Glorfindel is clearly the most powerful in the 3rd age at least of those named. His time in the light of the trees and reincarnation are clear evidence of that. As is the Witch King's fear of him.
Ah here, my man Fingolfin challenged.Morgoth to single compact. Feanor was the greatest.elf of craft, not the greatest elf. The list is : Fingolfin Glorfindel Elwe solo Finrod Felagund Feanor
What about Ingwë, High King of ALL elves? He's spent more time in Aman than Glorfindel, Galadriel, Feanor and Fingolfin COMBINED. We don't really know how skilled he his in combat and magic, he could be equivalent in power to a Maiar....
It’s still amazing to me, that what Professor Tolkien took a lifetime to write, is to this day, getting people to muse, debate and ponder over, decades after his death. A true Masterpiece. P.S. Frodo Lives.
I don’t know if this is cannon, but I read in several places that Cirdan was not born in Valinor but actually much much earlier, along the shores of Lake Cuivienen with the first Elves (or first couple of generations). This makes him probably the oldest Elf in Middle Earth. He set out on the Elves’ first journey to Valinor but had to stay behind to help search for Elwe (who had met Melina). He never journeyed across the sea until the last Elves left Middle Earth in the Fourth Age. His greatest desire was to see the undying lands but his sense of duty delayed him by many thousand years.
He could've been one of the original 144 elves at Lake Cuivienen awoken by Imin, Tata and Enel. Or like you said he could've been a son or grandson of one of the original 144...
Cirdan was a Teleri elf of the third and most populous group of the Elves at Cuivienen. He was with Thingol's group. He never went to Valinor until the 4th age. Had he not given up Narya (3rd Elven ring) to Gandalf, he might've been the most powerful elf in ME in the 3rd age.
The far distant spires are only romantically absorbing so long as the spires are distant. Once we’re taken there, it’s just another tumble down chapel in a town that has fallen on hard times.
Elrond is a tad stauncher than you describe, given his gran was Luthien. I'm guessing that Elrond's sons were among those who could stand against the ringwraiths.
Yes, Elrond's sons would have been able to stand against the nine. That family has quite the pedigree from both parents. But I'm not certain the timeline works. The brothers had been sent out on a secret mission after the Confrontation at the Ford of Bruinien. I don't recall anything more having been said about it. Maybe it's about time for me to start rereading some sections of the works.
Elrond has actual Vala blood in bim, does he not? He's Elvish descending from Luthien, human and Vala if I'm remembering correctly. That's quite the pedigree perhaps making up for him not being born under the light of the two trees.
Luthien's parents were Melian, a Maia (same race as Sauron) and Elu Thingol, an Elvish King was ran across his bride to be on his journey to the Undying West in the dawn of time. Luthien and Beren, the greatest of all Elf Friends had a son, Dior, Dior married Nimloth a Sindarian ELF of the 1st Age. Tolkien named a river in Lothlorrien after her that mimicked her voice in song. They had 3 children: Elwing, and twins Eluered and Elrin. Elwing married Earenidil th eMariner. They had two children Elrond and Elros. Elros chose to be mortal and was the founder of Aragorn's line. As you say, quite a pedigree.
@@FairlyFictional even so if we compare it with deeds Glor might have fought Maiar aka Balrogs, but those are puny in comparison to a literal Vala, the most powerful at that. Only Tulkas surpassed Melkor in strength.
Also important to note that it was Mandos who allowed Glorfindel to return to a body arguably quicker than would normally be expected, as all elves who die are given a new body from the Valar if they wish (with some exceptions) and then at some point he returned to middle earth, while It was Eru himself that sent Gandalf back, endowed with greater power to face the escalating threat as he was the last of the Istari still carrying out his mission. I think the fact they both died fighting Balrogs was more or less a coincidence, and there’s nothing that specifically says Glorfindel was powered up before going back, as he was already exceptionally strong as a Calaquendi able to face a Balrog.
Glorfindel's spirit departed to the Halls of Mandos, where he passed a short time. Due to his noble actions that had saved many Elves in the Fall of Gondolin, he was re-embodied and dwelt in Valinor. Many years later, in SA 1600, Manwë sent him back to Middle-earth as an emissary of the Valar and granted him powers nearly as strong as those of the Maiar.[9]
I really like that you add artwork to the video, as a visual learner, it helps me piece together what I'm hearing better. Plus, the art is just really cool and awesome to watch. :D
I would definitely say Glorindel is the most powerful elf in the 3rd age. The Valar enhanced him with the power similar to a Maia. But in the first age I still think Fingolfin was the most powerful elf in middle earth. He had no power ring or Valar enhancement but still took on Morgoth. He died but it was a victory that left a bad taste in the mouths of Morgoth and his captains.
@ it’s hard to argue with that. Feanor did some bad things but he was the total package when it came to fighting and his creations. Especially the Silmarils.
I agree. I was very disappointed that they changed the part to pad out Arwens' part. I'm a woman, and the fact that they did it to include more women is annoying. It was great the way it was.
@@adriennedunne1748I don’t think it was just to include more women. I thought it was to further develop and make Aragorn and Arwens relationship more prominent. I still agree though. They should have left Glorfindels part to Glorfindel.
@danielmyers76 you're probably right. I just heard one side of that. It's probably used to sell the movie. Romance and all that which I'm not averse to, but Glorfindel was a terrific character. It was a real pity to leave him out. 😔
its honestly ok. I mean yes it doesnt respect totaly tolkien lore, but it has the merit of developing a bit more the character of Arwen who is more interesting than Glorfindel if you take LOTR in isolation as a story. Thats the kind of change i can agree with
I get that, but I'd rather have it changed than to have a Glorfindel cameo. A character introduced in a movie, who will need some kind of introduction or context, and then wouldn't be able to be properly explored. Same goes for Tom Bombadil.
Well the answer to the question is easy and exists in Fellowship. Frodo asks Gandalf how Rivendell is kept safe. Gandalfs reply is, there are Eldar here, they exist in both the seen and unseen world and do not fear the Wraiths. That’s most likely who Elrond sent out. No number is given but it is plural. Those would be who you would send out to challenge the Wraiths.
Yeh but Glorfindel says there are not many. It’s hard to say what his idea of “many” is though. Whether that’s 3-4 or a hundred, out of the thousands of elves he was used to fighting with during the First Age, who knows… 🤔
@@FairlyFictional True but Glorfindel really exists as context and setup. Elrond knows the 9 are abroad, and he sets out those among the elves who could stand against the Wraiths. Glorfindel is the representative of that in the books. We know the number is few, and given the task, if he could send more than just Glorfindel in one direction, he probably would have. You meet no other Eldar, nor are any named. Just that there is more than just Glorfindel and they are few. At the Council Glorfindel speaks for the elves even above Elrond, who simply agree with his idea to destroy the ring. Gandalf also states that even among the first borns Glorfindel is one of the mighty. That says a lot given the company he would be keeping. His job in books lets you know how powerful the Wraiths are, what you need to deal with them, how powerful the Eldar were, he helps set up the return of Gandalf, he helps give context o the enemy, he gives depth to the miracle Eowen and Merry pull off, and the odds she was facing. He even gives some context to Sam in Return the King. The Orcs are terrified, they think there is a glowing Elf lord running around killing them. Why would they be afraid of one elf? Because they believe it’s one of these guys, one of the scary ones. There is a little comedy to it, but also tells you what kind of feat Sam pulled off, this is something the Orcs think only a Glorfindel type elf could pull off. It’s not a big part, but he adds so much context, and setup to the books. And again I think when it comes to these very special elves, JR, has named most of them and it’s a handful. Gandalf also points that out even among the Eldar, this dude is powerful. He’s in that company with Fingolfin, Gil-Galad, I don’t think many ever existed that were on their metal. Definitely not 100, maybe a handful. Glorfindel being this special sets up exactly how dangerous this journey will be without someone like him.
