LotR --- Appendix E -- Writing and Spelling

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Obviously, of course, this appendix is addressed mostly to those who are interested in learning to read and write Tolkien's languages. Also obviously, the detail with which Tolkien wrote it shows his own love for language.

He explains pronunciations methodically, consonant by consonant, then the vowels. For the most part, those explanations concern the Elvish languages, though comparisons are made with other languages of Middle-earth. He even allows for differences in the educational level of those speaking the lanuage. Most hobbits' pronunciations would be considered rustic, he notes. Then "stress" or "accent" is explained.

The next section deals with scripts, first Tengwar, then Cirth. They differ in age (the first is older) and in the method of writing (brush/pen vs. scratching/incision). Both were developed by Elves, though different kindreds: Tengwar by the Noldor, Cirth by the Sindar. The original Tengwar letters, as invented by Rúmil, were not used in Middle-earth; Fëanor's Tengwar, of a much later date, was the alphabet used there. The Cirth, devised in Beleriand, were widespread, often changed to suit the peoples using them. Daeron's version was used by the Dwarves of Moria.

A Tengwar table, set up according to the similarity of form, precedes the explanations concerning these letters. I find it interesting to read Tolkien's comments on the difference between his system and what he gives as a definition of "alphabet":

...'alphabet', that is, a haphazard series of letters, each with an independent value of its own, recited in a traditional order that has no reference either to their shapes or to their functions.

I get the impression that he is glad to be able to set up an orderly system that improves on ours!

The explanations that follow are likely to be of interest only to those learning the languages. One major difference to our alphabet is the fact that the emphasis is on consonants, with no separate letters for vowels, which are indicated by tehtar above the consonants. It is also interesting to note that the letters had no actual names; words that begin with the letter are used as names when necessary.

The tables in the section on the Cirth show the Angerthas version of runes. Since the second part of the table shows the values in our alphabet, the explanations are not as lengthy.

Have you read this appendix thoroughly, sketchily, or not at all? If so, what purpose does it have for you?

I must admit, this is the first time I have read it completely; the only times I have used it were to find help in the pronunciation of names. I remember researching my chosen Middle-earth nickname to see which syllable would be stressed: it's the second to last, so EsTelyn.