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{{Semi-protected}}
 
{{Cleanup}}<!-- Cleanup: the original author seems to have felt the need to rewrite Tolkien's prose using his own metaphors and flowery language, rather than just report the facts, and to add his own opinions. -->
 
{{Cleanup}}<!-- Cleanup: the original author seems to have felt the need to rewrite Tolkien's prose using his own metaphors and flowery language, rather than just report the facts, and to add his own opinions. -->
 
{{Infobox Person Servants of Evil
 
{{Infobox Person Servants of Evil
|image = Morgoth_2.jpg
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|image = Melkor_by_formenost.jpg
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|name = Melkor Bauglir
|name = Dylan's hot chin ft. fingerblaster3000
 
|othernames = Morgoth, Bauglir, Belegurth, Belegûr, Melko, Alkar,Nipplelicker2000 Mardello, The Great Enemy, The Black Foe, The Corrupter, The Marrer, The Prime Dark Lord, Arun, Belcha, Melegor, Meleko, the First Dark Lord.
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|othernames = Morgoth, Bauglir, Belegurth, Belegûr, Melko, Alkar, Mardello, The Great Enemy, The Black Foe, The Corrupter, The Marrer, The Prime Dark Lord, Arun, Belcha, Melegor, Meleko, the First Dark Lord.
|title = [[Dylan's hot chin]], King of the World, Lord of the Dark, Elder King, Master of the Fates of Arda, Lord of Angband, Lord of Utumno
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|title = [[Dark Lord]], King of the World, Lord of the Dark, Elder King, Master of the Fates of Arda, Lord of Angband, Lord of Utumno
 
|birth = Before the creation of [[Arda]]
 
|birth = Before the creation of [[Arda]]
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|death = [[Immortal]]
|death = [[FA 583]], Chained up and cast through the Door of Night into the Void
 
 
|realms = [[Utumno]] (formerly), [[Angband]], much of [[Middle-earth]] and [[Beleriand]] for a time
 
|realms = [[Utumno]] (formerly), [[Angband]], much of [[Middle-earth]] and [[Beleriand]] for a time
 
|weapon = Powers of the Valar, [[Grond (Warhammer)|Grond]], [[Mace]], [[Sword]], Hammer, black [[Spears|spear]]
 
|weapon = Powers of the Valar, [[Grond (Warhammer)|Grond]], [[Mace]], [[Sword]], Hammer, black [[Spears|spear]]
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}}
 
}}
   
'''Melkor''', later called '''Morgoth''',<ref name=flight>''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref> was the first [[Dark Lord]] and master of [[Sauron]].
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'''Melkor '''([[Quenya]];[[IPA charts|IPA]]: "He Who Arises In Might"), later called '''Morgoth''',<ref name="flight">''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref> is the first [[Dark Lord]] and master of [[Sauron]].
   
Originally the most powerful of the [[Ainur]] created by [[Eru]] Iluvatar, Melkor rebelled against his creator because of pride and sought to corrupt [[Arda]], becoming Morgoth. After committing many evils in the [[First Age]], such as the theft of the [[Silmaril]]s and the destruction of the [[Two Lamps]], Morgoth was defeated by [[the Host of Valinor]] in the [[War of Wrath]].
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Originally the most powerful of the [[Ainur]] created by [[Eru]] Iluvatar, Melkor rebelled against his creator out of pride and sought to corrupt [[Arda]], becoming Morgoth. After committing many evils in the [[First Age]], such as the theft of the [[Silmaril]]s and the destruction of the [[Two Lamps]], Morgoth was defeated by [[the Host of Valinor]] in the [[War of Wrath]].
   
 
According to an unpublished portion of Tolkien's conclusion to ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', Morgoth will return at the end of the world to fight against good in [[Dagor Dagorath]]'','' the final battle.
 
According to an unpublished portion of Tolkien's conclusion to ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', Morgoth will return at the end of the world to fight against good in [[Dagor Dagorath]]'','' the final battle.
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==Biography==
 
==Biography==
 
===Ainulindalë===
 
===Ainulindalë===
[[File:Melkor by formenost.jpg|thumb|left|Melkor, the first Dark Lord.]]
 
   
 
[[File:Morgoth_2.jpg|thumb|left|Melkor, the first Dark Lord.]]
Melkor was made in the beginning, before the world was made solvent, as the first [[Ainu]] created by [[Eru]] Iluvatar in the [[Timeless Halls]], at the beginning of creation. [[Manwë]] is said to be brother to him, yet Melkor was greater in power than any of the [[Ainur]]. Melkor was gifted also with the greatest knowledge of all the Ainur, and had share in all of the gifts given to his fellow Ainur by Eru.<ref name=music>''The Silmarillion'', ''[[Ainulindalë]]'' (The Music of the Ainur)</ref>
 
   
 
Melkor was created by [[Eru]] Iluvatar in the [[Timeless Halls]], at the beginning of creation. His brother was [[Manwë]], although Melkor was greater in power and knowledge than any of the [[Ainur]].<ref name=music>''The Silmarillion'', ''[[Ainulindalë]]'' (The Music of the Ainur)</ref>
Desiring to create things of his own and knowing of but not understanding the [[Secret Fire|Flame Imperishable]], Melkor often went forth into the [[Void|Great Void]] outside of the Timeless Halls in search of this flame. His quest was in vain; he found not the Flame Imperishable for it lies with Eru alone. Melkor grew ever more impatient of the unclear designs of Eru and the emptiness of the Void, and was often alone and apart from his fellow Ainur. It was during these lonesome periods that Melkor began to have ideas and thoughts of his own that were not in accordance with his fellow Ainur.
 
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Impatient with the emptiness of the [[Void|Great Void]] outside the Timeless Halls and desiring to create things of his own, Melkor often went forth into the Void in search of the [[Secret Fire|Flame Imperishable]]. But the Flame was of Iluvatar and resided with him, and Melkor never discovered it. He continued to search however, and as such was often alone and apart from his fellow Ainur. It was during these lonesome periods that Melkor began to have ideas and thoughts of his own that were not in accordance with his fellow Ainur.
   
 
[[File:Tn-melkor_weaves_opposing_music.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Melkor weaves Opposing Music by Ted Nasmith]]
 
[[File:Tn-melkor_weaves_opposing_music.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Melkor weaves Opposing Music by Ted Nasmith]]
   
When the Ainur sang the [[Music of the Ainur|Great Music]] before Eru, some of these alien thoughts he wove into his music, and straightaway Discord arose around him. Some of those nearby attuned their music to his, until two musical themes were warring before the Throne. Then Eru introduced a Second, and then a Third Theme into the music. Melkor succeeded in holding back the Second theme, of which Manwë was the chief instrument. The Third was the theme of Elves and Men, and while it was not overwhelmed by the Discord, it too failed to correct it. When Eru brought the Music to an end, he rebuked Melkor, praising his strength but telling him that all he did redounded only to the glory of Eru's work. And Melkor was ashamed, and resented it; for he thought his Discord an improvement. Thus when the Music was made incarnate as [[Arda]], it was already flawed through the Discord, and immoderate heat and great cold stalked it. He then took in the interest of the [[Arda|World]] and put his evil wherever he could put it.
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When the Ainur sang the [[Music of the Ainur|Great Music]] before Eru, Melkor wove some of these alien thoughts into his music, and straightaway Discord arose around him. Some of those nearby attuned their music to his, until two musical themes were warring before the Throne. To correct the Discord, Eru introduced a Second, and then a Third Theme into the music. But Melkor succeeded in holding back the Second theme, of which Manwë was the chief instrument. The Third was the theme of Elves and Men, and while it was not overwhelmed by the Discord as the Second theme was, it too failed to correct it. When Eru brought the Music to an end, he rebuked Melkor, praising his strength but reminding him that, as an aspect of his creator's thought, anything that Melkor could bring into being ultimately had its source within Eru himself. As such, even the Discord redounded in the end to the glory of Eru's work. And Melkor was ashamed, and resented it; for he thought his Discord an improvement. Thus when the Music was made incarnate as [[Arda]], it was already flawed through the Discord, and immoderate heat and great cold stalked it. Melkor then took in the interest of the [[Arda|World]] and descended to it with the other Valar.
   
===Years of the Lamps===
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===Arrival in Arda===
   
When the Valar entered into Arda and began to shape the unwrought matter, Melkor saw the Field of Arda and claimed it for his own, striving against the Valar. He took various shapes. Whenever the Valar did something, Melkor disrupted them. For a long while, Melkor fought alone against the might of all the other Valar and Maiar of Arda, and he long held the upper hand. Then [[Tulkas]] came, his strength tipping the balance in favor of the Valar, and Melkor fled before him.
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When the Valar entered into Arda and began to shape the unwrought matter, Melkor saw the Field of Arda and claimed it for his own. However, the other Valar took Manwë to be their lord, for while Manwë was not nearly so powerful as Melkor, he understood the thought of Eru better than any of his peers. Bitter, Melkor set himself against the other Valar. Whenever the Valar worked to better the world, Melkor [[First War|disrupted]] their efforts. For a long while, Melkor fought alone against the might of all the other Valar and Maiar of Arda, and he long held the upper hand. During this time, Arda was kept essentially shapeless, as Melkor ruined virtually every early work that the other Valar attempted to create. Fortunately for them, the mighty Valar [[Tulkas]] eventually descended to Arda, and his strength tipped the balance in favor of the Valar. Melkor fled before him, and left Arda for a time.
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===Years of the Lamps===
   
 
[[File:AngbandSotomayor.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The peaks of Angband]]
 
[[File:AngbandSotomayor.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The peaks of Angband]]
   
The Valar had built for themselves the isle of [[Almaren]] in the midst of Middle-earth, between the Great Lamps. Then, Melkor delved a mighty fortress at the very north-most part of the World and named it [[Utumno]].<ref>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter I: "[[Of the Beginning of Days]]"</ref> To defend it he raised the Mountains of the East in the northeast of Middle Earth, east of the Sea of Helcar. Decay arose in the North, and the Valar knew that he was there.
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After Melkor's departure, the Valar managed to quiet the tumults of the world, and set about ordering it in preparation for the coming of the Elves. To give light to the world, they constructed two Great [[Lamps of the Valar|Lamps]] in Middle-earth and set their [[Almaren|place of dwelling]] in the midst of them. During this time, Melkor re-entered Arda with the various Maiar spirits who had attuned themselves to his music, and delved a mighty fortress at the very north-most part of the World and named it [[Utumno]].<ref>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter I: "[[Of the Beginning of Days]]"</ref> To defend it he raised the Mountains of the East in the northeast of Middle-earth, east of the Sea of Helcar. Decay arose in the North, and the Valar thus knew that Melkor had returned. Before they could begin to search for him however, Melkor came forth from Utumno with sudden war, and cast down the Lamps. The fire within the Lamps scorched a great portion of the world, and containing the catastrophe caused by their breaking kept the Valar occupied long enough for Melkor and his forces to retreat back to Utumno.
   
When the Valar had built Valinor, Melkor built his second, lesser fortress of [[Angband]] in the west, as a defense from the West should they attack. Angband was delved into the Iron Mountains, and was given to [[Sauron]] to command.<ref name=captivity>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter III: "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"</ref> While the Valar were unsure where the [[Children of Ilúvatar]] would awake, they were reluctant to wage war against Melkor, fearing the clash of powers might result in massive collateral damage. Due to this, Melkor discovered the Elves before the other Valar, captured many of them, and transformed them by torture and other foul craft into [[orcs]].
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After the destruction of the Lamps, the Valar withdrew to the continent of Aman and there built Valinor. In doing so however, they gave Melkor virtually free-reign in Middle-Earth. As a result, the continent languished in darkness, and Melkor filled it's lands with terrible creatures and decay. During this time, Melkor built his second, lesser fortress of [[Angband]] in the west, as a defense from the West should the Valar attack. Angband was delved into the Iron Mountains, and was given to [[Sauron]] to command.<ref name=captivity>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter III: "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"</ref> While the Valar were unsure where the [[Children of Ilúvatar]] would awake, they were reluctant to wage war against Melkor, fearing the clash of powers might result in massive collateral damage the likes of which they had seen when the Lamps were destroyed. As such, most of them remained in Aman and forsook Middle-earth. Due to this, Melkor discovered the Elves before the other Valar, captured many of them, and transformed them by torture and other foul craft into [[Orcs]].
   
