Beren and Lúthien

The book gathers the versions of this story Tolkien wrote over decades, in prose and verse, with commentary by Christopher Tolkien. The mortal Beren enters the Elven realm of Doriath and falls for Lúthien. Her father, King Thingol, names his price: a Silmaril from Morgoth's crown. With help from the hound Huan, Lúthien frees Beren from Sauron's dungeons, and the two sneak into Angband in disguise, where her song puts Morgoth to sleep. Beren cuts a Silmaril from the crown, but the wolf Carcharoth bites off his hand. Beren dies hunting the wolf. Lúthien dies of grief, moves Mandos, and the two return to life as mortals.

1. Behind the scenesCarved on the headstone

   The name Lúthien was carved on the grave of Edith, Tolkien's wife. Beren was later added to his. Lúthien dancing in the glade came from Edith dancing in the woods.

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2. Behind the scenesThe villain was a cat

   In the earliest version, Beren's enemy is Tevildo, Prince of Cats. Over time, the role passed to the Necromancer and finally to Sauron.

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3. Behind the scenesBeren was an Elf

   In the early drafts, Beren isn't human: he's a Noldorin Elf. Only later did Tolkien make him mortal, which gives his love for Lúthien its weight.

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