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Fëanor

2013-04-05T10:09:51Z

Fornadan: Quote Silmarillion index of names on "Palantíri": "...made my Fëanor in Aman...".

{{noldor infobox
| image=[[Image:Catherine Karina Chmiel - Feanor.jpg|250px]]
| name=Fëanor
| othernames=''[[Curufinwë]]'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Father-name|fn]]), ''Fëanáro'' ([[Quenya|Q]], [[Amilessë|mn]])
| titles=[[High King of the Noldor]]
| position=
| location=[[Tirion]] in [[Valinor]]
| affiliation=[[Oath of Fëanor]]
| language=[[Quenya]]
| birth={{YT|1169}}
| birthlocation=[[Tirion]]
| rule={{YT|1495}} – {{YT|1497|n}}
| death={{YT|1497}}
| deathlocation=Slopes of [[Ered Wethrin]]
| age=328 [[Years of the Trees|Y.T.]]/3142 [[Years of the Sun|years]]
| house=[[House of Finwë]]
| parentage=[[Finwë]] & [[Míriel]]
| siblings=[[Findis]], [[Fingolfin]], [[Írimë]] and [[Finarfin]]
| spouse=[[Nerdanel]]
| children=[[Maedhros]], [[Maglor]], [[Celegorm]], [[Caranthir]], [[Curufin]], [[Amrod]] and [[Amras]]
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=Black
| eyes=
| clothing=
| weapons=Sword
| steed=
}}
{{Pronounce|Feanor.mp3|Ardamir}}
{{quote|For Fëanor was made the mightiest in all parts of body and mind: in valour, in endurance, in beauty, in understanding, in skill, in strength and subtlety alike: of all the Children of Ilúvatar, and a bright flame was in him.|''[[The Silmarillion]]'', [[Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor]]}}

'''Fëanor''' ([[Sindarin|S]], pron. {{IPA|[ˈfe.anor]}}) was a prince of the [[Noldor]], eldest and most beloved son of [[Finwë]]. He had the greatest skill of word and hand, a renowned craftsman, gem-smith, and warrior. His most famous deed was the creation of the [[Silmarils]], but he also created the [[palantíri]]<ref name="SIndex">{{S|Index}}</ref>, and may also have wrought the [[Fëanorian lamps]].<ref>{{UT|Tuor}}, note 2</ref> In addition, he invented the widely-used [[Tengwar]] script. His passionate hatred of [[Morgoth]] and terrible [[Oath of Fëanor|oath]] led directly to the great triumphs and tragedies of the [[First Age]].

== History ==
===Life in Tirion===
Born in {{YT|1169}},<ref>{{MR|P2k}}, Note 1, p.101</ref> Fëanáro Curufinwë (as was his original name in [[Quenya]], pron. [[Noldorin|N]] {{IPA|[ˌfe.aˈnaːro ˌkuruˈfinwe]}}, [[Vanyarin|V]] {{IPA|[ˌɸe.aˈnaːro ˌkuruˈɸinwe]}}<ref name="Shibboleth">{{PM|Shibboleth}}, "The names of Finwë's descendants"}}</ref>) was the eldest son of Finwë, the [[High King of the Noldor]], and his first wife [[Míriel|Míriel Serindë]]. He drew so much of Míriel's life energy when he was born that she grew weary of living, 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]],<ref name="Feanor">{{S|Feanor}}</ref> and two daughters, [[Findis]] and [[Írimë]].<ref name="Shibboleth"/>
[[File:Tuuliky - Lumen Melma.jpg|thumb|left|Feanor and Nerdanel]]
Fëanor's skills began to blossom in {{YT|1250|n}} when he devised a new lettering system, better than the work of [[Rúmil]]. He then turned his mind to the study of gems.<ref name="AAsec4">{{MR|P2j}}</ref> While still a youth Fëanor wedded [[Nerdanel]], daughter of [[Mahtan]],<ref name="Feanor"/> who bore him [[Sons of Fëanor|seven sons]]: [[Maedhros]], [[Maglor]], [[Celegorm]], [[Caranthir]], [[Curufin]], [[Amrod]] and [[Amras]].<ref>{{S|Princes}}</ref>

In {{YT|1400|n}}<ref name="AAsec4"/> [[Morgoth|Melkor]], the mightiest of the Valar and source of evil, 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.<ref name="Feanor"/>

In {{YT|1449|n}} Fëanor began and by {{YT|1450|n}} he had succeeded<ref name="AAsec4"/> in the greatest of his achievements, capturing 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.<ref name="Silmarils">{{S|Unrest}}</ref>

===Feud with Fingolfin===
[[Image:Antti Autio - The Threat of Feanor.jpg|thumb|left|250px|''Fëanor's threat'' by [[Antti Autio]]]]
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.<ref name="Silmarils"/> Fëanor's hostility grew to the point to where, in {{YT|1490|n}},<ref name="AAsec4"/> 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 stowed in a locked box. In a show of support for his eldest son, Finwë withdrew to Formenos.<ref name="Silmarils"/>

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 in {{YT|1492|n}},<ref name="AAsec4"/> 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 resumed the hunt. But it was apparent that Melkor had fled from Valinor.<ref name="Silmarils"/>

===Theft of the Silmarils===
In {{YT|1495|n}}<ref name="AAsec4"/> 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.

[[image:Feanor emblema.png|right|120px|thumb|Fëanor'sdevice.]]Meanwhile, after first feigning to go north, Melkor had stolen away to [[Avathar]] in the south of Aman to seek out the evil, spider-like creature [[Ungoliant]]. Even as Fëanor and Fingolfin were reconciled, Ungoliant helped Morgoth destroy the Two Trees, bringing darkness to Valinor.<ref>{{S|Darkening}}</ref>

[[Yavanna]] examined the Two Trees and found them lifeless. The light of the Trees survived only in the Silmarils and she said that only by their power could she restore the Trees. [[Manwë]] then asked Fëanor to give them up for this purpose but Fëanor emphatically declared 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 messengers came telling of the raid at Formenos.

