Is The Silmarillion a "downer" - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

narfforc · 02-21-2005, 11:16 AM

Yes I agree generally that The Silmarillion is dark and depressing, yet in other ways it has moments of shining light, think of these things;-

1. The all conquering love between Beren and Luthien.

2. The Loyalty of Finrod to the kin of Barahir.

3. The sacrifice of Hurin, for the sake of the future.

4. Fingon`s rescue of his friend Maedhros.

5. Beleg`s rescue of Turin.

Behind all the death and destruction, is a theme of Love, Loyalty, Devotion and Bravery. How many people reading this would die to save a friend, how many people would give up everything, so that this world could be saved. Tolkien knew many such people, he fought beside them in the trenches. There is nothing greater in Tolkiens works than his portrayal of The Noble Spirit, to defy evil at all costs, surely we can see the good in that message. Yes The Silmarillion is sad in most places, yet when I read the heroics I feel my heart burst, just like at The Ride of The Rohirrim at The Battle of The Pelennor Fields.

02-21-2005, 11:16 AM	#7
narfforc Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Muddy-earth Posts: 1,297	Yes I agree generally that The Silmarillion is dark and depressing, yet in other ways it has moments of shining light, think of these things;- 1. The all conquering love between Beren and Luthien. 2. The Loyalty of Finrod to the kin of Barahir. 3. The sacrifice of Hurin, for the sake of the future. 4. Fingon`s rescue of his friend Maedhros. 5. Beleg`s rescue of Turin. Behind all the death and destruction, is a theme of Love, Loyalty, Devotion and Bravery. How many people reading this would die to save a friend, how many people would give up everything, so that this world could be saved. Tolkien knew many such people, he fought beside them in the trenches. There is nothing greater in Tolkiens works than his portrayal of The Noble Spirit, to defy evil at all costs, surely we can see the good in that message. Yes The Silmarillion is sad in most places, yet when I read the heroics I feel my heart burst, just like at The Ride of The Rohirrim at The Battle of The Pelennor Fields.