who are the valar
The Valar are divine beings in J.R.R. Tolkien's fictional universe, Middle-earth. They are the Powers of the World who were appointed by the supreme god, Ilúvatar, to shape and govern the world. There are fourteen Valar in total, including Manwë, Ulmo, Aulë, Oromë, Mandos, Varda, Yavanna, Nienna, Estë, Vairë, Vána, Nessa, Tulkas, and Melkor (later known as Morgoth). Each Vala has specific dominion and powers associated with them, shaping different aspects of the world. They are considered among the most powerful beings in Middle-earth.
what do each of the valar do
Here is a brief description of each Vala and their associated domains:
1. Manwë - Lord of the Valar and the sky, associated with winds and governance.
2. Ulmo - Lord of the waters, with control over all seas, lakes, and rivers.
3. Aulë - Master of all crafts, associated with earth and the creation of physical structures.
4. Oromë - Huntsman of the Valar, known for his skills in hunting and riding, and protector of forests and animals.
5. Mandos - Keeper of the Halls of the Dead, responsible for the spirits of the deceased.
6. Varda - Queen of the Stars, associated with light, wisdom, and foresight.
7. Yavanna - Giver of fruits and harvests, protector of plants and all living things.
8. Nienna - Lady of Mercy and Healing, associated with mourning, pity, and comfort.
9. Estë - Lady of Rest, responsible for rest, sleep, and dreams.
10. Vairë - Weaver of the tapestry of time, she records the history of Middle-earth.
11. Vána - Associated with youth, beauty, and joy, protector of all growing things.
12. Nessa - Fleet-footed, known for her grace and agility, associated with dance and athleticism.
13. Tulkas - Strongest of the Valar, associated with strength, sport, and agility.
14. Melkor (Morgoth) - Originally one of the Valar, he rebelled and became the first Dark Lord, associated with corruption, destruction, and domination.
These descriptions are generalized, and each Vala has a much more intricate role and history within Tolkien's world.
detailed descriptions of the valar
Certainly! Here are more detailed descriptions of each of the Valar:
1. Manwë: Manwë is the King of the Valar and the spouse of Varda. He is associated with the sky, winds, and birds. Manwë is the chief ruler of Arda and possesses great wisdom and knowledge of the thoughts and desires of Ilúvatar.
2. Ulmo: Ulmo is the Lord of Waters and has control over all seas, rivers, and lakes on Middle-earth. He is second only to Manwë in power and often goes unseen by the other Valar, as he remains primarily in the depths of the sea. Ulmo is known for his love and care for the Children of Ilúvatar and intervenes in the affairs of Middle-earth to protect and guide them.
3. Aulë: Aulë is the Master of Crafts and associated with the element of earth. He is skilled in shaping substances and creating physical structures. Aulë is known for his craftsmanship and is associated with the creation of the Dwarves, though they were initially his flawed attempt to create life.
4. Oromë: Oromë is the Huntsman of the Valar and a great warrior. He is associated with forests, animals, and hunting. Oromë is often depicted riding on his horse Nahar and is known for his strength and skill in battle. He plays a crucial role in discovering the Elves and guiding them to Valinor.
5. Mandos: Mandos, also known as Námo, is the Doomsman of the Valar and the keeper of the Halls of Mandos, where the spirits of the deceased reside. He is tasked with judging and pronouncing the fate of the Elves and Men. Mandos is somber and wise, and his halls serve as a place of rest and reflection for the spirits.
6. Varda: Varda is the Queen of the Stars and Manwë's spouse. She is associated with light, beauty, and wisdom. Varda is the most revered of the Valar by the Elves and is often invoked for protection and guidance. She created the two Trees of Valinor and the countless stars that illuminate the night sky.
7. Yavanna: Yavanna is the Giver of Fruits and associated with all growing things, including plants and animals. She has a deep connection with nature and is particularly concerned with the well-being and prosperity of all living things in Middle-earth. Yavanna created the Two Trees of Valinor and the Ents, the shepherds of trees.
8. Nienna: Nienna is the Lady of Mercy and Healing. She is associated with sorrow, mourning, and compassion. Nienna dwells in the Halls of Mandos and brings solace and comfort to those who are suffering. She teaches patience and endurance and is deeply wise and insightful.
9. Estë: Estë is the Lady of Rest and associated with rest, sleep, and dreams. She provides healing and solace through restorative sleep, and her presence brings calmness and tranquility. Estë is known for her gentle and kind nature.
10. Vairë: Vairë is the Weaver of Time and associated with the past and the recording of history. She weaves the tapestry of time, preserving the stories and events of Arda. Her tapestry is displayed in the Halls of Mandos, showcasing the history and fate of all creatures.
11. Vána: Vána is associated with youth, beauty, and joy. She brings forth the blossoming of flowers, the awakening of nature in spring, and the joy of new beginnings. Vána delights in celebrations, music, and dances, and she encourages merriment and cheer.
12. Nessa: Nessa is associated with agility, speed, and athleticism. She is known for her grace and beauty and is often depicted as dancing and leaping through the fields. Nessa finds joy in physical activities and encourages vitality and movement.
13. Tulkas: Tulkas is the Strongest of the Valar and associated with strength, sport, and combat. He is a skilled wrestler and renowned for his physical prowess. Tulkas is joyful and exuberant and brings a spirit of laughter and valiance. He is often depicted as the champion of the Valar in their wars against Melkor.
14. Melkor (Morgoth): Melkor, initially one of the Valar, rebelled against the others and became the first Dark Lord. He is associated with corruption, destruction, and domination. Melkor sought to rule Middle-earth and spread chaos and discord. His actions set much of the history of Middle-earth into motion as he opposed the will of Ilúvatar and sought to assert his own power.
you forgot one
Apologies for the oversight. Here's the missing Vala:
15. Irmo (also known as Lórien): Irmo is the Vala associated with dreams, visions, and the unfathomable depths of the mind. He resides in the Gardens of Lórien, a place of peace and tranquility. Irmo is responsible for crafting inner thoughts and desires, granting visions and dreams to those who seek his counsel. He is often consulted by the Valar and the Elves for his insights into the hidden aspects of existence. Irmo's demeanor is serene and contemplative.