According to the messengers, 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 to be slain in Valinor. Melkor ransacked the vault, taking many valuable jewels, most especially the Silmarils. He and Ungoliant escaped by crossing the [[Helcaraxë]],or Grinding Ice, in the north to [[Beleriand]] in Middle-earth.<ref name="Flight">{{S|Flight}}</ref>

===The Kinslaying===
[[Image:Tuuliky - Feanor.jpg|thumb|200px|left|''Fëanor'' by Tuuliky]]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 Oath led to much conflict and later caused 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. When Teleri refused to give or lend their vessels, Fëanor ordered the Noldor to take the ships. The Teleri resisted, and a battle broke out, in which many of the Teleri were slain, for they were armed with mere hunting bows, against the fully armed Noldor. Three times the Teleri were able to push back Fëanor until Fingolfin and Finarfin brought up their host, overwhelming the the Teleri.

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 remaining Noldor in Valinor.<ref name="Flight"/>

===Exile in Middle-earth===
As the year {{YT|1496|n}} wore on Fëanor led the Noldor northward. By {{YT|1497|n}} the host had reached the [[Helkaraxë]] and halted.<ref>{{MR|P2m}}</ref> 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, Fëanor decided to burn the ships and leave the followers of Fingolfin behind.<ref name="Flight"/> However, Fëanor accidentally left his son Amras in the ships and he was burned alive.<ref name="Shibboleth"/> The earth being flat in those days, the remaining Noldor saw the flames, and perceived that if they were to reach Middle-earth, they had no choice but to cross the Helcaraxë. This they did under the leadership of Fingolfin, and suffered heavy losses along the way, which greatly added to the animosity they had for Fëanor and his sons.<ref name="Flight"/> [[Image:Carlo_Pagulayan_-_Feanor_and_Gothmog.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Fëanorand Gothmog'' by Carlo Pagulayan]]

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 his foe even after receiving several wounds from [[Gothmog (balrog)|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 carried off the battlefield, he knew his wounds were fatal. He was brought to the slopes of the [[Ered Wethrin]] from where he saw from afar the peaks of [[Thangorodrim]]. 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. He was the only person to die this way, for no death like his was ever seen or heard.<ref>{{S|Return}}</ref>

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

Fëanor was also unique in that his spirit remained in the [[Halls of Mandos]] and was not reincarnated in Valinor.<ref name="Silmarils"/> It is said that he will return only for [[Dagor Dagorath]], and will finally reclaim his beloved Silmarils, and then surrender them to [[Yavanna]].<ref>{{SM|CQ19}}</ref>

== Genealogy ==
Names shown in ''italics'' are females.
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree| MHT | | MIR |y| FIN |y| IND | | | | | | | | | | | | |MHT=[[Mahtan]]| MIR=''[[Míriel]]''|FIN=[[Finwë]]|IND=''[[Indis]]''}}
{{familytree| |!| | | | | |!| | | |)|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | |}}
{{familytree| NRD |~|y|~| FEA | | FDS | | FNG | | IRM | | FRF | | |NRD=''[[Nerdanel]]''|FEA='''FËANOR'''|FDS=''[[Findis]]''|FNG=[[Fingolfin]]|IRM=''[[Írimë]]''|FRF=[[Finarfin]]}}
{{familytree| |,|-|-|^|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|.| |}}
{{familytree| MDH | | MAG | | CEL | | CAR | | CUR | | AMD | | AMR |MDH=[[Maedhros]]|MAG=[[Maglor]]|CEL=[[Celegorm]]|CAR=[[Caranthir]]|CUR=[[Curufin]]|AMD=[[Amrod]]|AMR=[[Amras]]}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |}}
{{familytree| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | CLB | | | | | | | | |CLB=[[Celebrimbor]]}}
{{familytree/end}}
== Etymology ==
Fëanor's [[father-name]] was ''[[Curufinwë]]''', "Skillful Finwë", by adding ''[[curu]]'', the [[Quenya]] noun for "skill", to his father's name . He later gave his favorite son [[Curufin]] the same father-name. His [[Amilessë|mother-name]] was ''[[Fëanáro]]'', which translates as "Spirit of Fire", being formed by adding ''[[fëa]]'', a Quenya noun for "spirit" and ''[[Nár (Quenya)|nár]]'', "flame". Apparently, the masculine ending ''[[-o]]'' is also present. The name Fëanor is the [[Sindarin]] version of his mother-name.<ref name="Shibboleth"/>

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

{{references}}

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

{{sequence
|prev=[[Finwë]]
|next=[[Fingolfin]]
|list=2nd [[High King of the Noldor]] (''de jure'') Y.T. 1495 – 1497
}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Feanor}}
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:House of Finwë]]
[[Category:House of Fëanor| ]]
[[Category:Sindarin names]]
[[de:Feanor]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/elfes/noldor/feanor]]
[[fi:Fëanor]]

Echoriad

2012-09-20T09:03:30Z

Fornadan: Spell check.

