Tolkien Gateway - User contributions [en]

Círdan

2007-09-08T16:15:15Z

125.163.78.183:

{{teleri infobox
| image=[[Image:Alan Lee - Grey Ships.jpeg|250px]]
| name=Círdan
| othernames=
| titles=Ship-maker
| birth=Sometime during [[YOTT]], perhaps Firstborn
| realm=[[Falas]], [[Isle of Balar|Balar]], [[Mithlond]]
| death=Sailed West sometime during the [[Fourth Age]]
| age=10000+
| spouse=None known
| children=
| parentage=Unknown; possibly firstborn
| gender=Male
| hair=Silver, bearded
| ref=''[[Appendices]]'', ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Last Writings]]''
|}}
{{quote|As they came to the gates Círdan the Shipwright came forth to greet them. Very tall he was, and his beard was long, and he was grey and old, save that his eyes were keen as stars; and he looked at them and bowed, and said 'All is now ready.'|[[The Lord of the Rings]], ''[[The Grey Havens]]''}}
'''Círdan''' was a [[Sinda]], High King of the [[Teleri]] in [[Beleriand]] and Lord of the [[Falathrim]]. He was one of the wisest and most foresighted of the [[Elves]], and by the [[Second Age]] the oldest known [[elf]] in [[Middle-earth]], to remain so throughout that age and the [[Third Age]]. He was also awarded [[Narya]], one of the [[Three Rings]], until he surrendered it to [[Gandalf]]. He was one of the last elves in Middle-earth, sailing West at last probably sometime in the [[Fourth Age]].

==History==
===Early History===

Círdan, born ''Nowë''{{ref|LastWritingsN}}, was kin of both [[Elwë]] and [[Olwë]], a lord in the host of the former. During the push westward, seeking to go to [[Valinor]], Círdan and his followers kept going where most of his kin fell away throughout the journey. Despite Círdan’s great eagerness to see the light of Valinor (his "greatest desire"{{ref|LastWritings}}), he loyally searched for Elwë upon his disappearance. Because of this the Teleri missed the first trip on [[Tol Eressëa]] to [[Valinor]], on which went their close friends the [[Noldor]] and the [[Vanyar]]. [[Olwë]] they took for their king, and while waiting for [[Ulmo]] to return for them, Círdan headed the art of making and sailing ships, growing impatient. They also developed a great friendship with [[Ossë]]. At the same time, although most of the Teleri had given up, Círdan sought Elwë longer and harder than most of his kin, partly because of his love for him and his allegiance.

Because of this, Círdan came to the shores too late during the second embarking of Eressëa. He came to the sands to find them departed, and as he stood forlorn he saw far-off a glimmer of light upon Eressëa as it vanished into the West over [[Belegaer]]. Then he cried aloud:
{{quote|I will follow that light, alone if none will come with me, for the ship that I have been building is now almost ready.|Círdan, ''[[Last Writings]]''}}
But into his heart came a message, a voice. It warned him that his ship could not endure the voyage, nor would any ship for many years. The voice, come from the [[Valar]], said further, prophetically, "''Abide now that time, for when it comes then will your work be of utmost worth, and it will be remembered in song for many ages after.''" Círdan answered "''I obey''", and saw a vision of [[Vingilot]].

===Foundation and Return of the Noldor===
Círdan therefore remained with those Teleri who had chosen to stay east of the Sea for love of Ossë, and became their King. The folk became known as the [[Falathrim]], "''people of the foaming shore''", and dwelt in the [[Falas]] by the sea. There they built many ships, and the cities [[Eglarest]] and [[Brithombar]], and found pearls which they sent to their overlord, King [[Thingol]] of [[Doriath]], who was once Elwë{{ref|Silmarillion1}}.

When [[Morgoth|Belegurth]] broke forth in the [[First Battle of Beleriand]] in [[Years of the Trees 1497|Y.T. 1497]], Círdan was cut off and unable to come to Thingol’s aid. Further, although Thingol conquered with the help of the [[Laiquendi]], the Falathrim were driven to the very edge of the sea, where they were besieged for some months, until the [[Return of the Noldor]], when [[Fëanor]] struck Morgoth from the north. The siege of the Falas was abandoned as the Orcs were ordered northward to help their master, where they were all destroyed by [[Celegorm]]. The Falas were saved.