 
===Years of the Trees===
 
===Years of the Trees===
 
[[File:Melkorchained_rgs.jpg|thumb|200px|Melkor is chained]]
 
[[File:Melkorchained_rgs.jpg|thumb|200px|Melkor is chained]]
   
When it was discovered by the Vala [[Oromë]] where the elves were, the Valar took immediate action against Melkor. This action was called the [[War of the Powers]]. When he saw the Valar winning, he retreated into Utumno and shut the great doors. The Valar rent the doors open and Melkor was cast down by Tulkas. Melkor was bound with [[Angainor]] and brought back to the [[Halls of Mandos]] for three Ages.<ref name=captivity>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter III: "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"</ref>
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When it was discovered by the Vala [[Oromë]] where the Elves were, the Valar took immediate action against Melkor, instigating the [[War of the Powers]]. The Valar overcame the hosts of Melkor and he retreated into Utumno. After a grievous siege, the Valar rent the doors open and Melkor was captured. Melkor was bound with [[Angainor]] and brought back to Valinor. There, he pleaded for pardon, but was cast into the [[Halls of Mandos]] for three Ages. However, in their haste to overthrow Melkor, the Valar left many of Utumno's pits and vaults unexplored, and Sauron remained at large. Additionally, they did not capture or destroy the Balrogs, who gathered at the ruins of Angband and went into a long hibernation, awaiting Melkor's return.<ref name=captivity>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter III: "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"</ref>
   
After the passing of the Ages, Melkor was brought before [[Manwë]], and feigned to be repentant and abashed. And Manwë ordered him released. At first, it seemed as though the evil of Melkor had been cured, for all who sought his counsel and aid in that time benefited greatly from it; yet Tulkas and Ulmo were not fooled, and watched him closely. Melkor was cunning and more filled with malice than ever. Seeing the bliss of the Elves and remembering that it was for their sake that he was overthrown, Melkor desired above all things to corrupt them. Of all the Elves, he found the Noldor to have a perfect balance of usefulness and open ears, and so worked his malice almost exclusively among them.
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After the passing of the Ages, Melkor was brought before [[Manwë]], and feigned repentance. Unable to comprehend the evil of Melkor, being himself free of it, Manwë ordered him released. At first, it seemed as though the evil of Melkor had been cured, for all who sought his counsel and aid in that time benefited greatly from it. However, Tulkas and Ulmo were both very slow to forget Melkor's evils, and watched him closely. In truth, Melkor was more filled with malice than ever, and began to put his extraordinary cunning to use in devising a way to ruin Aman. Seeing the bliss of the Elves and remembering that it was for their sake that he was overthrown, Melkor desired above all things to corrupt them. Of all the three primary groups of Elves, he found the Ñoldor to have a perfect balance of usefulness and open ears, and so worked his malice almost exclusively among them.
   
Over a long period of time he spread lies concerning the intentions of the Valar in bringing the Elves to Aman, until a shadow fell upon the Noldor, and they began to openly rebel against the Valar. [[Fëanor]], the greatest of the Noldor, was the most vocal in proclaiming the perceived injustices of the Valar. For their part, the Valar remained unaware of Melkor's work, and saw Fëanor as the source of the Noldor's unrest. They let the situation continue until Fëanor threatened his brother Fingolfin with violence, at which point the Valar summoned him to Valinor to explain his actions.
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Over a long period of time he spread lies concerning the intentions of the Valar in bringing the Elves to Aman, telling them, among other things, tales of the coming of Men, the existence of which the Valar had not revealed to the Elves. Due to his carefully crafted lies, many of the Ñoldor began to believe that the Valar had brought them to Aman so that Men might inherit Middle-earth, taking the lands and the glory that could have been theirs. Eventually, a shadow fell upon the Ñoldor, and they began to openly rebel against the Valar. Chief amongst the disgruntled Noldor was [[Fëanor]], the firstborn son of the Ñoldor King Finwë. Though he hated and feared Melkor, his overwhelming pride caused him to be the most vocal of the Ñoldor in expressing discontent. For their part, the Valar remained unaware of Melkor's work, and saw Fëanor as the source of the Ñoldor's unrest. Though perturbed, they let the situation continue until Fëanor threatened his brother Fingolfin with violence, at which point the Valar summoned him to the Ring of Doom in Valinor to explain his unlawful actions.
   
Tulkas sought for him when his lies were discovered but Melkor could not be found. He went to [[Formenos]] and feigned friendship to Fëanor in order to acquire the [[Silmaril]]s. When Fëanor refused him, Melkor passed unseen to the south, and came upon [[Ungoliant]]. Promising to sate her unrelenting hunger, she and Melkor came back to Valinor. Melkor thrust his spear into the Trees and Ungoliant drank the sap that poured from the wounds, draining and poisoning them.
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Fëanor's testimony revealed the lies of Melkor, and Tulkas immediately left the Ring of Doom to recapture him. But Melkor could not be found. After a time, he went to [[Formenos]] and feigned friendship to Fëanor in order to acquire the [[Silmaril]]s. But Fëanor, seeing Melkor's greed, refused him and shut the doors of Formenos in the face of Arda's mightiest being. Melkor then passed unseen to the south, and came upon [[Ungoliant]]. Promising to sate her unrelenting hunger, she and Melkor came back to Valinor, intending to destroy the Trees. Then, during a time of festival, Melkor and Ungoliant suddenly attacked. Melkor thrust a great spear into the Trees and Ungoliant drank the sap that poured from the wounds, draining the Trees and poisoning them. The Trees quickly withered and died, plunging Aman into complete darkness for a time.
   
 
[[File:Melkor-and-Ungoliant.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Melkor and Ungoliant killing the Two Trees.]]
 
[[File:Melkor-and-Ungoliant.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Melkor and Ungoliant killing the Two Trees.]]
   
In the fear and confusion that followed, Melkor sped to Formenos and broke into the fortress, slew [[Finwë]], father of Fëanor, and stole the [[Silmarils]] along with all the other [[gems]] that lay there. The Silmarils burned Melkor's hand causing him immeasurable agony, but still he would not release them. He and Ungoliant fled to the North, and the Valar gave chase; but the [[Unlight]] of Ungoliant bewildered them. The two thieves crossed the Grinding Ice of the Helcaraxe and entered Middle-earth.<ref name=flight>''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref>
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In the fear and confusion that followed, Melkor sped to Formenos and broke into the fortress. There, he slew [[Finwë]], father of Fëanor, and stole the [[Silmarils]] along with all the other [[gems]] that lay there. The Silmarils burned Melkor's hand, causing him immeasurable agony, but he did not release them. He and Ungoliant fled to the North, and the Valar gave chase, but the [[Unlight]] of Ungoliant bewildered them and the two escaped. The two thieves crossed the Grinding Ice of the [[Helcaraxë]] and entered into Middle-earth, completing Melkor's revenge.<ref name=flight>''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref>
   
In [[Lammoth]], Ungoliant demanded that he surrender the treasure of Formenos to sate her hunger, and begrudgingly he gave her the lesser treasures he had taken, but he would not give her the Silmarils, which lay hidden within his right hand. With his refusal to surrender the Silmarils, Ungoliant attacked Melkor, weaving its dark webbing about him. His cry of pain and anguish roused the Balrogs from their slumber in the darkest depths of Utumno. With a tempest of fire they came to his aid, and drove away Ungoliant; but Melkor recalled them, and thus Ungoliant escaped. He then began to rebuild Angband, and to gather his servants there.<ref name=flight>''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref>
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In [[Lammoth]], Melkor and Ungoliant approached the ruins of Angband, with Melkor hoping to escape and leave his promise to feed Ungoliant unfulfilled. Ungoliant however, saw through his plan and stopped with him before they reached Angband. She demanded that he surrender the treasure of Formenos to sate her hunger as he had promised, and begrudgingly he gave her the lesser treasures he had taken, but he would not give her the Silmarils which lay hidden within his right hand. With his refusal to surrender the Silmarils, Ungoliant attacked Melkor, weaving her dark webbing about him. His resulting cry of pain and anguish roused the Balrogs from their slumber in the darkest depths of Angband. With a tempest of fire they came to his aid, and drove away Ungoliant, but Melkor recalled them, and thus Ungoliant escaped. He then began to rebuild Angband, and to gather his servants there.<ref name=flight>''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter IX: "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"</ref>
   
When Fëanor found his father was slain, he cursed Melkor naming him ''Morgoth'', meaning "Dark Enemy", and by that name was he known ever after. The name Melkor was never spoken again.
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When Fëanor found his father was slain, he cursed Melkor and named him ''Morgoth'', meaning "Dark Enemy", and by that name was he known ever after. The name Melkor was never spoken again by his enemies.
   
Morgoth entered Angband's ruins and rebuilt them, causing three huge [[Volcano|volcanoes]], the [[Thangorodrim]], to rise above them, the refuse of his delvings. There also he bred the Orcs, and later the Dragons.
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As Morgoth finished rebuilding Angband, the slag and debris created by his vast tunnelings was plied into three huge [[Volcano|volcanoes]], collectively known as [[Thangorodrim]]. He hastened then to rebuild his forces, breeding innumerable Orcs and other fell beasts.
   
 
===First Age===
 
===First Age===
 
====In Beleriand====
 
====In Beleriand====
Fëanor followed Morgoth to Middle-earth with the greater part of the Noldor in rebellion, hoping to recover the Silmarils, thus began [[The War of the Great Jewels]].
 
   
 
Fëanor followed Morgoth to Middle-earth with the greater part of the Ñoldor in rebellion, hoping to recover the Silmarils. This action triggered the tragic [[The War of the Great Jewels|War of the Great Jewels]], in which the Elves would be utterly defeated in the end.
Upon learning of the arrival of the Noldor in Middle-earth, Morgoth sent armies of Orcs to destroy Fëanor's host. Though the Noldor were outnumbered, they swiftly and completely destroyed the Orcs; only a handful returned to Angband. Fëanor and his sons pursued them and there was another battle. Fëanor was eventually struck down by [[Gothmog]] and died.<ref name=return>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref>
 
   
 
Upon learning of the arrival of the Ñoldor in Middle-earth, Morgoth sent armies of Orcs against Fëanor's host, hoping to destroy them before they could establish any viable defenses. Though the Ñoldor were outnumbered, they swiftly and completely destroyed the Orcs; only a handful returned to Angband. But Fëanor, in his pride and arrogance, thought to come at Morgoth himself and pursued the Orcs. Soon, he and his vanguard drew far ahead of the main host, and the Orcs, seeing this, turned and gave battle at the gates of Angband. Due to their proximity to Angband, a number of Balrogs emerged to aid the Orcs and the Elves with Fëanor were quickly killed. Fëanor fought on alone, but was eventually struck down by [[Gothmog]], the Lord of the Balrogs. Though a relief force under the command of his sons saved him from being killed on the field of battle, Fëanor's wounds were mortal and he perished soon after.<ref name=return>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref>
Shortly after Fëanor's death, Morgoth sent an embassy to the Noldor offering terms of surrender, even promising a Silmaril. [[Maedhros]] came to the parley, but both sides came with greater force than was agreed, both expecting treachery. Unfortunately for the Elves, Morgoth's force was the greater of the two, and accompanied by Balrogs. The Elven company was quickly slain with the exception of Maedhros, who was captured and chained by the right hand to one of Thangorodrim's many cliffs.<ref name=return>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref> Morgoth promised to release Maedhros on the condition that the Elves would depart from the North and cease their war against him, but the Elves knew that Morgoth would not honor his word, and sent no reply.
 
  +
 
Shortly after Fëanor's death, Morgoth sent an embassy to the Noldor offering terms of surrender, even promising a Silmaril. [[Maedhros]] agreed to the parley, but both sides, expecting treachery, came with greater force than was agreed. Unfortunately for the Elves, Morgoth's force was the greater of the two, and was accompanied by Balrogs. The Elven company was quickly slain with the exception of Maedhros, who was captured and chained by his right hand to one of Thangorodrim's many cliffs.<ref name=return>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref> Morgoth sent word to the Ñoldor, promising to release Maedhros on the condition that the Elves would depart from the North and cease their war against him. However, the Elves knew that Morgoth would not honor his word, and sent no reply.
   
 
[[File:Melkor_govar.jpg|thumb|191px|right|Morgoth]]
 
[[File:Melkor_govar.jpg|thumb|191px|right|Morgoth]]
   
It was at this time that the host of Fingolfin, which had been betrayed by Fëanor's host in Aman, came at last to Middle-earth. Tension between the two hosts quickly developed and Morgoth, seeing that the Noldor were becoming divided, made plans to destroy his distracted foes. To his dismay however, the Valar revealed the creation of the [[Sun]] and the [[Moon]], which confounded Morgoth and his servants for a time. To counter these new lights, Morgoth sent up nigh-impenetrable clouds of smoke from the Iron Mountains to darken [[Hithlum]].
+
It was at this time that the host of Fingolfin, which had been betrayed and abandoned by Fëanor's host in Aman, came at last to Middle-earth. Tension between the two hosts quickly developed and Morgoth, seeing that the Noldor were divided, made plans to destroy his distracted foes. To his dismay however, the Valar revealed the creation of the [[Sun]] and the [[Moon]], which confounded Morgoth and his servants for a time. To counter these new lights, Morgoth sent up nigh-impenetrable clouds of smoke from the Iron Mountains to darken [[Hithlum]].
   
During the time of confusion caused among Morgoth's forces by these new lights, [[Fingon]] traveled to Angband, aided by the very darkness Morgoth had set upon Hithlum, and rescued Maedhros. In doing so, he set into motion a series of events that united the Noldor and allowed them to establish mighty kingdoms in Beleriand and Hithlum. When Morgoth initiated his next offensive, the Noldor swiftly and completely destroyed his forces and set a siege upon Angband, hoping to forever contain the evil of Morgoth. When he had waited many years, Morgoth made trial of his foes, causing the Iron Mountains to erupt and sending an army of Orcs down through the passes but to no avail, for the Orcs were easily defeated by the Noldor. After this failure, Morgoth took to capturing what Elves he could, breaking them with the power of his will and chaining their lives to his. These Elves became his spies among the Noldor, and they kept him appraised of the movements and plans of his enemies.
+
During the time of confusion and inaction caused among Morgoth's forces by these new lights, [[Fingon]] traveled to Angband, aided by the very darkness Morgoth had set upon Hithlum, and rescued Maedhros. In doing so, he set into motion a series of events that united the Noldor and allowed them to establish mighty kingdoms in Beleriand and Hithlum. When Morgoth initiated his next offensive, the Ñoldor swiftly and completely destroyed his forces and set a siege upon Angband, hoping to forever contain the evil of Morgoth. When he had waited many years, Morgoth made trial of his foes, causing the Iron Mountains to erupt and sending an army of Orcs down through the passes but to no avail, for the Orcs were easily defeated by the Noldor. After this failure, Morgoth took to capturing what Elves he could, breaking them with the power of his will and chaining their lives to his. These Elves became his spies among the Ñoldor, and they kept him appraised of the movements and plans of his enemies.
   
 
[[File:The_battle_of_sudden_flame_by_Filat.jpg|thumb|230px|left|The burning of Ard-galen at the beginning of the battle, by Filat]]
 
[[File:The_battle_of_sudden_flame_by_Filat.jpg|thumb|230px|left|The burning of Ard-galen at the beginning of the battle, by Filat]]
   
One hundred years later, Morgoth sent an army into the north to approach Hithlum from the side, but an army under the command of Fingon destroyed them yet again. At this point, Morgoth came to realize that the Orcs unaided were no match for the Noldor, and began experimenting with ways to create more deadly creatures for his armies. Another century passed, and the issuing of the first dragon, [[Glaurung]], demonstrated the results of Morgoth's long labor. Glaurung's sudden appearance scattered the Elves in the immediate vicinity of Angband, but a company of archers under Fingon's command engaged him before he could do much more than frighten the Elves. As Glaurung was barely half-grown, his hide was not yet invulnerable to the Elven arrows and he fled the field. Morgoth was displeased with Glaurung for revealing himself before Morgoth had planned, but ultimately Glaurung's youthful foray was of little consequence.<ref name=return>''Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref>
+
One hundred years later, Morgoth sent an army into the north to approach Hithlum from the side, but an army under the command of Fingon destroyed them yet again. At this point, Morgoth came to realize that the Orcs unaided were no match for the Ñoldor, and began experimenting with ways to create more deadly creatures for his armies. Another century passed, and the issuing of the first dragon, [[Glaurung]], demonstrated the results of Morgoth's long labor. Glaurung's sudden appearance scattered the Elves in the immediate vicinity of Angband, but a company of archers under Fingon's command engaged him before he could do much more than frighten the Elves. As Glaurung was barely half-grown, his hide was not yet invulnerable to the Elven arrows and he fled the field. Morgoth was displeased with Glaurung for revealing himself before Morgoth had planned, but ultimately Glaurung's youthful foray was of little consequence.<ref name=return>''Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor"</ref>
   
Some time later, when Men first arrived in [[Beleriand]], Morgoth had left Angband and walked among the fathers of Men. Hoping to corrupt them to his service, he spread his lies among them, and found them to be considerably easier to sway than the Elves had been. However, the strengthening of the Elven kingdoms worried Morgoth, and he returned to Angband before his labors were complete. Nevertheless, most Men believed or half-believed his lies and either departed from the North or joined with Morgoth's forces. However, a small group of Men that became known as the Edain resisted him.<ref>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVII: "[[Of the Coming of Men into the West]]"</ref> They provided the Elves with vital intelligence as to the doings of Morgoth in the North.
+
Some time later, when Men first arrived in [[Beleriand]], it was revealed that Morgoth had left Angband and walked among the fathers of Men. Hoping to corrupt them to his service, he spread his lies among them, and found them to be considerably easier to sway than the Elves had been. However, the strengthening of the Elven kingdoms worried Morgoth, and he returned to Angband before his labors were complete. Nevertheless, most Men believed or half-believed his lies and either departed from the North or joined with Morgoth's forces. However, a small group of Men that became known as the Edain resisted him.<ref>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVII: "[[Of the Coming of Men into the West]]"</ref> They provided the Elves with vital intelligence as to the doings of Morgoth in the North, as many of their hardiest chose to live within sight of Angband's gates.
   
 
====Dagor Bragollach====
 
====Dagor Bragollach====
   
The illusion of peace was broken [[FA 455|455]] years after [[Fingolfin]] came to Middle-earth, when Morgoth initiated the [[Dagor Bragollach|Battle of Sudden Flame]]. One cold winter night, when the Elven watch was least vigilant, Morgoth sent forth terrible rivers of fire and lava from Thangorodrim and poisonous fumes from the Iron Mountains. The Elves were completely unprepared for an assault, and a great many Noldor perished on the [[Ard-galen|Guarded Plain]], as the fires consumed it and transformed it into a lifeless wasteland, forever after known as the [[Anfauglith|Gasping Dust]].
+
The Siege of Angband was broken [[FA 455|455]] years after [[Fingolfin]] came to Middle-earth, when Morgoth initiated the [[Dagor Bragollach]]. One cold winter night, when the Elven watch was least vigilant, Morgoth sent forth terrible rivers of fire and lava from Thangorodrim and poisonous fumes from the Iron Mountains. The Elves were completely unprepared for such an assault, and a great many Ñoldor perished on the [[Ard-galen]], as the fires consumed it and transformed it into a lifeless wasteland, forever after known as the [[Anfauglith]].
   
 
[[File:Melkor3.pjpg.jpg|thumb|225px|Morgoth in battle with Fingolfin.]]
 
[[File:Melkor3.pjpg.jpg|thumb|225px|Morgoth in battle with Fingolfin.]]
   
With the exception of Maedhros and his fortress upon the Hill of Himring, the sons of Fëanor and Finarfin were overthrown and utterly defeated, and Fingolfin and Fingon only just barely managed to defend Hithlum from Morgoth's onslaught. The Elves were completely driven from the forests of [[Dorthonion]], and many of the [[Grey elves]] forsook the war altogether and went to [[Doriath]]. When news came to Fingolfin of the defeat of the Elven forces, he rode forth from Hithlum. He rode to the gates of Angband and smote upon the doors of Morgoth's fortress, challenging the Dark Lord to come forth to single combat. Though Morgoth did not wish to, Fingolfin's challenge was heard by all in Angband, and was given in such an insulting manner that to ignore it would be to lose face before his captains.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
+
With the exception of Maedhros and his fortress upon the Hill of Himring, the sons of Fëanor and Finarfin were overthrown and utterly defeated. Fingolfin and Fingon only just barely managed to defend Hithlum from Morgoth's onslaught, as the mountains surrounding it provided an effective barrier against Morgoth's fires. The Elves were completely driven from the forests of [[Dorthonion]], and many of the [[Grey elves]] forsook the war altogether and went to [[Doriath]]. When news came to Fingolfin of the defeat of the Elven forces, a great despair came upon him. Believing the Noldor to have been defeated beyond any hope of recovery, he rode forth from Hithlum to the gates of Angband in a wrath so potent that he was said to have resembled Oromë himself. When he arrived, he smote upon the doors of Morgoth's fortress, challenging the Dark Lord to come forth to single combat. Though Morgoth did not wish to, Fingolfin's challenge was heard by all in Angband, and was given in such an insulting manner that to ignore it would have been to lose face before his captains.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
   
 
Morgoth issued forth in black armour from Angband to confront Fingolfin. Wielding the terrible hammer [[Grond (Warhammer)|Grond]], Morgoth repeatedly attempted to smite the Elven king, but succeeded only in carving many fiery pits in the ground from his missed strikes. Fingolfin long managed to avoid Morgoth's blows, and wounded the Dark Lord seven times. But at last, Fingolfin grew weary, and Morgoth thrice drove him to his knees. Fingolfin arose each time to continue the fight, but eventually he fell backwards into one of the many pits formed by Morgoth's missed attacks. Morgoth then set his foot upon Fingolfin's neck and killed him, but not before Fingolfin, with his last stroke, hewed Morgoth's foot with his sword. Then Morgoth broke the Elven-king's body, but [[Thorondor]], the [[King of the Eagles]], swooped down upon Morgoth, marring his face with his talons, and rescued the body of the Elf-king.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
 
Morgoth issued forth in black armour from Angband to confront Fingolfin. Wielding the terrible hammer [[Grond (Warhammer)|Grond]], Morgoth repeatedly attempted to smite the Elven king, but succeeded only in carving many fiery pits in the ground from his missed strikes. Fingolfin long managed to avoid Morgoth's blows, and wounded the Dark Lord seven times. But at last, Fingolfin grew weary, and Morgoth thrice drove him to his knees. Fingolfin arose each time to continue the fight, but eventually he fell backwards into one of the many pits formed by Morgoth's missed attacks. Morgoth then set his foot upon Fingolfin's neck and killed him, but not before Fingolfin, with his last stroke, hewed Morgoth's foot with his sword. Then Morgoth broke the Elven-king's body, but [[Thorondor]], the [[King of the Eagles]], swooped down upon Morgoth, marring his face with his talons, and rescued the body of the Elf-king.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
   
Fingolfin's last stroke gave Morgoth a permanent limp, and the pain of his seven wounds could not be healed, nor the scars erased.
+
Fingolfin's last stroke gave Morgoth a permanent limp, and the pain of his seven wounds could not be healed, nor were the scars ever erased.
   