@@creightonc8147 Glorfindel simply does not measure up to the 2 most powerful Elves ever. Feanor and Fingolfin are head and shoulders above him. In the Silmarillion Tolkien says so by naming their attributes clearly. Feanor faced off against many Balrogs before being overcome. Fingolfin goes toe to toe against Melkor himself and wounds the Dark Lord. In the 3rd age Glorfindel is the mightiest in arms but only in the 3rd age. Gandalf does mention their were characters in the first age who were far mightier than those in the 3rd age. Gil-Galad is also mentioned that even he pales against those from the first age.
This would make an awesome show for someone who deserves to make quality writing and script. Amazon could've had a great show, but decided to hire people who weren't fans to begin with. And look at the results. You always need people with vision and passion for what they are doing.
Luthien; The daughter of High King Thingol and High Queen Melian, Luthien holds a unique place in Middle-earth for several reasons: She is the first half-Maiar and half-Elf being and the only one who is part-Ainur. She stood alone, in front of Melkor (Morgoth ) and put him to sleep so Beren could remove one of Feanor's Silmarils (Cellabrinbor was an heir) from the crown he wore. In the Fellowship, she is the subject of the song (lay) Aragon was singing when Frodo asks, "this woman you sing of, who is she"?
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There was no other stronger warrior than Glorfindel during the third age, he’s absolutely at the top of that list, now when it comes to magic, it was definitely Galadriel
Nevertheless, Jackson replaced Glorfindel with Arwen to make the movies more suitable for Hollywood (so it would bring in more money). He thought the books were too boring for Hollywood so he added made up battles, more romance and drama and he killed off or removed/replaced core characters he found boring. I love Glorfindel and I was really looking forward to seeing him in the movies. I was really disappointed that he had been replaced and for such a stupid reason! So disrespectful!
For Tolkien to create such entire world with such depths, is unparalleled achievement of every writer ever lived. His details and lore is unmatched by any fantasy writer who ever lived. He is the greatest of them all.
One thought you didn't consider...glorfindel says he was given the task of the north road. This is the most likely direction from which Frodo would be traveling. To my mind this would be the most urgent direction to search. It is most likely to me that the most powerful elf would be sent that direction. I have always felt that Glorfindel was the most powerful in middle earth. Even more powerful than Galadriel. And for the reason you pointed out. Though she was powerful, her power was most definitely enhanced by Nenya. And I don't think that even with the ring she was able to approach the power of a Maia in their true form. However, we know that was the case with Glorfindel
Well, one of the elves who might have gone out to search was Gildor. If you recall in the Fellowship of the Ring, Gildor and his company encountered Frodo and the other hobbits in the Shire after Frodo had left Bag End and before he arrived at Crickhollow. The Black Riders had located Frodo's general location and were coming up to him when Gildor and his elf company approached. Their very presence drove the Nazgul away. After Gildor and Frodo parted, Gildor advised Elrond that Frodo was wandering without Gandalf, which prompted Elrond to send out people to search for Frodo, including Glorfindel. We also know that Gildor did to depart for the Grey Havens until after the War of the Ring. So, he might have been one of the Elves in Rivendell to be sent out to locate Frodo. That being said, Glorfindel was still the most powerful. He was likely given the most important area to search.
Also: the Fellowship did not set out the evening of the Council, which was in late October. The Fellowship set out at the very end of December, over 2 months later. They had to wait for Elrond’s scouts to return to Rivendell.
Oh yeh you’re right.. my bad 😞. Both dates were the 25th and there was nothing in between those dates on the timeline. I wrote it down wrong in my notes 😥. I will correct his point. Thank you.
"Powerful" is a tricky word. It can be used as might and magic in combat. I can also be used for power of creation or force of will. If you are talking about force of will and creation, then Feanor is your elf. I would take Fingolfin over Feanor for power in combat. In the third age however, you have a previously very powerful elf who killed a Balrog, and after death was reimbodied to be far more powerful than before. It would be hard to find a more powerful elf in combat than Glorfindel in the third age. Galadriel had the power and magic to order things to her will and no other elf could match her in that way.
Tolkien and canon both state that Galadriel was the most powerful elf ever other than Feanor Glorfindel was incredible, but probably, at best, fourth behind Feanor, Galadriel, and Fingolfin. And during the Third Age, he is definitely after Galadriel
@@integritymatters5114 oh yeah, forgot about that haven't read the books in years. But still Glorfindel is more awesome, he's nearly as powerful as a Maiar.
I like the idea of Ecthelion also being around during the third age.. i don't see why this wouldn't be possible given his sacrifice was very similar to Glorfindel during the Fall of Gondolin
I wonder where Maglor fits in, by way of power. Also born during the Years of the Trees and while it may not mean much, he's first cousin to Galadriel. Tolkien said at the end of The Silmarillion that he never returned to Aman. He risked the health of both his hröa (body) and his fëa (spirit) in order to atone for his sins.
He is legendary. However, by Tolkien own writings, that title belongs to Feanor. I know I know , peoples subjectivity keeps them from seeing the truth, but this comes from Tolkien himself: “He became of all of the Noldor, THEN or AFTER, the most subtle in mind and the most skilled in hand. He was made the MIGHTIEST In all parts of body and mind: in valour , in endurance , in beauty , in understanding, in skill , in strength and subtlety alike” - The Silmarillion: of the Sun and Moon. Sure he kinda went full douche canoe, but this doesn’t negate who he truly was and his overall greatness.
I’ve seen that quote. However I could never quite tell if it was only valid at the time it was describing, being in the First Age. Is it possible he could have been surpassed on some part in the future after his death 🤔.
@@FairlyFictional perhaps, and that’s the beauty of his literature. But I think is fair to take his words for what they are since he never revised this on any of his annals or tales thereafter. Feanors birth and story was prophesied by even his mother and Mandos, and I believe because of that his greatness as well as his downfall would never be surpassed. By the way, beautiful video you’ve created ✨🙏🏽
Yes you are right about that. But don't forget Glorfindel was already very powerful to have stood against a Balrog and won though he died, but now put into consideration Manwe buffing him up. That buff up definitely takes him above the height of any elf ever in combat. Feanor still remains most powerful overall but when it comes to combat strength, it's definitely Glorfindel and Fingolfin. I think buffed up Glorfindel is the most battled hardened elf ever in all ages. My concern is why did he ride along to Sauron during the battle of the last alliance against Sauron like Fingolfin did against Morgoth? He could defeat Sauron with the help of Gil Galad if things go south. That alone makes Fingolfin the greatest elf fighter ever. The did of standing against a Valar will not be matched. People say Morgoth was weakened at that point but it's not to the level of an elf or even a maiar, he was still much much higher than them.
Glorfindel rules. It's a shame that they took him out of the movies in a nonsensical effort to make it a love story. The books are not a love story and Arwen doesn't appear in them . . . until the last chapter, of the last book. Tragic.
Is it though? I like that they remove OP characters like Tom and Glorfindel cause I think the story is more about what the "little people" can do more than what the demi gods can achieve.
@@magnumbrahms5339 You miss the point of the story, somewhat. The Wizards WERE FORBIDDEN to directly interfere. It was a matter for Man, Elf and Dwarf. So said Manwe, "King of the Gods." In short, without his Ring, Sauron COULD NOT have faced off againt Gandalf. Gandalf did not do much, because Manwe forbade them from doing so. The Wizards were only to encourage and advise. It was NEVER that Gandalf didn't have the power, as Jackson showed it in the movies. Yes, Gandalf did. It was SAURON who did not have the power . . . not without his ring. And that's why they didn't want him getting his ring back. If Sauron had his ring, "Man" would have failed.
@@magnumbrahms5339 Not really. The most powerful of all were in the movies the whole time; Gandalf, Saruman and Radigast. Did their presence take anyting away from your enjoyment of the triumph of Men? And Gandalf never intended that Glorfindel be a part of the company. So how does replacing him with Arwen benefit the movie? How does transfering a Man's powers to a Woman benefit the movie? Other than getting women to pay to see it? A.k.a. "woke shyte?"
@@anthonyhargis6855 damn son it was filmed in 99 and you still blame woke sht? Btw Arwen and Aragorn story fleshed out is better than a cameo of an elven lebron james story telling wise. But hey that's just me.
The most powerful are rarely leaders. Often powerful know better to let those who want to lead, lead. Power corrupts when it is taken. Power is always best if given.
