The Silmarillion tells the story of the creation of the world, known as Eä, by the supreme deity Eru Ilúvatar. The world is shaped by powerful spiritual beings called the Ainur, among whom the rebellious Melkor (later known as Morgoth) sows discord. After the world is formed, the Elves awaken, and the most gifted among them, Fëanor, crafts the radiant Silmarils—three perfect jewels that contain the light of the Two Trees of Valinor. When Melkor steals the Silmarils and destroys the Trees, he becomes the Dark Lord and flees to Middle-earth. Fëanor and his sons swear a terrible oath to recover the jewels at all costs, leading to a long and tragic war against Morgoth. The story spans thousands of years, recounting the rise and fall of powerful Elven kingdoms, the tragic fates of heroes like Beren and Lúthien, Túrin Turambar, and Eärendil the Mariner. Eventually, the Valar (the most powerful of the Ainur) intervene, and Morgoth is defeated and cast into the Void. However, the cost is great, and much of the Elves’ glory is lost. The Silmarils are also lost—one in the sky, one in the sea, and one in the earth. The book ends by setting the stage for The Lord of the Rings, as the remaining Elves and Men prepare for a new age where evil still lingers in the form of Sauron, Morgoth’s former lieutenant.