The Truth Is Revealed

Finrod continued to build his stronghold, Nargothrond, while Galadriel stayed in Doriath. She spent much time with Melian who perceived the Noldor were hiding details from their journey to Middle-earth. It was originally thought by many of the Sindar that the Valar had sent the Noldor as aid since they came at in an hour of need. But Melian, being wise, noted that the Noldor brought no message from the Valar nor did they ever speak of them. They did not even bring news from Olwe King Thingol's brother who remained in Aman. She questioned Galadriel for the truth and finally it is revealed, in part. Galadriel spoke of the making of the Silmarils and the Noldor's choice to leave Middle-earth and the slaying of Finwe by Morgoth. She said nothing of the oath of Feanor, the Kinslaying, or the burning of ships. Melian perceived that she was not getting the whole story. Melian implored that more information be given to Thingol so he could make a better judgement on the Noldor but Galadriel refused. And no more did they speak of these matters.

Melian passed on what knowledge she gained from Galadriel to Thingol. In particular she noted the Silmarils, which she deemed to be a greater matter than event he Noldor knew, and the murder of Finwe. Thingol was sad to hear of his friend Finwe's death but he figured the Noldor will be staunch allies against Morgoth. Melian declared a shadow of wrath that followed the sons of Feanor; but Thingol heeds it little since they hold the most grievance against Morgoth because of the stolen Silmarils. "'Their swords and their counsels shall have two edges'" (p. 128, The Silmarillion) Melian replied and they spoke no more of it. Soon rumors of what the Noldor did on their journey were abroad among the Sindar spread by Morgoth. Cirdan was deeply troubled by them, though he did not know if true or false, he knew they were spread by malice. He sent messengers to Thingol in regards to the rumors.

It happened that at this time (around 67 First Age) Finarfin's sons were in Doriath visiting their sister Galadriel. Thingol angrily confronted them about their journey and especially about Kinslaying. Finrod was troubled but remained silent not wishing to bring charges against the other Noldor. Angrod, however, grew angry and in bitterness from the words of Caranthir told all of what happened on the road. Thingol still hot with anger bade them to leave but being kin he would not bar his doors forever. He also pledged future friendship with Fingolfin's people but he banished the tongue of the Noldor to ever be spoken in his realm. Those that dared to do so would be held unrepentant for the Kinslayings.  As the sons of Finarfin departed they knew the Doom of Mandos would be ever true for all those that followed Feanor out of the West. About 35 years later, roughly 102 The First Age, Nargothrond was completed by Finrod. All his brothers and Galadriel came for a time to feast. In prophetic mode he declared he would never marry: "'An oath I too shall swear, and must be free to fulfill it, and go into darkness. Nor shall anything of my realm endure that a son should inherit it'" (p. 130, The Silmarillion). Ominous words indeed. 

I can't help but wonder had Galadriel told the truth in full when asked originally would Thingol's anger be lessened? Perhaps not because upon his first visit to Doriath Finrod himself concealed the whole truth for he thought all was forgiven by his rescue of Maedhros and the death of Feanor. Thingol must have felt purposely deceived. And that's the problem with half-truths, or selective truths, is it not? We ultimately are purposely deceiving whomever we are talking with even if we think it's not a big deal or for their good.

Middle-earth timeline: First Age, years 61-102
Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion