[cellurdur]

Originally Posted by Willemijn

But exactly that Tolkien hinted at, when saying that Galadriel and Feanor were the greatest of the Eldar of Aman. I don´t think it was limited to the age of the trees but more a general statement why else mentionig Luthien as the greatest overall and stating that these three are the chief matter of histories and legends of the Eldar. I assume everyone knows the quote, otherwise I will search for it and post it properly.



Why, because she´s female? Maybe in power of arms, but much more important (to me at least) is the spirital power. Maybe she wouldn´t win in a swords fight but sure in a duell of song ( her brother was able to do it, and she was greater than him) and not to forget the incident at Dol Goldur, were she was able to laid bare it´s pits.

One has to wonder what exactly makes her the equal of Feanor and the greatest besides him, I don´t think it is only her wisedom, for Feanor was not wise at all, so it´s not hard to be wiser than him.

Regarding the topic theme, while Glorfindels power was greatly enhanced, I still see no evidence that he is spiritually more potent or "greater" than Galadriel.

Tolkien never stated it explicitly that Glorfindel was the greatest or mightiest in something, only that he was almost equal to a Maia, I think that applies to other elves like Feanor, Fingolfon or Finrod (if we look at their deeds) and Galadriel as well.

Tolkien however stated several times Galadriel being extraordinary among the Eldar.

Be it her hair, her marvellous gift of insight into the minds of others or her commanding stature already in Valinor (and that while still being the youngst Noldor princess, with her brothers and uncles, cousins and of course her father/grandfathers around. Sure all the royals had something to say, but the fact that in Galadriels case it is mentioned so explicitly makes me believe that she was indeed as respected as Feanor was).

In respect to Glorfindel and Galadriel, they were never compared, so one can only assume. The Witchking was afraid of Glorfindel so he was of Galadriel. (there is something along the lines that he would not dare to enter Lorien yet and face the white ring and Lorien would anyway stand unless Sauron would come in person.

Of Glorfindel it is said that of Galadriel it is said that she is

So while Glorfindel has much spiritual power, Galadriel has more, cause she is unconquerable in that matter.

I don´t get is, it always seems as if Galadriels talents must be somehow limited because she is female, always when it is discussed on why she is called greatest besides Feanor it is argued that she is only greatest among elven women or that her greatnes is wisedom.

IMHO Tolkien made it pretty clear who the 3 greatest of Erus children are (greatnes for me includes spiritual might, the ability to do magic, Finrod singing songs of power, Luthien putting Morgoth to sleep for example, besides other things) and that are Luthien, Feanor and Galadriel. In that order.

Galadriel's power certainly seems to be above all the other Noldor princes/ladies with the exception of Feanor, Earendil and maybe Finrod.

That being said Glorfindel is a very special case and the quotes about him put him in his own league. Before his death, Galadriel was probably a greater power, but not after he returned.

Glorfindel having the special responsibility of being sent back to help against Sauron speaks volumes for his power. Even Tolkien had to explain exactly why he had an air of power so unique for an elf.

Luthien with her divine heritage stands alone.