The Fate of Morgoth: A Christian Revelation of His Final End

When discussing the fate of Morgoth in J.R.R. Tolkien's works, it's essential to understand the background and influences that shaped the narrative. One of the key influences is Tolkien's Christian faith, as evident in his interpretive approach to many of his creations and themes. In this article, we will explore the potential fate of Morgoth, drawing inspiration from Christian texts and Tolkien's own works.

Understanding Morgoth's Fate

Morgoth, also known as Melkor, began to weaken immediately upon his corruption. Without access to the imperishable Flame, his decline continued even in the Void, where he remained, slowly dissipating into nothingness. This solitary existence can be seen as a metaphor for the eventual destruction of all evil.

In Christian theology, particularly in the Book of Revelation, the fate of the Devil (or Satan) is described. Revelation 19 speaks of the ultimate defeat of Satan, where he is cast out and destroyed, providing a blueprint for Morgoth's final end. Similarly, the passage in Isaiah 14 suggests that the world will eventually realize the true nature of those who once deceived them. This serves as a powerful framework for understanding Morgoth's future.

Tolkien's Fateful Themes: Redemption and Transformation

Given Tolkien's Christian background, the themes of repentance and forgiveness are prevalent in his works. If Tolkien had decided to determine the fate of Melkor, it is likely that the greatest evil would ultimately rise to good. This idea of transformation and redemption is a central theme in the Christian narrative, which Tolkien often incorporated into his fictional realm.

In one of the proposed alternatives in Tolkien's world, the events at the end of time (known as Dagor Dagorath or the "Second Battle of the Crack of Doom") would see Morgoth killed by the hero Turin. This battle would mark the end of the world as it had been known, with the two trees being remade and a new world coming into existence. While this idea was abandoned, it provides a poignant glimpse into the alternate fate that Morgoth might have faced, if given the opportunity for redemption.

The Enigma of Morgoth's Final Days

Despite the rich tapestry of Tolkien's universe, the exact fate of Morgoth remains a mystery. According to Tolkien himself, only Iluvatar (the Supreme Creator) truly knows the end of the world. Even among the gods, Mandos, who oversees the souls of deceased elves, may not know the answer definitively. This uncertainty adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the narrative, leaving room for endless speculation among fans and scholars alike.

One intriguing idea that surfaced was the concept of Morgoth's return and death at Turin's hands, as part of a Tolkien-like Ragnar?k. However, this idea was ultimately rejected by Tolkien, leaving us to ponder the myriad ways in which Morgoth might meet his end.

Conclusion

The final fate of Morgoth is a question that continues to captivate readers of Tolkien's works. Whether through a Christian-inspired narrative or a redemptive journey back to goodness, the ultimate resolution of this greatest evil would serve as a powerful and poetic conclusion to his tale. Ultimately, the answer remains in the hands of Tolkien's supreme creator, Iluvatar, ensuring that the mystery of Morgoth's end will continue to inspire debate and discussion for generations to come.