Beren & Lúthien
Tolkien's love of mortal and elf
The mortal man Beren and the immortal elf Lúthien, who gives up her immortality for love: the most important story of Tolkien's legendarium, inspired by him and his wife Edith.
01Why it matters
Tolkien carved "Beren" and "Lúthien" on his and Edith's gravestone; it is the romantic heart of "The Silmarillion."
02The conflict
Beren's mortality and the impossible quest for the Silmaril.
03The iconic moment
Lúthien choosing to become mortal to die alongside Beren.
04What survived
"The Silmarillion"; the Tolkiens' grave in Oxford.
05Where to travel
06Frequently asked questions
Why is the story of Beren & Lúthien famous?
Tolkien carved "Beren" and "Lúthien" on his and Edith's gravestone; it is the romantic heart of "The Silmarillion."
How does the story of Beren & Lúthien end?
Lúthien choosing to become mortal to die alongside Beren. "The Silmarillion"; the Tolkiens' grave in Oxford.
Where can you visit the story of Beren & Lúthien?
You can visit The Tolkiens' grave, in Oxford. Inscribed "Beren" and "Lúthien."
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