The Northern Dúnedain

These events concern the Northern Dúnedain (the heirs of Isildur) after the northern realms separated. Malvegil was King in Arthedain when evil arose in Angmar. "The lord of that land was known as the Witch-king, but it was not known until later that he was indeed the chief of the Ringwraiths, who came north with the purpose of destroying the Dúnedain in Arnor, seeing hope in their disunion, while Gondor was strong" (p. 320, The Return of the King).  Argeleb, son of Malvegil, was the next King of Arthedain and in his reign he claimed lordship over the other northern kingdoms (Cardolan and Rhuduar) since there remained no longer any lineage to Isildur in those lands. Rhuduar rejected this claim and in secret union with Angmar brought war to Arthedain and Argeleb was killed.

"Arveleg son of Argeleb, with the help of Cardolan and Lindon, drove back his enemies from the Hills...It is said that at this time Rivendell was besieged" (p. 320, The Return of the King). By 1409 a great host from Angmar invaded Cardolan. The Dúnedain there were defeated, Weathertop destroyed, Cardolan piliged, and Arveleg was slain. But the palantir from the tower of Amon Sûl was saved and taken to Fornost. Rhuduar was now controlled by Men of Angmar and all the Dúnedain were destroyed or fled far to the West. As we can see, the Dúnedain continue to dwindle.

"Araphor son of Arveleg was not yet full-grown, but he was valiant, and with aid from Círdan he repelled the enemy from Fornost and the North Downs" (p. 321, The Return of the King). Also a remnant of Dúnedain in Cardolan had held out against Angmar in the Barrowdowns. Ultimately, however, the might of Angmar was subdued by the Elves. Círdan lent aid from Lindon and Elrond sent help form Rivendell as well as Lorien. I like that the Elves are still honoring the Last Alliance and sending aid to the Dúnedain!

It was at this time the Stoors (early descendants of the Hobbits) fled out of Eriador due to the fighting and fear of Angmar. Most fled South and West but some returned to Wilderland and settled by rivers becoming fisher-folk. This is the first overt reference to Hobbits in any of my reading yet; good stuff. I believe the Third Age timeline has some earlier references but I'll recap that at the end of my Third Age reading like I did for the Second Age. Being that it's the Third Age I am chomping at the bit to get to the major stories of the Age (The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings in book form) but this background (albeit sometimes tedious) is helpful in understanding the subtleties of the main stories.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1349-1409
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 320-321

Events In the Realm of Gondor

After the fall of Umbar Ciryaher, the King, extended the realm of Gondor and ruled for 134 years. "In his day Gondor reached the summit of its power" (p. 325, The Return of the King). In fact the defeated people around Gondor, such as the Harad, paid homage to Ciryaher. In this time Mordor remained empty and under intense watch by the Gondorians.

By 1149 Third Age Atanatar Alcarin, son of Ciryaher, became King. He was not a ship-faring warrior like his father before but enjoyed the power and providence of the land. In that day the saying, "precious stones are pebbles in Gondor for children to play with" (p. 325, The Return of the King) was common. Alcarin's two sons were in like mood of their father and the decline of Gondor began. "The watch upon Mordor was neglected" (p. 325, The Return of the King). A good reminder that sons look to their fathers and will model the behavior they see.

In 1240 Minalcar became Regent of Gondor for he was full of vigor and his father wished to be released from all responsibilities. Minalcar sought to win alliances with the Northmen who had increased greatly in the years of peace. The Northmen, out of all lesser Men, were nearest in kin to the Dúnedain and were strategically placed in between Gondor and the the Easterlings who would occasionally attack the land. Although when the attacks began again some of the Northmen aided the Easterlings. In 1248 Minalcar defeated the Easterlings and fortified his borders. During this time he had the pillars of the Argonath built.

Still Minalcar (now taking the name Romendacil) sought to build an alliance with the Northmen taking many of their men into his army and giving them high positions. In particular he sought the favor of Vidugavia a powerful prince of the North who named himself King of Rhovanian. Minalcar sent his son, Valacar, to the lands in the North to learn the customs, language, and policies of the Northmen. "He grew to love the Northern lands and people, and he married Vidumavi, daughter of Vidugavia" (p. 326, The Return of the King). This marriage would later prove ill to Gondor.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1050-1240
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 325-326

The Kinship of Galadriel and Elrond

"But during the Third Age Galadriel became filled with foreboding, and with Celeborn she journeyed to Lorien and stayed there long with Amroth, being especially concerned to learn all news and rumors of the growing Shadow in Mirkwood" (p. 244, Unfinished Tales). It remains unclear if Tolkien decided whether Amroth was the son of Galadriel and Celeborn or not. Whereas it is clear that Celebrian is the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn. But it appears that after staying in Lorien Galadriel and Celeborn travelled the land gathering information (seeing Gondor, Mordor, Thranduil's realm, etc) before staying in Imladris with Elrond, their kinsmen, for many years. It seems Galadriel was gathering information regarding the growing Shadow in the land. She and Celebrian rested with Elrond since he was their son-in-law. Indeed, early in the Third Age (the year 109 to be exact) Elrond married Celebrian.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1050
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 244

The Elessar Returns

It's been a while since we've read about the Elessar, so go here if you need to brush up. "In ages after there was again an Elessar, and of this two things are said, though which is true only those Wise could say who are now gone" (p. 249, Unfinished Tales) Before I recount the stories I must make a confession. I much prefer the first story and it seems to fit in the Third Age sometime shortly after the Wizards first appeared (or so I deem). The second story seems to fit much better in the Second Age circa 1500-1600 before the Rings of Power were made. In the end I'm a big Gandalf fan which is why I prefer the first tale but I am not counted among the Wise.

"For some say that the second was indeed only the first returned, by the grace of the Valar; and that Olorin (who was known in Middle-earth as Mithrandir) brought it with him out of the West" (p. 249, Unfinished Tales). It is said that Olorin came to Galadriel who was feeling the burden of years in Middle-earth, but not yet wanting to leave and, as it seems, not yet permitted to leave. For she was of the Noldor that originally rebelled in Valinor and did not return after the destruction of Morgoth. Olorin brought her tidings of her kin and she shared her burdens with him lamenting the fading and dying of all growing things around her. Olorin confirmed that is the fate of Middle-earth (kind of like our world, right? beauty does not last long it seems) but offered her hope in the Elessar.

Galadriel thought the jewel destroyed and did not see how it could return. "'For surely the Valar are now removed and Middle-earth is far from their thought, and all who cling to it are under a shadow.' 'It is not so,' said Olorin. 'Their eyes are not dimmed nor their hearts hardened. In token of which look upon this!' And he held before her the Elessar, and she looked upon it and wondered. Olorin said: 'This I bring to you from Yavanna'" (p. 250, Unfinished Tales). I love this interaction between Gandalf and Galadriel. It's easy to not see the good or God at work around you. Sometimes you need someone to come along side and help you see a proper perspective. The Valar have not hardened their hearts; they are still working for the good of Middle-earth; take heart. Gandalf told Galadriel she was but a steward of the Elessar for a time would come, before she would leave Middle-earth, one would come bearing the same name as the jewel to claim it. That is the first tale of the return of the Elessar.

The second tale is somewhat similar although the dialogue takes place between Galadriel and Celebrimbor, who made the Rings of Power for Sauron being deceived by him. Galadriel being weary of the burdens of Middle-earth lamented it's death and demise. Celebrimbor asked if Galadriel would pass over the Sea but she declined. "'Of Finarfin's children I am the last. But my heart is still proud. What wrong did the golden house of Finarfin do that I should ask the pardon of the Valar, or be content with an isle in the sea whose native land was Aman the Blessed? Here I am mightier'" (p. 250, Unfinished Tales). I do appreciate this addition of the dialogue as Galadriel, in the First Age, was often described as proud and you can really see it here.

