Silvan Elves

Elves of the forests of Middle-earth

The Silvan Elves were the groups of Elves who inhabited the great forests of eastern Middle-earth, chiefly Mirkwood and Lothlórien. They were also known as Wood-elves.

The Silvan Elves had their origins in the Vales of Anduin, where mingled groups of Sindar, Nandor, Teleri, and Avari dwelt. These were Elves who had either turned aside from the Great Journey to Aman or never begun it, choosing instead to remain in Middle-earth and settle east of the Misty Mountains.

Their original tongue fell out of use during the First Age, giving way to Sindarin. Traces of Nandorin remain only in certain ancient names, such as Laurelindórinan, the early name for Lothlórien.

After the fall of Beleriand, few of the High Elves remained in Middle-earth, and fewer still settled in the East. One notable exception was Galadriel, who through her lineage and power assumed the rule of Lothlórien after the death of King Amroth.

Most of the Silvan Elves were ruled by lords of the Grey Elves. Among these rulers were Oropher, Thranduil, and Legolas of the Woodland Realm, and Amdír, Amroth, and Celeborn of Lothlórien.