Silmarillion Stories - E18 - Maeglin

6 snips

Nov 5, 2024

Join John and guest Marilyn R. Pukkila, a Tolkien scholar and librarian, as they deep dive into the tragic tale of Maeglin from The Silmarillion. They examine the dark legacy of Eöl, the family tensions in Gondolin, and the shadowy themes of love and betrayal. Marilyn highlights how patriarchal influences shape character dynamics, while also addressing sensitive topics like consent and trauma. Their engaging discussion spans the moral complexities of Elven relationships and even touches on the enchanting lore of hidden elven realms.

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INSIGHT

Patriarchal Cultures in Tolkien

Tolkien captures patriarchal cultures and their flaws, likely unintentionally.
He, like Tolstoy, reveals societal issues through storytelling.

ANECDOTE

Arithel, Eöl, and Maeglin

Arithel, Turgon's sister, leaves Gondolin and is captured by Eöl.
Maeglin, their son, convinces her to return, leading to Eöl's capture and Arithel's death.

INSIGHT

Arithel's Agency

Arithel's desire for freedom is repeatedly stifled.
It's her son, Maeglin, who empowers her to finally leave Eöl.

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The Children of Húrin

J.R.R Tolkien

Christopher Tolkien

Set in the First Age of Middle-earth, 'The Children of Húrin' tells the story of Túrin, son of Húrin, and his sister Niënor, who are cursed by Morgoth after their father defies him. The narrative follows their tragic lives, marked by loss, war, and ultimately, their downfall due to Morgoth's curse. The book includes illustrations by Alan Lee and was edited by Christopher Tolkien from his father's manuscripts.

The Fall of Gondolin

J.R.R Tolkien

The Fall of Gondolin is one of Tolkien's three 'Great Tales' from the First Age of Middle-earth. The story revolves around the city of Gondolin, founded by King Turgon, which remains hidden for centuries before being betrayed and destroyed by Morgoth. The narrative follows Tuor, guided by the sea-god Ulmo, as he journeys to Gondolin, marries Turgon's daughter Idril, and fathers Eärendel. The book includes various versions of the story, showing its evolution over the years, and is illustrated by Alan Lee.

Beren and Lúthien

J.R.R Tolkien

This book tells the story of Beren and Lúthien, a central element in the evolution of 'The Silmarillion'. Beren, a nobleman of the House of Bëor, falls in love with Lúthien, the daughter of a great Elvish lord, Thingol. To marry her, Beren must complete an impossible task set by Thingol: retrieving a Silmaril from the Iron Crown of Morgoth, the first Dark Lord. The story, painstakingly restored from J.R.R. Tolkien’s manuscripts by Christopher Tolkien, presents the tale in its original form and later developments, showcasing the evolution of the legend over the years[1][4][5].

A Series of Unfortunate Events

The Bad Beginning.

Lemony Snicket

Anna Karenina

Leo Tolstoy

Published in 1878, 'Anna Karenina' is a novel by Leo Tolstoy that delves into the complexities of Russian society in the late 19th century. The story centers around the extramarital affair between Anna Karenina, a married socialite, and Count Alexei Kirillovich Vronsky, which scandalizes the social circles of Saint Petersburg. The novel also follows the parallel story of Konstantin Levin, a wealthy landowner, and his struggles with marriage, faith, and managing his estate. Tolstoy explores a wide range of themes including love, loyalty, betrayal, hypocrisy, and the differences between rural and urban life. The novel is known for its detailed character development and its profound commentary on the human condition[2][4][5].