The Duration and Events of the First Age in Middle-earth

The First Age of Middle-earth, as detailed in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, is a period rich with history, myth, and conflict. According to Tolkien's legendarium, the First Age began with the awakening of the first Elves and lasted for approximately 590 Years of the Sun. During this time, many significant events shaped the world that would become known as Middle-earth.

Beginnings and the Dawn of the First Age

The First Age officially began when the Elves awoke at Cuiviénen. This moment marked the beginning of the Elder Kindreds, the first of the Children of Iluvatar. Orom?, the Vala of horses and pursuit, discovered the young Elves and guided them westward, leading them on a long journey to Valinor. Along the way, Melkor, the first of the Ainur, made his first major intrusion into the world, attacking the Elves and leading to the destruction of his fortress Utumno. Melkor was captured and imprisoned in the Halls of Mandos, freeing Middle-earth from his influence temporarily.

The Years of the Trees

For the next 450 Years, known as the Years of the Trees, the Elves dwelled in peace in Valinor. The Two Trees of Valinor, Telperion and Laurelin, gave light to the world. However, Melkor's rebellion was not forgotten, and he was eventually released to continue his nefarious activities in Middle-earth.

The Fall of the Two Trees and the Coming of the Suns

When Melkor was freed and once again turned to darkness, he sowed discord among the Elves, leading to the destruction of the Trees. This marked the end of the Years of the Trees and the beginning of the Years of the Sun. Melkor, now known as Morgoth, resumed his campaign of evil, beginning the Wars of Beleriand. The Valar, led by Manw?, responded by creating the Moon and Sun from the remains of the Trees, and the Sun's rising marked the start of the new age.

The Wars of Beleriand

Central to the First Age were the numerous wars against Morgoth, initially fought by the Elves and later joined by the Dúnedain (Men of Westernesse) and other allies. These wars were fierce and tumultuous, particularly after the arrival of the Noldor, the "Noble" Elves, who sought to reclaim the treasures lost to Morgoth—especially the Silmarils. The most significant battles included the Dagor Aglareb, the Nirnaeth Arnoediad, and the War of Wrath.

The Last Battle and the Conclusion of the First Age

The climax of the First Age came with the War of Wrath, wherein the Valar, led by E?nw?, impeccably defeated Morgoth, banishing him into the Void. This battle was enormously costly for the world, with the land of Beleriand devastated and many of its inhabitants forced to flee to other realms. This final defeat marked the end of the First Age and the beginning of the Second Age, a time of renewed hope and rebuilding for the surviving realms.

Conclusion

The First Age of Middle-earth, though filled with conflict and darkness, saw the emergence of many legendary figures and the laying of the groundwork for the more celebrated Ages that followed. The duration and events of this era, while often shrouded in myth and mystery, remain a critical part of Tolkien's rich and complex world of Middle-earth.