The Sun and the Balrog: An Exploration of Tolkien’s Mythology

Tolkien's intricate and expansive universe of Middle-earth is deeply rooted in mythology, with the sun playing a crucial role in the lore. The sun, known as Arien, is described as the final fruit of the Two Trees, embodying the essence of light and life. However, in the confrontation between the sun and the Balrog,

Arien: The Sun as a Fruit of the Two Trees

The The Silmarillion offers a detailed account of Arien, the sun. It is explicitly stated that Arien is the final fruit of the Two Trees that lamps of the Children of Ilúvatar were born from. The Valar, led by Eru Ilúvatar, crafted these trees to bring light to Arda (the world). Arien, in particular, is described as a celestial entity, a force of light and life. Tolkien's portrayal of Arien is quite vivid, with a passage that reads:

Eldar to look on and leaving Valinor she forsook the form and raiment which like the Valar she had worn there and she was as a naked flame terrible in the fullness of her splendour.

This description paints a picture of Arien as an incredibly powerful and majestic entity, a manifestation of pure light that transcends the material world.

Arien's Role and Responsibilities

It is notable that Arien does not take an active part in the events of Middle-earth. The text suggests that her duty is purely to observe and provide light to the world. This is a testament to Tolkien's belief in the balance of power and the natural order of his universe. The Valar, the powers of Middle-earth, are not supposed to meddle in the affairs of the world; instead, they are guardians and protectors.

Given this, the sun, Arien, remains a passive entity in the grand narrative of Middle-earth. This is in stark contrast to the numerous other entities in Tolkien's world, such as the Shadow King, Morgoth, whose malevolent influence is deeply intertwined with the fate of many in his mythology.

Erendil and the Last Silmaril

In the tale of the last Silmaril, the sun plays yet another significant role. However, the events involving the sun and Erendil provide a different perspective on the sun's interactions with the world. In J.R.R. Tolkien's works, there are several instances where the sun is used as a symbol of hope and revitalization.

But in his ship in the deep twilight, with the sapping of the shadows, Erendil toted the Silmaril, staying life and turning the world towards light.

Here, the sun is portrayed as an ally to Erendil, helping him to save Idril and the last Silmaril. Despite the sun's lack of active involvement in the events of Middle-earth, its presence is crucial in maintaining the balance of light and shadow in the world.

The Balrog and the Confrontation

Turning to the subject of the Balrog, these shadowy beings are described as ancient and terrifying creatures of Morgoth's legacy. The Balrog known as Durin's Bane is a particularly formidable adversary, capable of withstanding great power and enduring tremendous destruction.

One of the key elements of the novel trilogy "The Lord of the Rings" is the confrontation between the Balrog and Gandalf. Although the events of that battle take place in darkness, the sun, represented by Arien, remains a silent but present entity throughout the saga. The contrast between the light of Arien and the shadow of the Balrog is often highlighted in Tolkien's works, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil.

However, it is important to note that the sun does not directly intervene in the battle. Gandalf and the Balrog's confrontation is a test of wills and courage, a battle between a maia (a lesser spirit of the Valar) and a creature of immense power. The Valar themselves do not intervene directly, perhaps adhering to the balance of power in their universe.

Conclusion

In essence, Tolkien's universe presents a balance between light and shadow, presented by the sun and the Balrog, respectively. Arien, the sun, remains a passive but significant force, symbolizing the eternal hope and light in the world. The Balrog, on the other hand, represents the darkness and malevolence that contrasts with the light. The interaction between these two forces symbolizes the ongoing struggle between good and evil, an eternal theme in Tolkien's mythology.

The sun, as a symbol of light and life, plays a crucial role in nurturing the world of Middle-earth, while the Balrog serves as a harbinger of darkness and despair. Both entities, in their own ways, contribute to the rich and complex narrative of Tolkien's universe.