Finrod Felagund - Biography

Biography

Finrod founded the original Minas Tirith in the Pass of Sirion, and was later King of Nargothrond.

While hunting in the lands of Thargelion in East Beleriand Finrod was the first of the Noldor to come across Men, and he long stayed with them, learning their language and teaching them Sindarin. He also intervened on behalf of the Laiquendi of Ossiriand, who feared Men would destroy their home, and he got permission of Thingol, who held rule over all Beleriand, to guide the Men to Estolad.

Finrod had a close friendship with Andreth of the House of Bëor, whom he often visited during the Siege of Angband to converse with her on the matters of Elves and Men. One such conversation was written down and later known as "Athrabeth Finrod ah Andreth". In this tale, Finrod is also acknowledged as the "wisest of the Noldor."

Barahir of the House of Bëor saved Felagund's life at the Dagor Bragollach, and Finrod gave him his ring, which became known as the Ring of Barahir. He also swore an oath of friendship and aid to Barahir and all his kin. When, years later, Barahir's son Beren came to Nargothrond seeking help, Finrod went with him on the Quest of the Silmaril to repay his debt. Celegorm and Curufin, who were living in Nargothrond at the time, persuaded (using barely veiled threats related to their oath) most of Nargothrond to stay behind; only ten warriors, headed by Edrahil, were faithful and came with them. The twelve were captured and taken to Tol-in-Gaurhoth (Isle of Werewolves), formerly Minas Tirith. Finrod and Sauron battled with songs of power but Sauron eventually won. He imprisoned them seeking to learn their errand and identities. Sauron sent a werewolf to devour them one by one until they told their secret. None did. When the wolf came for Beren, Finrod broke his chains and killed the wolf barehanded, fulfilling his oath, but being mortally wounded himself.

Finrod loved Amarië, a Vanyarin Elf who did not follow him to Middle-earth, and foretold that nothing of Nargothrond would last that a son could inherit, as he never married while in Middle-earth. It is noted in The Lay of Leithian that Finrod was soon allowed to return to life in Valinor, and "now dwells with Amarië", so they probably were wed later. The Silmarillion briefly mentions Finrod's return to life and reunion with his father.