 
[[File:Morgoth_1.jpg|thumb|left|230px|Morgoth and Fingolfin, by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
 
[[File:Morgoth_1.jpg|thumb|left|230px|Morgoth and Fingolfin, by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
   
After the battle, Morgoth sent out many spies, and he feigned pity to Men, and when the [[Edain]] refused him he summoned the [[Easterlings]] over the [[Blue Mountains]] (Ered Luin). However, he soon realized that he had underestimated the resolve and valor of his foes, for the Elves and Edain, recovering from their initial shock, had begun to make small gains against his outlying forces. He therefore checked his forces, and withdrew the main host of the Orcs to Angband. For though his victory had been great, his own losses were as numerous as the losses that had been accrued by the Elves. Seven years passed before Morgoth renewed his offensive. He assailed Hithlum with great strength but just as he was on the verge of victory, Círdan came at the last moment and helped Fingon to turn the Orcs back.
+
After the battle, Morgoth sent out many spies, and he feigned pity to Men. When the [[Edain]] refused his false offers of peace he summoned the [[Easterlings]] over the [[Blue Mountains]]. However, he soon realized that he had underestimated the resolve and valor of his foes, for the Elves and Edain, recovering from the initial shock of Morgoth's onslaught, had begun to make small gains against his outlying forces. He therefore checked his advance, and withdrew the main host of the Orcs to Angband. For though Morgoth's victory had been great, his own losses had been as numerous as the losses that had been accrued by the Elves. Seven years passed before Morgoth renewed his offensive. He assailed Hithlum with great strength but just as he was on the verge of victory, Círdan and a host under his command came at the last moment and helped Fingon to turn the Orcs back.
 
<br clear=left>
 
 
====The Quest of the Silmaril====
 
====The Quest of the Silmaril====
   
Some time later, the [[Elf Maiden|Elven-maiden]] [[Lúthien]] and her human lover [[Beren]], seeking to recover a Silmaril, came disguised to Morgoth's court. Morgoth was able to see through her disguise, but she was undaunted by his eyes, and offered to sing for him. As she sang, Morgoth conceived a lust and an evil deed more abominable than any he had yet committed, and allowed her to continue singing. This was his downfall; suddenly shadow hid her, and she sang a terrible song of power that cast a spell of sleep.<ref name=quest>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIX: "[[Of Beren and Lúthien]]"</ref>
+
Some time later, the [[Elf Maiden|Elven-maiden]] [[Lúthien]] and her human lover [[Beren]], seeking to recover a Silmaril, came disguised to Morgoth's court. Morgoth was able to see through her disguise, but she was undaunted by his eyes, and offered to sing for him. As she sang, Morgoth conceived a lust and an evil more abominable than any he had yet committed, and allowed her to continue singing. This was his downfall; suddenly shadow hid her, and she sang a terrible song of power that cast a spell of sleep.<ref name=quest>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XIX: "[[Of Beren and Lúthien]]"</ref>
   
 
[[File:Luthienandmorgoth_michelucci.jpg|thumb|200px|Lúthien and Morgoth]]
 
[[File:Luthienandmorgoth_michelucci.jpg|thumb|200px|Lúthien and Morgoth]]
   
All Morgoth's court was cast down in slumber, but the Silmarils burned, and became so heavy that the head of Morgoth sagged upon his chest. He fell from his throne, and the Iron Crown rolled away with a clang. Then Beren cut a Silmaril from that Crown, but rather than leaving immediately with his prize, he tried to take another of the Silmarils, and in doing so his knife broke; one shard struck Morgoth's face, and he began to awaken. Beren and Lúthien fled, but the werewolf [[Carcharoth]] bit off Beren's hand. Then Morgoth awoke, and in a rage he and his court roared up in pursuit, only to see Thorondor carrying off the raiders.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
+
All Morgoth's court was cast down in slumber by her song, but the Silmarils burned, and became so heavy that the head of Morgoth sagged upon his chest. He fell from his throne, the Iron Crown rolled away with a clang, and Beren cut a Silmaril from it. However, rather than leaving immediately with his prize, he tried to take another of the Silmarils. As he attempted to pry the second jewel loose, his knife snapped. One shard struck Morgoth's face, and he began to awaken. Beren and Lúthien fled, but the werewolf [[Carcharoth]] bit off Beren's hand. Then Morgoth awoke, and in a rage he and his court roared up in pursuit, only to see Thorondor carrying off the raiders. Morgoth's rage at the loss of the Silmaril caused the Iron Mountains to begin erupting, terrifying all those who could see it. Ultimately however, he was unable to recover the Silmaril.<ref name=ruin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XVIII: "[[Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin]]"</ref>
   
Soon after, Morgoth became aware that Maedhros was making a [[Union of Maedhros|great league]] against him, and driving his orcs off the northern heights. When the Elves eventually made it to Angband, the Battle of [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], began. Ultimately, the battle was a complete and decisive victory for Morgoth. The power of the Elves and their Edain compatriots to make war against Morgoth was utterly and permanently broken. The Noldor from the north of Beleriand, and all their great kingdoms besides Gondolin were destroyed. The Edain who did not flee were enslaved by Easterlings, and Húrin was taken captive.<ref name=hurin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XX: "[[Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]"</ref>
+
Soon after, Morgoth became aware that Maedhros was making a [[Union of Maedhros|great league]] against him, and driving his orcs off the northern heights. As such, he took council against them and prepared his forces for a major confrontation. When the Elves eventually made it to Angband, the Battle of [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], began. Ultimately, the battle was a complete and decisive victory for Morgoth. The power of the Elves and their Edain compatriots to make war against Morgoth was utterly and permanently broken. The Noldor from the north of Beleriand, and all their great kingdoms besides Gondolin were destroyed. The Edain who did not flee were enslaved by Easterlings, and Húrin was taken captive.<ref name=hurin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XX: "[[Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad]]"</ref>
   
 
====The Cursing of Húrin====
 
====The Cursing of Húrin====
Line 120: Line 125:
   
 
From a distance Morgoth put the son and daughter of Húrin, Turin and [[Nienor Níniel|Nienor]], under a species of ''diabolic oppression'': his thought followed them and gave them bad luck, though they were not possessed. By this means he drove them at last to madness and despair; though there is doubt as to whether in the extremity of his malice he cheated himself, as their madness saved them from damnation.<ref name=words>''The Children of Húrin'', Narn i Chîn Húrin, The Tale of the Children of Húrin, III: "[[The Words of Húrin and Morgoth]]"</ref>
 
From a distance Morgoth put the son and daughter of Húrin, Turin and [[Nienor Níniel|Nienor]], under a species of ''diabolic oppression'': his thought followed them and gave them bad luck, though they were not possessed. By this means he drove them at last to madness and despair; though there is doubt as to whether in the extremity of his malice he cheated himself, as their madness saved them from damnation.<ref name=words>''The Children of Húrin'', Narn i Chîn Húrin, The Tale of the Children of Húrin, III: "[[The Words of Húrin and Morgoth]]"</ref>
 
 
{{Quote|Behold! The Shadow of my thought shall lie upon them wherever they go, and my hate shall pursue them to the ends of the world.|''The Children of Húrin''}}
 
{{Quote|Behold! The Shadow of my thought shall lie upon them wherever they go, and my hate shall pursue them to the ends of the world.|''The Children of Húrin''}}
   
Line 131: Line 135:
 
====Fall of Gondolin====
 
====Fall of Gondolin====
   
Though unable to force Húrin to reveal the location of the last great Elven kingdom, Morgoth eventually captured [[Maeglin]], sister-son of [[Turgon]], the [[King of Gondolin]]. Maeglin offered the secrets of Gondolin's defences, and a promise to kill [[Tuor]], having [[Idril]] to himself. With the promise of having Idril, Maeglin became Morgoth's servant willingly, and Morgoth sent him back to Gondolin to aid the invasion from within when the time came.<ref name=gondolin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XXIII: "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"</ref>
+
Though he had been unable to force Húrin to reveal the location of the last great Elven kingdom, Morgoth eventually captured [[Maeglin]], sister-son of [[Turgon]], the [[King of Gondolin]]. Threatened with unimaginable torment, Maeglin offered the secrets of Gondolin's defenses in exchange for his own wellbeing. Additionally, he made a promise to kill [[Tuor]] personally, and was given permission by Morgoth to take [[Idril]] for himself. With the promise of having Idril, Maeglin became Morgoth's servant willingly, and Morgoth sent him back to Gondolin to aid the invasion from within when the time came.<ref name=gondolin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XXIII: "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"</ref>
   
  +
Soon after, Morgoth assailed Gondolin, the last great realm of the Ñoldor and, with a vastly superior force and Maeglin's treacherous information, the city was beleaguered without hope and quickly fell.
Many true Dragons of the brood of Glaurung were issued. On a night of festival, they mounted the hills in the north, causing a dawn to rise in the wrong place, and fire burst against Gondolin, and it fell.
 
   
With the Sacking of Gondolin and the defeat of the Noldor and their allies, Morgoth's triumph was fulfilled.<ref name=gondolin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XXIII: "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"</ref> The great kingdoms of the Elves had all fallen, save for the Havens of [[Cirdan]] and the survivors at the [[Mouths of Sirion]], and these were ruled by [[Eärendil]]; and Morgoth esteemed them as nothing, and laughed when he saw the last and the most cruel Kinslaying as the [[Sons of Feanor]] destroyed the dwelling at [[Arvernien]].
+
With the Sacking of Gondolin and the defeat of the Noldor and their allies, Morgoth's triumph was complete.<ref name=gondolin>''The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion'', Chapter XXIII: "[[Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin]]"</ref> The great kingdoms of the Elves had all fallen, save for the Havens of [[Cirdan]] and the survivors at the [[Mouths of Sirion]], and these were ruled by [[Eärendil]]; and Morgoth esteemed them as nothing. He even came to care nothing for the Silmaril that had been taken from him, and laughed when he saw the last and the most cruel Kinslaying when the [[Sons of Feanor]] destroyed the dwelling at [[Arvernien]].
   
 
====Final defeat====
 
====Final defeat====
  +
 
[[File:War_of_wrath.jpg|thumb|250px|right|The War of Wrath]]
 
[[File:War_of_wrath.jpg|thumb|250px|right|The War of Wrath]]
   
Finally, due to the plea actions of [[Eärendil]], the Valar were persuaded once again to take up arms against Morgoth's tyranny. Thus, a [[War of Wrath|great battle]] began between Morgoth and the [[The Host of Valinor|Host of Valinor]] and the remaining free peoples of Middle-earth shaking and devastating the earth. Morgoth emptied all of Angband, and his devices and engines and armies of slaves were so various and powerful the fighting spilled across all Beleriand.
+
However, Morgoth's triumph was relatively short lived. Due to the plea actions of [[Eärendil]], the Valar were persuaded once again to take up arms against Morgoth's tyranny. Morgoth himself did not expect that the Valar would ever help the Ñoldor after the terrible sins they had committed, and did not foresee the assault from Aman. But the Valar took pity on the Ñoldor, and a [[War of Wrath|great battle]] began between Morgoth and the [[The Host of Valinor|Host of Valinor]]. Morgoth emptied all of Angband, and his devices and engines and armies of slaves were so various and powerful the fighting spilled across all Beleriand.
   
