An Analysis of Morgoth's Conflicts and Their Impact on the Narrative Equilibrium in “The Silmarillion” (1977) by J.R.R. Tolkien

Abstract

This study examines the internal and external conflicts of Morgoth in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion (1977) and their impacts on the narrative equilibrium of Tolkien’s broader literary framework. The research problems focus on three key points: identifying Morgoth’s internal conflicts, examining his external conflicts, and explaining how these conflicts impact both his actions and the broader narrative. The primary objectives are to reveal how Morgoth’s inner struggles, such as ambition, fear, and envy, and his external clashes with characters, societies, nature, and creations, function as the driving forces of the story. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method, applying William Kenney’s theory of internal and external conflict (1966) and Tzvetan Todorov’s narrative structure (1977). The findings show that Morgoth’s internal conflicts, his unbridled ambition, existential rebellion, fear of losing power, and jealousy toward other Valar directly shape his destructive actions. His external conflicts manifest as battles against other characters, societies, natural order, and creations, each of which aligns with distinct stages of Todorov’s narrative model: disruption, recognition, attempt to repair, and the return to equilibrium. However, Morgoth’s role as a permanent disruptor prevents a complete restoration of balance, not only in The Silmarillion but also across Tolkien’s larger legendarium, including The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Thus, this research highlights how Morgoth’s layered conflicts serve as both psychological and structural engines that define Tolkien’s mythopoeic narrative.