Why can’t we all look like your elves? 😂 But finally, someone who knows how Tolkien elves ought to look. The sweeping luxuriant hair! Other channels just don’t make them look this beautiful.
Glorfindel was easily more powerful than Galadriel, Elrong, or any elf in Middle Earth after his already great spiritual power was further augmented after his resurrection.
Popeyeial, a disciple of both Yavanna, goddess of vegetation, and Olmo, god of the sea. Blessed by the virtue of spinach and pipeweed, he was unstoppable!
the excuses that sauron would have noticed him if he had accompanied the fellowship are inconsistent considering gandalf also returned from death and remained unseen and possessed one of the three elven rings
But the Nazgûl could see Glorfindel in the unseen world and were patrolling from the skies. Also Gandalf didn’t actually travel to Mordor with Frodo as intended.
Círdan was heading west for Aman during the Great Journey but he was prevented by a message from the Valar saying that his destiny was to build ships. His original name was Nowë. Círdan in Sindarin meant "shipwright."
No, Círdan was a Sindar. The Avari refers to those who refused to even start out on the journey from Cuiviénen. Of the Elves that chose to accept the summons, there were those who turned back or stopped the journey (The Nandor). Círdan was close to Olwë and Elwë. When Elwë disappeared, he looked for Elwë for longer than just about anyone. He arrived at the western shore of a Middle Earth too late catch the boat to Valinor. He settled at the Grey Havens and considered Elwë (Thingol) his lord.
@@kellymckinney5082 If we're going to be pedantic then The Grey Havens and the Gulf Of Luhn weren't formed until Beleriand was sunk at the end of The First Age and Thingol had been killed. Prior to that he was Lord Of Falas.
Sam is best elf. LOL. No. I love His character. He was brought back to life the same way Gandalf was. His story is something I'd love to see brought to screen.
This is an amazing video, the narration and artwork is perfection. Does the music also belong to you? And what is the name of the song that plays in this?
Great video, I truly enjoyed all you joined from the books and appendices. However, I honestly don’t care who was the strongest as it took a fellowship to bring down Sauron, and in the end, it was two Hobbits in the darkest place on earth to destroy the ring. The weakest and smallest being down the greatest. I think you’re missing out on an elf though. Fingolfin went toe to toe with Morgoth, who was far stronger than Sauron, and held his own wounding him grievously. Only exhaustion led to his death.
I don't think Ecthelion was there at the kinslaying, I think he went via the frozen wastes, but he joined Feanor in his wrath and as such willingly did so, while Glorfindel followed him as his duty. Ecthelion also refused to heed the warning of the fall of Gondolion from the Valinor, perhaps due to his pride. And did not leave as he was asked to do. So I doubt he was given immediate reincarnation.
Mae g’ovannen First, I’m biased as Glorfindel and Fingolfin are my fav elves (and Eärendil is my fav character followed by TomBom and Fangorn). With that said I think it is important to identify the specifics of the power benchmark. Galadriel could tear buildings/strongholds down. In addition her power of influence is very extensive. She put the beat down on the spirit of Sauron. Impressive though I don’t think she killed a Balrog (or anything more substantial). So I believe we need more criteria to evaluate the relevance of relative power versus the given standard. I also want to acknowledge another answer given: Luthien. She may be the most powerful given what we know she accomplished. She kicked Sauron’s butt and held power over the second most high/top Angel (although that was Morgoth aka Melkor lite given Arda became his horcrux before Luthien appeared). Still, that’s badass. Throw in her pup and for sure top contender. I’m going to interpret power as intimidation factor and physical/spiritual combat with intent to kill/destroy. I think Eärendil is most powerful post Valar upgrade. I’m combining him with Vingilótë since I’m unaware of him being separated from ship post upgrade and War of Wrath. Elwin flies up there. Perhaps he gets to stretch his legs in Valinor however I’ve not read anything on that. Regardless, dude is the Silmaril Vision except Tony Stark is replaced by Fëanor, Manwe and Varda. He takes down the biggest, badest dragon (with eagle assist). I don’t know another Elf who could do that. Not Luthien. Definitely not Galadriel. Not his son. If we remove the super powered half elf with epic armor (I.e., plot armor) and look at the other candidates, I have my fav that I think would bring home the Balrog-bacon. In this area, what sets Glorfindel above the known elves IMO is that he outright slayed a Balrog (no drowning required) and then he was Manwe-handled, amped up and expedited (priority attention) back to the octagon. So I think Glorfindel Supreme (my fav Elf) should get the title. 🤗. Harthon ad-govatham
Thanks for the great comment and break down. Yeh, there were a lot of contenders in the First Age. But I like to think post-resurrection Glorfindel would be a match for any of them, without their magical rings/silmarils/flying boats etc 😅
@@FairlyFictional 😍 Thank You! Fantastic content and interaction. Enjoyable AND educational. This channel has some extremely knowledgeable content providers and fan base. A “must read” for all of us who love the LOTR multiverse (multiverse given the divergent timelines through our imagination and interaction). Everyone seems immersed and completely engaged. BRAVO! ❤️
Did Galadriel defeat a balrog? Do the Nazgul flee before her? Was Galadriel's spirit enhanced nearly to that of a Maia? No, therefore Glorfindel is the most powerful elf.
@@Memnoch_the_Devil Neither does Glorfindel, that's a dumb argument if you got told a character is powerful but they never display their power then it makes those statements useless. Like in Harry Potter we keep getting told that Dumbledore is the only one that Voldemort fears but until Order Of the Phoenix we have no real proof of that. Glorfindel defeated the balrog before his reincarnation after that he didn't need to fight the Nazgul they fled from him without a fight because he had become nearly equal to the Maiar.
I don’t know that Fingolfin was the most powerful. He was just the one with the ego big enough to go bang on Morgoth’s front door. His big brother would have done so too, but got jumped in the alley.
Though I'm almost sure that this was not what Tolkien had in mind, I always like to think that Maglor is still around, and maybe repenting from what he did in the past helping others. With his lineage, he would be one of the most powerful as well. But I don't think that modern power ranking applies very well to Tolkien's world. I would also like to say that Elrond had the blood of a Maia, which, imo, would be comparable to being in the light of the two trees.
Glorfindel is a champ. Idk if he's the strongest elf of the Third Age. But 1v1 a Balrog is pretty crazy. I think the only other elf of the Third Age who could maybe compete is Galadriel with Nenya
Had Glorfindel been one of the Fellowship they could have tank stormed their way right into Mordor... So... INDEED he would have made the Fellowship simply overpowered.
Points of Order: 1) Nowhere in Tolkien is it said that the Eldar have pointy ears. (The art herein grossly exaggerates this misconception) 2) Likewise it is not said anywhere that Balrogs have wings. As they are the same species as Gandalf, Sauron, and the other Maiar do not have wings, why assign them to the Balrogs. 3) Tolkien himself says Galadriel is the greatest Elf of all time, save maybe Fëanor.
Of the named elves, I’d say it’s probably pretty close between Glorfindel and Galadriel, since as far as I’m aware they’re the only two named who have seen the light the of the trees (outside the one Frodo meets in the woods, who’s name I believe was changed a few times so it’s not immediately clear). As far as who can ride against the ring wraiths, I don’t think you need to be a Calaquendi to stand against them, as even Aragorn was able to drive them off temporarily. I think the rare elf or rarer human who has enough strength of will could at least face them down enough to find the hobbits and retreat to Rivendell, whereas someone like Glorfindel or Galadriel would make them actively flee.
It depends: the real "power" is based on how close you are to Eru. We can look at many ways to see how powerful someone is, but it will be arbitraty and limited. 5 Názgul did not attack Glorfindel, but 4 attacked Gandalf. Gandalf was limited by his mission, when his true nature is greater than any elf, specially outside Eä: another limitation Maiar and Valar had.
Galadriel was an apprentice to a maia, Melian, in the first age. It doesn't get much farther than that in terms of arcane knowledge and magic power, so she must be an exceptionally powerful and skilled sorceress even without Nenya. I'd rank them equal.
