The Silmarillion Ch 14: Of Beleriand and Its Realms

[Keith K]

What I find odd about the distribution of the Ñoldorian kingdoms in ME is that the region in which Aegnor and Angrod dwell, seems to me to be the place where Morgoth would attack first, why is it then that it was one of the places that had the least Elves in there.

I always thought of that placement as a strategic weakness. Yet they had to hold the line somewhere in the center and Dorthonion was a highland plateau and thus somewhat defensible. However, there were no passes over the Ered Gorgoroth to their rear which were said to fall in steep precipices. That means they had their backs to the wall with no line of retreat. Realizing this, perhaps the Elves made a conscious effort to keep the population low so they could evacuate after slowing the advance of any attack. The time bought in the center of the line would in theory allow for flanking counterattacks from east and west. Then again, if the Ered Gorgoroth was so steep why didn't they just leave that as their defense and abandon any thought of occupying Dorthonion? That would have been more sound strategically. Besides, any attempt to breach the Ered Gorgoroth would send them right into Thingol. I'm sure the sons of Feanor would have counselled that very thing.