The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion serves as a foundational prequel to The Lord of the Rings, exploring the ancient history of Middle-earth during the First and Second Ages, and featuring iconic characters like Galadriel and Sauron. Set in an era dominated by Morgoth, it includes mythological stories of creation, the rise and fall of kingdoms, and pivotal events that shape the mythic landscape of Middle-earth. The book also contains several shorter works that delve into the origins of the universe, divine beings, and significant historical moments leading up to the Third Age.