Círdan attended the [[Mereth Aderthad]] with many of his people, where he swore oaths of friendship with the Noldor, and quite possibly met and befriended his later neighbors and friends [[Turgon the Wise|Turgon]] and [[Finrod Felagund|Finrod]]. Although Turgon eventually moved from [[Vinyamar]] to faraway [[Gondolin]], Círdan’s friendship with Finrod was lasting{{ref|Silmarillion2}}, and Círdan became a close advisor to the Noldo. Círdan was, after all, a relative of his, being related (probably quite closely) to Olwë, Finrod’s grandfather.

===Early First Age===

When the tales began spreading (sown by [[Belegurth]]) of the [[Kinslaying of Alqualondë]], Círdan, being very wise even at that time, was greatly troubled, feeling that these rumors sprouted from great malice. Knowing the jealousy and dissention among the Noldor, he guessed that the malice was that of the kinslayers. Therefore he dutifully sent messages to his overlord Thingol, telling him all that he had heard. This resulted in the banishment of [[Quenya]], and greater strife between the Sindar and the Noldor{{ref|Silmarillion3}}.

Círdan may have assisted in the [[Dagor Aglareb]], but this is unknown. Nevertheless he did not take part in the [[Dagor Bragollach]], as he was far away and not directly attacked, if even he had time to come to the aid of his allies. Nevertheless Círdan made up for his lack of participation in the [[Second Assault on Hithlum]], coming to the timely aid of [[Fingon]] when he was most needed. They sailed up the [[Firth of Drengist]], then struck the unsuspecting [[orcs]] from the west, giving victory to the elves{{ref|Silmarillion4}}.

After the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], many fugitives came for shelter in the Falas. The Falathrim mariners harassed the orcs in guerilla attacks from the sea. But it was only a matter of time before Morgoth attacked. Then came the disastrous [[Fall of the Falas]]. Though both [[Brithombar]] and [[Eglarest]] were strong, with mighty walls, both fell one at a time due to the impressive array of siege-masters Morgoth had in his train. The elves fought valiantly, but the walls were broken and most of the Falathrim killed or enslaved. [[Barad Nimras]] was cast down, and the Falas laid to waste. But Círdan and some of his followers escaped by sea, and he took with him [[Gil-galad]], one of the last of the princes of the Noldor. They came to the [[Isle of Balar]] and founded a new kingdom, but kept a foothold at the [[Mouths of Sirion]], keeping ships hidden in the reeds there, making a refuge for all who fled there{{ref|Silmarillion5}}.

===Lord of Balar===

Turgon, receiving the dreadful news, requested that Círdan send mariners to seek [[Valinor]] and the aid of the [[Valar]]. Círdan built seven swift ships, and sent them westward. None returned, save for only one mariner of the [[Gondolindrim]]. The way to the West was closed{{ref|Silmarillion5}}.{{Pronounce|Cirdan.mp3|Ardamir}}

Eventually Círdan served as messenger, when [[Ulmo]] delivered him a message for [[Orodreth of Nargothrond|Orodreth]], warning of the doom of [[Nargothrond]], and ordering him to shut his gates and cast down the bridge. The warning went unheeded, resulting of the [[Fall of Nargothrond]].

After news came to Balar of the [[Fall of Gondolin]], [[Gil-galad]] was proclaimed [[High King of the Noldor]]. Círdan soon after became a fast friend of the young half-elf [[Eärendil the Mariner|Eärendil]] son of [[Tuor]] and [[Idril]], who had grown up essentially under his shadow, and was apprenticed to him. Círdan aided Eärendil in building the ship [[Vingilot]], giving him advice and help. Círdan doubtless remembered his vision, and this ship was indeed a fulfillment of it{{ref|LastWritings}}.

