#edith crowe

This theme permeates Tolkien's work: the absolute necessity or both male and female elements, however defined, for the proper functioning of both individuals and societies.  More importantly, he recognizes the interdependence of male and female, and suggests repeatedly that to ignore one at the expense of the other is a grave mistake which at the very least diminishes the individual and at the worst can lead to disaster for both the individual and the society.  Not only are Manwë and Varda both the supreme powers among the Valar, but they enhance each other's power: 'When Manwë [...] ascends his throne and looks forth, if Varda is beside him, he sees further than all other eyes [...] And if Manwë is with her, Varda hears more clearly than all other ears' (The Silmarillion).