That would be a dumb argument. But that’s not the argument I’m making. I’m only saying she displayed her powers in plenty of other ways over the course of three ages. Also keep in mind I’m not comparing her to Glorfindel. Sorry if it sounded like I was. I don’t compare elves in Tolkien’s universe
Thank you. I did use AI to help with the images. But I try to make them as good as I can to fit the narration story. Some of these ones were some of my favourites.
@@FairlyFictional I can tell with some of them as well as the narration voice. But it’s all done very tastefully. I think you’re making really good use of them to platform your well written scripts. I’m subbed. Thank you for bringing beauty in a way that you’re able to.💜🫖☕️✨
Feanor is the mightiest of all the Eldar. Tolkien says so in the Silmarillion. Next would be Fingolfin. Don't forget Feanor battled many Balrogs before being overcome while Fingolfin battled and wounded Melkor himself [Sauron's master] before exhaustion took him and thus Melkor then defeated him. For sure Glorfindel is mighty and in terms of might of arms in the 3rd age he is the strongest but even he pales next to Feanor and Fingolfin. Their attributes are clearly mentioned in the Silmarillion.
@@frankmueller2781 He does not need to be reborn. Tolkien clearly states in the Silmarillion that Feanor was the mightiest of all the Eldar. Fingolfin comes next. Their attributes are clearly mentioned. Feanor faced off against many Balrogs before being overcome while Fingolfin fought Sauron's master, Melkor in a one on one and wounded him before finally succumbing to exhaustion and therefore defeat.
Sorry but Galadriel is most definitely the most powerful elf in the 3rd age with or without nenya. She was also said to reflect the lights of the tree brighter than any other elf. Glorfindel might have had the potential to be more powerful but, Galadriel was much wiser and was trained and mentored by the Maiar queen Melian. ROP has ruined our lady of light, she would never need to use a sword because of her actual power
"The Valar really appreciate those who fall to their deaths while defeating a Balrog" 😂 your argument for Glorfindel over Galadriel (the only known real contender for the title of "most powerful 3rd Age elf") has merit. Certainly Echthelion would be a contender if present but we are given no reason to believe that he returned to Middle Earth. Arguably, Glorfindel's connection to Olórin may have influenced his return to Middle Earth & we are given no such rationale for Echthelion. It is also likely that Glorfindel being sent out on the road to Bree, the most likely path for the hobbits, could imply that he was the most powerful of the elf lords sent out. The road to Bree seems the most likely path to produce results as well as encounter the Nazgûl.
Good valid points there. But I know if I was Ecthelion and saw Glorfindel arrive after me and get fast tracked back to life I’d have been a little annoyed though 😂.
Personally i think Elrond was the most powerful because he was one eighth miaia, half elf and three eights human. Surely being part Miaia makes him more powerful?
Yo Guys Imagine if Berserk And lord of the Rings were in the Same Universe imagine how Strong Guts would be In this Universe! Plus what would Happen? And how would all the Events of Berserk Effect Everyone?
Feanor. Im pretty sure Feanor was most powerful. And strictly in terms of combat Fingolfin could master him. But, well both were dead, so Glorfindel could be strongest during the FoG.
My comment of "Figwit" was removed. But seriously, movie only, Figwit was in the council of Elrond so must have been someone of importance. Plus he was guarding or advising Arwen on her aborted trip to the Havens, so again someone important. OK, his name wasn't actually Figwit, but that's what got him brought back by Jackson. And if you don't know what I mean by Figwit, look him up, you're in for a treat.
Doubtful, Feanor had a spirit so strong that when he fought all the Balrogs and was eventually defeated by Gothmog his body was consumed in the fire of his spirit. Glorfindel was a powerful Elf lord but not that powerful. gandalf stated that even Glorfindel and Aragorn combined couldn't defeat all of the nine. There are a few on this feed that have managed to get a bit carried away over Glorfindel. Originally he wasn't a reincarnation, just a mistake of using a name twice. Tolkien had to adjust and say he was the same Elf. Same with Legolas actually, that's where the Greenleaf part of his name comes from, an adjustment by Tolkien to differentiate.
Everyone saying Fingolfin the thumbnail is present tense Fingolfin is dead. If it was most powerful Elf ever fair enough but the video even clarifies third age etc... You boys love an argument lol
![The History of Morgoth [COMPILATION] | Tolkien Explained](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ktet64d9O-c/mqdefault.jpg)
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Where would you rank Glorfindel on the list of most powerful elves??
Glorfindel is clearly the most powerful in the 3rd age at least of those named. His time in the light of the trees and reincarnation are clear evidence of that. As is the Witch King's fear of him.
Stupid question
Glorfindel is essentially a Maiar now.
Ah here, my man Fingolfin challenged.Morgoth to single compact.
Feanor was the greatest.elf of craft, not the greatest elf.
The list is :
Fingolfin
Glorfindel
Elwe solo
Finrod Felagund
Feanor
What about Ingwë, High King of ALL elves? He's spent more time in Aman than Glorfindel, Galadriel, Feanor and Fingolfin COMBINED. We don't really know how skilled he his in combat and magic, he could be equivalent in power to a Maiar....
It’s still amazing to me, that what Professor Tolkien took a lifetime to write, is to this day, getting people to muse, debate and ponder over, decades after his death. A true Masterpiece. P.S. Frodo Lives.
I don’t know if this is cannon, but I read in several places that Cirdan was not born in Valinor but actually much much earlier, along the shores of Lake Cuivienen with the first Elves (or first couple of generations). This makes him probably the oldest Elf in Middle Earth. He set out on the Elves’ first journey to Valinor but had to stay behind to help search for Elwe (who had met Melina). He never journeyed across the sea until the last Elves left Middle Earth in the Fourth Age. His greatest desire was to see the undying lands but his sense of duty delayed him by many thousand years.
I originally wrote Melian not Melina; I hate auto correct …😂
Yeh I think that’s correct from what I remember. Born during the trees but not under them.
He could've been one of the original 144 elves at Lake Cuivienen awoken by Imin, Tata and Enel. Or like you said he could've been a son or grandson of one of the original 144...
Could not have said it better myself. You are 100% correct...and...he appeared old and had a beard
Cirdan was a Teleri elf of the third and most populous group of the Elves at Cuivienen. He was with Thingol's group. He never went to Valinor until the 4th age. Had he not given up Narya (3rd Elven ring) to Gandalf, he might've been the most powerful elf in ME in the 3rd age.
I like the idea of un unnamed character, and I think Tolkien himself would have liked that. Mystery is a part of the magic of Tolkien's books.
The far distant spires are only romantically absorbing so long as the spires are distant.
Once we’re taken there, it’s just another tumble down chapel in a town that has fallen on hard times.
Yes, just look at Tom Bombadil
@@skymaster4121 Exactly, he is the perfect example of what I meant :)
Like what happened to the blue wizards
Elrond is a tad stauncher than you describe, given his gran was Luthien.
I'm guessing that Elrond's sons were among those who could stand against the ringwraiths.
Yes, Elrond's sons would have been able to stand against the nine. That family has quite the pedigree from both parents. But I'm not certain the timeline works. The brothers had been sent out on a secret mission after the Confrontation at the Ford of Bruinien. I don't recall anything more having been said about it. Maybe it's about time for me to start rereading some sections of the works.
Elrond has actual Vala blood in bim, does he not? He's Elvish descending from Luthien, human and Vala if I'm remembering correctly. That's quite the pedigree perhaps making up for him not being born under the light of the two trees.
Luthien's parents were Melian, a Maia (same race as Sauron) and Elu Thingol, an Elvish King was ran across his bride to be on his journey to the Undying West in the dawn of time. Luthien and Beren, the greatest of all Elf Friends had a son, Dior, Dior married Nimloth a Sindarian ELF of the 1st Age. Tolkien named a river in Lothlorrien after her that mimicked her voice in song. They had 3 children: Elwing, and twins Eluered and Elrin. Elwing married Earenidil th eMariner. They had two children Elrond and Elros. Elros chose to be mortal and was the founder of Aragorn's line. As you say, quite a pedigree.
Fingolfin 1 vs 1 Morgoth (Melkor) is who I think deserves that title more.