The Balrogs were destroyed, save some few that fled and hid themselves in caverns inaccessible at the roots of the earth, and the Orcs perished. Then Morgoth quailed, and dared not come forth himself, but he had one last [[weapon]] at his command, the monstrous [[Uruloki|Winged Dragons]]. From out of the pits of Angband they issued, and so sudden and ruinous was their attack, with great power and a tempest of fire, they drove back the host of the Valar. But then Eärendil came with [[Vingilot]], accompanied by [[Thorondor]] and all the great birds, and Eärendil slew [[Ancalagon The Black]], whose great bulk fell upon the towers of Thangorodrim, breaking them in his ruin.<ref name="SimWar">''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter XXIV: "[[Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath]]"</ref>
+
In the end, Morgoth's forces were utterly defeated. The Balrogs were destroyed, save some few that fled and hid themselves in caverns at the very roots of the earth, and the Orcs were slaughtered. Then Morgoth quailed, and dared not come forth himself, but he had one last [[weapon]] at his command; the monstrous [[Uruloki|Winged Dragons]]. From out of the pits of Angband they issued, and so sudden and ruinous was their attack, with great power and a tempest of fire, they drove back the host of the Valar. But then Eärendil came with [[Vingilot]], accompanied by [[Thorondor]] and all the great birds, and Eärendil slew [[Ancalagon The Black]], whose great bulk fell upon the towers of Thangorodrim, breaking them in his ruin.<ref name="SimWar">''[[The Silmarillion]], [[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', Chapter XXIV: "[[Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath]]"</ref>
   
Morgoth, utterly defeated stood at bay, and yet unvaliant. He fled into the deepest mines and sued for peace and pardon, but his feet were hewn from under him, and he was cast on his face. He was bound with the chain [[Angainor]], his Iron Crown was beaten into a collar for his neck, and he was thrust through the [[Door of Night]] into the [[Void|Timeless Void]].
+
Morgoth, utterly defeated stood at bay, and was yet unvaliant. He fled into the deepest of his mines and sued for peace and pardon, but his feet were hewn from under him, and he was cast on his face. He was bound with the chain [[Angainor]], his Iron Crown was beaten into a collar for his neck, and he was thrust through the [[Door of Night]] into the [[Void|Timeless Void]].
   
 
===Legacy and Prophesied return===
 
===Legacy and Prophesied return===
  +
[[File:Doors_of_Night.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The Door of Night by John Howe]]
+
[[File:Doors_of_Night.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The Door of Night, by John Howe]]
   
 
Melkor's lies, sowed in the hearts of Elves and Men, were a seed that did not die and could not be destroyed, but ever and anon sprouted anew, and bore dark fruit ever after.<ref name="SimWar" />
 
Melkor's lies, sowed in the hearts of Elves and Men, were a seed that did not die and could not be destroyed, but ever and anon sprouted anew, and bore dark fruit ever after.<ref name="SimWar" />
   
 
According to material in some of Tolkien's writings compiled (but not published) by [[Christopher Tolkien|his son]], in the last days Melkor will learn how to break the Door of Night and re-enter the World, and initiate the [[Dagor Dagorath]], the Battle of Battles.<ref>''[[The History of Middle-earth]],'' Vol. 5: ''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]],'' Part One: The Fall of Númenor and the Lost Road, Chapter III: "The Lost Road"</ref><ref>''[[The History of Middle-earth]],'' Vol. 4: ''[[The Shaping of Middle-earth]]''</ref>
 
According to material in some of Tolkien's writings compiled (but not published) by [[Christopher Tolkien|his son]], in the last days Melkor will learn how to break the Door of Night and re-enter the World, and initiate the [[Dagor Dagorath]], the Battle of Battles.<ref>''[[The History of Middle-earth]],'' Vol. 5: ''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]],'' Part One: The Fall of Númenor and the Lost Road, Chapter III: "The Lost Road"</ref><ref>''[[The History of Middle-earth]],'' Vol. 4: ''[[The Shaping of Middle-earth]]''</ref>
  +
<br clear = left>
 
  +
However, the published Silmarillion does not include this information, and instead asserts that, if the Valar know how the end of Arda will present itself, they have not revealed it.
  +
 
==Etymology==
 
==Etymology==
 
The name '''Melkor''' was a [[Quenya]] word that meant "One who arises in Might"; his name in [[Sindarin]] was '''Belegûr''' or '''Belegurth''' ("Great Death").<ref name=index/>
 
The name '''Melkor''' was a [[Quenya]] word that meant "One who arises in Might"; his name in [[Sindarin]] was '''Belegûr''' or '''Belegurth''' ("Great Death").<ref name=index/>
   
 
===Other names===
 
===Other names===
Before his defeat in the [[War for Sake of the Elves]], the fearful early elves of [[Cuiviénen]] called him the '''Dark Hunter'''.
+
Before his defeat in the [[War for Sake of the Elves]], the fearful early elves of [[Cuiviénen]] called him the '''Dark Hunter'''.<ref name=captivity/>
   
 
The name '''Morgoth''', which he was called by Fëanor at [[Valmar]] after Melkor stole the Silmarils, meant "Dark Enemy", even though it was '''Black Foe of the World''' that Feanor named him out loud.<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 10: ''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', The Later Quenta Silmarillion, The Second Phase, VIII: "Of the Rape of the Silmarils"</ref> It was also used by lore masters and the Wise when discussing Melkor's latter state of being, when he became "ever more bound to the earth", having dissipated his power, and becoming in consequence "the Morgoth." He was also known as '''Melkor Bauglir''' when he returned to Angband towards the beginning of the First Age. '''Bauglir''' meant "the Constrainer".<ref name=index>''The Silmarillion'', Index of Names</ref>
 
The name '''Morgoth''', which he was called by Fëanor at [[Valmar]] after Melkor stole the Silmarils, meant "Dark Enemy", even though it was '''Black Foe of the World''' that Feanor named him out loud.<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 10: ''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'', The Later Quenta Silmarillion, The Second Phase, VIII: "Of the Rape of the Silmarils"</ref> It was also used by lore masters and the Wise when discussing Melkor's latter state of being, when he became "ever more bound to the earth", having dissipated his power, and becoming in consequence "the Morgoth." He was also known as '''Melkor Bauglir''' when he returned to Angband towards the beginning of the First Age. '''Bauglir''' meant "the Constrainer".<ref name=index>''The Silmarillion'', Index of Names</ref>
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===Titles===
 
===Titles===
  +
 
He was the world's first [[Dark Lord]]. Melkor was also known for giving himself titles and referred to himself as '''King of the World'''<ref name=flight/> and the '''Elder King'''.<ref name=words/> After his defeat, his most powerful servant Sauron called him '''Lord of All and Giver of Freedom''' and '''Lord of the Dark''' as a way of getting the corrupted [[Númenóreans]] to worship him.<ref>''The Silmarillion, [[Akallabêth]]'' (The Downfall of Númenor)</ref>
 
He was the world's first [[Dark Lord]]. Melkor was also known for giving himself titles and referred to himself as '''King of the World'''<ref name=flight/> and the '''Elder King'''.<ref name=words/> After his defeat, his most powerful servant Sauron called him '''Lord of All and Giver of Freedom''' and '''Lord of the Dark''' as a way of getting the corrupted [[Númenóreans]] to worship him.<ref>''The Silmarillion, [[Akallabêth]]'' (The Downfall of Númenor)</ref>
   
 
===Earlier names===
 
===Earlier names===
   
In the books ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'' and ''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]],'' Tolkien called him '''Melko''', '''Belcha''' (from the Quenya ''velka'' "flame"),<ref name=tales>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 1: ''[[The Book of Lost Tales|The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]'', Appendix: Names in the Lost Tales – Part I</ref> '''Ulban(d)''' ("monster"),<ref name=tales/> '''Melegor,'''<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 3: ''[[The Lays of Beleriand]]'', I: "The Lay of the Children of Húrin"</ref> and '''Meleko'''.<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 9: ''[[Sauron Defeated]]'', Part Three: The Drowning of Anadûnê, (i) The third version of The Fall of Númenor</ref>
+
In the books ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'' and ''[[The Book of Lost Tales 2]],'' Tolkien called him '''Melko''', '''Belcha''' (from the Quenya ''velka'' "flame"),<ref name=tales>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 1: ''[[The Book of Lost Tales|The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]'', Appendix: Names in the Lost Tales – Part I</ref> '''Ulban(d)''' ("monster")<ref name=tales/> '''Melegor,'''<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 3: ''[[The Lays of Beleriand]]'', I: "The Lay of the Children of Húrin"</ref> and '''Meleko'''.<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 9: ''[[Sauron Defeated]]'', Part Three: The Drowning of Anadûnê, (i) The third version of The Fall of Númenor</ref>
   
Material in the ''[[Lost Road & Other Writings]]'' refers to him as '''Melko, Alkar, Mardello,''' and '''Bauglir.'''
+
Material in ''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]'' refers to him as '''Melko, Alkar, and Mardello'''.<ref>'''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 5: ''The Lost Road and Other Writings'', Part One: "The Fall of Númenor and the Lost Road"</ref>
   
 
==Character==
 
==Character==
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Initially, Melkor could take on any form he chose. The Ainur took on forms reflective of their moods and might. Melkor, in his arrogance, malice and power, took on a form recorded as
 
Initially, Melkor could take on any form he chose. The Ainur took on forms reflective of their moods and might. Melkor, in his arrogance, malice and power, took on a form recorded as
 
 
{{Quote|...a mountain that wades in the sea, and has its head above the clouds, and is clad with ice and crowned with smoke and fire, and the light of the eyes of Melkor was like a flame that whithers with heat and pierces with a deadly cold.|''The Silmarillion, Ainulindalë''}}
 
{{Quote|...a mountain that wades in the sea, and has its head above the clouds, and is clad with ice and crowned with smoke and fire, and the light of the eyes of Melkor was like a flame that whithers with heat and pierces with a deadly cold.|''The Silmarillion, Ainulindalë''}}
   
 
It is said that out of all the Valar, Melkor was most like Aulë for his craftsmanship. Originally the brightest, most beautiful, most powerful Ainu, he fell through jealousy, pride and hatred of others, into [[Darkness]] with ever after a desire to conquer and to rule. When he built Utumno he took on a form shaped roughly manlike but great in size, "a Dark Lord, tall and terrible." This form was chained by the Valar. When he walked in Valinor he wore a much fairer form, so noble and lofty and benevolent not even the Elves (save only Fëanor and Galadriel) are recorded as seeing through it to the malice underneath. This he cast off to escape unclad from the hunt of the Valar, and when he faced Ungoliant he put back on the form of the tyrant of Utumno. In that form he remained ever after. As he spent his might and poured out his power into the very fabric of matter, as well as into all his creations, he grew more stooped and less majestic, and his hands were burned black from the touch of the Silmarils. His eyes shone with a daunting light.
 
It is said that out of all the Valar, Melkor was most like Aulë for his craftsmanship. Originally the brightest, most beautiful, most powerful Ainu, he fell through jealousy, pride and hatred of others, into [[Darkness]] with ever after a desire to conquer and to rule. When he built Utumno he took on a form shaped roughly manlike but great in size, "a Dark Lord, tall and terrible." This form was chained by the Valar. When he walked in Valinor he wore a much fairer form, so noble and lofty and benevolent not even the Elves (save only Fëanor and Galadriel) are recorded as seeing through it to the malice underneath. This he cast off to escape unclad from the hunt of the Valar, and when he faced Ungoliant he put back on the form of the tyrant of Utumno. In that form he remained ever after. As he spent his might and poured out his power into the very fabric of matter, as well as into all his creations, he grew more stooped and less majestic, and his hands were burned black from the touch of the Silmarils. His eyes shone with a daunting light.
   
