Why Was No New Valar Created to Replace Melkor?

According to the Lord of the Rings and other works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Melkor was indeed one of the Valar, the powerful gods who shaped the world of Middle Earth. In fact, some even suggest he was the greatest of all the Valar, before his spiritual and moral descent.

Origins and Descent

Found in the Quenta Silmarillion and other sources, it is detailed that Melkor, also known as Morgoth, was originally one of the Valar. He was known for his intelligence, power, and desire to create. However, he felt inferior to Eru Ilúvatar (the creator of the world) and sought to create things independently, as well as rule the world of Arda.

Feeling Inferior and Rebellion

It is often suggested that this sense of inferiority or the desire for power led Melkor to steal the Silmarils from F?anor, a deed which brought about anger and distrust among the Noldorin Elves. Later, his greed and hatred plays a more significant role as he aligns with the Dark Natures of the world, eventually becoming the manifestation of evil, Morgoth.

Actions and Banishment

Melkor's actions were not just acts of theft or petty dislikes; he actively broke and corrupted the world in countless ways. He wanted power for himself and sought to dominate Middle Earth, not playing second fiddle to Manw?, the domineering Vala. His plans were never to align with the will of Eru or the other Valar.

Defeat and Banishment

The combination of powerful Valar and the exceptional strength of Tulkas led to Melkor's defeat. Tulkas, with the help of Orom?, was the warrior who stood against Melkor in a fierce battle. Tulkas, with his immense strength, reportedly stalked Melkor, repeatedly smashing him into the earth to make a point. It was only through the combined might of the Valar that Melkor was finally defeated and banished to the Void.

Final Battle and Redemption?

Despite the power of the Valar, Morgoth is not easily defeated. The hard-fought final battle is described in many texts, including the Quenta Silmarillion. In this battle, it is not one of the mighty Valar or their Maiar allies who defeat Morgoth. Instead, it is a man, Turin Turambar, with the aid of his enchanted blade Mormegil, who slays Morgoth.

This outcome is even more surprising because it is Turin, one of Eru's second children, who accomplishes this feat, rather than one of the powerful Valar. It is a testament to the depth and complexity of Tolkien's mythology, as it shows that the power of good and the courage of lesser beings can triumph over evil.

Conclusion

Given his actions, Melkor was removed from the ranks of the Valar, the gods who were meant to shape and protect the world of Middle Earth. His corruption and tyrannical actions led to his banishment, and he is now among the most formidable enemies of the world. The story of Melkor/Morgoth is one of spiritual and moral decay, a stark lesson on the consequences of pride, rebellion, and a desire for power.