Names of Celeborn and Galadriel", p. 267
  53. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Treason of Isengard, "XII. Lothlórien", pp. 233, 236
  54. 54.0 54.1 54.2 54.3 54.4 J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Treason of Isengard, "XIII. Galadriel"
  55. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Treason of Isengard, "XIV. Farewell to Lórien" (viii), p. 286
  56. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), The Treason of Isengard, "XXVI. The King of the Golden Hall", p. 451, note 18
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  58. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "Part Two. The Annals of Aman: Commentary on the fourth section of the Annals of Aman", p. 104, §85
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  60. J.R.R. Tolkien, Christopher Tolkien (ed.), Morgoth's Ring, "The Annals of Aman": §§135, 163
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Galadriel
House of Finarfin
Cadet branch of House of Finwë
Born: Y.T. 1362 Died: Sailed west on 29 September, T.A. 3021
None
Celebrimbor, as its creator
Keeper of Nenya
c. S.A. 1600 - after 29 September, T.A. 3021
None
Presumably, still Galadriel
None
Amroth, as King of Lórien
Lady of Lórien
T.A. 1981 - 29 September, 3021 (with Celeborn)
Followed by:
Celeborn


The Hobbit film series
Source material: The Hobbit · The Lord of the Rings
Films An Unexpected Journey (extended editionThe Desolation of Smaug (extended edition) · The Battle of the Five Armies (extended edition)
Music An Unexpected Journey (Special Edition) · The Desolation of Smaug (Special Edition) · The Battle of the Five Armies (Special Edition) · "Song of the Lonely Mountain" · "I See Fire" · "The Last Goodbye"
Tie-in books An Unexpected Journey Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2013 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: Creatures & Characters · The World of Hobbits
The Desolation of Smaug Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2014 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: Cloaks & Daggers · Smaug: Unleashing the Dragon · Activity Book · Sticker Book · Ultimate Sticker Collection
The Battle of the Five Armies Official Movie Guide · Visual Companion · Movie Storybook · Annual 2015 · Chronicles: Art & Design · Chronicles: The Art of War · Activity Book
Video games Kingdoms of Middle-earth · Armies of The Third Age · Lego The Hobbit
Characters Bilbo · Thorin · Gandalf · Balin · Fíli · Kíli · Dwalin · Dori · Nori · Ori · Óin · Glóin · Bifur · Bofur · Bombur · Smaug · Radagast · Elrond · Galadriel · Saruman · Azog · Bolg · Thranduil · Legolas · Tauriel · Bard · Bain · Tilda · Sigrid · Master of Lake-town · Alfrid · Dáin Ironfoot · Necromancer · Bert · William · Tom · Beorn · Thráin · Thrór · Goblin King · Gollum · Frodo
The Lord of the Rings film series
Source material: The Hobbit · The Lord of the Rings
Films The Fellowship of the Ring (extended editionThe Two Towers (extended edition) · The Return of the King (extended edition)
Music The Fellowship of the Ring (The Complete Recordings) · The Two Towers (The Complete Recordings) · The Return of the King (The Complete Recordings) · "May It Be" · "Gollum's Song" · "Into the West"
Tie-in books Official Movie Guide · The Making of the Movie Trilogy · Complete Visual Companion · Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic · There and Back Again: An Actor's Tale · Weapons and Warfare · The Art of The Lord of the Rings · Sketchbook
The Fellowship of the Ring Visual Companion · The Art of The Fellowship of the Ring
The Two Towers Visual Companion · Photo Guide · The Art of The Two Towers
The Return of the King Visual Companion · The Art of The Return of the King
Video games The Two Towers · The Return of the King · The Third Age · Tactics · Conquest · Aragorn's Quest · Lego The Lord of the Rings
Characters Frodo · Bilbo · Gandalf · Sam · Merry · Pippin · Gandalf · Aragorn · Boromir · Legolas · Gimli · Elrond · Galadriel · Théoden · Éomer · Éowyn · Saruman · Sauron · Witch-king · Denethor · Faramir · Gollum · Gríma · Treebeard · Celeborn · Haldir · Lurtz · Sharku · Grishnákh