Understanding Gandalf's Dilemma in Fellowship of the Ring

In J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece The Lord of the Rings, the character Gandalf faces a significant dilemma in determining the safest route for the Fellowship to approach Mount Doom and destroy the One Ring. His decision to enter Moria, despite knowing the dangers, is a pivotal moment in the story.

Gandalf's Options and the Battle of Wills

Initially, ardent fans and readers debate whether Gandalf should have gone over the mountains or taken another route around Mordor. However, the reality is more complex, as Gandalf cannot simply turn back or find an alternative route due to the combined challenges posed by the weather and Sauron's opposition.

Bad Weather and Sauron's Influence

Gandalf suggested going over the mountains, but the treacherous weather conditions and Saruman's interference made this impossible. Saruman had already imprisoned Gandalf, and his control over the region around Isengard made the area too dangerous to attempt crossing. The weather conditions, which included storms and avalanches, further hindered their progress.

The Mines of Moria: A Veritable Trap

Another viable option, the Mines of Moria, faced its own set of dangers. The mines were known to be infested with orcs, an adversary already known to Gandalf. However, the true horror that lay within Moria— the Balrog— was a secret even Gandalf had missed until its encounter with the Fellowship.

In the books, Gandalf did not know about the Balrog until the Fellowship encountered it in the mines. The presence of the Balrog was a terrifying discovery that underscored the gravity of their situation.

Frodo's Decision

Given these constraints, Frodo was left to make the final decision. His choice was ultimately to go through the mines, a route fraught with peril as stated in the book: 'He let Frodo pick, and Frodo decided to go through Moria. The events of the skirmish ensued.'

The Betrayal of Saruman: A Turning Point

The betrayal by Saruman led to the Fellowship's current dire straits. Saruman, who was not only imprisoned but later revealed as an enemy, had turned on the Fellowship, and this revelation left them with three primary options. Arguably, the first option—going around the Misty Mountains—was eliminated immediately due to Saruman's reach and control over the region. The second option, going over the mountains, was hindered by severe and stormy weather, making it an impractical choice for travel.

Strategic Importance of the Mines of Moria

The only option left was going under the mountains, which entailed traversing the Mines of Moria. This choice was not without its risks but provided the safest and most practical route. It allowed the company to proceed while avoiding the treacherous pass over the mountains and the inhospitable terrain controlled by Saruman. Furthermore, Gandalf decided to retry the pass of Caradhras (Caradhras Pass) at the urging of Aragorn and Boromir, hoping to make the first option viable once more.

The Greater Good and Gandalf's Wisdom

Gandalf's final decision to defy the immediate dangers and enter Moria, although hesitant, was motivated by a commitment to the greater good. Despite the Balrog, the mines held a safer route compared to the alternative options. Gandalf's wisdom in this regard comes from his understanding that sometimes the path of least resistance is the most advantageous one.

Through strategic insight and a commitment to his mission, Gandalf navigated the Fellowship safely through the Mines of Moria, even if it meant facing the daunting threat of the Balrog. This decision underscores the depth of his character and the complexity of his role in the quest to destroy the One Ring.