What is the significance of the Arkenstone? This question resonates deeply within the realms of fantasy literature, particularly in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and Robert E. Howard. The Arkenstone, a mythical gemstone, serves as a central element in various tales, symbolizing power, unity, and the quest for the ultimate good. This article delves into the significance of the Arkenstone, exploring its role in shaping the narratives and the impact it has on the characters involved.
The Arkenstone first appeared in Robert E. Howard’s short story “The Tower of the Elephant,” where it was a powerful artifact that held the key to saving the world from darkness. In Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” the Arkenstone is a central object in the story of the Elves, serving as a symbol of their unity and the power to defeat the dark forces. Both stories showcase the Arkenstone as a beacon of hope and a source of immense power, but the reasons behind its significance differ in each narrative.
In “The Tower of the Elephant,” the Arkenstone is the heart of the Tower, a structure that houses the world’s magic. The stone itself is said to possess the power to bind all the magic of the world together, ensuring its survival. The significance of the Arkenstone in this story lies in its ability to maintain balance and harmony within the magical realm. The protagonist, King Kull, must retrieve the Arkenstone from the clutches of an evil sorcerer to save the world from destruction. The Arkenstone’s importance here is not only as a source of power but also as a symbol of the protagonist’s quest for justice and balance.
In Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” the Arkenstone takes on a different role. It is a gemstone of immense power, said to be the heart of the Elven kingdom of Gondor. The stone is passed down through generations of the Elven kings, and its significance lies in its ability to unite the Elves and the Men of Gondor against the forces of darkness. The Arkenstone’s importance in this story is not just as a source of power but also as a symbol of the quest for unity and the fight against tyranny. The protagonist, Frodo Baggins, must protect the Arkenstone from the clutches of the Dark Lord Sauron, ensuring that it remains a source of hope and unity for the free peoples of Middle-earth.
Both stories highlight the Arkenstone’s significance in the quest for good and the fight against evil. It serves as a symbol of power, unity, and the ultimate good. The Arkenstone’s power is not limited to its physical form but extends to the hearts and minds of the characters involved. It represents the idea that true power lies not in the possession of artifacts but in the unity and determination of the people.
In conclusion, the significance of the Arkenstone lies in its ability to shape the narratives of the stories in which it appears. It symbolizes the quest for good, the fight against evil, and the importance of unity and determination. Whether in “The Tower of the Elephant” or “The Lord of the Rings,” the Arkenstone remains a powerful and enduring symbol of the human spirit’s struggle against darkness and the quest for the ultimate good.
