The Lorehounds Silmarillion Stories - E02 - Valaquenta
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Dec 31, 2022 Marilyn R. Pukkila, a Tolkien scholar and Research Librarian Emerita, joins the discussion on the Valaquenta, unveiling the divine complexities of Tolkien's pantheon. They delve into the Valar and Maiar, exploring their relationships and moral dilemmas. Fascinatingly, Pukkila highlights Nienna's evolution from grief to compassion, reflecting Tolkien's own hardships. The conversation weaves through themes of storytelling and human connection, revealing how grief and creation shape the understanding of good and evil in Tolkien’s mythology.
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Valar's Limited Role
- The Valar are not gods, but created beings like artisans, shaping the world for the Children of Ilúvatar.
- Their role is to prepare, not protect, exceeding this mandate leads to unforeseen consequences.
Nienna's Transformation
- Nienna, initially a dark, underworld figure, evolves into a symbol of compassion and contemplation.
- She teaches pity and patience, essential for coping with loss and finding joy.
Chain of Pity
- Gandalf learns pity and patience from Nienna, passing it to Bilbo and Frodo.
- This "chain of pity" is what ultimately saves Frodo and Middle-earth.