The Fantasy Review explains: how is Celebrimbor related to Fëanor?
Celebrimbor is known most prominently for his creation of the Three Elven Rings in the Second Age, and his involvement in the crafting of the other Rings of Power.
He was the greatest craftsman in Middle-earth during his time, working alongside the Gwaith-i-Mírdain – the Elven-smiths of Eregion – but before him there was Fëanor.
Who Was Fëanor?
Fëanor, born in the Year of the Trees 1169, was the eldest son of Finwë, the first King of the Noldor. Fëanor created much that would have great importance in the world, including developing the Tengwar, and creating the palantíri and the Fëanorian lamps.
His greatest accomplishment, however, would be the creation of the Silmarils. He made them by capturing the light of the Two Trees and displayed them upon his brow, guarding them jealously from all others.
The Doom of the Noldor
Fëanor’s life is a tragic tale. He was greatly manipulated by Melkor – who he named Morgoth – and was turned against even the Valar in his hunt for the Silmarils which were stolen.
He made his seven sons swear the Oath of Fëanor, which was essentially a vow that they would fight anyone who withheld the Silmarils from them, including Elves, Maia, Vala or Men. This oath would cause more tragedy down the line.
The House of Fëanor were the descendants of Fëanor and his sons, and their followers, and they were known as such for they were cursed to meet tragic ends.
How is Celebrimbor Related to Fëanor?
Celebrimbor’s father was one of these seven sons of Fëanor, Curufin. Curufin was Fëanor’s favourite son and shared much of his father’s craftsmanship and other skills, but also shared his temperament.
Celebrimbor, however, did not swear the Oath of Fëanor and even though he followed his kin into exile in Middle-earth, it is unlikely he took part in their more despicable actions.
So, Celebrimbor is Fëanor’s grandson, inheriting his skills in crafting but not his temperament. He spends much of his life looking up at his grandfather in admiration for the things he created, wanting to do the same, or even best him.
Celebrimbor was the last member of the House of Fëanor and met a tragic end after his involvement in making the Rings of Power.