A good choice. I guess it depends how much extra juice Glorfindel was given in his second life..
@@FairlyFictional even so if we compare it with deeds Glor might have fought Maiar aka Balrogs, but those are puny in comparison to a literal Vala, the most powerful at that. Only Tulkas surpassed Melkor in strength.
We're talking about the most powerful elf of the Third Age. Fingolfin is part of the First Age.
@@hamsome9511 technically Glor was reincarnated, so does that really count then?
@@djokealtena2538Does he have a living physical body after being reincarnated? If your answer is yes, then it is counted.
Also important to note that it was Mandos who allowed Glorfindel to return to a body arguably quicker than would normally be expected, as all elves who die are given a new body from the Valar if they wish (with some exceptions) and then at some point he returned to middle earth, while It was Eru himself that sent Gandalf back, endowed with greater power to face the escalating threat as he was the last of the Istari still carrying out his mission. I think the fact they both died fighting Balrogs was more or less a coincidence, and there’s nothing that specifically says Glorfindel was powered up before going back, as he was already exceptionally strong as a Calaquendi able to face a Balrog.
Glorfindel's spirit departed to the Halls of Mandos, where he passed a short time. Due to his noble actions that had saved many Elves in the Fall of Gondolin, he was re-embodied and dwelt in Valinor.
Many years later, in SA 1600, Manwë sent him back to Middle-earth as an emissary of the Valar and granted him powers nearly as strong as those of the Maiar.[9]
I really like that you add artwork to the video, as a visual learner, it helps me piece together what I'm hearing better. Plus, the art is just really cool and awesome to watch. :D
Thank you 🙏🏼. I try to make the art match the story 😊
I would definitely say Glorindel is the most powerful elf in the 3rd age. The Valar enhanced him with the power similar to a Maia. But in the first age I still think Fingolfin was the most powerful elf in middle earth. He had no power ring or Valar enhancement but still took on Morgoth. He died but it was a victory that left a bad taste in the mouths of Morgoth and his captains.
@@FairlyFictional Would love to know where you got that artwork.
@@AlexisLopez-pb8ms Fingolfin was badass, but after giving it some thought, I would argue Feanor comes out as #1.
@ it’s hard to argue with that. Feanor did some bad things but he was the total package when it came to fighting and his creations. Especially the Silmarils.
It's a pity they replaced Glorfindel's part with Arwen in the movie.
I agree. I was very disappointed that they changed the part to pad out Arwens' part. I'm a woman, and the fact that they did it to include more women is annoying. It was great the way it was.
@@adriennedunne1748I don’t think it was just to include more women. I thought it was to further develop and make Aragorn and Arwens relationship more prominent. I still agree though. They should have left Glorfindels part to Glorfindel.
@danielmyers76 you're probably right. I just heard one side of that. It's probably used to sell the movie. Romance and all that which I'm not averse to, but Glorfindel was a terrific character. It was a real pity to leave him out. 😔
its honestly ok. I mean yes it doesnt respect totaly tolkien lore, but it has the merit of developing a bit more the character of Arwen who is more interesting than Glorfindel if you take LOTR in isolation as a story. Thats the kind of change i can agree with
I get that, but I'd rather have it changed than to have a Glorfindel cameo. A character introduced in a movie, who will need some kind of introduction or context, and then wouldn't be able to be properly explored. Same goes for Tom Bombadil.
Well the answer to the question is easy and exists in Fellowship. Frodo asks Gandalf how Rivendell is kept safe. Gandalfs reply is, there are Eldar here, they exist in both the seen and unseen world and do not fear the Wraiths. That’s most likely who Elrond sent out. No number is given but it is plural. Those would be who you would send out to challenge the Wraiths.
Yeh but Glorfindel says there are not many. It’s hard to say what his idea of “many” is though. Whether that’s 3-4 or a hundred, out of the thousands of elves he was used to fighting with during the First Age, who knows… 🤔
@@FairlyFictional True but Glorfindel really exists as context and setup. Elrond knows the 9 are abroad, and he sets out those among the elves who could stand against the Wraiths. Glorfindel is the representative of that in the books. We know the number is few, and given the task, if he could send more than just Glorfindel in one direction, he probably would have. You meet no other Eldar, nor are any named. Just that there is more than just Glorfindel and they are few. At the Council Glorfindel speaks for the elves even above Elrond, who simply agree with his idea to destroy the ring. Gandalf also states that even among the first borns Glorfindel is one of the mighty. That says a lot given the company he would be keeping. His job in books lets you know how powerful the Wraiths are, what you need to deal with them, how powerful the Eldar were, he helps set up the return of Gandalf, he helps give context o the enemy, he gives depth to the miracle Eowen and Merry pull off, and the odds she was facing. He even gives some context to Sam in Return the King. The Orcs are terrified, they think there is a glowing Elf lord running around killing them. Why would they be afraid of one elf? Because they believe it’s one of these guys, one of the scary ones. There is a little comedy to it, but also tells you what kind of feat Sam pulled off, this is something the Orcs think only a Glorfindel type elf could pull off. It’s not a big part, but he adds so much context, and setup to the books. And again I think when it comes to these very special elves, JR, has named most of them and it’s a handful. Gandalf also points that out even among the Eldar, this dude is powerful. He’s in that company with Fingolfin, Gil-Galad, I don’t think many ever existed that were on their metal. Definitely not 100, maybe a handful. Glorfindel being this special sets up exactly how dangerous this journey will be without someone like him.
@@creightonc8147 Glorfindel simply does not measure up to the 2 most powerful Elves ever. Feanor and Fingolfin are head and shoulders above him. In the Silmarillion Tolkien says so by naming their attributes clearly. Feanor faced off against many Balrogs before being overcome. Fingolfin goes toe to toe against Melkor himself and wounds the Dark Lord. In the 3rd age Glorfindel is the mightiest in arms but only in the 3rd age. Gandalf does mention their were characters in the first age who were far mightier than those in the 3rd age. Gil-Galad is also mentioned that even he pales against those from the first age.
@@fyorbanenah glorifindel never used his full might in the 3rd age he had mair like power Gil gala and fingonfin aren't that powerful
This would make an awesome show for someone who deserves to make quality writing and script.
Amazon could've had a great show, but decided to hire people who weren't fans to begin with. And look at the results. You always need people with vision and passion for what they are doing.
Luthien; The daughter of High King Thingol and High Queen Melian, Luthien holds a unique place in Middle-earth for several reasons: She is the first half-Maiar and half-Elf being and the only one who is part-Ainur. She stood alone, in front of Melkor (Morgoth ) and put him to sleep so Beren could remove one of Feanor's Silmarils (Cellabrinbor was an heir) from the crown he wore. In the Fellowship, she is the subject of the song (lay) Aragon was singing when Frodo asks, "this woman you sing of, who is she"?
There was no other stronger warrior than Glorfindel during the third age, he’s absolutely at the top of that list, now when it comes to magic, it was definitely Galadriel
Nevertheless, Jackson replaced Glorfindel with Arwen to make the movies more suitable for Hollywood (so it would bring in more money). He thought the books were too boring for Hollywood so he added made up battles, more romance and drama and he killed off or removed/replaced core characters he found boring. I love Glorfindel and I was really looking forward to seeing him in the movies. I was really disappointed that he had been replaced and for such a stupid reason! So disrespectful!
The art you have in this video is all amazing 😮
Thank you 🙏🏼
For Tolkien to create such entire world with such depths, is unparalleled achievement of every writer ever lived. His details and lore is unmatched by any fantasy writer who ever lived. He is the greatest of them all.
Breadth but not depth.
One thought you didn't consider...glorfindel says he was given the task of the north road. This is the most likely direction from which Frodo would be traveling. To my mind this would be the most urgent direction to search. It is most likely to me that the most powerful elf would be sent that direction. I have always felt that Glorfindel was the most powerful in middle earth. Even more powerful than Galadriel. And for the reason you pointed out. Though she was powerful, her power was most definitely enhanced by Nenya. And I don't think that even with the ring she was able to approach the power of a Maia in their true form. However, we know that was the case with Glorfindel
I would think it’s a safe bet that Elrond’s twins Elledan and Elrohir could more than hold their own against some of the Nine
Wow the art here is incredible 😵
Thank you 🙏🏼. Some of my favourites in this video.
