Relative Powers

[The Saucepan Man]

Originally Posted by the phantom

When one reads the Silmarillion, it is natural to come away from it not liking Feanor.

Well, I could not honestly say that I "like" Feanor. He did too may heartless things, and unnecessarily so, to garner my affection. The burning of the ships, forcing the remaining Noldor to brave the Hellcaraxe, for example. That said, I nevertheless find his story fascinating and he undoubtedly contributes hugely to the tale. For that, I can admire and respect him as a character.

Yes, others had various weaknesses that affect their "power". But Feanor's mental weakness was hugely detrimental to his own well-being, that of his entire line and most of those who came into contact with him.

So, as I hope you can see, my pro-Feanor stance grew from my examination of events, not from the way the events were presented.

I can understand that. But I still think that, in your admirable defence of him, you err on the side of ignoring his negative qualities.