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a clannish or tribal system rather than a nation-state system
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exactly what I wanted to point out
As for the Beleriand examples given above, the divisions are also tribal. Though Noldor are Noldor, and Doriath a kingdom they are not allowed into, there is no geographical definition of nation in Beleriand. High Kong of the Noldor is king of the Noldor this side of the sea, whatever they location may be.
To parallel it with us of today. One of my acquaintances in Paris identifies herself as French, though her father be Algerian Arab and mother Japanese, as it happens. Yet noldo is not one living in Nargothrond, but one born of Noldorin parents
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And though they be come indeed to Beleriand, let them not so swiftly forget that their father is a lord of the Noldor, though their mother be of other kin.
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Modern nation may forget such things as mother's kin. 'Show me your passport, man, and I'll tell you what nation you belong to' kind of defining
A bunch of stray thoughts those above, though, after more than year's break. Tear it up who will