In turn they discuss the Elessar that left with Eärendil when he sought pardon from the Valar and aid against Morgoth long ago. Galadriel missed that beautiful jewel from long ago. Celebrimbor responded, "'But you know that I love you (though you turned to Celeborn of the Trees), and for that love I will do what I can, if haply by my art your grief can be lessened'" (p. 250-251, Unfinished Tales). Celebrimbor remade the Elessar. Beautiful it was but not as mighty as the first since the shadow of Morgoth lay on the land. "Wielding the Elessar all things grew fair about Galadriel, until the coming of the Shadow to the forest'" (p. 251, Unfinished Tales). This jewel was not under the dominion of the One Ring for it was made before. Even so, once Galadriel became a guardian of one of the Three Rings she saw no need for the Elessar and gave it to her daughter Celebrian who in turn gave it to Arwen.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1000-1025 (or Second Age circa 1500)
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 249-251

Of the Wizards

"Even as the first shadows were felt in Mirkwood there appeared in the West of Middle-earth the Istari, whom Men called the Wizards"(p. 299, The Silmarillion). Sauron is rising and the Wizards arrive to fight his evil. I read sections from several books to gain fascinating insight about the Istari.

It appears that the Valar, summoned by Manwë, (and perhaps at the leading of Eru) held council and decided to send forth emissaries to Middle-earth as Sauron was rising. "'Who should go? For they must be mighty, peers to Sauron, but must forego might, and clothes themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men. But this would imperil them, dimming their wisdom and knowledge, and confusing them with fears, cares, and wearinesses coming from the flesh'" (p. 393, Unfinished Tales). Indeed, the Wizards are of the Maiar, helpers to the Valar and angel-like; supernatural if you will. If you've followed this blog you probably have a good idea that I would call myself a Christ-follower and so the idea of these supernatural beings clothing themselves in flesh is not a new concept for me. Indeed, Christ left His place in the eternal Trinity to wrap himself in the flesh of humanity to live a life of obedience to God the Father and offer Himself as the perfect sacrifice for humanities sin, our rebellion and falling away from God. I like the way Tolkien writes of the Maiar being burdened with the cares and wearinesses that come with flesh and bone and it makes me think, to some degree, of what Jesus endured while wrapped in skin. It's a cool idea incorporated by Tolkien with shades of the epic Biblical story.

It appears that it was originally decided that three messengers would go forth. Curumo was chosen by Aulë and Alatar was chosen by Oromë. "Then Manwë asked, where was Olorin? And Olorin, who was clad in grey, and having just entered from a journey had seated himself at the edge of the council, asked what Manwë would have of him. Manwë replied that he wished Olorin would go as the third messenger to Middle-earth...But Olorin declared he was too weak for such a task, and that he feared Sauron. Then Manwë said that that was all the more reason why he should go, and that he commanded Olorin...But at that Varda looked up and said: 'Not as the third'; and Curumo remembered it" (p. 393, Unfinished Tales). In the end Curumo was begged by Yavanna to take Aiwendil with him and Alatar took Pallando his friend.

And so it was that the Istari left the uttermost West and entered Middle-earth. "None knew at that time whence they were, save Círdan of the Havens, and only to Elrond and Galadriel did he reveal that they came over the Sea" (p. 299, The Silmarillion). They appeared in likeness as old men yet hale and they aged little.They were vigorous with much wisdom and power. "Long they journeyed far and wide among Elves and Men, and held converse also with beasts and with birds; and the peoples of Middle-earth gave to them many names for their true names they did not reveal" (p. 300, The Silmarillion).

Curumo was known as Saruman. Olorin was Gandalf. Aiwendil was Radagast. Alatar and Pallando were called the Blue Wizards but they do not play a role in these histories. Radagast was a friend of all beasts and birds, Saruman dwelt chiefly among men being subtle in speech and skilled in smithcraft. Gandalf, also known as Mithrandir, was closest with the Elves and journeyed far and wide never making a lasting abode. Saruman journeyed into the East and upon his return settled in the tower of Orthanc in the Ring of Isengard which had been a Númenórean tower.

The Wizards belonged to the Third Age of Middle-earth. And as the shadow of Sauron lengthened they became more active. "Then far and wide rumour of their comings and goings, and their meddling in many matters, was noised among Men; and Men perceived that they did not die, but remained the same...while the fathers and sons of Men passed away. Men, therefore, grew to fear them, even when they loved them, and they were held to be of Elven-race..." (p. 388, Unfinished Tales). But Elves they were not yet only the Wise knew they were Maiar. Being veiled in flesh they subject to suffering hunger and thirst and their bodies could be slain.

The reason the Istari were chosen to counter Sauron was based on past events in history. "And this the Valar did, desiring the amend the errors of old, especially that they had attempted to guard and seclude the Eldar by their own might and glory fully revealed; whereas now their emissaries were forbidden to reveal themselves in forms of majesty, or to seek to rule the wills of Men or Elves by open display of power, but coming in shapes weak and humble were bidden to advise and persuade Men and Elves to good, and to seek to unite in love and understanding all those whom Sauron, should he come again, would endeavour to dominate and corrupt" (p. 389, Unfinished Tales). Indeed, a wise plan methinks. They come humbly, as one of us, being able related to the cares and burdens of the people of Middle-earth and therefore can be trusted. Again, reminiscent of the Biblical narrative; that Jesus walked in this world experience all that you and I do. He is a God that can relate, empathize, and can be trusted because of it.

The total number of Wizards was unknown. But the five mentioned above came into the North where the remaining Eldar and the Dúnedain resided. The first to come was Saruman, clad in white, and regarded by nearly all as the head of the order. "Others there were also: two clad in sea-blue, and one in earthen brown; and the last came who seemed the least, less tall than the others, and in looks more aged, grey-haired, and grey-clad, and leaning on a staff" (p. 389, Unfinished Tales). But Círdan, who met the Wizards at the Grey Havens discerned that this last one clad in grey, Gandalf as he would become known, was truly the greatest. Círdan who possessed Narya, one of the Three Elven rings, gave it to Gandalf saying, "'Take this ring...for your labours will be heavy; but it will support you in weariness that you have taken upon yourself. For this is the Ring of Fire, and with it may you rekindle hearts in a world that grows chill. But as for me, my heart is with the Sea, and I will dwell by the grey shores until the last ship sails. I will await you.'" (p. 366, The Return of the King).

Gandalf took the ring keeping it secret (I wonder if the ring aided him with his skill with fire; remember those splended fireworks at Bilbo's party?) and yet Saruman the Wise discovered the gift. He begrudged Gandalf because of it (and don't forget the note above when Varda declared Olorin was not the third) and grew bitter. Gandalf and Saruman would each play vital roles in the War of the Ring at the end of the Third Age.

Less is known of the other Wizards. "Of the Blue little is known in the West, and they had no names save Ithryn Luin 'the Blue Wizards'; for they passed into the East with Curunir [who is Saruman], but they never returned, and whether they remained in the East pursuing there the purposes for which they were sent; or perished; or as some hold were ensnared by Sauron and became his servants, is not now known" (p. 390, Unfinished Tales) Indeed, being in clad in flesh the Wizards, though Maiar, were able to stray from their purpose and even perform evil and forgetting the good purpose for which they were sent. Which really should not be a surprise, given Sauron's own history.

As for Radagast the Brown (who I was excited to see portrayed in the Hobbit movie; even though he had no formal role in the book) a little more is known. "For Radagast, the fourth, became enamoured of the many beasts and birds that dwelt in Middle-earth, and forsook Elves and Men, and spent his days among the wild creatures" (p. 390, Unfinished Tales).

"Indeed, of all the Istari, one only remained faithful, and he was the last-comer" (p. 390, Unfinished Tales). I love this, especially since we know Olorin declared himself too weak and fearful of the task when asked by Manwë. He alone fulfilled the purpose designed by the Valar under the One. Which brings another spiritual reminder that when all seems silent, abandoned, and/or forgotten that does not mean that God is not at work bringing about his sovereign purpose. Gandalf is a remarkable character and perfectly portrayed by Sir Ian McKellen in The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. So I will end this post with a beautiful quote that describes Gandalf the Grey Messenger; Mithrandir; Olorin.