There is some dispute over Morgoth's size. The Silmarillion states:
+
There is some dispute over Morgoth's size. ''The Silmarillion'' states:
 
 
{{Quote|He stood over the king as a tower...and...cast a shadow over him like a storm cloud.|''Quenta Silmarillion,'' "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"}}
 
{{Quote|He stood over the king as a tower...and...cast a shadow over him like a storm cloud.|''Quenta Silmarillion,'' "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"}}
   
 
As Elves typically reached about six feet tall, or close to seven feet for the Noldor, (Men were of similar height to Elves, however, Númenóreans averaged was similar with those Noldor elves and Elendil was said to be nearly eight)... Morgoth must have stood at least twice this length, and with the shadow he robed himself in he may well have seemed taller. In most artistic renderings Morgoth is depicted as towering over other beings, most notably elves (Fingolfin in particular) of the FA.
 
As Elves typically reached about six feet tall, or close to seven feet for the Noldor, (Men were of similar height to Elves, however, Númenóreans averaged was similar with those Noldor elves and Elendil was said to be nearly eight)... Morgoth must have stood at least twice this length, and with the shadow he robed himself in he may well have seemed taller. In most artistic renderings Morgoth is depicted as towering over other beings, most notably elves (Fingolfin in particular) of the FA.
 
 
{{Quote|Morgoth set his foot upon his neck, and the weight of it was like a fallen hill.|''Quenta Silmarillion,'' "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"}}
 
{{Quote|Morgoth set his foot upon his neck, and the weight of it was like a fallen hill.|''Quenta Silmarillion,'' "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"}}
   
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==Other versions of the legendarium==
 
==Other versions of the legendarium==
  +
 
In Tolkien's early concept of the Children of the Ainur, Melkor had a son Kosomot (later [[Gothmog]]) with an ogress called [[Fuithluin]].<ref name=tales/>
 
In Tolkien's early concept of the Children of the Ainur, Melkor had a son Kosomot (later [[Gothmog]]) with an ogress called [[Fuithluin]].<ref name=tales/>
   
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In some versions, Melkor will be defeated by [[Eönwë]] during the [[Dagor Dagorath]], driven by his love for Arien, instead of [[Túrin Turambar]].<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 1: ''The Book of Lost Tales Part One'' IX: "The Hiding of Valinor"</ref>
 
In some versions, Melkor will be defeated by [[Eönwë]] during the [[Dagor Dagorath]], driven by his love for Arien, instead of [[Túrin Turambar]].<ref>''The History of Middle-earth'', Vol. 1: ''The Book of Lost Tales Part One'' IX: "The Hiding of Valinor"</ref>
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==Translations around the World==
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
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!Foreign Language
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!Translated name
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|-
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|Belarusian
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|дробна
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|-
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|Chinese (Hong Kong)
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|米爾寇 A.K.A. 魔苟斯
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|-
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|Greek
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|ΜΕΛΚΟ
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|-
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|Hebrew
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|מלקור
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|-
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|Russian
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|Ме́лькор
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|}
   
 
{{Ainur}}
 
{{Ainur}}
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==References==
 
==References==
 
{{Scroll box|
 
{{Scroll box|
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 
}}
 
}}
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==External link==
 
==External link==
   
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[[Category:Aratar]]
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[[Category:Evil]]
[[Category:Valar]]
 

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Melkor (Quenya;IPA: "He Who Arises In Might"), later called Morgoth,[1] is the first Dark Lord and master of Sauron.

Originally the most powerful of the Ainur created by Eru Iluvatar, Melkor rebelled against his creator out of pride and sought to corrupt Arda, becoming Morgoth. After committing many evils in the First Age, such as the theft of the Silmarils and the destruction of the Two Lamps, Morgoth was defeated by the Host of Valinor in the War of Wrath.

According to an unpublished portion of Tolkien's conclusion to The Silmarillion, Morgoth will return at the end of the world to fight against good in Dagor Dagorath, the final battle.

Biography

Ainulindalë

Morgoth 2

Melkor, the first Dark Lord.

Melkor was created by Eru Iluvatar in the Timeless Halls, at the beginning of creation. His brother was Manwë, although Melkor was greater in power and knowledge than any of the Ainur.[2]

Impatient with the emptiness of the Great Void outside the Timeless Halls and desiring to create things of his own, Melkor often went forth into the Void in search of the Flame Imperishable. But the Flame was of Iluvatar and resided with him, and Melkor never discovered it. He continued to search however, and as such was often alone and apart from his fellow Ainur. It was during these lonesome periods that Melkor began to have ideas and thoughts of his own that were not in accordance with his fellow Ainur.

Tn-melkor weaves opposing music

Melkor weaves Opposing Music by Ted Nasmith

When the Ainur sang the Great Music before Eru, Melkor wove some of these alien thoughts into his music, and straightaway Discord arose around him. Some of those nearby attuned their music to his, until two musical themes were warring before the Throne. To correct the Discord, Eru introduced a Second, and then a Third Theme into the music. But Melkor succeeded in holding back the Second theme, of which Manwë was the chief instrument. The Third was the theme of Elves and Men, and while it was not overwhelmed by the Discord as the Second theme was, it too failed to correct it. When Eru brought the Music to an end, he rebuked Melkor, praising his strength but reminding him that, as an aspect of his creator's thought, anything that Melkor could bring into being ultimately had its source within Eru himself. As such, even the Discord redounded in the end to the glory of Eru's work. And Melkor was ashamed, and resented it; for he thought his Discord an improvement. Thus when the Music was made incarnate as Arda, it was already flawed through the Discord, and immoderate heat and great cold stalked it. Melkor then took in the interest of the World and descended to it with the other Valar.

Arrival in Arda

When the Valar entered into Arda and began to shape the unwrought matter, Melkor saw the Field of Arda and claimed it for his own. However, the other Valar took Manwë to be their lord, for while Manwë was not nearly so powerful as Melkor, he understood the thought of Eru better than any of his peers. Bitter, Melkor set himself against the other Valar. Whenever the Valar worked to better the world, Melkor disrupted their efforts. For a long while, Melkor fought alone against the might of all the other Valar and Maiar of Arda, and he long held the upper hand. During this time, Arda was kept essentially shapeless, as Melkor ruined virtually every early work that the other Valar attempted to create. Fortunately for them, the mighty Valar Tulkas eventually descended to Arda, and his strength tipped the balance in favor of the Valar. Melkor fled before him, and left Arda for a time.

Years of the Lamps

AngbandSotomayor

The peaks of Angband

After Melkor's departure, the Valar managed to quiet the tumults of the world, and set about ordering it in preparation for the coming of the Elves. To give light to the world, they constructed two Great Lamps in Middle-earth and set their place of dwelling in the midst of them. During this time, Melkor re-entered Arda with the various Maiar spirits who had attuned themselves to his music, and delved a mighty fortress at the very north-most part of the World and named it Utumno.[3] To defend it he raised the Mountains of the East in the northeast of Middle-earth, east of the Sea of Helcar. Decay arose in the North, and the Valar thus knew that Melkor had returned. Before they could begin to search for him however, Melkor came forth from Utumno with sudden war, and cast down the Lamps. The fire within the Lamps scorched a great portion of the world, and containing the catastrophe caused by their breaking kept the Valar occupied long enough for Melkor and his forces to retreat back to Utumno.

After the destruction of the Lamps, the Valar withdrew to the continent of Aman and there built Valinor. In doing so however, they gave Melkor virtually free-reign in Middle-Earth. As a result, the continent languished in darkness, and Melkor filled it's lands with terrible creatures and decay. During this time, Melkor built his second, lesser fortress of Angband in the west, as a defense from the West should the Valar attack. Angband was delved into the Iron Mountains, and was given to Sauron to command.[4] While the Valar were unsure where the Children of Ilúvatar would awake, they were reluctant to wage war against Melkor, fearing the clash of powers might result in massive collateral damage the likes of which they had seen when the Lamps were destroyed. As such, most of them remained in Aman and forsook Middle-earth. Due to this, Melkor discovered the Elves before the other Valar, captured many of them, and transformed them by torture and other foul craft into Orcs.

Years of the Trees

File:Melkorchained rgs.jpg

Melkor is chained

When it was discovered by the Vala Oromë where the Elves were, the Valar took immediate action against Melkor, instigating the War of the Powers. The Valar overcame the hosts of Melkor and he retreated into Utumno. After a grievous siege, the Valar rent the doors open and Melkor was captured. Melkor was bound with Angainor and brought back to Valinor. There, he pleaded for pardon, but was cast into the Halls of Mandos for three Ages. However, in their haste to overthrow Melkor, the Valar left many of Utumno's pits and vaults unexplored, and Sauron remained at large. Additionally, they did not capture or destroy the Balrogs, who gathered at the ruins of Angband and went into a long hibernation, awaiting Melkor's return.[4]

After the passing of the Ages, Melkor was brought before Manwë, and feigned repentance. Unable to comprehend the evil of Melkor, being himself free of it, Manwë ordered him released. At first, it seemed as though the evil of Melkor had been cured, for all who sought his counsel and aid in that time benefited greatly from it. However, Tulkas and Ulmo were both very slow to forget Melkor's evils, and watched him closely. In truth, Melkor was more filled with malice than ever, and began to put his extraordinary cunning to use in devising a way to ruin Aman. Seeing the bliss of the Elves and remembering that it was for their sake that he was overthrown, Melkor desired above all things to corrupt them. Of all the three primary groups of Elves, he found the Ñoldor to have a perfect balance of usefulness and open ears, and so worked his malice almost exclusively among them.

Over a long period of time he spread lies concerning the intentions of the Valar in bringing the Elves to Aman, telling them, among other things, tales of the coming of Men, the existence of which the Valar had not revealed to the Elves. Due to his carefully crafted lies, many of the Ñoldor began to believe that the Valar had brought them to Aman so that Men might inherit Middle-earth, taking the lands and the glory that could have been theirs. Eventually, a shadow fell upon the Ñoldor, and they began to openly rebel against the Valar. Chief amongst the disgruntled Noldor was Fëanor, the firstborn son of the Ñoldor King Finwë. Though he hated and feared Melkor, his overwhelming pride caused him to be the most vocal of the Ñoldor in expressing discontent. For their part, the Valar remained unaware of Melkor's work, and saw Fëanor as the source of the Ñoldor's unrest. Though perturbed, they let the situation continue until Fëanor threatened his brother Fingolfin with violence, at which point the Valar summoned him to the Ring of Doom in Valinor to explain his unlawful actions.

Fëanor's testimony revealed the lies of Melkor, and Tulkas immediately left the Ring of Doom to recapture him. But Melkor could not be found. After a time, he went to Formenos and feigned friendship to Fëanor in order to acquire the Silmarils. But Fëanor, seeing Melkor's greed, refused him and shut the doors of Formenos in the face of Arda's mightiest being. Melkor then passed unseen to the south, and came upon Ungoliant. Promising to sate her unrelenting hunger, she and Melkor came back to Valinor, intending to destroy the Trees. Then, during a time of festival, Melkor and Ungoliant suddenly attacked. Melkor thrust a great spear into the Trees and Ungoliant drank the sap that poured from the wounds, draining the Trees and poisoning them. The Trees quickly withered and died, plunging Aman into complete darkness for a time.

Melkor-and-Ungoliant

Melkor and Ungoliant killing the Two Trees.

