The Lays Of Beleriand (The Third Volume Of The History Of Middle Earth)
The Lays Of Beleriand (The Third Volume Of The History Of Middle Earth) book cover

The Lays Of Beleriand (The Third Volume Of The History Of Middle Earth)

Paperback – Import, January 1, 1987

Price
$23.04
Format
Paperback
Pages
400
Publisher
Unwin Paperbacks
Publication Date
ISBN-13
978-0044400189
Weight
11.5 ounces

Description

From Library Journal This is the third volume culled from Tolkien's unpublished manuscripts. Two tales from the Silmarillion the tragedy of Turin Turambar and the epic quest of Beren and Luthienappear in early versions. Turin's story is told in alliterative verse, the other in rhymed couplets. The multiple extant versions of each poem have been painstakingly arranged and synthesized by Tolkien's son Christopher, who has also provided elaborate notes on their relation to previously published works. While the power of Tolkien's central characterstragic, cursed Turin; the lovers Beren and Luthienshines through these poems, they are of interest chiefly in showing the development of a writer's ideas. For comprehensive literature and fantasy collections. Beth Ann Mills, New Rochelle P.L., N.Y.Copyright 1985 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. `A worthy addition to The History of Middle-earth' Mallorn`Anyone loving the oiginal books will want to study this one' Daily Mail --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. From the Inside Flap "The power of Tolkien's central characters . . . shines through." Library Journal.A treasure trove of lore for old and new friends of Middle-earth. Enter now, reader, and learn of the hero of the Lay of Leithian. Hear as well of the early years of Turin the Tall, as he journeys through darkness on his quest to find his father. Read of his rescue by Beleg the Brave, and of the dark destiny that haunts their friendship! Only the genius of Tolkien could create a fantasy more real than reality, a reality more fantastic than fantasy! --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. CHRISTOPHER TOLKIEN is the third son of J.R.R. Tolkien. Appointed by Tolkien to be his literary executor, he has devoted himself to the editing and publication of unpublished writings, notably The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, and The History of Middle-earth . --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. Read more

Features & Highlights

  • The Lays of Beleriand are epic stories in verse form of the Elder days of Middle-earth. Contained herein is The Lay of the Children of Hurin, which tell the tale of Turin Son of Hurin and Glorund the Dragon. The Lay of Leithian tells of Thingol, of the meeting of Beren and Luthien, and of the battle between Fiingolfin and Morgoth. Together these Lays form an important backdrop to The Silmarillion, and illuminate some of the oldest tales of Middle-earth.Included in the volume is C.S. Lewis's original commentary to Tolkien when the work was first read at a literary gathering of The Inklings.

Customer Reviews

Rating Breakdown

★★★★★
60%
(256)
★★★★
25%
(107)
★★★
15%
(64)
★★
7%
(30)
-7%
(-31)

Most Helpful Reviews

✓ Verified Purchase

An extensive & remarkable insight into the creation of Middle-Earth, captured in this comprehensive volume of a series.

This is the third volume within the collection of books that make up `the history of Middle-Earth' which delves into JRR Tolkien's great creation behind The Silmarillion, the Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings. This fascinating, detailed insight delves into the mythology of his work, through the alliterative verse tales of two of the most significant and crucial stories in Tolkien's world; that being those of Turin and Luthien. Complete with poems such as the unpublished `lay of children of Hurin' that emphasizes the tragedy of Turin Turambar, together with the poignant and noteworthy `Lay of Lethian' which is the main source for Beren and Luthien in the Silmarillion, recounting the quest of the Silmaril and the encounter with Morgoth in his fortress. In addition to the poems is information about the evolution of the Elder days and an extra source in the form of notable criticism from friend and writer C.S Lewis who read the poem in 1929.

The Lays of Beleriand offers aficionados of JRR Tolkien's extensive works and mythology a glimpse into the otherwise understated metaphysics underlying his mythological invention, and the editorial complexities of the material which is thoroughly taken apart by Christopher Tolkien. This is a worthy and indispensable edition to any Tolkien collection and to the history of Middle-Earth, which goes beyond what you see and know delving even deeper by disclosing hidden secrets and fascinating facts that will amaze and delight. This fascinating study is something that those overwhelmed and impressed by this master of his craft who created something beyond genius, will devour in an instant and I guarantee you will find really inspiring as well. Creating the tales behind the one Ring was an astonishing feat alone, but Professor Tolkien brought into being an entire world ad society, which most authors of today can only aspire to dream of achieving; and in one persons lifetime it is unquestionably an astounding accomplishment.

Complete with pages from the original manuscript of `the lay of the children of Hurin' this is a fascinating and interesting study of such a work on an epic scale, which I urge fans of his books (such as the lord of the rings) to discover for it is so illuminating. I am constantly amazed and in awe of such a man who in his lifetime did so much that which has not only stood the test of time, but which will live on for so many years to come hence I like many authors of the fantasy genre will admit to owing him a lot.

A must have book for any JRR Tolkien collector, fan or even mythical devotee or historical study. His world-building and mythology is exceptional and remains incomparable, unmatched to any other writer.
1 people found this helpful