Well, one of the elves who might have gone out to search was Gildor. If you recall in the Fellowship of the Ring, Gildor and his company encountered Frodo and the other hobbits in the Shire after Frodo had left Bag End and before he arrived at Crickhollow. The Black Riders had located Frodo's general location and were coming up to him when Gildor and his elf company approached. Their very presence drove the Nazgul away. After Gildor and Frodo parted, Gildor advised Elrond that Frodo was wandering without Gandalf, which prompted Elrond to send out people to search for Frodo, including Glorfindel. We also know that Gildor did to depart for the Grey Havens until after the War of the Ring. So, he might have been one of the Elves in Rivendell to be sent out to locate Frodo.
That being said, Glorfindel was still the most powerful. He was likely given the most important area to search.
This is a beautiful video.. Thanks! Glorfindel❤️
Thank you ☺️
This is the series I want
Also: the Fellowship did not set out the evening of the Council, which was in late October. The Fellowship set out at the very end of December, over 2 months later. They had to wait for Elrond’s scouts to return to Rivendell.
Oh yeh you’re right.. my bad 😞. Both dates were the 25th and there was nothing in between those dates on the timeline. I wrote it down wrong in my notes 😥. I will correct his point. Thank you.
"Powerful" is a tricky word. It can be used as might and magic in combat. I can also be used for power of creation or force of will. If you are talking about force of will and creation, then Feanor is your elf. I would take Fingolfin over Feanor for power in combat. In the third age however, you have a previously very powerful elf who killed a Balrog, and after death was reimbodied to be far more powerful than before. It would be hard to find a more powerful elf in combat than Glorfindel in the third age. Galadriel had the power and magic to order things to her will and no other elf could match her in that way.
Ecthelion, captain of the Guard. Moffo killed several balrogs, several dragons and Gothmog before dying in a single battle.
Tolkien and canon both state that Galadriel was the most powerful elf ever other than Feanor
Glorfindel was incredible, but probably, at best, fourth behind Feanor, Galadriel, and Fingolfin. And during the Third Age, he is definitely after Galadriel
@@integritymatters5114 yep...Galadriel "threw down the walls of Dol Goldur and cleansed all of the deep pits of evil"
But does she frighten the witch king? Cause Glorfindel does. He'd definitely be able to defeat Galadriel.
@@integritymatters5114 when did she ever enter his thoughts? They never had contact and don't believe rings of power that show is an abomination.
@@integritymatters5114 oh yeah, forgot about that haven't read the books in years. But still Glorfindel is more awesome, he's nearly as powerful as a Maiar.
@@integritymatters5114 everything you said is true but that was due to the nenya, not Galadriel.
That was fantastic. Thanks!
Thank you 😊
I like the idea of Ecthelion also being around during the third age.. i don't see why this wouldn't be possible given his sacrifice was very similar to Glorfindel during the Fall of Gondolin
I wonder where Maglor fits in, by way of power. Also born during the Years of the Trees and while it may not mean much, he's first cousin to Galadriel. Tolkien said at the end of The Silmarillion that he never returned to Aman. He risked the health of both his hröa (body) and his fëa (spirit) in order to atone for his sins.
Middle Earth's super saiyan
He is legendary.
However, by Tolkien own writings, that title belongs to Feanor. I know I know , peoples subjectivity keeps them from seeing the truth, but this comes from Tolkien himself:
“He became of all of the Noldor, THEN or AFTER, the most subtle in mind and the most skilled in hand.
He was made the MIGHTIEST In all parts of body and mind: in valour , in endurance , in beauty , in understanding, in skill , in strength and subtlety alike” - The Silmarillion: of the Sun and Moon.
Sure he kinda went full douche canoe, but this doesn’t negate who he truly was and his overall greatness.
I’ve seen that quote. However I could never quite tell if it was only valid at the time it was describing, being in the First Age.
Is it possible he could have been surpassed on some part in the future after his death 🤔.
@@FairlyFictional perhaps, and that’s the beauty of his literature. But I think is fair to take his words for what they are since he never revised this on any of his annals or tales thereafter. Feanors birth and story was prophesied by even his mother and Mandos, and I believe because of that his greatness as well as his downfall would never be surpassed.
By the way, beautiful video you’ve created ✨🙏🏽
Douchecanoe!!! 😂😂😂😂
Yes you are right about that. But don't forget Glorfindel was already very powerful to have stood against a Balrog and won though he died, but now put into consideration Manwe buffing him up. That buff up definitely takes him above the height of any elf ever in combat. Feanor still remains most powerful overall but when it comes to combat strength, it's definitely Glorfindel and Fingolfin. I think buffed up Glorfindel is the most battled hardened elf ever in all ages. My concern is why did he ride along to Sauron during the battle of the last alliance against Sauron like Fingolfin did against Morgoth? He could defeat Sauron with the help of Gil Galad if things go south. That alone makes Fingolfin the greatest elf fighter ever. The did of standing against a Valar will not be matched. People say Morgoth was weakened at that point but it's not to the level of an elf or even a maiar, he was still much much higher than them.
Glorfindel rules. It's a shame that they took him out of the movies in a nonsensical effort to make it a love story. The books are not a love story and Arwen doesn't appear in them . . . until the last chapter, of the last book. Tragic.
Is it though? I like that they remove OP characters like Tom and Glorfindel cause I think the story is more about what the "little people" can do more than what the demi gods can achieve.
@@magnumbrahms5339 You miss the point of the story, somewhat.
The Wizards WERE FORBIDDEN to directly interfere. It was a matter for Man, Elf and Dwarf. So said Manwe, "King of the Gods."
In short, without his Ring, Sauron COULD NOT have faced off againt Gandalf. Gandalf did not do much, because Manwe forbade them from doing so. The Wizards were only to encourage and advise.
It was NEVER that Gandalf didn't have the power, as Jackson showed it in the movies. Yes, Gandalf did. It was SAURON who did not have the power . . . not without his ring.
And that's why they didn't want him getting his ring back. If Sauron had his ring, "Man" would have failed.
@@anthonyhargis6855 did you just prove my point? Lol
@@magnumbrahms5339 Not really.
The most powerful of all were in the movies the whole time; Gandalf, Saruman and Radigast.
Did their presence take anyting away from your enjoyment of the triumph of Men?
And Gandalf never intended that Glorfindel be a part of the company. So how does replacing him with Arwen benefit the movie? How does transfering a Man's powers to a Woman benefit the movie? Other than getting women to pay to see it? A.k.a. "woke shyte?"
@@anthonyhargis6855 damn son it was filmed in 99 and you still blame woke sht? Btw Arwen and Aragorn story fleshed out is better than a cameo of an elven lebron james story telling wise. But hey that's just me.
Yes, THIS GUY! He should arrive in Middle Earth around the time Rings of Power is set in. He can't save that show but he can look cool xD
The most powerful are rarely leaders. Often powerful know better to let those who want to lead, lead.
Power corrupts when it is taken. Power is always best if given.
Incredible! Your artwork is absolutely amazing, brilliant, stunning, beautiful…pleasing, uplifting…ok, I’ll stop…for now ⭐️
No need to stop 😅. And thank you. What was your favourite?
Why can’t we all look like your elves? 😂
But finally, someone who knows how Tolkien elves ought to look. The sweeping luxuriant hair! Other channels just don’t make them look this beautiful.
They should look glorious 😇
@@FairlyFictional You do them justice, for sure.
Glorfindel was easily more powerful than Galadriel, Elrong, or any elf in Middle Earth after his already great spiritual power was further augmented after his resurrection.
Popeyeial, a disciple of both Yavanna, goddess of vegetation, and Olmo, god of the sea. Blessed by the virtue of spinach and pipeweed, he was unstoppable!
😂
The lost character of Nerd of the Rings!
I would like to acknowledge Gildor Inglorin of the House of Finrod. Gildor was a Noldor, born in the Years of the Trees and an exile.
