Question of Origins - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Phil The Balrog · 12-20-2001, 05:52 AM

Perhaps one of the most enchanting features or Tolkiens writing is the sense of depth behind his world. I just saw LOTR movie and even tho it only centered around the events in that relatively small amount of time, you totally get the feeling of a vast and intricate mythology. I have a few questions regarding this mythology:

1. Can someone (briefly or not, I like reading) explain Melkor, Morgoth, and Sauron's origins and natures to me? Who and what are they, where'd they come from, why, etc?

2. As i was reading these boards and other assorted LOTR material, I came across a being that appeared to be a God, capital G. I forget it's name, but is there a creator/supreme deity in Tolkien's mythos, and if so, how is it related to the lesser gods?

3. What is characteristic of each age? Meaning, why is it the First Age and what made it turn into the Second Age, etc etc. What are the characteristics and major events of the ages.

4. I was catching bits and peieces about different races. What are the Ainur, the Valar, and the Maiar?

Thanks, i'm a total LOTR newbie but i am obsessed with mythologies and histories so any help would be appreciated. This a very fascinating book cycle.

12-20-2001, 05:52 AM	#1
Phil The Balrog Pile O'Bones Join Date: Dec 2001 Posts: 11	Question of Origins Perhaps one of the most enchanting features or Tolkiens writing is the sense of depth behind his world. I just saw LOTR movie and even tho it only centered around the events in that relatively small amount of time, you totally get the feeling of a vast and intricate mythology. I have a few questions regarding this mythology: 1. Can someone (briefly or not, I like reading) explain Melkor, Morgoth, and Sauron's origins and natures to me? Who and what are they, where'd they come from, why, etc? 2. As i was reading these boards and other assorted LOTR material, I came across a being that appeared to be a God, capital G. I forget it's name, but is there a creator/supreme deity in Tolkien's mythos, and if so, how is it related to the lesser gods? 3. What is characteristic of each age? Meaning, why is it the First Age and what made it turn into the Second Age, etc etc. What are the characteristics and major events of the ages. 4. I was catching bits and peieces about different races. What are the Ainur, the Valar, and the Maiar? Thanks, i'm a total LOTR newbie but i am obsessed with mythologies and histories so any help would be appreciated. This a very fascinating book cycle. __________________ -Yes, I'm Phil the Balrog.