Fasciastrekk

Fasciastrekk is a term used in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth legendarium to describe a maritime journey or a period of sailing. The word is derived from the Old Norse word "festa," meaning "fast" or "firm," and the Old English word "strecca," meaning "journey" or "voyage." However, Tolkien's adaptation of the word includes the Latin prefix "fascia," meaning "bundle" or "group," possibly suggesting a gathering or assembly of people on a ship or a group of vessels.

In Tolkien's works, Fasciastrekk is mentioned in the song 'Eärendel' from the First Age, which tells the story of Eärendil's journey to the Undying Lands. Specifically, the Fasciastrekk refers to Eärendil's voyage from the shores of Middle-earth, carrying Elvish word and hope, to the doors of Valinor. The song describes Eärendil and his companions experiencing a series of trials and hardships at sea, demonstrating the power and resilience of the blessed mariner and the importance of this journey in Middle-earth's history.

Tolkien's Fasciastrekk emphasizes the theme of a journey by sea, highlighting its significance as a means of connection and interaction between different cultures and people. The inclusion of Fasciastrekk in Tolkien's mythology serves to underscore the importance of Eärendil's role as an ambassador between the Elves and Men of Middle-earth, further contributing to the richness and depth of Tolkien's legendarium.

The Fasciastrekk provides a testament to Tolkien's extensive knowledge of mythology, phylogeny, and linguistic history, undergoing a progressive evolution from an Old Norse and Old English base through the Latin influence. The perfect blend of Tolkien's mythology highlights his comprehensive knowledge in human languages, translated into a character within his Masterwork, that gives life and roots to the invented Middle Earth.