Círdan and Gil-galad came with their armies from the Isle of Balar too late to prevent the disastrous [[Third Kinslaying]], when the [[Havens of Sirion]] were ambushed and many fell. But Eärendil was not there, rather on a voyage, and the [[Silmaril]] of [[Beren Erchamion|Beren]] and [[Lúthien Tinúviel|Lúthien]] had been spirited away by [[Elwing]] his wife. Thus, wielding the Silmaril, Eärendil came to [[Valinor]] and found the forgiveness of the [[Valar]]{{ref|Silmarillion6}}. From that time on, Círdan was given foresight surpassing that of any of the elves{{ref|LastWritings}}, perhaps some special grace of the Valar for his deeds in this world-changing episode (like the return of [[Glorfindel]], who also contributed significantly). After the [[War of Wrath]], Círdan, heeding the bidding of the Valar long ago, once more obediently abstained from finding his heart’s desire and going West, but with a small following remained in [[Middle-earth]].

===Second Age===

The continents were shifted, but Círdan still took up his abode by the sea, in [[Harlindon]] with [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]]{{ref|UT1}}. Harlindon was located south of the [[Gulf of Lune]], to the north of which was [[Forlindon]], where [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elrond]] dwelt. There he welcomed the friendly and then-unfallen [[Númenóreans]], making friends with [[Vëantur]], chief of the mariners of [[Tar-Elendil]], and later teaching [[Aldarion]] his grandson of ships (both management and construction) and seaside architecture{{ref|UT2}}, doubtless being the foremost authority on both. At some point he moved to [[Mithlond]].

Círdan advised against the creation of the [[Rings of Power]] when [[Annatar]] came, but, like Galadriel, his counsel went unheeded in the midst of the joy and enthusiasm of the [[Eregion]]-elves, and especially [[Celebrimbor]]. Nevertheless, when the [[Three Rings]] escaped the [[Sack of Eregion]], Celebrimbor had appointed him to inherit one of them. He received [[Narya]], the Ring of Fire{{ref|ROP}}. [[Sauron]], having revealed himself in the destruction of Eregion and empowered by the [[One Ring]] he had forged, [[Invasion of Eriador|invaded]] [[Eriador]] in the same blow. Nevertheless, though he killed many elves, he dared not attempt to take Mithlond or Lindon, feeling they were too strong and because they had the help of the Númenóreans. Indeed, they were his bane in that chapter of history, for the Númenóreans came and pushed him back beyond the [[Misty Mountains]], ending the [[Black Years]]{{ref|ROP}}.

Eventually there came the [[Akallabêth|Fall of Númenor]], when the great man-isle of Númenor was overturned and [[Aman]] removed from the circles of the world. But [[Elendil]] escaped with his sons to [[Middle-earth]] and founded the [[Two Kingdoms]] over a vast space of land, on both sides of the Misty Mountains{{ref|Akallabêth}}. This new kingdom of men profoundly impacted the lives of the elves of Lindon, as is seen in the [[War of the Last Alliance]].

Círdan joined the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men|alliance]], and fought steadily beside his friends and comrades. Many fell there, including [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elendil]]. Yet again Círdan outlived those around him, and survived the battle. With Elrond he urged [[Isildur]], Elendil’s first-born, to throw the captured One Ring into [[Orodruin]], where it would be unmade{{ref|ROP}}{{ref|LotR1}}. But Isildur refused.