"Warm and eager was his spirit (and it was enhanced by the ring Narya), for he was the Enemy of Sauron, opposing the fire that devours and wastes with the fire that kindles and succours in wanhope and distress; but his joy, and his swift wrath, were veiled in garments grey as ash, so that only those that knew him well glimpsed the flame that was within. Merry he could be, and kindly to the young and simple, and yet quick at times to sharp speech and rebuking of folly; but he was not proud, and sought neither power nor praise, and thus far and wide he was beloved among all those that were not themselves proud" (p. 390-391, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1000
Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, page 299, Unfinished Tales, pages 388-394, and The Return of the King, pages 365-366

The Rising of the Shadow

Previously I've read about the mightiest remaining Elves in Middle-earth and the Dúnedain. In this post I will look at some other Elves, Men, and Dwarves in Middle-earth. As has been alluded to in other posts the Third Age are the fading years of the Elves: "For long were they at peace, wielding the Three Rings while Sauron slept and the One Ring was lost; but they attempted nothing new, living in memory of the past" (p. 365, The Return of the King).

The Númenóreans dwindled through wars and by marrying lesser Men. Still the Gondorian Kings were growing in power with realms that began to reach Lorien and Greenwood. "The Free Men of the North (so called by the Elves because they were not under the rule of the Dúnedain, and had not for the most part been subjected by Sauron or his servants) were spreading southwards: mostly east of the Greenwood, though some were establishing themselves in the eaves of the forest and the grasslands of the Vales of Anduin" (p. 259, Unfinished Tales).

"The Dwarves hid themselves in deep places, guarding their hoards; but when evil began to stir again and dragons reappeared, one by one their ancient treasures were plundered, and they became a wandering people" (p. 365, The Return of the King). Moria was still strong and secure but its people began to dwindle as well. But even so none could match the works of metal and stone produced by the Dwarves.

"Those were the Fading Years, and in them the last flowering of the Elves east of the Sea came to its winter. In that time the Noldor walked still in the Hither Lands, mightiest and fairest of the children of the world, and their tongues were still heard by mortal ears. Many things of beauty and wonder remained on earth in that time, and many things of evil and dread: Orcs there were and trolls and dragons, and fell beasts, and strange creatures old and wise in the woods forgotten..." (p. 299, The Silmarillion). And so it was when, around 1000, a Shadow arose.

Indeed, the forest of Greenwood the Great, the realm of King Thranduil and the Silvan Elves the darkness was first perceived. First their were rumors of wars in the East amongst Men who had served Sauron. "But there was in Thranduil's heart a deeper shadow" (p. 259, Unfinished Tales). Thranduil knew well the darkness of Sauron having fought in the Last Alliance where his father, Oropher, had died. "...A darkness crept slowly on the wood from the southward, and fear walked there in shadowy glades; fell beasts came hunting, and cruel and evil creatures laid their snares" (p. 299, The Silmarillion).

Thranduil and his people, "...retreated before it as it spread ever northward, until at last Thranduil established his realm in the north-east of the forest and delved there a fortress and great halls underground" (p. 259, Unfinished Tales). As an aside, it was super cool to meet Thranduil the Hobbit movie. Thranduil is the Elven King in the book although Tolkien did not have the intricate histories of Middle-earth fully conceived at the writing of The Hobbit.  "Then the name of the forest was changed and Mirkwood it was called, for the nightshade lay deep there, and few dared to pass through, save only in the north where Thranduil's people still held the evil at bay" (p. 299, The Silmarillion).

"Whence it came few could tell, and it was long ere even the Wise could discover it. It was the Shadow of Sauron and the sign of his return. For coming out of the wastes of the East he took up his abode in the south of the forest, and slowly he grew and took shape there again; in a dark hill he made his dwelling and wrought there his sorcery, and all the folk feared the Sorcerer of Dul Guldur, and yet they knew not at first how great was their peril" (p. 299, The Silmarillion). 

I love how Tolkien's works read, most of the time, as a first/second hand account of actual history. I am moved by the description of the Elves at the beginning of this post. That they attempted nothing new but lived only in memories of the past. No wonder the Elves were portrayed in sadness in Peter Jackson's theatrical interpretation. That would be a sad existence indeed. I can relate, however, as I can often live in my past (the good and bad) or on the other extreme thinking only about the future. Failing, as it were, on appreciating, living in, and enjoying Right Now. To be fair, the Elves have always been foresighted and loved Middle-earth; and those two things I think led to a sobriety among the Elves: there time was ending and the dominion of Men preparing.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 1000

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 365, Unfinished Tales, page 259, and The Silmarillion, page 299

The Capture of Umbar

Earnil I succeeded Falastur. He repaired the ancient haven of Pelargir and then laid siege to Umbar and captured it. This became a strategic location for the navy of Gondor. "The great cape and land-locked firth of Umbar had been Númenórean land since the days of old; but it was a stronghold of the King's Men, who were afterwords called the Black Númenóreans, corrupted by Sauron, and who hated above all the followers of Elendil. After the fall of Sauron their race swiftly dwindled or became merged with Men of Middle-earth, but they inherited without lessening their hatred of Gondor. Umbar, therefore, was only taken at great cost" (p. 325, The Return of the King).

Earnil died shortly after the taking of Umbar in a great storm that took his life along with other men and ships. Ciryandil, Earnil's son, began rebuilding ships, however, Gondor was attacked by Men of Harad who were led by some Black Númenóreans driven from Umbar. Umbar was not retaken from Gondor but Ciryandil was slain in the Battle of Haradwaith.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 936

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 325

The Breaking of Arnor

"After Elendil and Isildur there were eight High Kings of Arnor" (p. 320, The Return of the King). Arnor was the Northern portion of the Dúnedain kingdom while Gondor was the Southern realm during the years of Elendil and Isildur. After Earundur died the Northern kingdom was divided into three territories by his sons: Arthedain (North-West), Rhudaur (North-East), and Cardolan (South).

"In Arthedain the line of Isildur was maintained and endured, but the line soon perished in Cardolan and Rhuduar, There was often strife between the kingdoms, which hastened the waning of the Dúnedain" (p. 320, The Return of the King). Indeed, we are seeing how the Dúnedain became a secret and wandering people. And yet a people still with purpose since the line of Isildur was unbroken. The chief reason for the fighting between the three kingdoms was for the land near Bree and in particular Weathertop. "Both Rhudaur and Cardolan desired to possess Amon Sûl (Weathertop), which stood on the borders of their realms; for the Tower of Amon Sul held the chief Palantir of the North, and the other two were both in the keeping of Arthedain" (p. 320, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 861

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 320

Tarannon, Twelfth King of Gondor

Tarannon was a sea fairing King who built a great navy for Gondor and extending the kingdom's influence along the coasts of the Anduin River. "To commemorate his victories as Captain of the Hosts, Tarannon took the crown in the name of Falastur, 'Lord of the Coasts'" (p. 324, The Return of the King).

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 830
Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 324

Ostoher, the Seventh King of Gondor

Ostoher was the 7th King of Gondor (there were 31 total after Anárion was killed). Around 490 Third Age he rebuilt Minas Arnor. "In his time Gondor was first attacked by wild men out of the East" (p. 324, The Return of the King). The King's son, Tarostar drove away the Easterlings but was eventually killed in battle. Tarostar's death was avenged by his son Turambor who won land in the East.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, circa 490

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, page 324

Of the Mightiest Elves in the Third Age

Today's reading begins early in the Third Age but spans the entire Age. It's basically a small outline of Elven settlements and deeds so I thought this was as appropriate a place as any to insert. The reading briefly covers the dwellings and actions of Elrond, Galadriel, and Círdan the three mightiest Elves who remain in Middle-earth before the dominion of Men.

