Did Sauron Trust Saruman: The Complex Dynamics of a Sith-Style Alliance in Middle-earth

In J.R.R. Tolkien's complex universe of Middle-earth, the relationship between Sauron and Saruman is a significant part of the overarching narrative of conflict and betrayal. The question of trust—or rather, the lack thereof—between these two powerful beings is a pivotal element in the dynamics of their alliance and eventual conflict.

The Background of Sauron and Saruman

Before delving into the central theme of trust, it is essential to understand the backgrounds of Sauron and Saruman. Both Sauron and Saruman are beings of immense power and malevolence, and their stories are deeply intertwined with the broader narrative of Middle-earth.

Sauron, the lord of the Rings, is a being of ancient evil. He is a being of immense power, and his ultimate goal is the subjugation of all of Middle-earth to his will. Saruman, on the other hand, is a powerful wizard who originally served the order of wizards known as the Istari. Over time, his ambition and vanity led him to seek power for himself, and he eventually turned against the Valar and the order of wizards.

The Temporary Alliance

Their alliance was a matter of convenience and mutual gain. Temporarily combining their efforts against their common foe, Aragorn, seemed like a rational decision.

The first book of The Lord of the Rings, The Fellowship of the Ring, sets the scene for their alliance. Sauron, needing to defeat the remaining free peoples of Middle-earth, seeks help to reclaim his lost Ring. Saruman, driven by his own ambition and the desire to expand his power, sees an opportunity to use Sauron's resources to further his own ends. This leads to their initial collaboration, which appears to be a strategic move for both parties.

Irony of Beholding the Malevolent

Ironically, both Sauron and Saruman found themselves beholden to the other. Sauron, aware of Saruman's intentions, nonetheless saw in him a tool to achieve his objectives. Saruman, believing that he could manipulate and control Sauron, was also entranced by the power that Sauron represented.

Yet, despite their temporary alliance, trust was never a component in Sauron's calculations. The relationship between the two was fraught with tension and suspicion. Sauron's superiority and draconian methods were evident, and he was never inclined to share power with Saruman.

Conclusion: Why Didn't Sauron Trust Saruman?

The answer to the question of why Sauron did not trust Saruman lies in his fundamentally malevolent nature and his inherent distrust of those who seek power and manipulate others. Saruman, a being of immense ambition and vanity, was seen as a pawn by Sauron, rather than a potential ally.

Sauron was not blind to the nature of the beings he dealt with. He knew that Saruman, like himself, was a being of immense power and greed. However, Sauron was also a being of cunning and calculation. He understood that trust was a luxury he could not afford in the pursuit of his goals.

Their alliance was a fragile one, constantly threatened by the underlying tensions and mutual distrust. Sauron's ultimate goal was to regain and maintain his supremacy, and he was always wary of those who sought power and influence.

Key Points:

Their temporary alliance was a strategic move to defeat a common enemy. Sauron was aware of Saruman's treacherous nature and utilized him for his own ends. Trust was never a factor in Sauron's interactions with Saruman, due to his malevolent nature and approach to power. Their alliance was always at risk of collapse due to underlying suspicions and ambitions.

In conclusion, the relationship between Sauron and Saruman was not one of mutual trust but rather a dangerous and complex alliance rooted in the pursuit of power and the desire to manipulate others.