The '''Echoriath''' or '''Echoriad''', the '''Encircling Mountains''',<ref>{{S|Index}}</ref> were a mountain range in the north of [[Beleriand]], with the vale of [[Sirion]] to the west and separated by the Pass of [[Anach]] from the [[Ered Gorgoroth]] to the east. The southern part of the circle of mountains were called the [[Crissaegrim]], which was the abode of eagles.<ref>{{S|Map}}</ref>

The Echoriath formed a natural circle of rock, enclosing the valley later called [[Tumladen]], within which lay the [[Elves|Elven]] city of [[Gondolin]]. A hidden ravine provided the main access through the Echoriath — a way guarded by seven gates.<ref>{{UT|Tuor}}</ref>

[[Maeglin]] prospected in the northern part of the Echoriad and found diverse and abundant metals. From his mine, [[Anghabar]], he found hard iron that he prized.<ref>{{S|Maeglin}}</ref>

When [[Fingolfin]] died the eagle [[Thorondor]] carried his body to a mountain top north of Gondolin. [[Turgon]], the son of Fingolfin, came and built a [[Fingolfin's Cairn|cairn]] over his body that no [[Orcs|Orc]] dared to approach. Also in the aftermath of the [[Dagor Bragollach]] [[Húrin]] and [[Huor] were the first men to enter Gondolin, but they did not traverse the hidden ravine to reach the city - instead they were borne aloft by the eagles of Thorondor over the Encircling Mountains. Later they departed in the same manner and thus could not reveal the passage into Tumladen (and swore oaths to not reveal the valley's location).<ref>{{S|Fingolfin}}</ref>

Yet it was Húrin who, despite his oath, eventually and inadvertently revealed the location of Turgon's realm to [[Morgoth]]. Húrin came to the Encircling Mountains and cried out for Turgon to hear him in his hidden halls. Húrin was unaware that spies of Morgoth heard his words and reported to their master where the Hidden Kingdom lay.<ref>{{S|Doriath}}</ref>

The host of Morgoth came to Gondolin, pouring over the Echoriad from the north and north east. All would have died within the city but that [[Idril]] had made a secret tunnel. She and [[Tuor]] led the remnants of the people of Gondolin out by this route and then they climbed into the mountains to the north, by the perilous pass known as the [[Cirith Thoronath]]. The refugees were attacked by [[Orcs]] and a [[Balrogs|Balrog]]. While eagles dispersed the Orcs, [[Glorfindel]] fought with the Balrog upon a pinnacle of rock and both fell into the nearby abyss. Like Fingolfin, Thorondor came and brought Glorfindel's body up to the refugees, who buried him in a mound of stones beside the path. The people could then proceed with their escape, and eventually came out of the mountains and into the vale of [[Sirion]].<ref>{{S|Gondolin}}</ref>

==Etymology==
Echoriath is [[Sindarin]]. It means "encircling fence", from ''[[echor]]'' "encircling" and ''[[iâth]]'' "fence".<ref name="Elements">{{S|Elements}}, entries ''echor'' and ''iâth''</ref>

[[Christopher Tolkien]] mentioned that his father's intent was to rename the Echoriath as ''Echoriad'', but perhaps this knowledge eluded him while publishing ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.<ref name="WJ">{{WJ|Hurin}}, note 27</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand]]
[[Category:Mountains]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]

[[de:Echoriath]]
[[fi:Echoriath]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:reliefs:beleriand:echoriath]]

Fen of Serech

2012-09-20T09:00:18Z

Fornadan: Spell check.

The '''Fen of Serech''' was a marshland between [[Dorthonion]] and the [[Ered Wethrin]], at the confluence of the [[Sirion]] and its tributary, the [[Rivil]]. It lay at the northeast end of one of the few passes between [[Anfauglith]] and [[Beleriand]]<ref>{{S|Map}}</ref> and thus was the site of many battles.

==History==
During the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]], the returning [[Noldor]] swiftly overcame the [[Orcs]] that had been sent against them and hunted these Orcs over the mountains. In the meantime another Orc army that had beleaguered [[Círdan]] rushed up the [[Vales of Sirion]] to aid the fugitives, but they were attacked by [[Celegorm]] as he led part of the Elven-host down from the hills around [[Eithel Sirion]]. Celegorm drove the Orcs into the Fen of Serech where most of them perished.<ref>{{S|Return}}</ref>

In {{FA|455}} the [[Dagor Bragollach]] began<ref>{{GA|145}}</ref> with rivers of flame from [[Thangorodrim]]. In the onslaught, [[Finrod|Finrod Felagund]] was cut off from all of his forces except for a small company in the Fen. [[Barahir]] saved the king by rushing in and creating a wall of spears about him, which enabled Finrod to escape back to [[Nargothrond]]. Barahir's losses were heavy, but his deed forged a great friendship between Finrod and the kin of Barahir. Finrod gave Barahir his ring in token of his vow of friendship.<ref>{{S|Fingolfin}}</ref>

In the fifth battle of Beleriand, the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] (fought in {{FA|472}}<ref>{{GA|217}}</ref>), King Fingon had hidden his forces in the eastern hills of the Ered Wethrin and the fortress of [[Barad Sirion]]. The [[Captain of Morgoth]] marched his battle-line forward until it was between the Fen and the fortress. Before the outworks of Barad Eithel the heralds of Morgoth placed [[Gelmir (son of Guilin)|Gelmir]] of Nargothrond and cut off his hands and feet and head. Gelmir's brother [[Gwindor]] pursued the heralds beyond the Fen of Serech and slew them, which caused the entire Elven host to charge in and slaughter Morgoth's western forces.

