The Nature of Sauron and the One Ring in Tolkien's Legendarium

The role of Sauron in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth is one of the most intricate and multifaceted portrayals in his vast legendarium. The One Ring, a central element, holds a significant and complex position in the narrative. While Tolkien provides few direct insights into Sauron's perspective, we can infer a lot about his feelings and intentions toward his creation.

Sauron's Ambivalence and the One Ring

The development of the One Ring and the subsequent events of The Lord of the Rings present Sauron's complex feelings and motivations. At the time of its creation, Sauron likely felt a mix of satisfaction and ambivalence. The Ring allowed him to focus his power and control over others through their rings, giving rise to the Ringwraiths. This granted him significant influence and dominion over Middle-earth for most of a long age.

However, the loss of the One Ring marked a major turning point. Sauron's diminished state and the potential threat of another powerful individual wielding the Ring suggested that his actions had consequences far grander and more significant than initially intended. In his final moments, as the Ring neared its destruction, Sauron's regret and hatred towards his creation became deeply personal. Though he might have sought to regain and destroy the Ring, his desires for power were ultimately thwarted.

Melkor's Perspective: A Waste of Power

Melkor (Morgoth), the first of the Ainur to fall and the greatest of the Dark Lords, would likely view the One Ring and Sauron's actions with disdain. Melkor's fusion of his powers into a single Ring that would irrevocably destroy him upon its destruction contrasts sharply with his youthful ambitions. Melkor, driven by the delusion of becoming a Creator, sought the Secret Fire but instead devolved into destructive and corrupting forces. In his eyes, Sauron's attempts would be seen as futile and a waste of power.

Melkor would likely have seen Sauron's goal of commanding the minds of Middle-earth's creatures as an incomplete and limited attempt at corruption. The destruction of the Ring symbolized therarian failure of attaining a greater power, and Melkor would have laughed at Sauron's grandiose ambitions, labeling them as mere attention-seeking.

The Legacy of Morgoth

The concept of Arda being "Morgoth's Ring" as described by Christopher Tolkien in "The Silmarillion" encapsulates the Dark Lord's profound impact on the world. Morgoth's diffusion of his powers over Arda embroiled the world in corruption and destruction. Sauron, in contrast, was a lesser but still significant figure, focusing his power on dominion and control, rather than outright creation or destruction.

Melkor's severe policies and destructive nature could be seen as more extreme than Sauron's. While Morgoth wanted to corrupt the world, Sauron sought to dominate and control the minds of others. Morgoth's ultimate failure and the ongoing corruption of Arda represent a more direct confrontation with the dictates of the Creator. Sauron's plans, while grand, never reached the same destructive scale as Morgoth's.

Narrative Insight: The Dialogue from "Nightfall in Middle-Earth"

The significance of the Ring and its impact on Sauron is further illustrated in the narrated introduction of Blind Guardian's album, "Nightfall in Middle-Earth." A concept album inspired by the "Silmarillion," the dialogue between Sauron and Morgoth provides a poignant glimpse into their relationships and the outcomes of their actions.

Morgoth, having accomplished much but failing twice, shows recognition of Sauron's cunning yet underestimates his ambition. Sauron's plea, 'As you command, my lord,' coupled with Morgoth's nonchalant dismissal, 'I release thee go, my servant you’ll be for all time,' hints at a deeper understanding of Sauron's true nature even as he serves.

War of Wrath - Nightfall in Middle-Earth - Blind Guardian

Morgoth:
And you know them too
I release thee go
my servant you’ll be for all time
Sauron:
As you command, my king

These words encapsulate the complex and multifaceted relationship between Sauron and his master, and the often ephemeral nature of power in Middle-earth.

Conclusion

The One Ring and Sauron's actions are emblematic of the complex and often dichotomous relationship between power and corruption in Tolkien's legendarium. Whether viewed through the lens of Melkor or Morgoth, the legacy of Sauron and the One Ring remains a compelling exploration of power, ambition, and the consequences of our actions.

Through this exploration, we gain deeper insights into the characters and the overarching themes of Tolkien's world. The ultimate fate of the One Ring and the fate of those who wield it serve as powerful reminders of the fleeting nature of power and the profound impact of our choices.