Why Saruman is a Villain in JRR Tolkien's Lord of the Rings
In JRR Tolkien's masterpieces, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, the relentless pursuit of power and ambition is a common theme. Among the many characters who embody this desire, Saruman, the Grey Wizard, is perhaps one of the most compelling and complex villains. But why is Saruman a villain in Tolkien's work? What was Tolkien's intention in crafting Saruman as the antagonist?
Evil as a Character Archetype
Tolkien sets the stage for decades of fantasy literature by writing Saruman as a villain. While Sauron is the primary malevolent force, it's Saruman who serves as a closer reflection of what happens when power goes to an individual’s head. Tolkien's treatment of Saruman is rooted in the archetypal understanding of evil as a corrupted form of greatness. Without delving too deeply into his method, Tolkien's work is part of a larger narrative that explores the corrupted hearts of those who would use power for their own gain.
The Legendarium and Tolkien's Vision
The Legendarium, a vast universe of languages, cultures, and histories that Tolkien created, existed long before the hobbits of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. These works were more than just novels; they were explorations of literary and cultural concepts. The Hobbit was envisioned as a proof of concept to showcase Tolkien's vision for "children's" literature, while The Lord of the Rings was written as a response to the desire for a sequel.
Tolkien's masterwork was inspired by his desire to expand the Legendarium, reclaim and honor the aspects of Germanic and Norse culture, and publish portions of his extensive world-building. In his letters and contemporaneous writings, Tolkien describes the creative process as an unfolding journey of inspiration and insight. Revisions of drafts and outlining were always guided by these moments of revelation.
Saruman's Role in the Narrative
Standing at the heart of the narrative, Saruman serves multiple purposes. As a member of the Istari (the Wizards), he initially represents wisdom and guidance. However, as the story unfolds, Saruman's character develops in response to his own internal conflicts and the greater narrative needs of the work. His decision to abandon his ethical principles in pursuit of power mirrors the broader themes of moral corruption and the perils of pride.
As Tolkien crafted the tale, he was deeply influenced by the ideas of authors such as George MacDonald and C.S. Lewis, both of whom are integral to the broader discourses on literature and morality that shaped Tolkien's work. The Silmarillion, a more ancient text within the Legendarium, provides further context for the moral complexity of characters like Saruman.
The Intellectual Depths and Inspiration
What is perhaps most inspiring about Tolkien as a writer is his disciplined approach to his creative process. While he was eager to fulfill the demands of his narrative, he never succumbed to impatience. He waited for inspiration and trusted in the unfolding of his story. This level of patience and faith in the creative process is a testament to his immense intellect and the diverse sources of inspiration that informed his work.
Tolkien wove together a rich tapestry of ideas and inspirations, ensuring that each element served the greater narrative without causing contradictions. His intellect and the multitude of sources he drew upon are a testament to the depth and breadth of his imagination. The intricate weaving of these threads into the story's fabric is a hallmark of Tolkien's genius.
The story of Saruman is one of a complex and tragic arc, reflecting the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Through Saruman, Tolkien offers a nuanced exploration of the human condition and the eternal struggle between good and evil.