This seeming victory though led to disaster. Fingon's host reached the gates of Thangorodrim where Morgoth released his main host. Fingon retreated and was saved by Turgon and [[Húrin]] when surrounded, but their combined forces still had to withdraw when [[Glaurung]] appeared and fell upon [[Maedhros]]' eastern forces. [[Turgon]] and the host of [[Gondolin]] were forced back across the Fen by the coming of [[Gothmog]], Lord of the [[Balrogs]]. [[Húrin]] and [[Huor]], with the remaining men of the [[House of Hador]], made a stand upon the banks of the Rivil, which allowed Turgon to escape to Gondolin. Huor and his men were slain one by one by the [[Orcs]], but Húrin slayed seventy of the enemy before being captured.<ref>{{S|Fifth}}</ref>

In {{FA|500}}, Morgoth released Húrin and set a watch upon him. After visiting [[Hithlum]] Húrin sought to enter the hidden city of [[Gondolin]]. when [[Thorondor]] the eagle reported Húrin's presence below the [[Echoriath]] Turgon suspected that Húrin had surrendered to Morgoth and refused to aid him. Despairing before the silent cliffs, Húrin shouted: "Turgon, Turgon, remember the Fen of Serech!"<ref>{{S|Doriath}}</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand]]
[[Category:Swamps]]
[[de:Fenn von Serech]]
[[fi:Serechin Suo]]

Go-

2012-09-20T08:53:57Z

Fornadan: Created page with "Go- is a Noldorin prefix meaning "together".<ref>Didier Willis, [http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/english.html Hiswelókë's Sindarin Dictionary] at [http://w..."

Go- is a [[Noldorin]] prefix meaning "together".<ref>[[Didier Willis]], [http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/english.html Hiswelókë's Sindarin Dictionary] at [http://www.jrrvf.com/haut.shtml Jrrvf.com] (accessed 20 September 2012)</ref>

{{References}}

Dwarves of Belegost

2012-09-20T07:52:18Z

Fornadan:

{{sources}}
{{race
|image=
|name= Dwarves of Belegost
|dominions=[[Belegost]], [[Blue Mountains]]
|languages= [[Khuzdul]] [[Sindarin]]
|height=Five feet or less
|length=
|skincolor=
|haircolor=
|feathers=
|distinctions= Short in stature, beards, well-armoured in combat
|lifespan=around 250 years
|members=[[Azaghâl]]
}}
The '''Dwarves of Belegost''' were a people of [[Dwarves]] who dwelt in the city of Belegost, the northernmost of the two great Dwarf-cities that stood in the Blue Mountains during the [[First Age]].

They had generally better relations with the [[Elves]] than their neighbors in [[Nogrod]], and were behind the building of [[Menegroth]]. The Dwarves of Belegost were friends to the [[Sindar]]<ref name="Sindar">{{S|Sindar}}</ref> and later allies of the [[Noldor]] of [[Beleriand]].<ref>{{S|Noldor}}</ref> They first met the [[Noldor]] Elves near [[Mount Rerir]] and a great friendship began between the two peoples. They fought bravely beside each other during the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], where they lost their ruler Lord [[Azaghâl]] in battle to the dragon [[Glaurung]].

When the [[Dwarves of Nogrod]] assembled a great host of Dwarves to attack [[Doriath]], the Dwarves of Belegost tried to dissuade them from war, but their brethren from Nogrod did not heed their advice. These dwarves went on to fight in the [[Battle of the Thousand Caves]],<ref>{{S|Doriath}}</ref> and later met their demise the [[Battle of Sarn Athrad]]. After this tragedy the Dwarves of Belegost started leaving for [[Khazad-dûm]], for fear of reprisal from the Elves. There was much loathing between Elf and Dwarf from there on.<ref>{{UT|Concerning}}, p. 235</ref>

Belegost was later ruined in the [[War of Wrath]], and most of the dwarves left for Khazad-dûm. Some stayed to build, or rebuild, new homes and mines, along with the remaining [[Dwarves of Nogrod]]. However, Belegost seems to have been mostly abandoned.

In smithing, the Dwarves of Belegost were second only to the Dwarves of Nogrod. They learned many secrets in smithing from the Elves, and Elves from the Dwarves. They created many weapons for the Elves when evil began to stir in [[Beleriand]], and the smiths of Belegost were the first to create linked ring mail.

==Portrayal in adaptations==

'''1982-97: ''[[Middle-earth Role Playing]]'':'''
: The Dwarves of Belegost are called '''Thrár's Tribe'''.<ref>{{ICE|8004}}</ref><ref>[[Thomas Morwinsky]], "A Brief History of the Dwarven Mansions", in ''[[Other Minds]]'' issue 4 (July 2008)</ref>

==See also==

*[[Dwarves of Nogrod]]

{{references}}
[[Category:Dwarves]]
[[de:Belegost]]
[[fi:Belegost]]

Palantíri

2012-09-18T16:40:16Z

Fornadan:

{{disambig-more|Palantír|[[Palantir (disambiguation)]]}}
{{objects
| image=[[File:Raphael Rau - Palantir.jpg|250px]]
| name=Palantíri
| othernames=Seeing Stones
| derivation=[[Quenya|Q.]] ''[[palan]]'' "far, distant, wide" + ''[[tir]]'' "watch, guard"
| location=Various locations in [[Endor]]
| ownedby=[[Elendil]] and his line, [[Ruling Stewards]], [[Saruman]]
| maker=[[Fëanor]]
| appearance=Smooth, round, dark stones
| references=''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Palantíri]]''
}}
{{quote|The ''palantír'' replied to each, but all those in [[Gondor]] were ever open to the view of [[Osgiliath]]. Now it appears that, as the [[Orthanc|rock of Orthanc]] has withstood the storms of time, so there the ''palantír'' of that tower has remained. But alone it could do nothing but see small images of things far off and days remote. Very useful, no doubt, that was to [[Saruman]]; yet it seems that he was not content. Further and further abroad he gazed, until he cast his gaze upon [[Barad-dûr]]. Then he was caught!|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Palantír]]''}}
The '''''palantíri''''' (sometimes translated as "''Seeing Stones''") were stones that could be used in communication with one another, and also to see many things across the face of the world. When its master looked in it, he could communicate with other Stones and anyone who might be looking into them; people of great power can manipulate the Stones to see virtually any part of the world.