===Third Age===

The early years of the [[Third Age]] were, for Círdan and the elves, mostly a time to catch their breaths after the fall of Sauron in the War of the Alliance. For more than a thousand years they went undisturbed{{ref|AppendixB}}, but at around T.A. 1050 a shadow began to lengthen. Though many deemed that Sauron was defeated forever, for the first time in many centuries some evil was stirring, and awake. It was at this time the [[Istari]], sent by the [[Valar]], came. Though the [[Blue Wizards]] and [[Glorfindel]] may have come earlier during the [[Second Age]], and Círdan most probably greeted them in [[Mithlond]], it is known for sure that he met [[Gandalf]] there. Círdan was one of the few of the [[Wise]] left; of the other ancient elves, only Celeborn, Galadriel, Glorfindel (who was resurrected), and Elrond remained. He was the most foresighted of all of them, and alone knew the true purpose of the Istari. He also saw deep into the future of Gandalf, and gave him [[Narya]], his greatest possession and one of the most secret and sought-after treasures in the world.
{{quote|Take this ring, Master… for your labours will be heavy; but it will support you in the weariness that you have taken upon yourself. For this is the Ring of Fire, and with it you may rekindle hearts in a world that grows chill. But as for me, my heart is with the [[Belegaer|Sea]], and I will dwell by the grey shores until the last ship sails. I will await you.|Círdan, ''[[Appendix B]]''}}
In [[Third Age 1409|1409]], Círdan aided King [[Araphor]] of [[Arnor]] in battle against [[Angmar]] during the [[Fall of Rhudaur]], after [[Weathertop]] was burned. With Círdan’s help, young Araphor drove the wraith’s armies from [[Fornost]] and the [[North Downs]]{{ref|AppendixA}}. The second time Círdan came to the aid of men was four and a half centuries later, in [[Third Age 1975|1975]], when Círdan sent a ship north to [[Forochel]] to rescue the lost [[Arnor]]ian king [[Arvedui]]. The crew endured a perilous journey, but found Arvedui. Yet Arvedui rashly attempted to return that winter, and all aboard perished{{ref|AppendixA}}. The next year Círdan mustered the elves to join with the [[Dúnedain]] in the victorious [[Battle of Fornost]]. Later Círdan took control of the abandoned [[palantíri|Elendil Stone]] on [[Emyn Beraid]], which could gaze into the [[Tol Eressëa|lost west]] and was without link to the other palantíri{{ref|UT3}}.

Círdan invited onto the [[White Council]] when it was formed in [[Third Age 2463|2463]] in response to the rise of the [[Necromancer]], whose identity was at that point concealed. Throughout all the recorded history of the White Council, his actions go unrecorded. His role may have only been passive; as an advisor rather than a planner. At any rate, nothing more is mentioned of his actions until the [[War of the Ring]] in [[Third Age 3018|3018]] and later [[Third Age 3021|3021]]. [[Galdor of the Havens|Galdor]] was his messenger to [[Rivendell]], though for reasons unknown. It may be that he, too, felt the growing shadow, even as his friend [[Gandalf]] did. Whatever the reason, Galdor attended the [[Council of Elrond]], speaking with authority on his lord’s behalf{{ref|LotR1}}.

The last mention of Círdan came with the end of the Third Age. When the Ringbearers came to Mithlond, Círdan greeted them before the gates. Although [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]], and [[Elrond]] passed west on the ship he had built for them, Círdan seems to have remained for a time. Eventually, however, he passed west on the last ship, fulfilling his heart’s desire that had waited so long.

==Characteristics and Impact==

Círdan is described briefly in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as appearing very old save for his eyes, with a consistent long silver beard. The beard, which originally was a subject of controversy among [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] fans as Elves allegedly did not have beards, was rationalized in the ''[[History of Middle-earth]]'' when it came out, where it is said that elves could grow beards in the "third cycle" of their lives (although what a cycle is remains uncertain). Other beard-growing elves included [[Mahtan]] and [[Tinfang Gelion]] (uncanonical). His apparent age may come from the many pains and troubles he has seen on Middle-earth (though Galadriel and Celeborn saw comparatively few less), though the terminology might also be a way to emphasize his ancientness.

Círdan had a profound effect upon the course of Middle-earth history. He was a loyal servant and friend of [[Elwë]], sacrificing his heart’s desire in search of him{{ref|LastWritings}}. This loyalty and sense of duty shows up numerous times over the course of history, including his second sacrifice in his submission to the [[Valar]]{{ref|LastWritings}}, and his sending of troubling and potentially destructive rumors to his overlord Thingol{{ref|Silmarillion3}}. He was also the most foresighted of the elves, a gift from the Valar{{ref|LastWritings}}{{ref|AppendixB}}. He conceivably saved Elven civilization with the founding of the havens at the [[Mouths of the Sirion]]{{ref|Silmarillion5}}, and with the fostering of both [[Gil-galad]] and [[Eärendil]]{{ref|Silmarillion6}}. His precious gift of [[Narya]] to [[Gandalf]] was also timely and valuable{{ref|AppendixB}}. He was clearly favored by [[Ulmo]], seen by the number messages passed through him.

