Ulmo's Plan: Saving Gondolin's Remnants and the Elven Kind

In J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, particularly in the realm of Forlending Doom, Ulmo, the god of foresight and wisdom, plays a crucial role in the salvation of Gondolin and the Elven kind. His plan is a multifaceted approach that combines divine intervention, foresight, and the preservation of life.

Foresight and Divine Intervention

Ulmo's actions are rooted in his profound understanding of the impending doom that Gondolin faces. As a god of foresight and wisdom, he sees the inevitable fall of the city to Morgoth's forces. In response, he seeks to guide Turgon and his people to safety. This divine intervention is a pivotal moment in Tolkien's narrative, emphasizing the theme of divine guidance in the face of fate.

The Preservation of Elves

Ulmo's primary goal is to ensure the survival of the Elves, particularly those of Turgon's people. By guiding Turgon to move his people to the mouths of Sirion, Ulmo aims to provide a sanctuary where they can be better protected from the shadow of Morgoth. This new location offers not just a promise of safety but also an opportunity for a new beginning.

A New Beginning

The suggestion to leave Gondolin represents a chance for Turgon and his people to escape the impending disaster and establish a new community. This new beginning is not just a strategic move but also a thematic element that highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Elves. It is an act of hope, even in the face of despair.

Thematic Analysis

Ulmo's actions reflect several overarching themes in Tolkien's works. Firstly, the theme of foresight is evident in Ulmo's ability to see the future and guide Turgon. Secondly, the preservation of life is a central motif, with Ulmo working to save as many Elves as possible. Finally, the importance of heeding divine guidance is crucial, as it underscores the moral and ethical dimensions of the narrative.

Ulmo's Role in the Legendarium

Ulmo's influence extends beyond this single event. He serves a dual purpose in Tolkien's legendarium. Firstly, he helps the Noldor by keeping their kingdoms intact for as long as possible. His power ensures that the forces of evil, such as Morgoth, fear large bodies of water, thereby providing Gondolin and other settlements near water sources with some level of protection.

Secondly, once Ulmo knows that the time for Gondolin is drawing to a close, he focuses on preserving the lives of as many inhabitants as possible. This is particularly evident in his efforts to ensure the survival of the half-elven offspring of Idril and Tuor, as well as the father of Erendil, who plays a significant role in the broader narrative.

Ulmo's actions also tie into the larger mythos of Tolkien's works, including the development of the character of Erendil. The prophecy that beyond ruin and fire, hope shall be born for Elves and Men, underscores the theme of divine intervention and the potential for redemption through the trials of mortality.

In conclusion, Ulmo's plan in the context of Gondolin is a compassionate and strategic approach designed to save the Elves from destruction. It reflects the themes of foresight, the preservation of life, and the importance of heeding divine guidance. Through his actions, Ulmo embodies the complex interplay of fate, divine intervention, and the resilience of the Elves in the face of adversity.

Keywords: Ulmo, Gondolin, Preservation of Elves