Elrond remained in Imladris for the duration of the Third Age; "...the house of Elrond was a refuge for the weary and the oppressed, and a treasury of good counsel and wise lore" (p. 298, The Silmarillion).  What a beautiful description. I would love for that to be said of my home and must think about how to make that tangible. I love to dream of the good that can be done with a home that is a refuge to the weary and oppressed; a treasury of good counsel and wise lore. Elrond took care of the Heirs of Isildur, in childhood and advanced age, for he knew they would play an important role before the end of the Third Age. He also had kinship with that line being Half-elven himself. Elrond gathered many Elves to him and Imladris was often a meeting place for the wise of all races.

A remnant of Elves also resided in Lindon where Gil-galad had made his home. It was there where the Grey Havens were located. The Elves at the Haven's were always making and tending ships to transport other Elves into the uttermost West who grew weary of Middle-earth. "Círdan the Shipwright was lord of the Havens and mighty among the wise" (p. 298, The Silmarillion).

The other remaining Elven stronghold in Middle-earth was the Land of Lorien where Celeborn and Galadriel dwelt. Of Galadriel it was said, "...she was the mightiest and fairest of all the Elves that remained in Middle-earth" (p. 298, The Silmarillion). For she alone, in Middle-earth, had lived in the bliss of Valinor before it's marring by Morgoth. And so it was the the realm of Rivendell and Lothlorien thrived in beauty and growth throughout the Third Age.

Because of these strongholds it was perceived where the Three Rings resided. The Wise rarely spoke of them and very few Eldar knew with certainty of there whereabouts. "Therefore ere the Third Age was ended the Elves perceived that the Ring of Sapphire was with Elrond, in the fair valley or Rivendell, upon whose house the stars of heaven most brightly shone; whereas the Ring of Adamant was in the Land of Lorien where dwelt the Lady Galadriel...But the Red Ring remained hidden until the end, and none save Elrond and Galadriel and Círdan knew to whom it had been committed" (p. 298, The Silmarillion).

Yet the foreboding of Sauron did not leave the hearts of the Elves. They perceived that he would come back and either find the Ruling Ring or destroy it. Once the One Ring was destroyed the power of the Three Rings would fade and the Elves would diminish allowing for the dominion of Men.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, beginning

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 297-298

Of the Dúnedain

After the Battle of Dagorlad, the siege of Mordor, and the disaster of Gladden Fields too few Dúnedain remained. The shards of Narsil came to Imladris and Valandil who was Isildur's only remaining son. Elrond foretold that the sword would not be reforged until the Ruling Ring was found and Sauron returned. Both Men and Elves hoped that this would never come to be.

By the seventh King after Valandil the Dúnedain became divided and their foes destroyed them one by one leaving only green mounds in their wake. "At length naught was left of them but a strange people wandering secretly in the wild, and other men knew not their homes nor the purposes of their journeys, and save in Imladris, in the house of Elrond, their ancestry was forgotten" (p. 296, The Silmarillion). And yet the line of Kings remained unbroken and they cherished the shards of Narsil. Gondor, meanwhile, thrived. Growing in people and prestige for a season. There the White Tree grew at the house of the King.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, early

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 295-298

The Disaster of Gladden Fields

A year after the dramatic victory of the Last Alliance against Sauron Isildur, now King of the Dúnedain (Númenóreans) remained in Gondor. He was ordering his kingdom before setting out to Eriador to rule. "When at last he felt free to return to his own realm he was in haste, and he wished to go first to Imladris; for he had left his wife and youngest son there, and he had moreover an urgent need for the counsel of Elrond" (p. 271, Unfinished Tales). Isildur then set course northward which was treacherous landscape but the quickest route to Rivendell and he expected to reach his destination in 40 days march. Meneldil, Isildur's nephew, bid him goodbye in Osgiliath: "'Go now with good speed and may the Sun of your setting out not cease to shine on your road!'" (p. 271, Unfinished Tales).

Travelling with Isildur were his three eldest sons; Elendur, Aratan, and Ciryon, as well as 200 battle hardened Númenórean soldiers. After crossing Dagorlad on the twentieth day heavy storms rained down on them for four days. This caused the Anduin River to flood and forced Isildur to move farther north looking for paths travelled by the Silvan Elves. And so it was that they neared Thranduil's realm on the thirtieth day of marching at Gladden Fields. The men were in good spirits as the journey was nearing its end and the tough country mostly behind them.

"Suddenly as the sun plunged into a cloud they heard the hideous cries of Orcs, and saw them issuing from the Forest and moving down the slopes, yelling their war-cries. In the dimmed light their numbers could only be guessed, but the Dúnedain were plainly many times, even to ten times, outnumbered. Isildur commanded a thangail to be drawn up, a shield-wall of two serried ranks that could be bent back at either end if outflanked, until at need it became a closed ring. If the land had been flat or the slope in his favour he would have formed his company into a dinaith and charged the Orcs, hoping by the great strength of the Dunedain and their weapons to cleave a way through them and scatter them in dismay; but that could not now be done. A shadow of forboding fell upon his heart" (p. 271, Unfinished Tales).

Isildur quickly realized this was no ordinary ambush. He was sure the design of Sauron was behind it as the Dúnedain were too far past Moria and Lorien and too far short of Thranduil's realm for help. Elendur, his son, added: "'And we bear burdens beyond all worth and reckoning'" (p. 271, Unfinished Tales). As the Orcs prepared their attack Isildur called his esquire Ohtar to him for one last command: "'I give this now into your keeping', and he delivered to him the great sheath and the shards of Narsil, Elendil's sword. 'Save it from capture by all means that you can find, and at all costs; even at the cost of being held a coward who deserted me. Take your companion with you and flee!'" (p. 271-272, Unfinished Tales). Ohtar took the heirloom and left with his companion just before the Orcs let fly their arrows.

The Dúnedain held against the advance as the Orc arrows proved little worth against the Númenórean armor. And being taller and stronger than the Orcs the men had the advantage and did not break. Isildur perceived the Orcs were retreating as they often did when they realized their prey could bite back. Night was fast approaching so Isildur ordered the march to begin again hoping to reach more favorable battle ground before another attack might begin. But Isildur's hope proved of no worth for these Orcs did not give up. For the Ruling Ring, full of Sauron's will, called all darkness and evil to it for aid. They gathered all their forces and silently pursued their enemy finally encircling the Dúnedain. Isildur had no choice but to halt his march.

As the Orcs still silently crept closer Elendur went to his father's side and urged him to use the Ring. But Isildur responded, "'I cannot use it. I dread the pain of touching it. And I have not yet found the strength to bend it to my will. It needs one greater than I now know myself to be. My pride has fallen. It should go to the Keepers of the Three'" (p. 274, Unfinished Tales). Indeed, it seems that for all the heroism and renown Isildur had won (saving the White Tree, cutting the Ring from Sauron) his pride was his undoing. We've seen it before in Middle-earth and I know I've seen it in my life as well.

As night set the onslaught began and the Orcs, with reckless abandon, charged into the Dúnedain. "Men were falling for some of the greater Orcs leaped up, two at a time, and dead or alive with their weight bore down a Dúnedain, so that other strong claws could drag him out and slay him" (p. 274, Unfinished Tales). Ciryon, one of Isildur's sons, was killed in the attack and his brother Aratan was mortally wounded trying to rescue him. Isildur was rallying his men where the attack was fiercest when his remaining son, Elendur, found him.

The son reported to his father: "'Ciryon is dead and Aratan is dying. Your last counsellor must advise, nay command you, as you commanded Ohtar. Go! Take your burden, and at all costs bring it to the Keepers: even at the cost of abandoning your men and me!' 'King's son,' said Isildur, 'I knew that I must do so; but I feared the pain. Nor could I go without your leave. Forgive me, and my pride that has brought you to this doom'" (p. 274, Unfinished Tales). Father and son kissed goodbye, and Isildur put on the Ring, yelling in pain, and vanished never to be seen again in Middle-earth.

