The Silmarillion

Perhaps the most dominant theme of the novel is the constant struggle of good versus evil. As something of a creation myth and a religious text, there are clear allusions to Christian doctrine throughout the text, though this comparison is rarely explicit and is frequently portrayed through the lens of traditional fantasy motifs, rather than classical Christian imagery. There is, however, a very similar value system evident throughout the text. The world, created by a benevolent deity, is populated by Men (as well as other races) who face constant temptation at the hands of an “evil” figure. Like Satan in Christian doctrine, Melkor is a fallen member of the deity’s inner circle and was present during the creation of the world. Likewise, characters demonstrate their preference for individual free will and freedom, while searching for power outside of the structures laid down by the deity. Fëanor, for instance, comes to resent the Valar while numerous Men resent the short lives they have been given. In both cases, the characters seek to address what they perceive to be failings in the world and use their free will to do so, even when it goes against the benevolent creator.