Glorfindel was being modest he was the most powerful Elf of the Third age.
the excuses that sauron would have noticed him if he had accompanied the fellowship are inconsistent considering gandalf also returned from death and remained unseen and possessed one of the three elven rings
But the Nazgûl could see Glorfindel in the unseen world and were patrolling from the skies. Also Gandalf didn’t actually travel to Mordor with Frodo as intended.
Cirdan was of the Avari, the unwilling, who never undertook the journey to Valinor and who thus never saw the light of the trees.
Umanyar not Avari.
@@stephenbarrett8861
Right you are, but Moriquendi nevertheless.
Círdan was heading west for Aman during the Great Journey but he was prevented by a message from the Valar saying that his destiny was to build ships. His original name was Nowë. Círdan in Sindarin meant "shipwright."
No, Círdan was a Sindar. The Avari refers to those who refused to even start out on the journey from Cuiviénen. Of the Elves that chose to accept the summons, there were those who turned back or stopped the journey (The Nandor).
Círdan was close to Olwë and Elwë. When Elwë disappeared, he looked for Elwë for longer than just about anyone. He arrived at the western shore of a Middle Earth too late catch the boat to Valinor. He settled at the Grey Havens and considered Elwë (Thingol) his lord.
@@kellymckinney5082
If we're going to be pedantic then The Grey Havens and the Gulf Of Luhn weren't formed until Beleriand was sunk at the end of The First Age and Thingol had been killed.
Prior to that he was Lord Of Falas.
Finrod Felagund : Killed a werewolf of Morgoth with his hands & fought with Sauron one-on-one with magic.
Canal maravilhoso ❤
Sam is best elf. LOL. No. I love His character. He was brought back to life the same way Gandalf was. His story is something I'd love to see brought to screen.
This is an amazing video, the narration and artwork is perfection. Does the music also belong to you? And what is the name of the song that plays in this?
Thank you so much. The song is actually one in the TH-cam library, called past reflections i think.
Great video, I truly enjoyed all you joined from the books and appendices. However, I honestly don’t care who was the strongest as it took a fellowship to bring down Sauron, and in the end, it was two Hobbits in the darkest place on earth to destroy the ring. The weakest and smallest being down the greatest. I think you’re missing out on an elf though. Fingolfin went toe to toe with Morgoth, who was far stronger than Sauron, and held his own wounding him grievously. Only exhaustion led to his death.
Awesome video. Where did you get these amazing paintings depicting Glorfindel? I wanna know :)
Thanks. I had to make them myself. A combo of ai and painting software.
Glorfindel: Killed 1 Balrog = Reincarnated and upgraded
Gandalf: Killed 1 Balrog = Reincarnated and upgraded
Ecthelion and Tour: Something doesn't add up
Eru: 👀👀👀👀
I don't think Ecthelion was there at the kinslaying, I think he went via the frozen wastes, but he joined Feanor in his wrath and as such willingly did so, while Glorfindel followed him as his duty. Ecthelion also refused to heed the warning of the fall of Gondolion from the Valinor, perhaps due to his pride. And did not leave as he was asked to do. So I doubt he was given immediate reincarnation.
Mae g’ovannen
First, I’m biased as Glorfindel and Fingolfin are my fav elves (and Eärendil is my fav character followed by TomBom and Fangorn).
With that said I think it is important to identify the specifics of the power benchmark. Galadriel could tear buildings/strongholds down. In addition her power of influence is very extensive. She put the beat down on the spirit of Sauron. Impressive though I don’t think she killed a Balrog (or anything more substantial).
So I believe we need more criteria to evaluate the relevance of relative power versus the given standard.
I also want to acknowledge another answer given: Luthien. She may be the most powerful given what we know she accomplished. She kicked Sauron’s butt and held power over the second most high/top Angel (although that was Morgoth aka Melkor lite given Arda became his horcrux before Luthien appeared). Still, that’s badass. Throw in her pup and for sure top contender.
I’m going to interpret power as intimidation factor and physical/spiritual combat with intent to kill/destroy.
I think Eärendil is most powerful post Valar upgrade. I’m combining him with Vingilótë since I’m unaware of him being separated from ship post upgrade and War of Wrath. Elwin flies up there. Perhaps he gets to stretch his legs in Valinor
however I’ve not read anything on that.
Regardless, dude is the Silmaril Vision except Tony Stark is replaced by Fëanor, Manwe and Varda. He takes down the biggest, badest dragon (with eagle assist).
I don’t know another Elf who could do that. Not Luthien. Definitely not Galadriel. Not his son.
If we remove the super powered half elf with epic armor (I.e., plot armor) and look at the other candidates, I have my fav that I think would bring home the Balrog-bacon.
In this area, what sets Glorfindel above the known elves IMO is that he outright slayed a Balrog (no drowning required) and then he was Manwe-handled, amped up and expedited (priority attention) back to the octagon.
So I think Glorfindel Supreme (my fav Elf) should get the title.
🤗. Harthon ad-govatham
Thanks for the great comment and break down. Yeh, there were a lot of contenders in the First Age.
But I like to think post-resurrection Glorfindel would be a match for any of them, without their magical rings/silmarils/flying boats etc 😅
@@FairlyFictional 😍 Thank You!
Fantastic content and interaction. Enjoyable AND educational.
This channel has some extremely knowledgeable content providers and fan base. A “must read” for all of us who love the LOTR multiverse (multiverse given the divergent timelines through our imagination and interaction). Everyone seems immersed and completely engaged. BRAVO! ❤️
Amazing work. Amazing I say.
Thank you very much! 😊
Did Galadriel defeat a balrog? Do the Nazgul flee before her? Was Galadriel's spirit enhanced nearly to that of a Maia? No, therefore Glorfindel is the most powerful elf.
Galadriel never needed to fight to display her full power.
@@Memnoch_the_Devil Neither does Glorfindel, that's a dumb argument if you got told a character is powerful but they never display their power then it makes those statements useless. Like in Harry Potter we keep getting told that Dumbledore is the only one that Voldemort fears but until Order Of the Phoenix we have no real proof of that. Glorfindel defeated the balrog before his reincarnation after that he didn't need to fight the Nazgul they fled from him without a fight because he had become nearly equal to the Maiar.
With no resurrection, elvish rings, Fingolfin was the most powerful elf to exist in middle earth.
I don’t know that Fingolfin was the most powerful. He was just the one with the ego big enough to go bang on Morgoth’s front door. His big brother would have done so too, but got jumped in the alley.
Though I'm almost sure that this was not what Tolkien had in mind, I always like to think that Maglor is still around, and maybe repenting from what he did in the past helping others. With his lineage, he would be one of the most powerful as well. But I don't think that modern power ranking applies very well to Tolkien's world.
I would also like to say that Elrond had the blood of a Maia, which, imo, would be comparable to being in the light of the two trees.
Glorfindel is a champ. Idk if he's the strongest elf of the Third Age. But 1v1 a Balrog is pretty crazy. I think the only other elf of the Third Age who could maybe compete is Galadriel with Nenya
Please do one for Fingolfin!!!
I hear you 👍🏼
Had Glorfindel been one of the Fellowship they could have tank stormed their way right into Mordor... So... INDEED he would have made the Fellowship simply overpowered.
Points of Order:
1)
Nowhere in Tolkien is it said that the Eldar have pointy ears. (The art herein grossly exaggerates this misconception)
2)
Likewise it is not said anywhere that Balrogs have wings. As they are the same species as Gandalf, Sauron, and the other Maiar do not have wings, why assign them to the Balrogs.
3)
Tolkien himself says Galadriel is the greatest Elf of all time, save maybe Fëanor.
Of the named elves, I’d say it’s probably pretty close between Glorfindel and Galadriel, since as far as I’m aware they’re the only two named who have seen the light the of the trees (outside the one Frodo meets in the woods, who’s name I believe was changed a few times so it’s not immediately clear). As far as who can ride against the ring wraiths, I don’t think you need to be a Calaquendi to stand against them, as even Aragorn was able to drive them off temporarily. I think the rare elf or rarer human who has enough strength of will could at least face them down enough to find the hobbits and retreat to Rivendell, whereas someone like Glorfindel or Galadriel would make them actively flee.