"So perished Elendur, who should afterwords have been King, and as all foretold who knew him, in his strength and wisdom, and his majesty without pride, one of the greatest, the fairest of the seed of Elendil, most like to his grandsire" (p. 274, Unfinished Tales). Isildur meanwhile made it to the banks of the Anduin River and even being invisible he went warily knowing Orcs could track by scent alone. In despair he shed his armor and gear, save a short sword, and plunged into the river to cross. But the current was strong and the river still swollen from the rains and strong. By the time Isildur reached the other bank he had been swept very nearly back to Gladden Fields.

"There suddenly he knew that the Ring had gone. By chance, or chance well used, it had left his hand and gone where he could never hope to find it again" (p. 275, Unfinished Tales). He struggled up the bank startling some Orc watchers. They loosed their arrows and ran but they found their mark striking Isildur in the throat and heart. Being without armor he fell silently into the river; his body never to be found. "So passed the first victim of the malice of the masterless Ring: Isildur, second King of all the Dúnedain, lord of Arnor and Gondor, and in that age of the World the last" (p. 275, Unfinished Tales).

Only three survived the disaster of Gladden Fields. Ohtar and his companion did escape and bore the shards of Narsil to Imladris. The other survivor was the esquire of Elendur, Estelmo, who was knocked uncouncious by an Orc club. He too would have died had not Thranduil's warriors ambushed the Orcs and drove them away. For Thranduil was warned by some woodmen about Orcs in his realm. Estelmo had witnessed the words of Elendur and Isildur at their parting and between the three survivors the events of that battle were pieced together. But not fully until the Fourth Age in the reign of Elessar.

This was a highly enjoyable read. I love the rich detail of the story and the suspense that builds as you see the Dúnedain surrounded. It's telling, I think, to see what one is made of when they are trapped with no way out. Isildur, in the Peter Jackson's movie portrayal, is kind of painted as this bad dude. While he was prideful he more often than not risked his life for the good of others. I think the last conversation between he and his son illustrates that. Elendur found Isildur where the battle was the heaviest rallying troops and the father could not leave the son (even though he knew he could disappear because of the Ring) without first owning up to his error and asking forgiveness. Good stuff.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 2, autumn

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, pages 271-276

Beginning of the Third Age

Sauron's servants were dispersed after his demise and the the Dark Tower of Barad-dûr was leveled. Some men repented and allied themselves with the Isilidur and the faithful Númenóreans while others kept the darkness of Sauron in their hearts. A watch was placed on Mordor and though Sauron was defeated leaders like Gil-galad and Elendil were no more. "Never again was such a host be assembled, nor was there any such league of Elves and Men; for after Elendil's day the two kindreds became estranged" (p. 295, The Silmarillion).

The One Ring was not destroyed; "For Isildur would not surrender it to Elrond and Círdan who stood by" (p. 295, The Silmarillion). The two Elves had urged Isildur to throw it into the fires of Mount Doom ensuring Sauron would be nothing more than a shadow of malice. Isildur, however, wanted to keep the Ring as an heirloom; a token of remembrance for the deaths of his father and brother as well as for his own glory by cutting it from Sauron's hand. "And the Ring that he held seemed to him exceedingly fair to look on; and he would not suffer it to be destroyed" (p. 295, The Silmarillion).

He bore the Ring to Gondor and Minas Arnor. There he planted the seedling he had saved from the White Tree at Minas Ithil before Sauron invaded. The Tree remained there flowering the courts of the King. He took council with Meneldil, his brother Anárion's son, giving him reign of the southern kingdom. Isilidur then marched north with the Ring toward Eriador, where his father, Elendil's, kingdom was.

Middle-earth timeline: Third Age, 1

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 294-295

Final Notes on the Second Age

In the appendix The Return of the King J.R.R. Tolkien gave a timeline for the Second Age. Today as I thought I would read through it and make note of any items I may have missed before moving on to the Third Age of Middle-earth. So here goes:

• In year one the Grey Havens and Lindon were begun. The abode of Círdan and Gil-galad
• Circa 40 Second Age many Dwarves left to dwell in Moria
• Circa 500 Sauron begins to stir
• Circa 1000 Sauron chooses Mordor as his stronghold
• 1200, Númenóreans begin to make permanent settlements in Middle-earth
• Circa 1590 the Three Elven Rings are created
• Circa 1600, Sauron forges the One Ring
• 1697, after war with Sauron the doors of Moria are shut and Elrond established the haven of Rivendell
• Circa 1800 "From about this time on the Númenóreans begin to establish dominions on the coasts" (P. 364, The Return of the King)
• 2251, Around this time the Ringwraiths or Nazgûl first appear
• 2350 Pelagir is built and this is the haven of the Faithful of Númenor
• 3175, "Civil war in Númenor" (p. 364, The Return of the King). This was during Tar-Palantir's reign who had repented of the ways of the King's Men. And while it's noted earlier that his younger brother opposed him this is the only note I've found of civil war.
• 3262 Sauron taken "prisoner" to Númenor, not even 50 years later he has corrupted the majority of the Númenóreans.
• 3319, Downfall of Númenor
• 3429, Sauron makes war on the Faithful exiles in Gondor
• 3430 The Last Alliance is formed
• 3434 The Battle of Dagorlad results in the defeat of Sauron's forces and the siege of Barad-dûr begins
• 3440 Anárion, son of Elendil, is killed in the siege
• 3441 "Sauron overthrown by Elendil and Gil-galad, who perish. Isildur takes the One Ring. Sauron passes away and the Ringwraiths go into the shadows. The Second Age ends" (p. 365, The Return of the King).

Today's reading comes from: The Return of the King, pages 363-365

The Last Alliance

After the attack on Gondor Elendil and Gil-galad took counsel together and formed the Last Alliance in an attempt to defeat Sauron before he became too powerful. Gathering all the troops they could they marched to Imladris to join forces with Elrond. There are some unclear notes from Tolkien concerning Galadriel and Celeborn, but it seems clear that a small force from Lorien, led by Amdir came to the summons of Gil-galad. Also joining the Alliance was Oropher, King of the Silvan Elves. "Despite the desire of the Silvan Elves to meddle as little as might be in the affairs of the Noldor and Sindar, or of any other peoples, Dwarves, Men, or Orcs, Oropher had the wisdom to foresee that peace would not return unless Sauron was overcome" (p. 258, Unfinished Tales). Oropher linked his numerous warriors with the smaller host of Lorien and Malgalad (who is most likely the same Elf as Amdir).

From their they crossed over the Misty Mountains and march along the River Anduin. The host engaged Sauron's forces at Dagorlad, the Battle Plain. "All living things were divided that day, and some of every kind, even beasts and birds, were found in either host, save the Elves only. They alone were undivided and followed Gil-galad" (p. 294, The Silmarillion). Even the Dwarves joined with the folk of Durin, from Moria, fighting against Sauron. The battle was fierce but few could withstand the spear of Gil-galad, Aeglos and the sword of Elendil, Narsil. Victory against Sauron was near at hand.

However, the Alliance suffered many losses as well. The Silvan Elves, being independent, did not wholly place themselves under the command of Gil-galad which proved ill for them and the force from Lorien that followed them. "Malgalad and more than half his following perished in the great battle of Dagorlad, being cut off from the main host and driven into the Dead Marshes. Oropher was slain in the first assault of Mordor, rushing forward at the head of his most doughty warriors before Gil-galad had given the signal for advance" (p. 258, Unfinished Tales). Thranduil became King and after the war led back a third of the warriors who had originally set out to aid against Sauron.

