J.R.R. Tolkien’s magisterial collection of mythic tales forms the narrative backbone of Middle-earth, offering readers a sweeping vision of a world shaped by the struggles and triumphs of gods, elves, men, and other beings. Crafted with the depth and linguistic mastery that distinguishes Tolkien’s work, this volume explores the origins of the world, the eternal battle between good and evil, and the fates of its greatest heroes and villains. The stories within not only set the stage for the better-known events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, but also invite readers to contemplate...