The Fates of Saruman and Grima Wormtongue in a Post-Sauron World

In the aftermath of a victorious Sauron, the fates of the former allies, Saruman and Grima Wormtongue, would be deeply entangled in the new power dynamics of Middle Earth. This essay explores possible scenarios for their lives under such circumstances, delving into the immediate and long-term consequences.

Exile or Governance in Gondor and Rohan

Upon the defeat of Gondor and Rohan by Sauron, Saruman's prospects appeared grim. The Mouth of Sauron, in his terms at the Black Gate, indicated that Saruman was to be exiled, not as a trusted ally. Instead, he would be reduced to the status of a mere warden at Orthanc, with the Nazg?l in pursuit.

1. Saruman's Fate: Saruman, with his hubris, might have attempted an escape beyond the Misty Mountains. However, his elven and non-evil Maiar nature makes him a significant threat even exile. Sauron, with a keen interest in maintaining control, would not tolerate a freeWizard on the borders of his newly conquered realms. The Nazg?l would be relentless in capturing him, leading to his eventual imprisonment in Barad-Dur, where he would be under constant surveillance.

2. Grima Wormtongue's Fate: Unlike Saruman, Grima Wormtongue was merely a pawn and a tool. His fate, should Sauron defeat Gondor and Rohan, would likely be less severe but still fraught with danger. Sauron, after all, had reasons to keep potential allies close rather than incinerate them entirely. Wormtongue, based on his actions and the circumstances, might share Saruman's fate or face the vengeance of the Rohirrim for his past betrayals.

The Shire and Independent Governance

When considering the Shire's position, Sauron’s influence would be limited. A band of ruffians, lacking in proper martial might, would be the extent of his control. The hobbits, including those who feared or despised Grima Wormtongue, would quickly organize to resist any attempts at subjugation.

1. Saruman's Hypothetical Journey to the Shire: If Saruman failed to escape to safer grounds, he might choose to head to the Shire. The Shire, with its idealism and complacency, would be an attractive refuge for a now-inexperienced Saruman. However, the resistance of the hobbits under the leadership of the likes of the Took clan and potential allies like Merry Brandybuck would be formidable.

Assuming he did reach the Shire, he would face the direct and determined opposition of the hobbits. The possibility of finding safety there seems unlikely, given the potential for betrayal and ingratitude from the local population. Moreover, the protective nature of the Shire's inhabitants suggests that Saruman might be quickly overthrown and imprisoned, possibly alongside figures like Lobelia Sackville-Baggins and Fatty Bolger.

2. Grima Wormtongue's Fates: Similarly, if Grima Wormtongue attempted to return to the Shire, he would face an even more perilous fate. The local population, having endured his treachery, would not hesitate to deal with him harshly. Factions like the Bingo’s regime would ensure his swift and painful demise, making the Lockholes at Michael Delving an apt metaphor for his fate.

Final Reflections

From these scenarios, it is evident that Saruman and Grima Wormtongue would face dire consequences if Sauron defeated Gondor and Rohan. Both would be hunted, exiled, or openly resisted. The endgame for Saruman seems to point towards Barad-Dur, where he would be under Sauron’s constant watch and eventual irrelevance. Grima Wormtongue’s fate seems equally grim, possibly facing the vengeance of the Rohirrim or outright execution by the resistant Shire population.

Their stories, shaped by their choices and actions throughout the series, suggest that mercy was an emotion not to be expected in the shadow of Sauron’s power. Saruman and Grima Wormtongue’s lives would be dictated by the stern justice and relentless pursuit of their erstwhile master, leaving them with no room for redemption or reprieve.