Did Sauron Love Morgoth? An Exploration of Relationships and Themes in Tolkien's Mythology

It is often posited that Sauron had a complex and deep-seated love for the fallen Vala, Morgoth, just as the evil sorcerer Saruman admired Sauron's skills. However, such notions paint a picture that might be off the mark, especially when we delve into the nuances of Tolkien's mythology. Let's explore the intricate web of relationships in Middle-earth, focusing particularly on Sauron and Morgoth, and the broader themes of love, pride, and seduction in J.R.R. Tolkien's works.

The Nature of Sauron's Affection for Morgoth

According to Tolkien, there was no deep-seated love or emotional bond between Sauron and Morgoth. Sauron, whose original name was Mairon, was indeed seduced by Morgoth, but this seduction does not herald a romantic or loving relationship. Instead, it refers to the influence that Morgoth had on Mairon, tempting him towards evil.

From the outset, Sauron was Morgoth's greatest follower and advisor, embodying the dark power and malevolence that characterized their shared essence. Their relationship was not one of romantic love, but rather a professional and strategic alliance based on mutual ambition and shared goals. This partnership, however, was ultimately one of convenience, as both knew that such alliances could easily dissolve as both sides sought to exploit the other for their own gain.

Power and Enticement

The seduction by Morgoth could be interpreted as a form of enticement, much like the influence of power over any individual. For Sauron, strong like any other person, the temptation to harness greater power, to become greater than others, was hard to resist. This reflects a common theme in Tolkien's works where the lure of power and its corrupting influence often leads to tragic outcomes.

Deeply embedded in Tolkien's narrative is the theme of pride and its destructive consequences. Pride, whether manifest as love, ambition, or the desire for power, leads to one's downfall. This is seen in numerous characters in Middle-earth, such as Melkor (Morgoth) who was tempted by power, and Sauron, who despite his loyalty and service to Morgoth, eventually chose his own path, culminating in his own ultimate defeat.

A Devout Christian Influence

It is essential to recognize the influence of Tolkien's personal beliefs on his writing. As a devout Catholic and an ardent Christian, Tolkien viewed the notion of love, particularly romantic love, through a different lens. The use of words like "seduced" in the context of Mairon's transformation to Sauron is not romantic in the traditional sense but rather indicative of the temptation and influence of power and corruption.

Tolkien's upbringing in Victorian England and his experiences as a young Catholic had a profound impact on his worldview, making the themes of love, seduction, and power highly reflective of his Christian teachings. His characters' journeys and their personal struggles are often rooted in the conflict between good and evil, and the dangers of succumbing to the allure of power and desire.

For Tolkien, the idea of truly loving someone, in the romantic sense, is often juxtaposed with the dangers of succumbing to pride and hubris. Characters like Saruman, who admired Sauron's power but ultimately betrayed him, serve as cautionary examples of the perils of unchecked ambition and the dangers of straying from one's moral compass.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sauron's relationship with Morgoth was one founded on influence, ambition, and mutual interest rather than love. While the powerful dark lord did seduce Mairon, this was not a romantic or affectionate relationship but rather a strategic alliance driven by the allure of power and the desire for greatness. This complex and nuanced relationship is a crucial element in understanding the broader themes of Tolkien's mythology, where love, power, and pride all play pivotal roles in shaping the narrative of Middle-earth.