The Fall of Gondolin

Delve into the majestic tale of The Fall of Gondolin, where two mighty powers clash in the expansive world of J.R.R. Tolkien. Morgoth, the epitome of uttermost evil, commands a vast military force from his fortress of Angband, unseen yet reigning supreme. In staunch opposition is Ulmo, second only to Manwë among the Valar, locked in an enduring conflict against Morgoth's tyranny.

At the heart of this divine enmity lies the hidden city of Gondolin, crafted with unparalleled beauty and concealed from discovery. Populated by Noldorin Elves who rebelled against the Valar in Valinor and fled to Middle-earth, Gondolin becomes the focal point of Morgoth's relentless pursuit and Ulmo's impassioned defense.

Enter Tuor, cousin of Túrin and the chosen instrument of Ulmo's grand design. Guided by the unseen hand of the sea-god, Tuor embarks on a perilous journey to Gondolin. A pivotal moment occurs when Ulmo himself rises from the ocean in a storm to aid Tuor. In Gondolin, Tuor rises to greatness, marrying Idril, Turgon's daughter, and fathering Eärendel, whose future significance is foreseen by Ulmo.

The narrative culminates in a devastating onslaught orchestrated by Morgoth, resulting in the fall of Gondolin. Balrogs, dragons, and legions of Orcs unleash havoc upon the city. The tale concludes with the escape of Tuor, Idril, and the young Eärendel, gazing back at the blazing ruins of their once-beautiful city as they embark on a journey into the unwritten Tale of Eärendel.

Continuing the 'history in sequence' mode established in Beren and Lúthien, Christopher Tolkien presents The Fall of Gondolin. J.R.R. Tolkien considered it one of the three 'Great Tales' of the Elder Days, marking it as the "first real story of this imaginary world." This edition, along with Beren and Lúthien and The Children of Húrin, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Tolkien's legendarium.