Girdle of Melian discussion

[Valandil]

Calandil - thanks for reviving this discussion!

I see the "Girdle of Melian" as some combination of mists and plants - maybe more plants - that would inhibit entry by non-Elves into Doriath. Similar to how the Old Forest "guided" travelers where it willed. I think it had more effectiveness against lone travelers, rather than armies or powerful beings. As pointed out above - Doriath was further protected by mountains and spiders to the north, and by Noldorin kingdoms otherwise. And Elven guards may have completed the protection.

I don't think that Beren's fate was greater than Melian's power - but I think his fate was interwoven with hers, and with Doriath, so that he was able to eventually wander on in.

As for the poem cited above, regarding the power of Melian... perhaps more poetic license than sober assessment?

Makes me think also of whatever barriers were set between Beleriand and Valinor - in function if not in form.

I think I see it much the same as several others here... though it's hard to draw a final conclusion.