==History==
===Origin and early history===
The ''palantíri'' were made by [[Fëanor]] in the [[Uttermost West]].<ref name="SIndex">{{S|Index}}</ref> Twenty eight ''palantíri'' were made, og which nine were given to the [[Dúnedain]] of [[Númenor]] by [[Gil-galad]] as a gift during the [[Second Age]]. Of these, [[Elendil]] took seven with him on his flight to [[Middle-earth]] upon the [[Downfall of Númenor]], and in time they were distributed among seven places: four in [[Gondor]] and three in [[Arnor]].<ref name="SRings">{{S|Rings}}</ref> They were used largely for communication, but also to see what was occuring through the realms. Their existence was common knowledge, but no-one was allowed easy access to them save for kings and rulers, appointed wardens, or by royal command.

===Third Age and beyond===
One by one the stones vanished from public knowledge or were lost. The [[Osgiliath-stone]] fell into [[Anduin]] during the [[Kin-strife]] and burning of that city in [[Third Age 1437|T.A. 1437]]. When [[Arvedui]], [[King of Arnor]], was shipwrecked and his line ended in [[Third Age 1975|T.A. 1975]], he drowned with the ''palantíri'' of [[Amon Sûl-stone|Amon Sûl]] and [[Annúminas-stone|Annúminas]], the only communicating stones of Arnor. When [[Minas Ithil]] fell in [[Third Age 2002|2002]], the stone was assumed destroyed in general. The wiser and more foresighted men of Gondor decided that in case Sauron had seized the Stone, they would stop using the [[Anor-stone]] to prevent any contact with the [[Dark Lord]]. As the [[Elostirion-stone]] was locked away and could not answer the other stones anyway, the only remaining stone was the [[Orthanc-stone]], which became useless to the Gondorians. When [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] gave [[Saruman]] the deserted but secure [[Orthanc]] in [[Third Age 2759|2759]], he likely assumed that Saruman, head of the leading order against Sauron, would keep it safe.

Several of these hidden or lost stones came to light during the [[War of the Ring]]. Previous to this, Saruman used his ''palantír'' to gain knowledge, and eventually was caught when he dared to looked toward [[Mordor]]. Thus, the above war was greatly affected by these stones. Later, upon Saruman's downfall, its rightful master [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]] twisted it to his will, so that it no longer had a connection with the stolen Ithil stone.

The second ''palantír'' to be revealed was that of Minas Anor. Denethor, too, had glanced toward Mordor with it, but his great hate of incarnate evil and power of will prevented him from being snared, though it taxed him greatly. Partially because of what he saw he eventually committed suicide in the darkest hour. This stone was later used by King [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]], though it is said that anyone of weaker will who looked into it would see the writhing hands of Denethor in his final agony.

The final fate of most of the stones is unknown. The Elostirion-stone was taken west with the [[Ringbearer]]s in [[Third Age 3021|3021]] of the [[Third Age]], severing the last link of [[Middle-earth]] to [[Valinor]]. The stones of Anor and Orthanc are believed to have been reinstated in the [[Reunited Kingdom]] and used officially once more. The Ithil-stone may have been destroyed in the fall of Barad-dûr, but it is also possible that it too was found and reused in the Reunited Kingdom. Whether or not the other three lost stones were ever found is never indicated; the Osgiliath-stone may have rolled into the Sea, or it may have lain still in the Anduin. The stones of Arnor, however, were lost in the frozen seas of [[Forochel]], and therefore it is highly unlikely that they could ever be recovered.

==Timeline==
*{{SA|3319}} - [[Downfall of Númenor]]; seven Stones are taken to [[Middle-earth]] by the [[Faithful]]
*{{TA|861}} - Division of [[Arnor]]; the [[Amon Sûl-stone]] is contested by [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]].
*{{TA|1409}} - The watchtower of [[Amon Sûl]] is destroyed by [[Angmar]]'s forces; the Amon Sûl-stone is taken to [[Fornost]]
*{{TA|1437}} - Burning of [[Osgiliath]]; the [[Osgiliath-stone]] falls into [[Anduin]]
*{{TA|1974}} - Fall of [[Arthedain]]; [[Arvedui]] salvages the Amon Sûl and [[Annúminas-stone]]s and takes them with him.
*{{TA|1975}} - Amon Sûl and Annúminas-stones sink in [[Forochel]]
*{{TA|2002}} - Sauron seizes the [[Ithil-stone]]. Gondorians stop using the [[Anor-stone]] and [[Orthanc-stone]].
*{{TA|2759}} - [[Saruman]] assumes the Orthanc-stone.
*c. T.A. 3000 - Saruman is corrupted by the Stone.
*{{TA|3019}} - The Stone is thrown by [[Wormtongue]]; [[Aragorn]] twists the stone to his will.
*{{TA|3021}} - The [[Elostirion-stone]] is taken West on the [[White Ship]]

==Appearance==
They were perfect spheres, appearing to be made of solid glass or deep black crystal. The smallest stones were one foot in diameter; the larger stones too large for a single man to bear. They were unbreakable save, some thought, by the fires of [[Orodruin]].

==The Stones==
* The '''[[Master-stone]]''' was not one of the seven, but remained in the [[Tower of Avallonë]] in [[Tol Eressëa]]. It was the master stone. It apparently could not communicate with the stones of [[Middle-earth]], or at least is not mentioned having done so.

* The '''[[Osgiliath-stone]]''' was the largest stone among the seven, and chief among them. It was placed in a prominent building in [[Osgiliath]], the capital city of the kingdom of [[Gondor]]. The ceiling of its chamber was painted to resemble a starry sky, and gave its name (''[[ost]]-[[gil]]iath'', the [[Dome of Stars]]) to the city itself. It was too large for one man to carry.