In the fear and confusion that followed, Melkor sped to Formenos and broke into the fortress. There, he slew Finwë, father of Fëanor, and stole the Silmarils along with all the other gems that lay there. The Silmarils burned Melkor's hand, causing him immeasurable agony, but he did not release them. He and Ungoliant fled to the North, and the Valar gave chase, but the Unlight of Ungoliant bewildered them and the two escaped. The two thieves crossed the Grinding Ice of the Helcaraxë and entered into Middle-earth, completing Melkor's revenge.[1]

In Lammoth, Melkor and Ungoliant approached the ruins of Angband, with Melkor hoping to escape and leave his promise to feed Ungoliant unfulfilled. Ungoliant however, saw through his plan and stopped with him before they reached Angband. She demanded that he surrender the treasure of Formenos to sate her hunger as he had promised, and begrudgingly he gave her the lesser treasures he had taken, but he would not give her the Silmarils which lay hidden within his right hand. With his refusal to surrender the Silmarils, Ungoliant attacked Melkor, weaving her dark webbing about him. His resulting cry of pain and anguish roused the Balrogs from their slumber in the darkest depths of Angband. With a tempest of fire they came to his aid, and drove away Ungoliant, but Melkor recalled them, and thus Ungoliant escaped. He then began to rebuild Angband, and to gather his servants there.[1]

When Fëanor found his father was slain, he cursed Melkor and named him Morgoth, meaning "Dark Enemy", and by that name was he known ever after. The name Melkor was never spoken again by his enemies.

As Morgoth finished rebuilding Angband, the slag and debris created by his vast tunnelings was plied into three huge volcanoes, collectively known as Thangorodrim. He hastened then to rebuild his forces, breeding innumerable Orcs and other fell beasts.

First Age

In Beleriand

Fëanor followed Morgoth to Middle-earth with the greater part of the Ñoldor in rebellion, hoping to recover the Silmarils. This action triggered the tragic War of the Great Jewels, in which the Elves would be utterly defeated in the end.

Upon learning of the arrival of the Ñoldor in Middle-earth, Morgoth sent armies of Orcs against Fëanor's host, hoping to destroy them before they could establish any viable defenses. Though the Ñoldor were outnumbered, they swiftly and completely destroyed the Orcs; only a handful returned to Angband. But Fëanor, in his pride and arrogance, thought to come at Morgoth himself and pursued the Orcs. Soon, he and his vanguard drew far ahead of the main host, and the Orcs, seeing this, turned and gave battle at the gates of Angband. Due to their proximity to Angband, a number of Balrogs emerged to aid the Orcs and the Elves with Fëanor were quickly killed. Fëanor fought on alone, but was eventually struck down by Gothmog, the Lord of the Balrogs. Though a relief force under the command of his sons saved him from being killed on the field of battle, Fëanor's wounds were mortal and he perished soon after.[5]

Shortly after Fëanor's death, Morgoth sent an embassy to the Noldor offering terms of surrender, even promising a Silmaril. Maedhros agreed to the parley, but both sides, expecting treachery, came with greater force than was agreed. Unfortunately for the Elves, Morgoth's force was the greater of the two, and was accompanied by Balrogs. The Elven company was quickly slain with the exception of Maedhros, who was captured and chained by his right hand to one of Thangorodrim's many cliffs.[5] Morgoth sent word to the Ñoldor, promising to release Maedhros on the condition that the Elves would depart from the North and cease their war against him. However, the Elves knew that Morgoth would not honor his word, and sent no reply.

Melkor govar

Morgoth

It was at this time that the host of Fingolfin, which had been betrayed and abandoned by Fëanor's host in Aman, came at last to Middle-earth. Tension between the two hosts quickly developed and Morgoth, seeing that the Noldor were divided, made plans to destroy his distracted foes. To his dismay however, the Valar revealed the creation of the Sun and the Moon, which confounded Morgoth and his servants for a time. To counter these new lights, Morgoth sent up nigh-impenetrable clouds of smoke from the Iron Mountains to darken Hithlum.

During the time of confusion and inaction caused among Morgoth's forces by these new lights, Fingon traveled to Angband, aided by the very darkness Morgoth had set upon Hithlum, and rescued Maedhros. In doing so, he set into motion a series of events that united the Noldor and allowed them to establish mighty kingdoms in Beleriand and Hithlum. When Morgoth initiated his next offensive, the Ñoldor swiftly and completely destroyed his forces and set a siege upon Angband, hoping to forever contain the evil of Morgoth. When he had waited many years, Morgoth made trial of his foes, causing the Iron Mountains to erupt and sending an army of Orcs down through the passes but to no avail, for the Orcs were easily defeated by the Noldor. After this failure, Morgoth took to capturing what Elves he could, breaking them with the power of his will and chaining their lives to his. These Elves became his spies among the Ñoldor, and they kept him appraised of the movements and plans of his enemies.

The battle of sudden flame by Filat

The burning of Ard-galen at the beginning of the battle, by Filat

One hundred years later, Morgoth sent an army into the north to approach Hithlum from the side, but an army under the command of Fingon destroyed them yet again. At this point, Morgoth came to realize that the Orcs unaided were no match for the Ñoldor, and began experimenting with ways to create more deadly creatures for his armies. Another century passed, and the issuing of the first dragon, Glaurung, demonstrated the results of Morgoth's long labor. Glaurung's sudden appearance scattered the Elves in the immediate vicinity of Angband, but a company of archers under Fingon's command engaged him before he could do much more than frighten the Elves. As Glaurung was barely half-grown, his hide was not yet invulnerable to the Elven arrows and he fled the field. Morgoth was displeased with Glaurung for revealing himself before Morgoth had planned, but ultimately Glaurung's youthful foray was of little consequence.[5]

Some time later, when Men first arrived in Beleriand, it was revealed that Morgoth had left Angband and walked among the fathers of Men. Hoping to corrupt them to his service, he spread his lies among them, and found them to be considerably easier to sway than the Elves had been. However, the strengthening of the Elven kingdoms worried Morgoth, and he returned to Angband before his labors were complete. Nevertheless, most Men believed or half-believed his lies and either departed from the North or joined with Morgoth's forces. However, a small group of Men that became known as the Edain resisted him.[6] They provided the Elves with vital intelligence as to the doings of Morgoth in the North, as many of their hardiest chose to live within sight of Angband's gates.

Dagor Bragollach

The Siege of Angband was broken 455 years after Fingolfin came to Middle-earth, when Morgoth initiated the Dagor Bragollach. One cold winter night, when the Elven watch was least vigilant, Morgoth sent forth terrible rivers of fire and lava from Thangorodrim and poisonous fumes from the Iron Mountains. The Elves were completely unprepared for such an assault, and a great many Ñoldor perished on the Ard-galen, as the fires consumed it and transformed it into a lifeless wasteland, forever after known as the Anfauglith.

Melkor3

Morgoth in battle with Fingolfin.

With the exception of Maedhros and his fortress upon the Hill of Himring, the sons of Fëanor and Finarfin were overthrown and utterly defeated. Fingolfin and Fingon only just barely managed to defend Hithlum from Morgoth's onslaught, as the mountains surrounding it provided an effective barrier against Morgoth's fires. The Elves were completely driven from the forests of Dorthonion, and many of the Grey elves forsook the war altogether and went to Doriath. When news came to Fingolfin of the defeat of the Elven forces, a great despair came upon him. Believing the Noldor to have been defeated beyond any hope of recovery, he rode forth from Hithlum to the gates of Angband in a wrath so potent that he was said to have resembled Oromë himself. When he arrived, he smote upon the doors of Morgoth's fortress, challenging the Dark Lord to come forth to single combat. Though Morgoth did not wish to, Fingolfin's challenge was heard by all in Angband, and was given in such an insulting manner that to ignore it would have been to lose face before his captains.[7]

Morgoth issued forth in black armour from Angband to confront Fingolfin. Wielding the terrible hammer Grond, Morgoth repeatedly attempted to smite the Elven king, but succeeded only in carving many fiery pits in the ground from his missed strikes. Fingolfin long managed to avoid Morgoth's blows, and wounded the Dark Lord seven times. But at last, Fingolfin grew weary, and Morgoth thrice drove him to his knees. Fingolfin arose each time to continue the fight, but eventually he fell backwards into one of the many pits formed by Morgoth's missed attacks. Morgoth then set his foot upon Fingolfin's neck and killed him, but not before Fingolfin, with his last stroke, hewed Morgoth's foot with his sword. Then Morgoth broke the Elven-king's body, but Thorondor, the King of the Eagles, swooped down upon Morgoth, marring his face with his talons, and rescued the body of the Elf-king.[7]

Fingolfin's last stroke gave Morgoth a permanent limp, and the pain of his seven wounds could not be healed, nor were the scars ever erased.

Morgoth 1

Morgoth and Fingolfin, by Ted Nasmith

After the battle, Morgoth sent out many spies, and he feigned pity to Men. When the Edain refused his false offers of peace he summoned the Easterlings over the Blue Mountains. However, he soon realized that he had underestimated the resolve and valor of his foes, for the Elves and Edain, recovering from the initial shock of Morgoth's onslaught, had begun to make small gains against his outlying forces. He therefore checked his advance, and withdrew the main host of the Orcs to Angband. For though Morgoth's victory had been great, his own losses had been as numerous as the losses that had been accrued by the Elves. Seven years passed before Morgoth renewed his offensive. He assailed Hithlum with great strength but just as he was on the verge of victory, Círdan and a host under his command came at the last moment and helped Fingon to turn the Orcs back.

The Quest of the Silmaril

Some time later, the Elven-maiden Lúthien and her human lover Beren, seeking to recover a Silmaril, came disguised to Morgoth's court. Morgoth was able to see through her disguise, but she was undaunted by his eyes, and offered to sing for him. As she sang, Morgoth conceived a lust and an evil more abominable than any he had yet committed, and allowed her to continue singing. This was his downfall; suddenly shadow hid her, and she sang a terrible song of power that cast a spell of sleep.[8]

Luthienandmorgoth michelucci

Lúthien and Morgoth

All Morgoth's court was cast down in slumber by her song, but the Silmarils burned, and became so heavy that the head of Morgoth sagged upon his chest. He fell from his throne, the Iron Crown rolled away with a clang, and Beren cut a Silmaril from it. However, rather than leaving immediately with his prize, he tried to take another of the Silmarils. As he attempted to pry the second jewel loose, his knife snapped. One shard struck Morgoth's face, and he began to awaken. Beren and Lúthien fled, but the werewolf Carcharoth bit off Beren's hand. Then Morgoth awoke, and in a rage he and his court roared up in pursuit, only to see Thorondor carrying off the raiders. Morgoth's rage at the loss of the Silmaril caused the Iron Mountains to begin erupting, terrifying all those who could see it. Ultimately however, he was unable to recover the Silmaril.[7]

Soon after, Morgoth became aware that Maedhros was making a great league against him, and driving his orcs off the northern heights. As such, he took council against them and prepared his forces for a major confrontation. When the Elves eventually made it to Angband, the Battle of Nirnaeth Arnoediad, began. Ultimately, the battle was a complete and decisive victory for Morgoth. The power of the Elves and their Edain compatriots to make war against Morgoth was utterly and permanently broken. The Noldor from the north of Beleriand, and all their great kingdoms besides Gondolin were destroyed. The Edain who did not flee were enslaved by Easterlings, and Húrin was taken captive.[9]

The Cursing of Húrin

Morgoth was also well known for the imprisonment of Húrin of the House of Hador during the Nirnaeth Arnoediad. In the last hours of the battle Húrin and his kin defended Turgon, for he was the last heir to the throne of Gondolin and of Fingolfin after his brother, Fingon, fell in battle. Turgon narrowly escaped the clutches of the host of orcs due to the valor of Húrin and Huor and their men.