It depends: the real "power" is based on how close you are to Eru.
We can look at many ways to see how powerful someone is, but it will be arbitraty and limited.
5 Názgul did not attack Glorfindel, but 4 attacked Gandalf. Gandalf was limited by his mission, when his true nature is greater than any elf, specially outside Eä: another limitation Maiar and Valar had.
Galadriel was an apprentice to a maia, Melian, in the first age. It doesn't get much farther than that in terms of arcane knowledge and magic power, so she must be an exceptionally powerful and skilled sorceress even without Nenya.
I'd rank them equal.
GLORFINDEL!
"Clean up"? "Cleansing" might be a better term.
That would be a dumb argument. But that’s not the argument I’m making. I’m only saying she displayed her powers in plenty of other ways over the course of three ages.
Also keep in mind I’m not comparing her to Glorfindel. Sorry if it sounded like I was. I don’t compare elves in Tolkien’s universe
Feanor, was the most powerful Noldor of all the ages, Fingolfin and Luthien in the top 3
Beautiful stuff. Can’t tell if the art is AI or not but either way it’s glorious.
Thank you. I did use AI to help with the images. But I try to make them as good as I can to fit the narration story. Some of these ones were some of my favourites.
@@FairlyFictional I can tell with some of them as well as the narration voice. But it’s all done very tastefully. I think you’re making really good use of them to platform your well written scripts. I’m subbed. Thank you for bringing beauty in a way that you’re able to.💜🫖☕️✨
Feanor is the mightiest of all the Eldar. Tolkien says so in the Silmarillion. Next would be Fingolfin. Don't forget Feanor battled many Balrogs before being overcome while Fingolfin battled and wounded Melkor himself [Sauron's master] before exhaustion took him and thus Melkor then defeated him. For sure Glorfindel is mighty and in terms of might of arms in the 3rd age he is the strongest but even he pales next to Feanor and Fingolfin. Their attributes are clearly mentioned in the Silmarillion.
Perhaps true for the First Age. But how do they compare to the power boosted version of the 2nd and 3rd Age Glorfindel 🤔
@@FairlyFictional Tolkien stated the facts of Feanor and Fingolfin. Not just for the first age but of all time.
There's also Ecthelion and Tour.
According to books, Glorfindel is the second in power in Middle Earth.
Well his part would make an amazing movie.
Glorfindels presence in Rivendell was enough to keep it safe.
Frieren: Hold my Staff
Fingolfin is still the most badass elf
My #1
Cool as he was, Fingolfin wasn't reborn, at least not in cannon works.
@@frankmueller2781 He does not need to be reborn. Tolkien clearly states in the Silmarillion that Feanor was the mightiest of all the Eldar. Fingolfin comes next. Their attributes are clearly mentioned. Feanor faced off against many Balrogs before being overcome while Fingolfin fought Sauron's master, Melkor in a one on one and wounded him before finally succumbing to exhaustion and therefore defeat.
Wait, wtf was he not in the movies?
They wanted Arwen to have a bigger part 🙄
I agree, Peter just choose to leave him out and exactly like the comment said above. What a damn shame right! Would of been incredible to see
Sorry but Galadriel is most definitely the most powerful elf in the 3rd age with or without nenya. She was also said to reflect the lights of the tree brighter than any other elf. Glorfindel might have had the potential to be more powerful but, Galadriel was much wiser and was trained and mentored by the Maiar queen Melian. ROP has ruined our lady of light, she would never need to use a sword because of her actual power
If an elf is t mentioned in the books, it’s probably because they weren’t in the LOTR. You can’t speculate Tolkien…it’s all written out for you.
What about Dobby ?
Background music is a bit too loud. It's hard to listen to you when music hits high points.
Sorry about that. I’m trying to do better with the music.
While Cirdan was born in the time of the trees, he never saw them right? Didn't he never travel west?
Yes that’s true. I believe that’s what I said. I think he travelled west on the last ship but the trees would have been gone.
@FairlyFictional yea you brought it up later in the video, my bad 🤣
@@FairlyFictional and I was kinda clarifying for myself that I was remembering correctly lol
Glorfindel is one of my favorite characters btw,
"The Valar really appreciate those who fall to their deaths while defeating a Balrog" 😂 your argument for Glorfindel over Galadriel (the only known real contender for the title of "most powerful 3rd Age elf") has merit. Certainly Echthelion would be a contender if present but we are given no reason to believe that he returned to Middle Earth. Arguably, Glorfindel's connection to Olórin may have influenced his return to Middle Earth & we are given no such rationale for Echthelion. It is also likely that Glorfindel being sent out on the road to Bree, the most likely path for the hobbits, could imply that he was the most powerful of the elf lords sent out. The road to Bree seems the most likely path to produce results as well as encounter the Nazgûl.
Good valid points there. But I know if I was Ecthelion and saw Glorfindel arrive after me and get fast tracked back to life I’d have been a little annoyed though 😂.
I thought it was elronds daughter who went searching for frodo in the movies
That was only on the movies.
Possibly Maglor Feanorian.
Do you sell this artwork?😊
@@bengeer8614 I’m thinking about it. Do you want physical or digital? And what pics do you like? I’m trying to arrange a way as people keep asking.
Fingolfin I think is the greatest warrior Elve
Please lower the background track, it drowns out your excellent narrations. Other than that, it's a great presentation 👍
Noted. Thanks 🙏🏼
Is it possible to have one or more ties? 🤔
Personally i think Elrond was the most powerful because he was one eighth miaia, half elf and three eights human. Surely being part Miaia makes him more powerful?
If being 1/8th makes him more powerful, then Lúthien, Dior, and Elwing had him beat.
Yo Guys Imagine if Berserk And lord of the Rings were in the Same Universe imagine how Strong Guts would be In this Universe! Plus what would Happen? And how would all the Events of Berserk Effect Everyone?
Glorfindel was greatest. Cirdan was oldest. Galadriel was wisest.
True Warrior Ecthelion and Glorfindel
No magic pure Strength.
Feanor.
Im pretty sure Feanor was most powerful. And strictly in terms of combat Fingolfin could master him.
But, well both were dead, so Glorfindel could be strongest during the FoG.
the one that wasnt mentioned that we dont know anything about
Maybe 😜
Figwit
My comment of "Figwit" was removed.
But seriously, movie only, Figwit was in the council of Elrond so must have been someone of importance. Plus he was guarding or advising Arwen on her aborted trip to the Havens, so again someone important.
OK, his name wasn't actually Figwit, but that's what got him brought back by Jackson.
And if you don't know what I mean by Figwit, look him up, you're in for a treat.
Middle Earth's Goku
I'm quite curious...so when Glorfindel was brought back to Middle Earth, was he stronger than Fingolfin and Feanor?
Can’t say for certain. But there’s a good chance he was 🤔
Doubtful, Feanor had a spirit so strong that when he fought all the Balrogs and was eventually defeated by Gothmog his body was consumed in the fire of his spirit. Glorfindel was a powerful Elf lord but not that powerful. gandalf stated that even Glorfindel and Aragorn combined couldn't defeat all of the nine. There are a few on this feed that have managed to get a bit carried away over Glorfindel. Originally he wasn't a reincarnation, just a mistake of using a name twice. Tolkien had to adjust and say he was the same Elf. Same with Legolas actually, that's where the Greenleaf part of his name comes from, an adjustment by Tolkien to differentiate.
@@Crantock-l1v Thank you for the clarification.
Cirdan never saw the Trees.
Didn’t see them. But born during the years of.
@@FairlyFictional Cirdan was born BEFORE the migration to the West and is older than the Trees.
Did Erestor go to find Frodo?
The other elves could just be Elronds kids.
This is my opinion as well
Fingolfin #1
Everyone saying Fingolfin the thumbnail is present tense Fingolfin is dead. If it was most powerful Elf ever fair enough but the video even clarifies third age etc... You boys love an argument lol
Elves not dead. They rest in Halls of Mandos.
How about Fingolfin?
Most powerful was Feanor. Most skilled in combat, I’d say Fingolfin.