* The '''[[Elostirion-stone]]''', also known as the '''[[Elendil Stone]]''', was placed by [[Elendil]] in the tower of [[Elostirion]] in the [[Emyn Beraid]], just west of [[The Shire]]. The tower and stone were maintained and guarded by [[Círdan]] and the [[Lindon]]-[[elves]]. Elendil used it to looked back along the [[Straight Road]] to [[Eressëa]] and even the [[Tower of Avallonë]] and the [[Master-stone]], and though it is indicated that he tried, he could not see the fallen Númenor. It could not be used in communication with the other stones, and was unique in this respect.

* The '''[[Amon Sûl-stone]]''' was placed in the watch-tower of [[Weathertop|Amon Sûl]]. It was the largest and most powerful of the [[Arnor]]ian ''palantíri'' and the one most used in communication with [[Gondor]]. Like the Osgiliath-stone, it "could not be lifted by one man."

* The '''[[Annúminas-stone]]''' was also placed in Arnor, in the city of [[Annúminas]].

* The '''[[Ithil-stone]]''' was placed in [[Minas Ithil]], in the mountains that came to be known as the [[Ephel Dúath]]. When Minas Ithil fell to the [[Nazgûl]], the Ithil-stone was taken to [[Barad-dûr]] and used by [[Sauron]].

* The '''[[Orthanc-stone]]''' was placed in the great tower built by the [[Dúnedain]] in the Second Age at the southern end of the [[Misty Mountains]], [[Orthanc]]. It fell into the hands of the wizard [[Saruman]], who used it to garner information on his neighbors and their activities. The stone was also partially responsible for Saruman's fall from grace, as he was using it when he came upon [[Sauron]], and was ensnared by him. After the [[War of the Ring]], the Orthanc-stone remained in the custody of the Kings of Gondor in the [[Fourth Age]].

* The '''[[Anor-stone]]''' was placed at [[Minas Anor]], later renamed [[Minas Tirith]] and made the capital of [[Gondor]]. It was kept an unused secret by the Ruling Stewards until it was ultimately used by Steward [[Denethor|Denethor II]] to watch his land, and he eventually even challenged Sauron in a battle of wills. Denethor did not become corrupted, but the great effort of will that this required of him led him to age quickly. [[Denethor]] was holding the stone when he committed suicide on a funeral pyre, and after this, only people of exceeding power could see in it anything other than two flaming hands.

==Usage==
[[File:Saruman with Palantir from Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Saruman]] with Palantir from Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]The purpose of the stones in general was dual: to communicate with one another, and to see afar. All the stones save for the Elostirion-stone could be used in communication with one another, although the bigger and more powerful stones were favored for this use over long distances. The great Osgiliath-stone could spy on communication by the lesser stones, and a few others apparently also had special abilities. The stones' gaze could penetrate beyond any solid object, such as into deep caverns, but required light to see anything. A technique called ''[[shrouding]]'' was used when something was to be kept secret from any possible watchers using the stones. Knowledge of this technique was lost in time, although Sauron probably knew of it.

The user or "surveyer" of a ''palantír'' would first assure himself that the stone was oriented properly. Usually the stones were held firmly so that this did not have to occur at each viewing. Then the surveyer would take up a position facing the direction he would want to look; for instance, if he wished to look west, he would stand on the eastern side of the stone. The major stones, however, could be rotated, and thus did not require moving about. The stones were apparently controlled by will power; although chance largely dictated precisely upon what the gaze of the stones lay, the surveyer could manipulate and shift the gaze by merely concentrating, even when not touching the stone. This concentrating, however, was quite taxing, and so was not generally used save in urgent situations. Zooming in could be accomplished through the same methods, and standing three feet away from the stone achieved the best clarity and widest scope. Stronger and more skilled surveyers could generally see more easily and with less difficulty than others.

To communicate with another stone, the viewer would orient himself and look toward the location of that stone, and the two stones would automatically connect with one another unless one was being used in another conversation. The surveyer would transmit his thoughts to the other stone by thinking, but the person on the other end would hear it in his head. The surveyer and his contact would see one another, but sounds could not be transmitted save through the above method of thought.

The stones were generally placed in bowls or depressions in tables of black marble, oriented through trial and error so that the poles of the stone aligned with the center of the world. The kings usually appointed deputies to look in the stone regularly, or on command, or in times of emergency. Others not authorized by the king could use them, but it took a great amount of willpower, and things were often less clear.

==Etymology==
'''[[Palantír]]''' (pl. ''Palantíri'') is [[Quenya]], meaning "Far seeing". The [[Sindarin]] cognate is '''[[Gwachaedir]]''' (which is both the singular and plural form).

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of palantíri|Images of palantíri]]

{{Palantiri}}

{{References}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Palantiri}}
[[Category:Palantíri| ]]
[[Category:Objects]]
[[Category:Quenya nouns]]
[[de:Palantíri]]
[[fr:encyclo/artefacts/palantiri]]
[[fi:Palantíri]]

Palantíri

2012-09-18T16:08:54Z

Fornadan: Fëanor did create the Palantirì according to the Simarillion index.

{{disambig-more|Palantír|[[Palantir (disambiguation)]]}}
{{objects
| image=[[File:Raphael Rau - Palantir.jpg|250px]]
| name=Palantíri
| othernames=Seeing Stones
| derivation=[[Quenya|Q.]] ''[[palan]]'' "far, distant, wide" + ''[[tir]]'' "watch, guard"
| location=Various locations in [[Endor]]
| ownedby=[[Elendil]] and his line, [[Ruling Stewards]], [[Saruman]]
| maker=[[Noldor]] (likely [[Fëanor]])
| appearance=Smooth, round, dark stones
| references=''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Palantíri]]''
}}
{{quote|The ''palantír'' replied to each, but all those in [[Gondor]] were ever open to the view of [[Osgiliath]]. Now it appears that, as the [[Orthanc|rock of Orthanc]] has withstood the storms of time, so there the ''palantír'' of that tower has remained. But alone it could do nothing but see small images of things far off and days remote. Very useful, no doubt, that was to [[Saruman]]; yet it seems that he was not content. Further and further abroad he gazed, until he cast his gaze upon [[Barad-dûr]]. Then he was caught!|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Palantír]]''}}
The '''''palantíri''''' (sometimes translated as "''Seeing Stones''") were stones that could be used in communication with one another, and also to see many things across the face of the world. When its master looked in it, he could communicate with other Stones and anyone who might be looking into them; people of great power can manipulate the Stones to see virtually any part of the world.

==History==
===Origin and Early History===
The ''palantíri'' were made by [[Fëanor]] in the [[Uttermost West]]. Twenty eight ''palantíri'' were made, og which nine were given to the [[Dúnedain]] of [[Númenor]] by [[Gil-galad]] as a gift during the [[Second Age]]. Of these, [[Elendil]] took seven with him on his flight to [[Middle-earth]] upon the [[Downfall of Númenor]], and in time they were distributed among seven places: four in [[Gondor]] and three in [[Arnor]]. They were used largely for communication, but also to see what was occuring through the realms. Their existence was common knowledge, but no-one was allowed easy access to them save for kings and rulers, appointed wardens, or by royal command.

===Third Age and beyond===
One by one the stones vanished from public knowledge or were lost. The [[Osgiliath-stone]] fell into [[Anduin]] during the [[Kin-strife]] and burning of that city in [[Third Age 1437|T.A. 1437]]. When [[Arvedui]], [[King of Arnor]], was shipwrecked and his line ended in [[Third Age 1975|T.A. 1975]], he drowned with the ''palantíri'' of [[Amon Sûl-stone|Amon Sûl]] and [[Annúminas-stone|Annúminas]], the only communicating stones of Arnor. When [[Minas Ithil]] fell in [[Third Age 2002|2002]], the stone was assumed destroyed in general. The wiser and more foresighted men of Gondor decided that in case Sauron had seized the Stone, they would stop using the [[Anor-stone]] to prevent any contact with the [[Dark Lord]]. As the [[Elostirion-stone]] was locked away and could not answer the other stones anyway, the only remaining stone was the [[Orthanc-stone]], which became useless to the Gondorians. When [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] gave [[Saruman]] the deserted but secure [[Orthanc]] in [[Third Age 2759|2759]], he likely assumed that Saruman, head of the leading order against Sauron, would keep it safe.

Several of these hidden or lost stones came to light during the [[War of the Ring]]. Previous to this, Saruman used his ''palantír'' to gain knowledge, and eventually was caught when he dared to looked toward [[Mordor]]. Thus, the above war was greatly affected by these stones. Later, upon Saruman's downfall, its rightful master [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]] twisted it to his will, so that it no longer had a connection with the stolen Ithil stone.

The second ''palantír'' to be revealed was that of Minas Anor. Denethor, too, had glanced toward Mordor with it, but his great hate of incarnate evil and power of will prevented him from being snared, though it taxed him greatly. Partially because of what he saw he eventually committed suicide in the darkest hour. This stone was later used by King [[Aragorn|Aragorn II]], though it is said that anyone of weaker will who looked into it would see the writhing hands of Denethor in his final agony.

The final fate of most of the stones is unknown. The Elostirion-stone was taken west with the [[Ringbearer]]s in [[Third Age 3021|3021]] of the [[Third Age]], severing the last link of [[Middle-earth]] to [[Valinor]]. The stones of Anor and Orthanc are believed to have been reinstated in the [[Reunited Kingdom]] and used officially once more. The Ithil-stone may have been destroyed in the fall of Barad-dûr, but it is also possible that it too was found and reused in the Reunited Kingdom. Whether or not the other three lost stones were ever found is never indicated; the Osgiliath-stone may have rolled into the Sea, or it may have lain still in the Anduin. The stones of Arnor, however, were lost in the frozen seas of [[Forochel]], and therefore it is highly unlikely that they could ever be recovered.

==Timeline==
*{{SA|3319}} - [[Downfall of Númenor]]; seven Stones are taken to [[Middle-earth]] by the [[Faithful]]
*{{TA|861}} - Division of [[Arnor]]; the [[Amon Sûl-stone]] is contested by [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]].
*{{TA|1409}} - The watchtower of [[Amon Sûl]] is destroyed by [[Angmar]]'s forces; the Amon Sûl-stone is taken to [[Fornost]]
*{{TA|1437}} - Burning of [[Osgiliath]]; the [[Osgiliath-stone]] falls into [[Anduin]]
*{{TA|1974}} - Fall of [[Arthedain]]; [[Arvedui]] salvages the Amon Sûl and [[Annúminas-stone]]s and takes them with him.
*{{TA|1975}} - Amon Sûl and Annúminas-stones sink in [[Forochel]]
*{{TA|2002}} - Sauron seizes the [[Ithil-stone]]. Gondorians stop using the [[Anor-stone]] and [[Orthanc-stone]].
*{{TA|2759}} - [[Saruman]] assumes the Orthanc-stone.
*c. T.A. 3000 - Saruman is corrupted by the Stone.
*{{TA|3019}} - The Stone is thrown by [[Wormtongue]]; [[Aragorn]] twists the stone to his will.
*{{TA|3021}} - The [[Elostirion-stone]] is taken West on the [[White Ship]]

==Appearance==
They were perfect spheres, appearing to be made of solid glass or deep black crystal. The smallest stones were one foot in diameter; the larger stones too large for a single man to bear. They were unbreakable save, some thought, by the fires of [[Orodruin]].

