Posted: February 07, 2000 at 10:56:47: by Beren
: One of Tolkien's basic points in his mythology is that he is reviving an ancient view of elves as a higher race than Man, rather than the little winged sprites or fairies of romantic and modern stories. Does anyone have an idea if such an older view of elves actually existed? In other words, are there in fact old German, Norse, or Anglo-Saxon legends with these high and noble elves in them? Any examples?Well there are certainly elves (and dwarves) in Norse mythology. They are separate races from humans and are in some ways viewed as being "more than" human. Their nature varies greatly, from the powerful dwarves who forged Mjollnir (the hammer of Thor) to almost comical figures. The elves are given less treatment in the manuscripts that survive, but they are discussed in the creation myth as well as several other tales. There is a sense that the elves are "higher" creatures but unfortunately very little in the way of a clear picture survives. I suggest looking to the "Elder Edda" as a starting point if you are interested.
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