"The Silmarillion" Turns 40


Today is a special Tolkien-related day: The Silmrillion is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

As of this writing, there doesn't appear to be any celebratory editions, related publications or events; however, I wished to make note of the occasion.

The Silmarillion is the myths and legends of Middle-earth, and includes the epic history of the elves. It is a book, yes, but not neccessarily a "novel" in the sense that it has a narrative. The books reads more like a historic account, or more akin to mythic fantasy; much like The Bible, and other religious texts.

Because of this, it is a slightly more difficult read than The Lord of the Rings, because of this (as well as the fact that it also covers the events from The Lord of the Rings) it is recommended to read The Silmarillion after The Lord of the Rings; including the Appendices and post-story material.

Other the years, there have been a few editions of The Silmarillion (thought not as many as The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, sadly).

Here, I shall share some of the recent note-worthy editions:

Definitive Paperback


 
ISBN: 9780007523221

Definitive Hardback

 

ISBN: 9780261102422


Definitive Deluxe

 

ISBN: 9780007264896


Illustrated Edition

 

ISBN: 9780618391110

Other Notable Editions

Alternate Hardback:

 

ISBN: 9780618135042

Finally, I'll close this post by sharing some of my favourite images from The Silmrillion. 

Please note that the following images credit the artist, the name of the piece, and, when possible where linked directly to the piece's page on their website.

 
Túrin and his Band are Led to Amon Rûdh by Ted Nasmith



The First Dawn of the Sun by Ted Nasmith


At Lake Cuiviénen by Ted Nasmith

 

Lamp of the Valar by Ted Nasmith

 

Maglor Casts a Silmaril into the Sea by Ted Nasmith

 
Eärendil Searches Tirion by Ted Nasmith

 

The Fall of Gondolin by John Howe

 

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