==Portrayal in Adaptions==

[[Image:SBG - Cirdan.jpeg|thumb|'''Cirdan''' as visualized by the [[Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]]] In the [[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]], Círdan briefly appears in [[Peter Jackson's The Return of the King|the third movie]]. His role as lieutenant of Gil-galad is given to [[Elrond]] instead (Elrond was Gil-galad's herald in the books) in [[Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring|the first movie]]. He does, however, appear very briefly in Galadriel's Monologue at the start of the first movie, in the very brief shot of the three elven ringbearers.

==References==
*{{note|LastWritings}} ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', ''[[Last Writings]]'', "Círdan"
*{{note|LastWritingsN}} ibid., note 30
*{{note|Silmarillion1}} ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of the Sindar]]''
*{{note|Silmarillion2}} ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of Beleriand and Its Realms]]''
*{{note|Silmarillion4}} ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]''
*{{note|Silmarillion5}} ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of the Fifth Battle]]''
*{{note|Silmarillion6}} ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath]]''
*{{note|UT1}} ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Galadriel and Celeborn]]''
*{{note|UT2}} ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[Aldarion and Erendis]]'' pg. 175 H-M
*{{note|ROP}} ''[[Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age]]''
*{{note|Akallabêth}} ''[[Akallabêth]]''
*{{note|LotR1}} ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Council of Elrond]]''
*{{note|AppendixB}} ''[[Appendix B]]''
*{{note|AppendixA}} ''[[Appendix A]]''
*{{note|UT3}} ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The Palantíri]]'' pg. 413-414 H-M

[[Category:Sindar]]
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]

Galadriel

2007-09-08T16:06:16Z

125.163.78.183:

{{noldor infobox
| image= [[Image:Matt Stewart - Galadriel.jpg|250px]]
| name= Galadriel
| quenya= [[fn]] ''[[Artanis]]'' ([[mn]] ''[[Nerwen]]'')
| titles= Lady of [[Lothlórien]], Lady of Lórien, Lady of the [[Galadhrim]], Lady of Light, Lady of the Wood
| birth= Sometime during the [[YOTT]], [[Tirion]]
| realm= [[Tirion]], [[Lindon]], [[Eregion]], [[Lothlórien]]
| death= Passed west [[Third Age 3021|TA 3021]]
| age= 7100+
| parentage= [[Finarfin]] + [[Eärwen]]
| spouse= [[Celeborn (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]]
| children= [[Celebrían]]
| gender= Female
| hair= Radiant gold-silver
| ref=''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''
|}}
{{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]]''}}
'''Galadriel''' 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.

==History==

===Fostering and Life in Aman===

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 “noble woman”. 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]].

It was in Alqualondë that she met [[Teleporno]], a young Telerin prince probably the son or grandson of [[Olwë]] (which would make him Artanis’s uncle or cousin)[[Galadriel#Controversy|*]]. They eventually fell in love, and he called her in his own [[Telerin]] tongue ''[[Alatáriel]]'' (later [[Sindarin]]ized as ''Galadriel''). 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.

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]].

===First Age===

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 (Lord of Lórien)|Celeborn]]'', and Artanis adopted Teleporno’s pet name for her, ''Alatáriel'', in its Sindarin form: ''Galadriel''.

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 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.

===Second Age===

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]]), Celeborn and Galadriel made contact with the [[Nandor]] of [[Amdír]], who dwelt in a forest realm called [[Lórinand]]. They eventually crossed the [[Hithaeglir]] through [[Moria]] and relocated to there, becoming great among the Wood-elves.

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 three of the [[Wise]]: [[Narya]] for Círdan, [[Vilya]] for Gil-galad, 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.

[[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]].

===Third Age===

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.

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 the Grey]], and recommended that he be made head of the Council. But this distinction fell instead to [[Saruman]], whom she distrusted.

[[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 [[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. The two most important gifts she gave were to [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]], whom she knew well and liked, and a [[dwarf]] named [[Gimli]]. To Aragorn she gave the [[Elfstone]], which she had worn, and Celebrían her daughter. 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.

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.

===Return to Valinor===

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.