But mastery of the field was obtained by Gil-galad and Elendil and they laid siege to Mordor for seven years. In that time many more perished, including Anárion, son of Elendil. "But at last the siege was so strait that Sauron himself came forth; and he wrestled with Gil-galad and Elendil, and both were slain, and the sword of Elendil broke under him as he fell" (p. 294, The Silmarillion). And in that bleak moment Isildur, son of the King, took up his father's sword (I love that line from Peter Jackson's adaptation). With the hilt-shard of Narsil Isildur cut off the One Ring from Sauron's hand. "Then Sauron was for that time vanquished, and he forsook his body, and his spirit fled far away and hid in waste places; and he took no visible shape again for many long years" (p. 294, The Silmarillion).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age 3430-3441

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 293-294 and Unfinished Tales, page 258

Sauron Attacks

After years of preparation Sauron launched his attack on the new realm of Gondor. He gathered together all the forces he could, including many Númenóreans who had settled in Middle-earth years before and were swayed to his darkness. They were afterword known as the Black Númenóreans. Sauron's forces quickly took Minas Ithil and destroyed the White Tree. "But Isildur escaped, and taking with him a seedling of the Tree he went with his wife and sons by ship down the River, and they sailed from the mouths of Anduin seeking Elendil" (p. 293, The Silmarillion). Meanwhile Aánrion his held side of Osgiliath as well as he could but he knew he could not keep Sauron at bay unless aid should arrive.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 3400-3429
Toady's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, page 293

Of Gondor and Other Númenórean Settlements In Middle-earth

These events chronicle the arrival of the Faithful in Middle-earth after the Downfall of Númenor. "Elendil was cast up by the waves in the land of Lindon, and he was befriended by Gil-galad" (p. 290, The Silmarillion). With the aid of the Elves Elendil established his kingdom in Eraidor with the main city being Annúminas. In this region many towers were built, among them were Emyn Beraid which looked toward the sea and Amon Sûl (otherwise known as Weathertop). The Northern Kingdom was long known as Arnar (with the chief regions being Rhudaur and Cardolan).

Elendil's sons, Isildur and Anárion were taken southward by the waves and wind. Upon reaching Middle-earth they travelled up the Great River Anduin and established the realm of Gondor. The chief city of the realm was Osgiliath which was split in two halves by the Anduin so Isildur and Anárion had a great bridge built to span the river. Other key features were built in Gondor as well: Minas Ithil, Tower of the Rising Moon where Isildur dwelt as a threat to Sauron nearest to Morder; Minas Anor, Tower of the Setting Sun, where Anárion resided guarding against Wild Men; the Argonath where also built, along with the Pinnacle of Orthanc also known as Isenguard. Together the brothers ruled the South having two great thrones built side by side in Osgiliath.

Of the treasures rescued from Númenor the most valuable to the exiles where the White Tree and the Seven Stones. The White Tree, descendant of Nimloth the Fair given to the Númenóreans in the time of Aldarion and Erendis which descended from the Tree of Tirion, which was made in the image of Telperion by Yavanna in the land of the Valar; "...was planted in Minas Ithil before the house of Isildur, since he it was that had saved the fruit from destruction..." (p. 291-292, The Silmarillion).

The Seven Stones known as the Palantiri, those that watch from afar, were divided. Three were with Elendil while Anárion and Isildur each possessed two. "Now these Stones had this virtue that those who looked therein might perceive in them things far off, whether in place or time" (p. 292, The Silmarillion). Typically they revealed things near another Stone and only one of great will could actually control where a Palantiri could see. "The palantiri were no doubt never matters of common use or common knowledge, even in Númenor" (p. 403, Unfinished Tales). And in Middle-earth only the Kings of Elendil's line used them and they were quick to acknowledge how the Stone led to their insight. "Thus the Númenóreans were aware of many things that their enemies wished to conceal, and little escaped their vigilance in the days of their might" (p. 292, The Silmarillion).

Elendil kept his Palantiri in Annúminas, Amon Sul, the Tower of Emyn Beraid which he would use to gaze across the sea into Eressëa, now removed from Man's reach, where the Master-stone abode. The Stones were gifts from the Elves of Eressëa to the Faithful before the dark days. Isildur and Anárion kept their stones at Minas Ithil, Minas Anor, Orthanc, and Osgiliath. Meanwhile Sauron, still regaining strength, thought only of war in his tower of Barad-dûr above the valley of Gorgoroth, near the Mountain of Fire.

Middle-earth timeline: 3321-3400 Second Age

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 290-293, Unfinished Tales, page 403

Gil-galad's Realm

In the time that Sauron dwelt in Númenor planning the destruction of the people there Gil-galad increased his realm. By 3320 Second Age Gil-galad's power reached both North and West beyond the Misty Mountains and Great River to the borders of Greenwood the Great. In fact when Sauron returned to Middle-earth he found his once secure realm was now within reach of Gil-galad.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 3320
Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, page 290

The Downfall

I found this to be a rather unsettling read. I think perhaps this is the worst period of the history of Middle-earth. How could the Edain, the Faithful Men during the dark days of Melkor, fall so far? If I search for applicability in my own life, where am I deceived into making irreparable choices?

Ar-Pharazôn, who had usurped the throne, learned of Sauron's might in Middle-earth and hate of Númenor. Being a mighty warrior Ar-Pharazôn set forth to attack this so called "King of Men" as Sauron titled himself. "And he determined without counsel of the Valar, or the aid of any wisdom but of his own, that the title King of Men he would himself claim, and would compel Sauron to become his vassal and his servant; for in his pride he deemed that no king should ever arise so mighty as to vie with the Heir of Elendil" (p. 270, The Silmarillion). He set sail to Middle-earth with a mighty force under his command. Sauron realized that he could not yet defeat the Númenórean's whom he hated so much. "And he was crafty, well skilled to gain what he would by subtlety when force might not avail" (p. 271, The Silmarillion). And that to me, in the search for applicability, is the kicker of the story. Evil rarely looks evil.  It has more of a half-truth feel to it or the promise of joy and pleasure only to find sorrow and pain in the end. When not on my guard I am lulled into the subtlety of my fleshly desires, the world's false promises, and the Evil One's schemes.

Sauron sought to surrender playing to Ar-Pharazôn's pride. Ar-Pharazôn did not wholly believe Sauron and thought he would best be watched in Númenor. "To this Sauron assented as one constrained, yet his secret thought he received it gladly, for it chimed indeed with his desire" (p. 271, The Silmarillion). Within three years of his "captivity" Sauron had become the closest counsellor of Ar-Pharazôn and nearly all the other counselors also fell for Sauron's seemingly wise and fair words. Only Amandil, lord of Andunië, rejected Sauron. During this time the Faithful, the Elf-friends, were declared rebels by the King's Men and many gave up their loyalty to the Valar and Eldar out of fear. For Sauron spoke ever against the Valar.

Sauron declared, "'For Darkness alone is worshipful, and the Lord thereof may yet make other worlds to be gifts that serve him, so that the increase of their power shall have no end.' And Ar-Pharazôn said: 'Who is this Lord of Darkness?' Then behind locked doors Sauron spoke to the King, and he lied, saying: 'It is he whose name is not now spoken; for the Valar have deceived you concerning him, putting forward the name Eru, a phantom devised in the folly of their hearts, seeking to enchain Men in servitude to themselves. For they are the oracle for this Eru, which speaks only what they will. But he that is their master shall prevail and he will deliver you from this phantom; and his name is Melkor, Lord of All, Giver of Freedom, and he shall make you stronger than they'" (p. 271-272, The Silmarillion). Ar-Pharazôn drank in the words of Sauron, worshipping Melkor, Lord of the Darkness, first in secret and then publicly leading his people astray.

This is perhaps the saddest exchange in all of Middle-earth. The Numenoreans, living in the Land of the Gift bestowed upon them by Eru and the Valar as reward for their steadfast loyalty against Melkor have now hardened their hearts completely and have begun to worship Melkor. Astonishing. I had read this a long while back but in the full chronological context I was astonished. And unsettled. And sad. It reminds me, to a small degree, of what I deem to be some of the saddest words in the Bible. There is something incredibly sad to me about the words: "Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts...". The God of the Bible gives us a choice His way or our way. While He does desire all to be with Him He will give you and I over to our hearts desire even if it's not Him. In the same token I get the sense that the Valar, and perhaps more importantly, Eru have given the Númenóreans over to the desires of their hearts as well.

