Akallabêth

Akallabêth, meaning "The Downfallen" in Quenya, is a narrative within J. R. R. Tolkien's legendarium that recounts the rise and fall of Númenor, the great island-kingdom of Men, and the events that led to its destruction by the sea. It is presented as a historical account within The Silmarillion and forms part of the broader mythological history of Middle-earth.

Set in the later years of the Second Age, the tale describes Númenor's emergence after aiding the Elves in the wars against Morgoth. The Valar grant the Númenóreans long life and great power in gratitude, but over time the rulers become proud and suspicious of the peoples of Middle-earth. They are increasingly influenced by Sauron, who deceives them and aids their governance while concealing his true allegiance. The Númenórean leadership, led by Ar-Pharazôn, rejects the Valar's ban on travel to Aman and seeks immortality through conquest rather than accepting mortality. Sauron’s influence deepens, and Númenor wages war against the Undying Lands.

The Valar, acting to prevent the dominion of death and the corruption of their lesser brethren, cause Númenor to be destroyed by the sea. A remnant, led by Elendil and his sons, escapes to Middle-earth and establishes the kingdoms of Arnor in the north and Gondor in the south, laying the foundations for the later history of the Realms of Men in Tolkien’s legendarium.

Publication and themes: Akallabêth is contained in The Silmarillion, edited by Christopher Tolkien, and presents a compact narrative of hubris, mortality, and downfall. It is one of the key components explaining the later history of Númenor and its enduring legacy in Middle-earth.