==Characteristics==

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.

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.

==Other Versions of the Legendarium==

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.

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]]''.

== Genealogy ==
<code>
[[Finarfin]] = [[Eärwen]]
|
-------------------|-------------------
| | | |
| | | |
[[Finrod]] [[Angrod]] = [[Eldalôtë]] [[Aegnor]] '''GALADRIEL''' = [[Celeborn, Lord of Lórien|Celeborn]]
| |
| |
[[Orodreth of Nargothrond|Orodreth]] [[Celebrían]] = [[Elrond]]
| |
------|------ |
| | |
| | |
[[Gil-galad]] [[Finduilas of Nargothrond|Finduilas]] |
[[Arwen]] = [[Aragorn II|Aragorn Elessar]]

</code>

== Portrayal in Adaptations ==
[[Image:Ralph Bakshi's Galadriel.jpg|thumb|left|Galadriel as portrayed in [[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]]]]
[[Image:Peter Jackson's Galadriel.jpg|thumb|[[Cate Blanchett]] as Galadriel in [[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]]]
In [[Ralph Bakshi's The Lord of the Rings]] Galadriel is voiced by [[Annette Crosbie]].

In [[Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]] Galadriel is played by [[Cate Blanchett]]. In the movie adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, 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 wasn't 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.

Later in the films, 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 (particularly the discussion with Elrond in ''[[Peter Jackson's The Two Towers]]'') have no direct counterparts in the books. She does at one point send messages to [[Aragorn II|Aragorn]] and certain members of the Fellowship, which do not make it into the movie. 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 [[Lórien in Middle-earth|Lórien]] is itself under threat of attack at the time.

== In Popular Culture ==
The name Galadriel has moved outside of Tolkien's work and into the wider world; parents occasionally give it to their daughters, and a number of rock bands and at least one high-end shop have adopted it as their own.

== See Also ==
* [[:Category:Images of Galadriel|Images of Galadriel]]

[[Category:Noldor]]
[[Category:House of Finwë]]

Fëanor

2007-09-08T15:33:23Z

125.163.78.183:

{{noldor infobox
| image=[[Image:Alan Michael - Spirit of Fire.jpg|300px]]
| name=Fëanor
| quenya=[[fn]] ''Curufinwë'' ([[mn]] ''Fëanáro'')
| titles=[[High King of the Noldor]]
| birth=c. [[YOTT|Y.T.]] 1179, [[Tirion]]
| realm=
| death=[[First Age|F.A.]] [[First Age 1|1]]
| age=c. 4000 [[years of the Sun]]
| parentage=[[Finwë]] and [[Míriel Serindë]]
| spouse=[[Nerdanel]]
| children=Seven [[Sons of Fëanor|sons]]
| gender=Male
| hair=Black
| ref=''[[The Shibboleth of Fëanor]]'', ''[[The Silmarillion]]''
|}}
[[Image:Feanor Heraldic Device.jpg|left|100px]]
'''Fëanor''' was a prince of the [[Noldor]], one of the [[Elves|Elven]] kindreds that departed [[Middle-earth]] to live with the [[Valar]] in [[Valinor]]. He had the greatest skill of any of the Noldor; he was a renowned craftsman, gem-smith, and warrior. Fëanor made the [[Silmarils]], which was his most famous deed, and may also have wrought the [[palantíri]]. In addition, he invented the widely-used [[Tengwar]] script. Fëanor's passionate hatred of [[Morgoth]] and terrible [[Oath of Fëanor|oath]] led directly to the great triumphs and tragedies of the First Age.

== Life in Valinor ==

Fëanor was the eldest son of [[Finwë]], the [[High King of the Noldor]], and his first wife [[Míriel Serindë|Míriel Þerindë]]. He drew so much of Míriel's life energy when he was born that she grew weary of life, and departed to [[Lórien in Valinor|Lórien]], where she voluntarily left her corporeal form, and died. Finwë remarried, and had two more sons, Fëanor's half-brothers [[Fingolfin]] and [[Finarfin]], and two daughters, [[Daughters of Finwë|Findis]] and [[Daughters of Finwë|Irimë]]. Fëanor wedded [[Nerdanel]], daughter of [[Mahtan]], who bore him [[Sons of Fëanor|seven sons]]: [[Maedhros]], [[Maglor]], [[Celegorm]], [[Caranthir]], [[Curufin]], [[Amrod]] and [[Amras]].

