Why Did Sauron and Morgoth Have Servants Make the Rings of Power Instead of Doing It Themselves?

Delving deep into the intricate lore of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, a fascinating aspect of Sauron’s character emerges. Why did he prefer to have others create the rings of power, rather than forging them himself? The reasons are rooted in Sauron's strategic astuteness, his physical limitations, and his desire to manipulate others.

Strategic and Physical Limitations

Sauron, the primary villain of The Lord of the Rings, is portrayed as a master of manipulation and deception. From a practical standpoint, Sauron chose to have others create the rings because it was simpler and more effective. As a blacksmith, it makes sense why Sauron would prefer to have existing items reworked rather than starting from scratch. Additionally, the forging of nineteen rings required a significant portion of his power, which he could conserve for more critical tasks. (See Appendix D of the History of Middle-earth series).

Another theory is that Sauron was still rebuilding his self after the War of Wrath, which left him weakened and unable to create something from nothing. Instead, he used his knowledge and influence to empower others, allowing him to maintain control without expending his own power. This method was more aligned with Sauron's overall strategy of lying and deception, as seen in his persona as the "Lord of Gifts" (Annatar).

Manipulating Others and Maintaining Power

In the context of the Second Age, Sauron’s goal was to create stability and control among the races of Middle-earth. By delegating the task of ring-making to the Elves of Eregion, Sauron was able to manipulate their actions and interests without directly intervening. This was crucial for his plan to eventually dominate the minds and wills of the wearers of the rings.

Morgoth, the original Dark Lord, had laid the groundwork for Sauron’s ascension. By having Morgoth create the One Ring, Sauron could ensure that he remained at the top of the hierarchy. The distribution of the other rings among Elves, Dwarves, and Men was designed to create a network of loyalists and agents, each under the influence of Sauron through the Other Rings. (See The Silmarillion for more details).

The Rings of Power were first attempted by the Noldor Elves in Eregion under the tutelage of Sauron. Through clever manipulation, Sauron led the craftsmen of Eregion into creating the rings, thereby securing his influence over them. This allowed Sauron to maintain his power while conserving his own energy for more critical tasks, such as the creation of the One Ring.

Creating the One Ring and the Nature of Power

The construction of the One Ring was the zenith of Sauron’s power and his ultimate goal. By crafting the Ruling Ring, Sauron tied up most of his influence and power, placing it in the hands of the One Ring. The creation of the One Ring required the greatest part of his power, and without it, he could no longer shape and dominate the lesser rings and their wearers. (See The Lord of the Rings, Appendix A).

Tolkien’s broader theme in creating the rings is the corrupting influence of power. The concept of the rings is deeply rooted in the idea that power, if centralized, can lead to the domination and destruction of free will. Sauron’s desire to control the rings was a reflection of his own vanity and lust for power, but it also led to his downfall. The lesser rings, while powerful in their own right, could not match the overwhelming power of the One Ring, and their break from Sauron was inevitable.

In conclusion, Sauron’s decision to have others create the rings of power was a strategic move that aligned with his desire to maintain control and influence. His physical limitations and the corrupting nature of power meant that he could not create the rings himself. Instead, he leveraged the skills and trust of others, ensuring that he would remain the ultimate authority over Middle-earth. This strategy, though paradoxical, was central to Sauron’s role as both a villain and a tragic figure in Tolkien’s narrative.

Keywords: