[Saurreg]

If Fëanor did not die, there would still be enstranglement between the two hosts of the Noldor. Fingolfin might forgive his brother again for the burning of the ships but I doubt his sons and the offsprings of Finarfin would.

That said, the might of the Noldor would have diminished so greatly that there would be no effective leaguer of Angband. Morgoth's forces could easily swallow up the smaller host of Fëanor's and then turn his direction to Fingolfin's. End of story.

Another thought: Fëanor was the instigator of the kin-slaying. Supposingly if Thingol found out, would he not attack Fëanor out blind fury? Remember, King Greymantle had never been the most calm and rationale eldar in the Silmarillion. Mutual subjugation of each leader's army is most likely.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Saurreg ]