At this time, [[Melkor]], the mightiest of the Valar and source of evil, had deceived the Valar into thinking that he had repented of his evil ways. Pardoned and residing in Valinor, he undertook to corrupt the Noldor and succeeded in making them instruments of his malice, particularly Fëanor. But Fëanor greatly mistrusted Melkor, which was part of Melkor's plan.

In the greatest of his achievements, Fëanor captured the light of the [[Two Trees]] to make the three Silmarils, also called the Great Jewels. He prized the Silmarils above all else, and grew increasingly suspicious that the Valar and other Eldar coveted them. He either vainly displayed the jewels or jealously guarded them from all except his immediate family.

Melkor greatly desired the Silmarils and his hatred for Fëanor grew, but the Valar still did not know of Melkor's true intentions. Melkor played upon Fëanor's temperament and pride to convince him that his own half-brother Fingolfin was not only planning to usurp his place as heir to Finwë, but also seize the jewels for himself. Fëanor's hostility grew to the point to where he threatened Fingolfin's life. (It was at this time that the Noldor first began to forge weapons.) For this, the Valar exiled him to Formenos. He took a substantial treasure with him, including the Silmarils, which he put in a locked box. In a show of support for his eldest son, Finwë withdrew to Formenos.

The Valar realized that Melkor was behind Fëanor's actions. They sent [[Tulkas]] to imprison him again, but he could not be found. Melkor was not seen for a long time, until he unexpectedly showed up at Formenos. Since with Finwë and Fëanor's absence Fingolfin had become king, it seemed that Melkor's lies were true. Melkor tried again to convince Fëanor of them, but he erred, and Fëanor realized that Melkor's true goal was to obtain the Silmarils. He shut the door in Melkor's face. In a rage, Melkor left. When the Valar heard of the incident, they started the hunt up again. But it was apparent that Melkor had fled from Valinor. He feigned to go north, but then turned south.

{{Pronounce|Feanor.mp3|Ardamir}}After a time the Valar sought to mend the breach between Fëanor and Fingolfin, and invited them to Valinor to make peace. Fingolfin offered a hand to his half-brother, recognizing Fëanor's place as the eldest, which he grudgingly accepted.

Meanwhile, Melkor stole away to [[Avathar]] in the south of Aman to seek out the evil, spider-like creature [[Ungoliant]]. Ungoliant helped Morgoth destroy the Two Trees, bringing darkness to Valinor. Morgoth and Ungoliant then went to Formenos, slew Finwë, and took all the gems there, including the Silmarils. They escaped by crossing the [[Helcaraxë]], or Grinding Ice, in the north to [[Beleriand]] in Middle-earth.

It was during the festivities where Fëanor and Fingolfin were being reconciled that the Trees were destroyed. The Valar knew that now the light of the Trees survived only in the Silmarils and [[Yavanna]] asked Fëanor to give them up so that they could restore the Trees. Fëanor emphatically stated that he would not give up his Silmarils of his own free will; if the Valar forced him, he said, they would be no better than Melkor. It was after this that the messenger came telling of the raid at Formenos.

According to the messenger, Melkor, surrounded by an impenetrable black fog, had come to Fëanor's vault in Formenos. Finwë the High King fought and lost against Melkor, and was the first elf to be slain in Valinor. Melkor ransacked the vault, taking many valuable jewels. Most notably, he was responsible for the thievery of the Silmarils.

== The Return of the Noldor ==
The Valar and Eldar now fully understood the extent of Melkor's treachery. Fëanor, upon learning of his father's murder and the theft of his prized Silmarils, named Melkor "Morgoth", or "Black Enemy". Now King of the Noldor, Fëanor delivered the most impassioned speech ever given in Arda, which he unwittingly filled with Morgoth's taint. He railed against the Dark Lord, but because of Morgoth's influence, he also blamed the Valar for Morgoth's deeds. He persuaded most his people that because the Valar had abandoned them, the Noldor must follow him to Middle-earth and fight the Dark Lord. Fëanor then swore the terrible [[Oath of Fëanor]] which all seven of his sons also proclaimed, vowing to fight anyone and everyone—whether Elf, Man, Maia, or Vala—who withheld the Silmarils, and invoking even [[Ilúvatar]] as a witness. This became known as the Oath of Fëanor and later the cause for great tragedy among his seven sons.

