'The Children of Húrin' (1957) by J R R Tolkien

This is a tragic tale set in Middle-earth during the First Age, focusing on the cursed lineage of Húrin Thalion and his children, Túrin and Niënor. The story is a standalone expansion of material found in The Silmarillion, edited and compiled posthumously by Christopher Tolkien.

Plot Summary: After Húrin defies Morgoth, the dark lord curses him and his family. Morgoth's curse ensures that tragedy will follow Húrin's children wherever they go.

Túrin's Journey: Early Years: Túrin is sent to Doriath to be fostered by King Thingol for his safety. He grows into a skilled warrior but becomes estranged after an accidental killing, leading him to leave the kingdom.

Banditry and Leadership: Túrin assumes various aliases and becomes a leader among outlaws. He is known as a fearless but often reckless warrior.

Tragic Missteps: His pride and hasty decisions lead to misunderstandings and further tragedy, including the betrayal of his allies and the destruction of Nargothrond, a hidden Elven kingdom, by the dragon Glaurung.

Confrontation with Glaurung: Túrin slays Glaurung but is unaware of the dragon's manipulations that bring about devastating consequences for his family.

Niënor's Fate: Lost Identity: Túrin's sister, Niënor, is ensnared by Glaurung’s enchantment, causing her to lose her memory. She unknowingly marries Túrin, as neither recognizes the other due to the dragon’s spell.

Revelation and Despair: Glaurung’s death lifts the enchantment, revealing their true identities. Overwhelmed by the horror of their situation, Niënor takes her own life.

Túrin's Tragic End: Túrin, devastated by the realization of Morgoth's curse and his unwitting part in its fulfillment, takes his own life with his sword, Gurthang.

Themes: The story is deeply woven with themes of fate, free will, and the devastating power of curses. Despite Túrin’s heroic qualities, his pride and impulsiveness exacerbate his suffering. The tale also highlights the enduring struggle between light and shadow in Middle-earth.

Significance: The Children of Húrin is a dark and poignant addition to Tolkien's legendarium, showcasing the depth and complexity of his world-building and storytelling. It stands as one of the most tragic and emotionally charged narratives in the mythology of Middle-earth.