1995 The Silmarillion (Martin Shaw)

Release Date: 1995
Reader: Martin Shaw
Language: English
Translator: n/a
Organization: HarperCollins
Copyright: ℗ 1988 HarperCollins Publishers Ltd, London, UK
ISBN: See below
Duration: 14 hours 50 minutes
Unabridged: Yes
Country: United Kingdom
Licenced: Yes
Formats: Cassette, CD, MP3, Digital

The 1998 recording of The Silmarillion by Martin Shaw was a landmark production that served as the primary English audio version of the text for 25 years. The production was a collaboration between HarperCollins (UK) and Random House Audio/BDD Audio (US). It was first released as a multi-volume set of 12 cassettes that included an exclusive brochure and a map of Beleriand and also as a 13 CD box set. A more detailed release history is being complied.

Shaw adopted a style often described as “religious solemnity” or “majestic,” perfectly matching the high mythological tone of Tolkien’s prose. While primarily a straight narration, Shaw occasionally breaks into specific character voices to distinguish dialogue. For over two decades, it was the only unabridged version available, making Shaw the “voice” of the First Age for a generation of fans.

While generally praised, Shaw was given no notes on pronunciation so there are some errors and minor inconsistencies.