Lay of Leithian Canto IV
This Canto first speaks of Beren and his bliss. Then it tells of Lúthien’s return and their dance, and how Dairon espied them, and as he loved Lúthien he betrayed them to Thingol. Then how Lúthien led Beren into Menegroth after Thingol promised her that his life would be spared. There he requested the hand of Lúthien, and Thingol, as he was bound to his oath not to harm Beren, in his wrath gave the bride-price as a Silmaril. Then Beren laughed as if it were a small thing, and left the hall with the promise to bring one back. This fourth canto can be considered the true beginning of the Quest.
Concerning the Canto
This Canto begins with an elaborate description of Beren's happiness.
Then they dance in joy together.
Then Dairon, who is said to have loved Lúthien, espies them.
And he first casts a spell of silence on the wood, and gives hints to Thingol about the meeting.
The King understands swiftly his meaning, and grows angry.
Then Dairon saw Lúthien, and wished he had not spoken. Lúthien quickly explains.
Lúthien had Thingol swear not to kill or imprison Beren, and then led him to and into Menegroth. A vibrant description follows (see Menegroth). Beren was too stunned to answer any questions, until he looks in Melian's eyes and gains courage.
He speaks bravely to Thingol about his love for Lúthien:
Daeron's initial anger returns and he demands death for Beren. Thingol reluctantly restrains himself due to his promise to his daughter, and threatens to let him wander interminably in Menegroth, never finding his way out of the caves. Beren openly compares him with Morgoth in the twisting of oaths, and holds up the Ring of Barahir. Melian whispers to Thingol that it will not be by his hand Beren will fall, and Thingol sees then the love of Lúthien for him.
Thingol's speech mocks Beren's own as he places the ultimate quest before him.
Follows is a paragraph about the history of the Silmaril, and then Beren laughs, and bids farewell to Tinúviel, and departs. Melian then gets her word in to Thingol.
The final three lines wrap up this extensive canto, sad and foreboding.
Referencias
1. Esta ficha se ha importado inicialmente de TolkienGateway.net el día 27/05/2026.
