Literature
Why Did Saruman Refuse to Help Gandalf in The Two Towers?
Why Did Saruman Refuse to Help Gandalf in The Two Towers?
When the war of the Ring erupted, it was clear that Middle-earth was in a state of turmoil. Both Saruman and Gandalf found themselves on opposite sides, ultimately making strategic and moral choices that reflected their respective natures. This essay explores why Saruman chose to refuse Gandalf's help, examining his perspective and motivations, and highlighting the different paths they chose in the context of the story.
Introduction: A Tale of Two Wizards
In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Two Towers, we witness the clash between Saruman and Gandalf. Both are powerful and wise, but their choices and actions are sharply different. Saruman, once a trusted and respected member of the White Council, had turned to the Dark Side, betraying his former allies and aspiring to become the all-powerful ruler of Middle-earth. Gandalf, on the other hand, remained faithful to the light, determined to thwart Sauron's plans, even as he faced imprisonment on Orthanc.
Saruman's Perspective: From Hubris to Humiliation
From his perspective, Saruman believed that joining Gandalf would be counterproductive. He saw no value in associating with a 'wandering aimlessly around Middle-earth making friends with powerless runts and bartenders.' The powerful and wise wizards of the world, including Saruman himself, did not derive much utility from such pursuits. Saruman thought that apart from passing on idle gossip, Gandalf would be of little use in the grand scheme of things.
The Siege of Edoras and Saruman's Plan
With the war of the Ring imminent, Saruman recognized that Gandalf possessed both power and wisdom. He invited Gandalf to join him on the path to power and influence, offering him a position of trust and authority. However, Saruman's plan was to treat Gandalf as a mere underling, possibly granting him a domain to rule that would mirror the size of the help Gandalf provided in securing Saruman's position as the dominant force.
In the context of the Siege of Edoras, Saruman's forces were defeated, and the Ents turned the tide against his armies. When Gandalf revealed himself, breaking Saruman's staff, the latter was undoubtedly shocked. The betrayal and the destruction of the One Ring by Frodo and Sam seemed to close any viable path to power and redemption. Saruman, now a creature of spite, felt that the universe had failed to give him a fair chance. His actions and decisions became further fueled by anger and resentment.
The Clouds of Despair
In The Two Towers, Saruman's refusal to help Gandalf can be viewed as a series of strategic and personal choices. His belief in the natural hierarchy of power and wisdom within the White Council was deeply rooted. He was not ready to lower himself to Being a subordinate, e.g., becoming a mere underling to Gandalf. Instead, he chose to pursue his own path, albeit a doomed one.
The turning point came with Gandalf's revelation and the breaking of Saruman's staff. For a moment, it seemed like Saruman might reconsider his choices. However, the destruction of the One Ring by the Fellowship, especially by Frodo and Sam, sealed his fate. Saruman, now humiliated and bitter, sought revenge, viewing the universe through the lens of his own self-perceived injustice.
Conclusion: Lessons from Saruman's Downfall
The story of Saruman and Gandalf in The Two Towers offers deeper insights into the nature of power, wisdom, and leadership. Saruman's refusal to help Gandalf was a complex decision fueled by personal pride, strategic misjudgment, and a deep-seated sense of betrayal. While Gandalf's choices reflect faith and hope, Saruman's path is one of despair and self-destruction. Both characters represent different facets of the human (or halfling) experience, providing valuable lessons for those who seek to navigate the challenges of power and morality.