The Silmarillion Ch 9: Of the Flight of the Noldor

[Earniel]

Originally Posted by Varnafindë

Might only be by being unfair to them and preferring Fëanor - but then again, they might accept more easily than the eldest has a special place, whereas Fëanor could be more likely to see things as a slight against himself.

Considering Finwë's second marriage is only mentioned after Feanor's own marriage in the text, Feanor must have been an adult by the time Indis' sons were born. So their 'place' (down the totempole) must have been obvious to both younger brothers from early on. Feanor's shadow would always have been looming large over them, as eldest, firstborn and accomplished craftsman in his own right. And Finwë's heir. Feanor would have made sure in his very own, personal way they knew that and that he was to come in all things first.

Finwë wouldn't even have had to shown favour to his eldest for the younger brothers to understand this. Feanor's behaviour alone would have made it clear.

Perhaps it was a good thing Feanor was so often away while they were kids. Talk about one toxic environment to grow up in...

As you said, he's not a great king, and he's probably not a great husband either. Too stubborn and too bent on having things his own way.

Yeah and it's odd I never picked up on that before.