The Silmarillion

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1977

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Download PDF

Access Full Guide

Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Parts 1-2

Part 3, Chapters 1-3

Part 3, Chapters 4-6

Part 3, Chapters 7-9

Part 3, Chapters 10-12

Part 3, Chapters 13-15

Part 3, Chapters 16-18

Part 3, Chapters 19-21

Part 3, Chapters 22-24

Parts 4-5

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

The Silmarillion is renowned for its religious allusions and stylings. In what way does the opening of the text reflect creation myths from world religions?

There are many heroes and villains in the novel, but which figure would you describe as best adhering to the “tragic hero” archetype and why?

As the most powerful being in the universe of the novel, Eru is a complicated figure. Beyond the initial creation of the world, in what way does he influence Middle-earth and Valinor?