Seeking a way to get to Middle-earth, he went to the shores of Aman, where the seafaring [[Teleri]] lived, and demanded the use of their ships. The Teleri refused, and in response, Fëanor and his armed and impassioned Noldor attacked the lightly-armed Teleri, destroyed their settlements and seized the ships.

[[Image:Catherine Karina Chmiel - Feanor.jpg|thumb|300px|left|''Fëanor'' by [[Catherine Karina Chmiel]]]]
In repentance of this act, Finarfin, Finwë's third son, took his host and turned back. They were accepted by the Valar, and Finarfin ruled as High-King of the Noldor in Valinor.

There were not enough ships to carry all of the Noldor across the sea, so Fëanor and his sons led the first group. Upon arriving at Losgar, in the land of Lammoth, in the far west of Beleriand, where Morgoth and Ungoliant had passed not long before, they decided to burn the ships and leave the followers of Fingolfin behind. However, Fëanor accidentally left his son Amras in the ships, and he was burned alive{{ref|nameSons}}. The earth being flat in those days, the remaining Noldor saw the flames, and perceived that if they were to go to Middle-earth, they had no choice but to cross the Helcaraxë. This they did under the leadership of Fingolfin, and suffered great losses along the way, which greatly added to the animosity they had for Fëanor and his sons.

Learning of the Noldor's arrival, Morgoth summoned his armies from his fortress of [[Angband]] and attacked Fëanor's encampment in [[Mithrim]]. This battle was called the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]] ("Battle under the Stars"), for the Sun and Moon had not yet been made. The Noldor managed to win the battle and disperse Morgoth's armies. Fëanor, still in a great rage, pressed on toward Angband with his sons. He came even within sight of Angband, but was ambushed by a force of [[Balrogs]], with few elves about him. He fought mightily, hewing even after receiving several wounds from [[Gothmog, Lord of Balrogs]]. His sons came upon the balrogs with great force of elves, and were able to drive them off. However, as Fëanor was being escorted off the battlefield, he knew his wounds were fatal. He cursed Angband thrice, but with the eyes of death, he knew that his elves, unaided, would never throw down the dark towers. At the moment of his death the passing of his fiery spirit reduced his body to ashes.

His sons were still bound by the Oath to recover the Silmarils, which would determine the events of Middle-earth during the First Age.

== Etymology ==
Fëanor's [[father-name]] was '''Curufinwë''' ("Skillful [son of] Finwë"). He later gave his favorite son [[Curufin]] the same father-name. His [[mother-name]] was '''Fëanáro''' ("Spirit of Fire"). The name Fëanor is the [[Sindarin]] version of his mother-name.

== Genealogy ==
<code>
[[Finwë]] = [[Míriel Serindë|Míriel]]
|
|
'''FËANOR''' = [[Nerdanel]]
|
---------------|-------------------------------------------
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
[[Maedhros]] [[Maglor]] [[Celegorm]] [[Caranthir]] [[Curufin]] [[Amrod]] [[Amras]]
|
|
[[Celebrimbor]]
</code>
{{sequence
|prev=[[Finwë]]
|next=[[Fingolfin]]
|list=2nd [[High King of the Noldor]] (''de jure'') <br>Y.T. 1495 – 1497
}}

== References ==

{{note|nameSons}} [[The Peoples of Middle-earth]], chapter XI ([[The Shibboleth of Fëanor]]), section "The names of the Sons of Fëanor"

== See Also ==
* [[:Category:Images of Fëanor|Images of Fëanor]]

== External Links ==
* [http://www.minastirith.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=000635 What do you think of Fëanor?] - Dicussion on MinasTirith.com

[[Category:Noldor]]
[[Category:House of Finwë]]