Spectres

Specter by Liz Danforth

Spectres were evil creatures only mentioned fleetingly in linguistic writings.^[1][2] Likely spectre was just another name for undead beings such as ghosts or wraiths.

Perhaps spectres were related to the Sindarin concept auth (Quenya ausa), referring to a spectral apparition.^[3]

[edit] Etymology

Spectre derives from Latin spectrum.^[4]

[edit] Portrayal in adaptations

1982-97: Middle-earth Role Playing:

Specters are rare, incorporeal Undead monsters. They are included among the minions of the Balrog of Moria.^[5]

[edit] See also

• Phantoms

[edit] References

1. ↑ J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, "Index" (entry for dwimmerlaik)
2. ↑ J.R.R. Tolkien, "Quenya Phonology", in Parma Eldalamberon XIX (edited by Christopher Gilson), pp. 17, 101 (footnote 155; cf. root NASAG)
3. ↑ J.R.R. Tolkien, "The Rivers and Beacon-hills of Gondor" (edited by Carl F. Hostetter), in Vinyar Tengwar, Number 42, July 2001, p. 9
4. ↑ "specter". Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition at Dictionary.com (retrieved December 16, 2010)
5. ↑ Ruth Sochard Pitt, Jeff O'Hare, Peter C. Fenlon, Jr. (1994), Creatures of Middle-earth (2nd edition) (#2012), p. 129