The Powerful Elves

[Algamesh]

The Silmarillion introduces us to the mightiest Elves in the Histroy of Arda - from Feanor Silmaril-maker to Glorfindel (1) the Balrog slayer.

The Elves seemed much mightier in the early Ages than they seemed during the time of the RingWar. Did the power of the Elves wane with their diminishing existence in Middle-earth? I've often wondered this ... I believe a small regiment of First Age Elvish heroes would have went a long way in the War of the Ring but I don't have the same confidence in their descendants for some unfathomable reason. But, of course, this is my own intuition.

Speaking of the early Elves ... do you guys have any favorites? This would probably be a great poll to run, eh?

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

Egad! What a question to pose! I simply cannot single out any one particular elf from the Silmarillion, they are all so amazing in their own way.

Did the power of the Elves wane with their diminishing existence in Middle-earth?

Well look at it this way, there weren't too many of these High Elves around during the War of the Ring, most had sailed west already or died. The only ones that I can think of, that were considered at least as far as I can remember, were Glorfindel and Galadriel. I choose these two because both had been to Aman and had returned, either through reicarnation or during the flight of the Noldor. All the other elves seem less "High" because they had not been to the undying lands.

It seems that Aman gives a certain power to those that dwell there, even for a short time. Perhaps it is the glory of these lands, when compared to Middle Earth, that gives the "power" to the High Elves.

Just some thoughts. :)

[Maedhros]

Certainly, Feanor was the mightiest of all the elves IMO. He made the Silmarils, bettered the works of Rumil and he had the passion to follow his choices to the end.

[Fatty]

Certainly feanor must rank among the greatest, even on eof the mightiest of the valar covetted his creations.

I think the power they had was being more aware of the universe, both seen and unseen. This understanding gave them great power and less fear. Needless to say the teachings of the Valor/Maia and the radiance of the land must have given them great strength...especially when compared with those who dwelt on the less abtruse, at least to the elves, Middle-earth.

[Aragorn Isildur]

My vote has to go to Fingolfin. He was brave enough to face Morgoth in single combat. It could be considered that without the injuries that he caused maybe Morgoth would never of been held as long as he was. Just a thought...

[jediguy]

Originally posted by Algamesh
Did the power of the Elves wane with their diminishing existence in Middle-earth?
Straight from the Silmarillion: "In the begining the Elder Children of Iluvatar were stronger and greater than they have since become; but not more fair....". There you have it. :)

[Sindarin]

:thumbs:

[Mirkgirl]

No doubt the most powerful was Feanor. Actually Tolkien didn't leave room for speculations there. It is said in the Silm he is the most powerful.

Is he my favourite? I'd say yes. One such man/elf is needed for every new start... to bring good and evil in their purest forms and to fight against almost everything.

[Sindarin]

Quite so, Mirkgirl.

(Feanor is one of my favorites as well.) :)

[legolaslover]

I like Glorfindel the best. He is really cool!!

[Lady Melody]

:mmmm: But isn't Galadriel the wisest? She's the one who's still in Middle-Earth and stayed in Lothorien even when most of the other elves sailed off to the west...