[Macalaure]

posted by Anguirel
He talks peace with Thingol (at the one point when Maglor and Daeron may have met).

Maedhros talks to Thingol face to face? That's only in the HoMe, isn't it? (I'm not through it, yet)

posted by Aiwendil
I'm not so sure. I think Feanor would disapprove of unnecessary violence. In his mind, the attack on Alqualonde was necessary - and note that he did attempt a non-violent solution first (arguing that the Teleri join him). Moreover, he does seem to show remorse on one occasion: his accidental slaying of Amrod at Losgar (see HoMe XII).

Alqualonde was necessary to Fëanor, but to Maedhros, too, I would say. He regrets a lot of his deeds, but never the first kinslaying.
But, as you say, the slaying of Amrod was an accident. I think that's something different.
Maybe I should have written "unnecessary misdeeds", like the burning of the ships, for example. The betrayal of Fingolfin was unnecessary - Fëanor doesn't care and Maedhros stands aside. Interesting to see that he only disobeys and does not oppose him. Also interesting to see that Maglor doesn't stand aside. Either his conscience hasn't yet kicked in, or he's a weaker person and does not dare to disobey his father. I would pick the latter.

I see Maglor's move here as a wise one.

But he doesn't solve anything, he only avoids the problem. One hour after Maedhros is back, everything is settled. It's really hard to interpret Maglor's intentions here. Maybe he wanted to solve it, but wasn't able to convince his brothers.

I agree that he seems to stand behind Celegorm, but I don't think this reflects a lack of ambition. I think that if Curufin had had his way, Celegorm would have become King of Nargothrond, but Curufin would have been the true power behind the throne.

I think you underestimate Celegorm. He wouldn't allow Curufin to manipulate him and Curufin is smart enough to know that.