Tolkien’s Elven Creation Theory: The Origin of Dwarves in the Silmarillion

Introduction

Edgar Allan Poe once remarked that, in some odd way, the Standard Dictionary contains everything that happens, or may happen. This sentiment finds its echo in J.R.R. Tolkien's Silmarillion, a text that, though not a novel in the strictest sense, is chock-full of the building blocks of Tolkien’s universe. In this article, we explore a significant element of Tolkien's creation mythology: the origin of the dwarves.

The Allegory of Aule and the Dwarves

In narrating the origins of the dwarves, Tolkien brilliantly weaves a tale that elucidates the complex interplay between craftsmanship, divinity, and creation within his ancient world. The narrative of Aule, the Vala (a powerful being in Tolkien's mythology), and the dwarves serves as an allegory for broader themes of creation, responsibility, and destiny.

Aule and Eru

To set the stage, we must understand the roles of Aule and Eru, the creator of the cosmos, in this mythos. Aule, often referred to as 'The Smith' or 'The Artisan', was fascinated by the world and eager to see his form manifest in it.

The Impatience of Aule

Though The Silmarillion does not provide extensive details, we understand that Eru, the supreme being, had already created his firstborn, the elvish people, and the secondborn, the humans. However, Aule, driven by divine ambition and a sense of urgency, began crafting the dwarves. This act was an illustration of his impatience, not just for the children of Eru, but for his creations to take their place in the world.

The Intervention of Eru

Eru, who had occasionally interfered in the world, appeared for one of those rare instances. He discovered Aule's creations, which were, indeed, more than mere puppets. The dwarves were living beings, imbued with a unique and powerful essence that made them akin to their creator. Realization of his error, that he had exceeded his mandate, prompted Aule to strike down his creations, which were "dolls" in comparison to the living beings they had become. The dwarves cowered in fear as they realized their newfound life and the implications of their existence.

Eru, the omnipotent and protective creator of all, saw the error of Aule's ways. He acknowledged that the dwarves were unique and powerful creatures, but he had a specific purpose for their existence. Eru granted the dwarves their independent existence, imbuing them with life and sapience. However, to avoid a conflict of identities and realms, he instructed Aule to place the dwarves in a state of sleep until the elves appeared. This sleep was akin to a coma, a period of inactivity and latency, during which the dwarves would be inert and incapable of interacting with the world.

Interpretations and Analysis

The story of the dwarves' creation holds profound philosophical implications. It hints at the balance between ambition and restraint, the boundaries between creation and divine will, and the importance of purpose and destiny in the ontological framework of the world.

Empathy and Independence

The dwarves' response to their newfound life is a poignant illustration of the human (or, in this case, dwarven) condition. Their fear and cowering reflect a primal reaction to the unknown and the unfamiliar. It is a reminder of the delicate balance between submission and assertiveness, and the complex process by which beings seek to understand and integrate their existence into the world around them.

The Parent-Child Metaphor

Additionally, the story can be seen as a metaphor for the relationship between parent and child. Aule's creations represent the fervent desire of a parent to bring forth a masterpiece, only to be met with a complex and independent entity. Eru's solution, to place the dwarves in a state of latency, can be interpreted as a protective measure, much like a parent might wait for their child to mature before taking on the world.

Divine Will and Human (or Dwarven) Destiny

The ultimate lesson of the dwarves' origin story is perhaps the most profound of all. It underscores the idea that destiny is an intricate weave of divine will and human (or dwarven) destiny. The dwarves, unique and powerful, are given a place in the world, but not as replacements for the elves and humans, but as complements to them. This is a testament to the diversity of life and the interdependent nature of existence within Tolkien's universe.

Conclusion

Through the intricate mythos of Aule and the dwarves, Tolkien elucidates the grand tapestry of creation, destiny, and purpose. The dwarves, with their unique and powerful existence, stand as a reminder of the complexity of existence and the delicate balance of roles and responsibilities.

As readers and scholars of Tolkien, we can draw numerous parallels and insights from this narrative. It serves as a profound exploration of the nature of creation and the responsibilities that come with it. It is a beautiful and complex allegory that invites us to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Tolkien’s universe.