The Map Of Middle Earth By Age

Introduction

For lovers of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth, the map of this fictional world is an essential tool to understand the geography and history of the different kingdoms and races that inhabit it. However, the map of Middle Earth is not static, but it changes over time as events and wars reshape the landscape. In this article, we will explore the evolution of Middle Earth's map by age, from the First Age to the Fourth Age, and see how it reflects the narrative of Tolkien's stories.

The First Age

The First Age of Middle Earth is the time of the creation of the world and the awakening of the first beings, like the Valar, the Maiar, and the Elves. The map of Middle Earth in this age is mostly undefined, as the land is still in a state of flux and transformation. However, we know that the two lamps of the Valar, Illuin and Ormal, were placed at the poles of Arda, the world, and that the first fortress of the Elves, Cuiviénen, was located in the east of Middle Earth, near the Sea of Helcar.

Question: What were the two lamps of the Valar?

The two lamps of the Valar were Illuin and Ormal, which were placed at the poles of Arda, the world, to give light and warmth to the land.

The Second Age

The Second Age of Middle Earth is the time of the rise and fall of the Numenoreans, a race of Men who were gifted with long life and great wisdom by the Valar. The map of Middle Earth in this age is more defined, as the Numenoreans were great sailors and explorers, and they mapped many parts of the world. We know that the island of Numenor was located in the middle of the Great Sea, and that it had a capital city, Armenelos, in the center of the island. We also know that the Numenoreans established many colonies and trading posts in Middle Earth, like Pelargir and Umbar.

Question: What was the capital city of Numenor?

The capital city of Numenor was Armenelos, which was located in the center of the island.

The Third Age

The Third Age of Middle Earth is the time of the War of the Ring, the struggle between the forces of good and evil for the fate of the world. The map of Middle Earth in this age is the most familiar to readers, as it is the setting of most of Tolkien's stories. We know that the hobbits lived in the Shire, a peaceful and idyllic region in the northwest of Middle Earth. We also know that the dwarves had many strongholds and mines in the Misty Mountains and the Lonely Mountain, and that the elves lived in the forests of Lothlorien and Mirkwood. The most famous places in Middle Earth, like Rivendell, Moria, Rohan, and Gondor, were also located in this age.

Question: Where did the hobbits live?

The hobbits lived in the Shire, a peaceful and idyllic region in the northwest of Middle Earth.

The Fourth Age

The Fourth Age of Middle Earth is the time of the passing of the Elves and the dominion of Men. The map of Middle Earth in this age is the one that is closest to the modern world, as it is the beginning of a new era of history and progress. We know that the Shire became part of the Kingdom of Arnor, and that the dwarves and the elves withdrew to their strongholds and forests. We also know that the city of Minas Tirith became the capital of the reunited Kingdom of Gondor and Arnor, and that the city of Dale was rebuilt in the shadow of the Lonely Mountain.

Question: What happened to the Elves in the Fourth Age?

In the Fourth Age, the Elves passed from Middle Earth, and their dominion was replaced by Men.

Conclusion

The map of Middle Earth is not just a visual aid to understand Tolkien's stories, but it is also a reflection of the narrative and themes of his work. By following the evolution of the map by age, we can see how the world changes and adapts to the actions and decisions of the characters. We can also see how the different races and cultures of Middle Earth interact and influence each other, and how they shape the destiny of the world. The map of Middle Earth is a treasure trove of history, geography, and mythology, and it invites us to explore and discover its secrets.