Unfortunately, all but Húrin fell after the onslaught of Morgoth's forces. After slaying untold numbers of Trolls and Orcs, Húrin was captured by Gothmog and sent to Angband. Morgoth knew that Húrin had been to Gondolin, and knew of its location. Morgoth sought to extract the information from him but, despite inflicting terrible torment upon his captive, was unsuccessful.

Nasmith34

Morgoth sentences Húrin, by Ted Nasmith

From a distance Morgoth put the son and daughter of Húrin, Turin and Nienor, under a species of diabolic oppression: his thought followed them and gave them bad luck, though they were not possessed. By this means he drove them at last to madness and despair; though there is doubt as to whether in the extremity of his malice he cheated himself, as their madness saved them from damnation.[10]

"Behold! The Shadow of my thought shall lie upon them wherever they go, and my hate shall pursue them to the ends of the world."
The Children of Húrin

Then continuing his curse, roared:

But all whom you love my thought shall weigh as a cloud of Doom, and it shall bring them down into darkness and despair. Wherever they go, evil shall arise. Wherever they speak, their words shall bring ill counsel. Whatsoever they do shall turn against them. They shall die without hope, cursing both life and death.

And so Húrin stayed  and was chained atop Thangorodrim, forever watching his homelands fall under the shadow of Morgoth until he released him. Túrin, who was valiant and powerful, nearly escaped the curse, as feared by Morgoth, but could not leave it. He and his sister perished. Thus, the curse of Morgoth on the Children of Húrin was fulfilled.[10][11]

Fall of Gondolin

Though he had been unable to force Húrin to reveal the location of the last great Elven kingdom, Morgoth eventually captured Maeglin, sister-son of Turgon, the King of Gondolin. Threatened with unimaginable torment, Maeglin offered the secrets of Gondolin's defenses in exchange for his own wellbeing. Additionally, he made a promise to kill Tuor personally, and was given permission by Morgoth to take Idril for himself. With the promise of having Idril, Maeglin became Morgoth's servant willingly, and Morgoth sent him back to Gondolin to aid the invasion from within when the time came.[12]

Soon after, Morgoth assailed Gondolin, the last great realm of the Ñoldor and, with a vastly superior force and Maeglin's treacherous information, the city was beleaguered without hope and quickly fell.

With the Sacking of Gondolin and the defeat of the Noldor and their allies, Morgoth's triumph was complete.[12] The great kingdoms of the Elves had all fallen, save for the Havens of Cirdan and the survivors at the Mouths of Sirion, and these were ruled by Eärendil; and Morgoth esteemed them as nothing. He even came to care nothing for the Silmaril that had been taken from him, and laughed when he saw the last and the most cruel Kinslaying when the Sons of Feanor destroyed the dwelling at Arvernien.

Final defeat

War of wrath

The War of Wrath

However, Morgoth's triumph was relatively short lived. Due to the plea actions of Eärendil, the Valar were persuaded once again to take up arms against Morgoth's tyranny. Morgoth himself did not expect that the Valar would ever help the Ñoldor after the terrible sins they had committed, and did not foresee the assault from Aman. But the Valar took pity on the Ñoldor, and a great battle began between Morgoth and the Host of Valinor. Morgoth emptied all of Angband, and his devices and engines and armies of slaves were so various and powerful the fighting spilled across all Beleriand.

In the end, Morgoth's forces were utterly defeated. The Balrogs were destroyed, save some few that fled and hid themselves in caverns at the very roots of the earth, and the Orcs were slaughtered. Then Morgoth quailed, and dared not come forth himself, but he had one last weapon at his command; the monstrous Winged Dragons. From out of the pits of Angband they issued, and so sudden and ruinous was their attack, with great power and a tempest of fire, they drove back the host of the Valar. But then Eärendil came with Vingilot, accompanied by Thorondor and all the great birds, and Eärendil slew Ancalagon The Black, whose great bulk fell upon the towers of Thangorodrim, breaking them in his ruin.[13]

Morgoth, utterly defeated stood at bay, and was yet unvaliant. He fled into the deepest of his mines and sued for peace and pardon, but his feet were hewn from under him, and he was cast on his face. He was bound with the chain Angainor, his Iron Crown was beaten into a collar for his neck, and he was thrust through the Door of Night into the Timeless Void.

Legacy and Prophesied return

Doors of Night

The Door of Night, by John Howe

Melkor's lies, sowed in the hearts of Elves and Men, were a seed that did not die and could not be destroyed, but ever and anon sprouted anew, and bore dark fruit ever after.[13]

According to material in some of Tolkien's writings compiled (but not published) by his son, in the last days Melkor will learn how to break the Door of Night and re-enter the World, and initiate the Dagor Dagorath, the Battle of Battles.[14][15]

However, the published Silmarillion does not include this information, and instead asserts that, if the Valar know how the end of Arda will present itself, they have not revealed it.

Etymology

The name Melkor was a Quenya word that meant "One who arises in Might"; his name in Sindarin was Belegûr or Belegurth ("Great Death").[16]

Other names

Before his defeat in the War for Sake of the Elves, the fearful early elves of Cuiviénen called him the Dark Hunter.[4]

The name Morgoth, which he was called by Fëanor at Valmar after Melkor stole the Silmarils, meant "Dark Enemy", even though it was Black Foe of the World that Feanor named him out loud.[17] It was also used by lore masters and the Wise when discussing Melkor's latter state of being, when he became "ever more bound to the earth", having dissipated his power, and becoming in consequence "the Morgoth." He was also known as Melkor Bauglir when he returned to Angband towards the beginning of the First Age. Bauglir meant "the Constrainer".[16]

His Old English name is Manfréa Bolgen, from the Old English words man ("evil, wickedness"), fréa ("lord"), and bolgen ("wrathful").[18]

Titles

He was the world's first Dark Lord. Melkor was also known for giving himself titles and referred to himself as King of the World[1] and the Elder King.[10] After his defeat, his most powerful servant Sauron called him Lord of All and Giver of Freedom and Lord of the Dark as a way of getting the corrupted Númenóreans to worship him.[19]

Earlier names

In the books The Book of Lost Tales and The Book of Lost Tales 2, Tolkien called him Melko, Belcha (from the Quenya velka "flame"),[20] Ulban(d) ("monster")[20] Melegor,[21] and Meleko.[22]

Material in The Lost Road and Other Writings refers to him as Melko, Alkar, and Mardello.[23]

Character

1165596484melkor

Melkor unmasked

Initially, Melkor could take on any form he chose. The Ainur took on forms reflective of their moods and might. Melkor, in his arrogance, malice and power, took on a form recorded as

"...a mountain that wades in the sea, and has its head above the clouds, and is clad with ice and crowned with smoke and fire, and the light of the eyes of Melkor was like a flame that whithers with heat and pierces with a deadly cold."
The Silmarillion, Ainulindalë

It is said that out of all the Valar, Melkor was most like Aulë for his craftsmanship. Originally the brightest, most beautiful, most powerful Ainu, he fell through jealousy, pride and hatred of others, into Darkness with ever after a desire to conquer and to rule. When he built Utumno he took on a form shaped roughly manlike but great in size, "a Dark Lord, tall and terrible." This form was chained by the Valar. When he walked in Valinor he wore a much fairer form, so noble and lofty and benevolent not even the Elves (save only Fëanor and Galadriel) are recorded as seeing through it to the malice underneath. This he cast off to escape unclad from the hunt of the Valar, and when he faced Ungoliant he put back on the form of the tyrant of Utumno. In that form he remained ever after. As he spent his might and poured out his power into the very fabric of matter, as well as into all his creations, he grew more stooped and less majestic, and his hands were burned black from the touch of the Silmarils. His eyes shone with a daunting light.

There is some dispute over Morgoth's size. The Silmarillion states:

"He stood over the king as a tower...and...cast a shadow over him like a storm cloud."
Quenta Silmarillion, "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"

As Elves typically reached about six feet tall, or close to seven feet for the Noldor, (Men were of similar height to Elves, however, Númenóreans averaged was similar with those Noldor elves and Elendil was said to be nearly eight)... Morgoth must have stood at least twice this length, and with the shadow he robed himself in he may well have seemed taller. In most artistic renderings Morgoth is depicted as towering over other beings, most notably elves (Fingolfin in particular) of the FA.

"Morgoth set his foot upon his neck, and the weight of it was like a fallen hill."
Quenta Silmarillion, "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"

This again implies a huge size. It may be wondered how Fingolfin stayed alive so long; but Elves were possessed of a strength and agility many times greater than a human (save exceptional ones like Turin), and Fingolfin could probably leap to great heights.

Initially, Melkor's power was so great that he could contend with all the other Valar and Maiar of Arda and beat them (ere Tulkas came). Over time however, his power was dispersed into the fabric of Arda and into his servants, lessening his might. At the time of his visit to Fëanor at Formenos, Melkor was still referred to as "the greatest being in Eä", though this was before his capture and final defeat by the Valar. It is unknown how much of his power he put into his various slaves after returning to Angband.

Other versions of the legendarium

In Tolkien's early concept of the Children of the Ainur, Melkor had a son Kosomot (later Gothmog) with an ogress called Fuithluin.[20]

Nienna, the Vala of Mourning, was Manwë and Melkor's sister until Tolkien made her the sister of Námo and Irmo instead.[24]

In other writings, it was said that Melkor wanted to claim the Maia Arien as his wife and ravished her, to "destroy and disdain her, not to beget any fiery offspring".[25]

In some versions, Melkor will be defeated by Eönwë during the Dagor Dagorath, driven by his love for Arien, instead of Túrin Turambar.[26]

Translations around the World

Foreign Language Translated name
Belarusian дробна
Chinese (Hong Kong) 米爾寇 A.K.A. 魔苟斯
Greek ΜΕΛΚΟ
Hebrew מלקור
Russian Ме́лькор

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter IX: "Of the Flight of the Noldor"
  2. The Silmarillion, Ainulindalë (The Music of the Ainur)
  3. The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter I: "Of the Beginning of Days"
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter III: "Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor"
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XIII: "Of the Return of the Noldor" Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "return" defined multiple times with different content
  6. The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XVII: "Of the Coming of Men into the West"
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XVIII: "Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of Fingolfin"
  8. The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XIX: "Of Beren and Lúthien"
  9. The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XX: "Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad"
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 The Children of Húrin, Narn i Chîn Húrin, The Tale of the Children of Húrin, III: "The Words of Húrin and Morgoth"
  11. The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XXI: "Of Túrin Turambar"
  12. 12.0 12.1 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XXIII: "Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin"
  13. 13.0 13.1 The Silmarillion, Quenta Silmarillion, Chapter XXIV: "Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath"
  14. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 5: The Lost Road and Other Writings, Part One: The Fall of Númenor and the Lost Road, Chapter III: "The Lost Road"
  15. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 4: The Shaping of Middle-earth
  16. 16.0 16.1 The Silmarillion, Index of Names
  17. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 10: Morgoth's Ring, The Later Quenta Silmarillion, The Second Phase, VIII: "Of the Rape of the Silmarils"
  18. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 4: The Shaping of Middle-earth, III: "The Quenta", Appendix 1: Translation of Quenta Noldorinwa into Old English
  19. The Silmarillion, Akallabêth (The Downfall of Númenor)
  20. 20.0 20.1 20.2 The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 1: The Book of Lost Tales Part One, Appendix: Names in the Lost Tales – Part I
  21. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 3: The Lays of Beleriand, I: "The Lay of the Children of Húrin"
  22. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 9: Sauron Defeated, Part Three: The Drowning of Anadûnê, (i) The third version of The Fall of Númenor
  23. 'The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 5: The Lost Road and Other Writings, Part One: "The Fall of Númenor and the Lost Road"
  24. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 10: Morgoth's Ring, The Annals of Aman
  25. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 10: Morgoth's Ring, Myths Transformed
  26. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 1: The Book of Lost Tales Part One IX: "The Hiding of Valinor"

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