Not all the people followed the King. In fact Amandil was the chief of the faithful. His son was Elendil who had two sons: Isildur and Anarion. They all were descendants of Earendil though not of the direct line of Kings. At one time Ar-Pharazôn and Amandil were close but that was not so with the coming of Sauron. "But he was so noble, and had been so mighty a captain of the sea, that he still in held honour by many of the people, and neither the King nor Sauron dared to lay hands on him yet" (p. 272, The Silmarillion). He gathered all the trusted and true Faithful to Romenna fearing a great evil to come upon the land. And so it was. The worship of Eru at Meneltarma was abandoned (though not even Sauron dared to defile that Holy Place) and Sauron urged the King to cut down the White Tree to symbolically cut all ties with the Valar and Eldar.

Amandil was grieved at this news and he spoke of the Trees of Valinor to his son and grandsons knowing the King would listen to Sauron. Then Isildur passed silently into deeds of great renown. He snuck past the guards (for the Tree was guarded day and night) and took a single fruit from it. "But the guard was aroused, and he was assailed, and fought his way out, receiving many wounds; and he escaped, and because he was disguised it was not discovered who had laid hands on the Tree" (p. 273, The Silmarillion). The King immediately had the White Tree felled. But because of the heroism of Isildur it was preserved and in the next spring it sprouted and bore a leaf curing Isildur of all his wounds.

Sauron meanwhile had a great temple erected for worship to Melkor. Though inlaid with gold and silver it soon would be black for the great fires that roared day and night. "Therefore the fire and smoke went up without ceasing; for the power of Sauron daily increased, and in that temple, with spilling of blood and torment and great wickedness, men made sacrifices to Melkor that he should release them from Death. And most often from among the Faithful they chose their victims; yet never openly on the charge that they would not worship Melkor, the Giver of Freedom, rather was the cause sought against them that they hated the King and were his rebels..." (p. 273, The Silmarillion). Wow, I am almost at a loss for words. The downfall of the Númenóreans is so complete. They are now sacrificing humans, their own kin, to Melkor all at the direction and deceit of Sauron.

But death did not leave the Númenóreans, in fact in found them more quickly, as evil covered the land and they were quick to shed one another's blood. But their power seemed to increase aided by Sauron's knowledge of war they attacked Men of Middle-earth for riches, slaves, and people to sacrifice. "Thus Ar-Pharazôn, King of the Land of the Star, grew to the mightiest tyrant that had yet been in the world since the reign of Morgoth, though in truth Sauron ruled all from behind the throne" (p. 274, The Silmarillion). And now Sauron unleashed the final piece of destruction: counselling Ar-Pharazôn that his strength was now so great he could sail West and seize the Undying Lands from the Valar themselves. And being near his own death Ar-Pharazôn began planning his invasion.

Amandil knew he must act quickly and calling his son Elendil he laid out his plan. He would set sail to the Valar ahead of Ar-Pharazôn seeking pity and help since Sauron was now so powerful. Meanwhile Elendil was to put together a fleet of ships, with the Faithful and any possession they could not bear to lose and to wait and watch. Elendil was given strict instructions not to meddle in the war that Ar-Pharazôn was now plotting. Elendil feared his father would be labeled a traitor to the King but Amandil assured him he would not be sorely missed and in any regards: "For there is but one loyalty from which no man can be absolved in heart for any cause" (p. 275, The Silmarillion). I am not exactly sure but I think he was referring to loyalty to Eru over that of the King. Amandil said goodbye to his household and sailed with three companions, never to be heard of again.

Elendil did all his father asked and kept the Faithful far from the evil of those days. Things were changing as the normally agreeable weather ever experienced in Númenor now gave way to raging storms and often the clouds came in the shape of Eagles with lightening in their wings. And storms sunk ships as had never happened, lightening slew men on the hills, smoke issued form Meneltarma, and the ground shook with earthquakes. Still the people hardened their hearts. And Ar-Pharazôn boarded his ship led his great armada into the West. "And at last Ar-Pharazôn came even to Aman, the Blessed Realm, and the coasts of Valinor; and still all was silent, and doom hung by a thread" (p. 278, The Silmarillion).

"Then Manwë upon the Mountain called upon Illúvatar, and for that time the Valar laid down their government of Arda. But Illúvatar showed forth his power, and he changed the fashion of the world; and a great chasm opened in the sea between Númenor and the Deathless Lands, and waters flowed down into it, and the noise and smoke and cataracts went up to heaven, and the world was shaken" (p. 278-279, The Silmarillion). The great fleet was drawn into the chasm; Ar-Pharazôn and the men who set foot on land with him were buried under falling mountains. The land of Eressëa where the Elves dwelt and Aman were forever put out of the reach of Men. New lands and seas were formed in their place but not undying like the blessed lands removed.

Meneltarma exploded in flame and Númenor went down into the sea taking with it all the women and children left behind vanishing forever. "And last of all the mounting wave, green and cold and plumed with foam, climbing over the land, took to its bosom Tar-Míriel the Queen, fairer than silver or ivory or pearls. Too late she strove to ascend the steep ways of the Meneltarma to the holy place; for the waters overtook her, and her cry was lost in the roaring of the wind" (p. 279, The Silmarillion). But whether Amandil had reached Valinor or it was simply the grace of the Valar Elendil and the Faithful were spared.

For Elendil, avoiding capture by the soldiers who sought to sacrifice him the fires of Sauron's temple, sailed with his people off shore and waited toward the east. Therefore the ships were not drawn into the Sea when Illúvatar opened the great rift. But as the great wave came to overtake the island a strong wind bore the ships far away thought the grief of seeing their land torn apart was bitter indeed. Nine ships of refugees there were: four for Elendil, Three for Isildur, with one of his ships bearing the sapling of the White Tree that he rescued, and two for Anarion. Eventually they were cast upon the shores of Middle-earth.

Sauron meanwhile had laughed when Al-Pharazôn took up his hopeless war West thinking he was rid of the Edain forever. But he did not expect the utter destruction of the Númenor and the western shores when Illúvatar displayed his wrath. Sauron was cast into the Sea at the annihilation of Númenor. "But Sauron was not of mortal flesh, and though he was robbed now of that shape in which he had wrought so great an evil, so that he could never again appear fair to the eyes of Men, yet his spirit arose out of the deep and passed as a shadow and a black wind over the sea, and came back to Middle-earth and to Mordor that was his home. There he took up again his great Ring in Barad-dur, and dwelt there, dark and silent, until he wrought himself a new guise, an image of malice and hatred made visible; and the Eye of Sauron the Terrible few could endure" (p. 280-281, The Silmarillion).

"Among the Exiles many believed that the summit of the Meneltarma, the Pillar of Heaven, was not drowned for ever, but arose again above the waves, a lonely island lost in the great waters; for it had been a hallowed place, and even in the days of Sauron none had defiled it" (p. 281, The Silmarillion). And holding to this tradition there were some who would set sail to try and find it hoping to catch a glimpse of the Deathless lands but it was never found. Other lands were discovered but death was there as well. It was also discovered in their journey's that the world was now made round. Indeed Illúvatar reshaped the world as a whole not just the western shores. However, the Elves were still permitted to go to the Deathless Lands. "Therefore the loremasters of Men said that a Straight Road must still be, for those that were permitted to find it" (p. 281, The Silmarillion).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 3255-3319

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 270-282

Ar-Pharazôn and Tar-Míriel

Tar-Palantir died in 3255 Second Age leaving only his daughter, Míriel as heir. "But Pharazôn took her to wife against her will, doing evil in this and evil also in that the laws of Númenor did not permit marriage, even in the royal house, of those more nearly akin than cousins in the second degree" (p. 269, The Silmarillion). zthey were first cousins.

"And when they were wedded, he seized the scepter into his own hand, taking the title of Ar-Pharazôn (Tar-Calion in the Elven-tongue); and the name of his queen he changed to Ar-Zimraphel" (p. 269-270, The Silmarillion). Being a great warrior and generous with his wealth (for the time being) swayed the people to overlook these grievous acts.

