The Silmarillion

Name: The Silmarillion
Brand: HarperCollins Publishers
SKU: 9780008537890
Price: 95.0 NZD
Availability: InStock

By J. R. R. Tolkien

4.01

( 303,761 ratings, 13,857 reviews)

Summary

The Silmarillion by J. R. R. Tolkien is an epic compilation of myths and legends that serve as the prequel to the events in The Lord of the Rings. It covers the creation of Tolkien's universe, detailing the history of the First Age, the rise and fall of powerful beings, and the creation and fate of the titular jewels, the Silmarils. This rich backstory provides a deep context for Tolkien's entire mythology.
Read More

Format: Hardback

$95⁰⁰

OVERNIGHT DELIVERY ACROSS NZ

The Silmarillion

$95⁰⁰

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you love richly detailed mythologies and epic tales that delve into the creation and history of a fantastical world. It offers deep insight into the lore and background of Middle-earth, perfect for fans of Tolkien's intricate storytelling.

The Silmarillion

For the first time ever, a very special edition of the forerunner to The Lord of the Rings, illustrated throughout in colour by J.R.R. Tolkien himself and with the complete text printed in two colours.

Description

The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic masterpiece that delves into the rich and intricate mythology preceding The Lord of the Rings. This seminal work elaborates the cosmic and historical events that shape the world of Middle-earth, providing profound insights into the lore that underpins Tolkien's more famous novels. In this special edition, the story is brought vividly to life with exquisite illustrations in colour by Tolkien himself, and the complete text is beautifully printed in two colours.

At the heart of The Silmarillion are the Silmarilli, three perfect and radiant jewels created by the masterful Elf, Fëanor. These jewels encapsulate the last remnants of the ethereal Light from the Two Trees of Valinor, a celestial realm of unparalleled beauty and splendour. However, the peace of Valinor is shattered when Morgoth, the original Dark Lord, covets these jewels. He steals them and places them in his iron crown, which he safeguards in his fortress of Angband, located in the northern part of Middle-earth.

The narrative of The Silmarillion unfolds the tragic history of Fëanor and his kin. Their defiance against the Valar (the gods), their exile from Valinor, and their determined yet doomed war against Morgoth are chronicled with dramatic intensity. Many characters from The Lord of the Rings, such as Elrond and Galadriel, are rooted in these legends, linking the epic tales of the past to the more contemporary narrative of the ring's saga.

Alongside the main storyline, the book includes several shorter yet significant works. The Ainulindalë is a creation myth that describes the world's genesis through the divine music of the Ainur. The Valaquenta provides a detailed description of the Valar and their lesser counterparts, the Maiar, elucidating their roles and powers. The Akallabêth recounts the tragic fall of Númenor, a once-great island kingdom that sank beneath the waves due to its hubris. Finally, Of the Rings of Power bridges the gap between the tales of the First Ages and the events that culminate in The Lord of the Rings, narrating the rise of Sauron and the forging of the powerful rings.

Tolkien could not see the publication of The Silmarillion in his lifetime. The monumental task of compiling, editing, and finalising the numerous manuscripts was undertaken by his son, Christopher Tolkien. Through meticulous effort, Christopher brought his father's expansive and visionary mythology to publication, thereby completing an exceptional literary endeavour. This special edition not only preserves but also showcases Tolkien's artistic legacy, presenting his visionary illustrations and adding another layer of depth to the already stunning narrative.

This definitive edition begins with an enlightening letter written by Tolkien in 1951. This letter serves as a lucid exposition of the events of the earlier Ages, offering readers a guided introduction to the complex mythology of Middle-earth. Presented with Tolkien's own artwork for the first time, this edition of The Silmarillion is a visual and literary feast, capturing the grandeur and timeless beauty of Tolkien's mythological world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Silmarillion by J. R. R. Tolkien has been praised for its immense creative scope, with comparisons to English mythologies and true myth. Critics highlight its moments of singular beauty, heroism, and hope, even as it maintains a grim and tragic tone. The work is noted for its mystical power and magnificence.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008537890

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 10 November 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: HarperCollins

Edition: Illustrated edition

Illustration: 5 b/w illus, 49 col plates, Index

Contributors:

Edited by Christopher Tolkien

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 41.0mm

Width: 149.0mm

Height: 228.0mm

Weight: 1030g

Pages: 448

Collections

All Books Fiction General Fiction J. R. R. Tolkien J.R.R. Tolkien Literary Fiction Lord of the Rings Sci-Fi & Fantasy

About the Author

J.R.R.Tolkien (1892-1973) was a distinguished academic, though he is best known for writing The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion, plus other stories and essays. His books have been translated into over 60 languages and have sold many millions of copies worldwide. Christopher Tolkien, born on 21 November 1924, is the third son of J.R.R. Tolkien. During the Second World War he served in the Royal Air Force and the Fleet Air Arm as a pilot. At the end of the war he returned to Oxford University and became a Fellow and Tutor in English of New College in 1964, lecturing in the University on early English and northern literature. Appointed by J.R.R. Tolkien to be his literary executor, he has devoted himself since his father's death in 1973 to the editing and publication of unpublished writings, notably The Silmarillion and Beowulf, and the collections entitled Unfinished Tales and The History of Middle-earth. Since 1975 he has lived in France with his wife Baillie. J.R.R.Tolkien (1892-1973) was a distinguished academic, though he is best known for writing The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion, plus other stories and essays. His books have been translated into over 60 languages and have sold many millions of copies worldwide.