==The Stones==

* The '''[[Master-stone]]''' was not one of the seven, but remained in the [[Tower of Avallonë]] in [[Tol Eressëa]]. It was the master stone. It apparently could not communicate with the stones of [[Middle-earth]], or at least is not mentioned having done so.

* The '''[[Osgiliath-stone]]''' was the largest stone among the seven, and chief among them. It was placed in a prominent building in [[Osgiliath]], the capital city of the kingdom of [[Gondor]]. The ceiling of its chamber was painted to resemble a starry sky, and gave its name (''[[ost]]-[[gil]]iath'', the [[Dome of Stars]]) to the city itself. It was too large for one man to carry.

* The '''[[Elostirion-stone]]''', also known as the '''[[Elendil Stone]]''', was placed by [[Elendil]] in the tower of [[Elostirion]] in the [[Emyn Beraid]], just west of [[The Shire]]. The tower and stone were maintained and guarded by [[Círdan]] and the [[Lindon]]-[[elves]]. Elendil used it to looked back along the [[Straight Road]] to [[Eressëa]] and even the [[Tower of Avallonë]] and the [[Master-stone]], and though it is indicated that he tried, he could not see the fallen Númenor. It could not be used in communication with the other stones, and was unique in this respect.

* The '''[[Amon Sûl-stone]]''' was placed in the watch-tower of [[Weathertop|Amon Sûl]]. It was the largest and most powerful of the [[Arnor]]ian ''palantíri'' and the one most used in communication with [[Gondor]]. Like the Osgiliath-stone, it "could not be lifted by one man."

* The '''[[Annúminas-stone]]''' was also placed in Arnor, in the city of [[Annúminas]].

* The '''[[Ithil-stone]]''' was placed in [[Minas Ithil]], in the mountains that came to be known as the [[Ephel Dúath]]. When Minas Ithil fell to the [[Nazgûl]], the Ithil-stone was taken to [[Barad-dûr]] and used by [[Sauron]].

* The '''[[Orthanc-stone]]''' was placed in the great tower built by the [[Dúnedain]] in the Second Age at the southern end of the [[Misty Mountains]], [[Orthanc]]. It fell into the hands of the wizard [[Saruman]], who used it to garner information on his neighbors and their activities. The stone was also partially responsible for Saruman's fall from grace, as he was using it when he came upon [[Sauron]], and was ensnared by him. After the [[War of the Ring]], the Orthanc-stone remained in the custody of the Kings of Gondor in the [[Fourth Age]].

* The '''[[Anor-stone]]''' was placed at [[Minas Anor]], later renamed [[Minas Tirith]] and made the capital of [[Gondor]]. It was kept an unused secret by the Ruling Stewards until it was ultimately used by Steward [[Denethor|Denethor II]] to watch his land, and he eventually even challenged Sauron in a battle of wills. Denethor did not become corrupted, but the great effort of will that this required of him led him to age quickly. [[Denethor]] was holding the stone when he committed suicide on a funeral pyre, and after this, only people of exceeding power could see in it anything other than two flaming hands.

==Usage==
[[Image:Saruman with Palantir from Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Saruman]] with Palantir from Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings]]The purpose of the stones in general was dual: to communicate with one another, and to see afar. All the stones save for the Elostirion-stone could be used in communication with one another, although the bigger and more powerful stones were favored for this use over long distances. The great Osgiliath-stone could spy on communication by the lesser stones, and a few others apparently also had special abilities. The stones' gaze could penetrate beyond any solid object, such as into deep caverns, but required light to see anything. A technique called ''[[shrouding]]'' was used when something was to be kept secret from any possible watchers using the stones. Knowledge of this technique was lost in time, although Sauron probably knew of it.

The user or "surveyer" of a ''palantír'' would first assure himself that the stone was oriented properly. Usually the stones were held firmly so that this did not have to occur at each viewing. Then the surveyer would take up a position facing the direction he would want to look; for instance, if he wished to look west, he would stand on the eastern side of the stone. The major stones, however, could be rotated, and thus did not require moving about. The stones were apparently controlled by will power; although chance largely dictated precisely upon what the gaze of the stones lay, the surveyer could manipulate and shift the gaze by merely concentrating, even when not touching the stone. This concentrating, however, was quite taxing, and so was not generally used save in urgent situations. Zooming in could be accomplished through the same methods, and standing three feet away from the stone achieved the best clarity and widest scope. Stronger and more skilled surveyers could generally see more easily and with less difficulty than others.

To communicate with another stone, the viewer would orient himself and look toward the location of that stone, and the two stones would automatically connect with one another unless one was being used in another conversation. The surveyer would transmit his thoughts to the other stone by thinking, but the person on the other end would hear it in his head. The surveyer and his contact would see one another, but sounds could not be transmitted save through the above method of thought.

The stones were generally placed in bowls or depressions in tables of black marble, oriented through trial and error so that the poles of the stone aligned with the center of the world. The kings usually appointed deputies to look in the stone regularly, or on command, or in times of emergency. Others not authorized by the king could use them, but it took a great amount of willpower, and things were often less clear.

==Etymology==
'''[[Palantír]]''' (pl. ''Palantíri'') is [[Quenya]], meaning "Far seeing". The [[Sindarin]] cognate is '''[[Gwachaedir]]''' (which is both the singular and plural form).

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of palantíri|Images of palantíri]]

{{Palantiri}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Palantiri}}
[[Category:Palantíri| ]]
[[Category:Objects]]
[[Category:Quenya nouns]]
[[de:Palantíri]]
[[fr:encyclo/artefacts/palantiri]]
[[fi:Palantíri]]