Write a short analysis of the legendarium: a thesis, 2–3 examples from different parts of the book, and an overall conclusion.
How to write about a book on this scale
Don't retell everything
In a written answer on “The Silmarillion” you cannot retell the whole legendarium. A good answer picks one theme and shows it in several key stories.
A working formula:
1. Thesis: what idea about Tolkien's world you will prove.
2. Two or three examples: preferably from different parts of the book, such as Fëanor, Túrin, Númenor, Sauron.
3. Connection: explain why these examples are alike or contrast.
4. Conclusion: what this repetition says about the legendarium.
Don't be afraid to write simply. It matters more that you see the pattern than that you list ten rare names without meaning.
Lesson notes
Don't retell everything
In a written answer on “The Silmarillion” you cannot retell the whole legendarium. A good answer picks one theme and shows it in several key stories.
A working formula:
1. Thesis: what idea about Tolkien's world you will prove.
2. Two or three examples: preferably from different parts of the book, such as Fëanor, Túrin, Númenor, Sauron.
3. Connection: explain why these examples are alike or contrast.
4. Conclusion: what this repetition says about the legendarium.
Don't be afraid to write simply. It matters more that you see the pattern than that you list ten rare names without meaning.