Ar-Pharazôn was the 25th and final ruler of Númenor, taking the sceptre from Míriel and ruling until the Downfall in 3319 Second Age. "Of the deeds of Ar-Pharazon, of his glory and his folly, more is told in the tale of the Downfall of Numenor, which Elendil wrote, and which was preserved in Gondor" (p. 224, Unfinished Tales). This is an interesting piece of Middle-earth history; we learn that Elendil, father of Isildur who cut the One Ring from Sauron, recorded the known histories of Númenor. Most likely to preserve what history and identity he could for the displaced Númenórean's after the Downfall.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 3255-3319

Today's reading comes from: The Silmarillion, pages 269-270 and Unfinished Tales, page 224

Tar-Palantir

Inzuiladûn became the 24th ruler of Númenor when he ascended to the throne in 3177. He ruled for 78 years until his death. He took the name Tar-Palantir for two reasons. For one he was farsighted and secondly he repented of the ways of previous Kings and took on the name in Quenya (which Ar-Gimilzôr forbid to even be spoken) to show this. He ever sought to rebuild relationships with the Valar and Eldar of the West. Never again would they come to Númenor for the hardness of the people's hearts (for most did not share Tar-Palantir's views).

His brother, Gimilkhâd, became the leader of the King's Party, and he ever sought to oppose Palantir both openly and secretly. "But for a while the Faithful had peace; and the King went ever at due times to the Hallow upon the Meneltarma, and the White Tree was again given tendance and honor" (p. 223, Unfinished Tales). Palantir was regarded by everyone, including his enemies, as a prophet and seer. And he had prophesied concerning the White Tree saying that when it died so would the line of Kings.

Gimilkhâd died just before he turned 200; which as an extremely short life for those that were of the line of Elros. His son, Pharazôn, was more proud and ruthless then he. "He had often fared abroad, as a leader in the wars that the Númenóreans made then in the coastlands of Middle-earth, seeking to extend their dominion over Men, and thus he had won great renown as a captain by both land and by sea" (p. 269, The Silmarillion). Tar-Palantir had no son, rather a daughter whom he named Míriel in the Elven tongue.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 3035-3255

Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 223 and The Silmarillion, page 269

Ar-Gimilzôr

Ar-Gimilzôr was the 23rd ruler of Númenor. "He was the greatest enemy of the Faithful that had yet arisen; and he forbade utterly the use of the Eldarin tongues, and would not permit any of the Eldar to come to the land, and punished those that welcomed them. He revered nothing, and never went to the Hallow of Eru" (p. 223, Unfinished Tales). He commanded anyone discovered to be of the Faithful be relocated to the eastern shores of Númenor away from the Western shores so they could not welcome any Elven ships from Eressëa. Many of the Faithful took ship to Middle-earth and sought aid and fellowship with Gil-galad. And Ar-Gimilzôr did not hinder this action hoping to rid the land of all the Faithful and cut all ties with the West. "But all they did was known to Manwë, and the Valar were wroth with the Kings of Númenor, and gave them counsel and protection no more; and the ships of Eressëa came never again out of the sunset and the havens of Andunië were forlorn" (p. 268, The Silmarillion).

The Lords of Andunië were significant in Númenor descended from Silmarien, the daughter of Tar-Elendil. They were loyal to the Kings and were always counted among the chiefs of the King's council. "Yet also from the beginning they bore especial love for the Eldar and reverence for the Valar; and as the Shadow grew they aided the Faithful as they could. But for long they did not declare themselves openly, and sought rather to amend the hearts of the lords of the Sceptre with wiser counsels" (p. 268, The Silmarillion).

Inzilbêth was woman from the Lords of Andunië and Ar-Gimilzôr took her for a wife. She was secretly of the Faithful and had no love for Ar-Gimilzôr but the Kings were proud and no one opposed their will. She bore him two sons: Inziladûn the elder and Gimilkhâd the younger. Inziladûn was in like mind with his mother where as Gimilkhâd was similar to Ar-Gimilzôr. "To him Ar-Gimilzôr would have yielded the scepter rather than to the elder son, if laws had allowed" (p. 269, The Silmarillion). Gimilkhâd was born in the year 3044, and he died in 3242" (p. 223, Unfinished Tales)

Also in the days of Ar-Gilmilzôr the White Tree, a gift from the Elves of Eressëa, was neglected and began to wane. Ar-Gilmilzôr ruled for 75 until his death in 3177. I am reminded in some sense of the Israelite kings, for the most part they seemed to get progressively worse in the sense of neglecting God and becoming proud. Ar-Gilmilzôr, as the text stated, neglected the worship of Eru. Occasionally there is a bright spot, a king who attempts to turn things around for Israel. I think we are about to see Númenor's version of such a person with Inziladûn.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2960-3177

Today's reading comes from: Unfnished Tales, page 223 and The Silmarillion, pages 268-269

Ar-Sakalthôr

"He was born in the year 2876, and he ruled for 69 years until his death in 3102" (p. 223, Unfinished Tales). Ar-Sakalthôr was the 22nd ruler of Númenor.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2876-3102
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 223

Ar-Zimrathon

"He was born in the year 2798, and he ruled for 71 years until his death in 3033" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales). Ar-Zimrathon was the 21st ruler of Númenor.

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2798-3033
Today's reading comes from: Unfnished Tales, page 222

Ar-Adûnakhôr

Ar-Adûnakhôr was the 20th ruler of Númenor; but he was the first to take the sceptre with an Adûnaic name rather then Quenya, the language of the Elves. For fear of ill fortune the Quenyan name Tar-Herunúmen was entered into the record scrolls. The Adûnaic names were considered blasphemy by the Faithful who were trying to balance their deep friendship with the Elves and their loyalty to the line of Elros. Ar-Adûnakhôr reigned for 63 years until 2962 Second Age when he died. "In this reign the Elven-tongues were no longer used, nor permitted to be taught, but were maintained in secret by the Faithful; and ships from Eressëa came seldom and secretly to the west shores of Númenor thereafter" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2709-2962
Today's reading comes from: Unfnished Tales, page 222

Tar-Ardamin

"He was born in the year 2618, and he ruled for 74 years until his death in 2899. His name in Adûnaic was Ar-Abattârik" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: 2618-2899
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 222

Tar-Calmacil

Tar-Calmacil was the 18th ruler of Númenor and was a great sea captain winning many shores upon Middle-earth. This furthered Sauron's hate but he did not yet act against Númenor. He ruled for 88 years until his death in 2825 Second Age. "In the days of Tar-Calmacil the name of the King was first spoken in Adûnaic; and by the King's Men he was called Ar-Belzager" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2516-2825
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 222

Tar-Alcarin

"He was born in the year 2406, and he ruled for 80 years until his death in 2737, being rightful King for one hundred years" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales).

Nothing like genealogy.

Middle-earth timeline: 2406-2737
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 222

Tar-Vanimeldë and Tar-Anducal

"She was the third Ruling Queen; she was born in the year 2277, and ruled for 111 years until her death in 2637. She gave little heed to ruling, loving rather music and dance; and the power was wielded by her husband Herucalmo, younger than she, but a descendent of the same degree from Tar-Atanamir. Herucalmo took the sceptre upon his wife's death. calling himself Tar-Anducal, and withholding the rule from his son Alcarin; yet some do not reckon him in the Line of Kings as seventeenth, and pass to Alcarin. Tar-Anducal was born in the year 2286, and he died in 2657" (p. 222, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2277-2657
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 222

Tar-Telemmaitë

Tar-Telemmaitë was the 15th ruler of Númenor. The King was known for his love of silver and sent many expeditions to Middle-earth in search of mithril. He ruled Númenor for 140 years. "Hereafter the Kings ruled in name from the death of their father to their own death, though the actual power passed often to their sons or counsellors; and the days of the descendants of Elros waned under the Shadow" (p. 221, Unfinished Tales).

Middle-earth timeline: Second Age, 2136-2526
Today's reading comes from: Unfinished Tales, page 221