What If Galadriel Kept the One Ring? Sauron’s Reaction and the Impact on Middle-earth

Many readers of J.R.R. Tolkien’s acclaimed works in the legendarium have often pondered alternate scenarios. One of the more intriguing questions involves the fictional character, Sauron, and the outcome if the One Ring had not been given to Bilbo Baggins but to Galadriel instead. In this exploration, we dive into the possibilities of what Sauron's reaction would have been and how the history of Middle-earth might have evolved differently.

The Original Owner of the One Ring

The significance of the One Ring lies in its origin. The ring was originally crafted by Sauron through the forging of the nírnahtar (the One Ring in Quenya) as part of his bid to dominate all other magic rings and to reassert his control over the world. When Sauron lost the Ring to Isildur, he was left without a significant tool of power. This loss set into motion a series of events that ultimately led to the creation of Bilbo Baggins as the Ring-bearer.

The Urgency of the Ring’s Return to Sauron

The quest for the Ring is a central part of the narrative, with Sauron relentlessly pursuing the Ring's return. However, he never officially gave it to others. The decision to give the Ring to Bilbo Baggins, and subsequently to Frodo, was made to test and ultimately neutralize the power of the Ring. If Galadriel had kept the Ring, Sauron’s response would have been swift and aggressive, as the Ring remained a potent weapon in his struggle for dominance.

Sauron's Immediate Reaction

If the One Ring had been in Galadriel’s possession, Sauron would have reacted with extreme urgency and force. Her immediate response would likely involve launching a major campaign to recover the Ring. Galadriel, being one of the most powerful Monsanto-Maiar in Middle-earth, would have to make a difficult decision. Would she risk the fate of her own realm to challenge the Dark Lord? Or would she find a way to neutralize the Ring’s power, perhaps by destroying it herself?

The Fall of Gollum

According to the original plot, Gollum falls into the fires of Mount Doom and the Ring slips from his fingers. In this scenario, Gollum might have had a more strategic role. He could have been working for Sauron, perhaps aiding in the Ring’s recovery. If Gollum had successfully recaptured the Ring, Sauron would have been invigorated, leading to an even more ominous and immediate threat for Middle-earth.

The Impact on Middle-earth

The history of Middle-earth would have been profoundly altered if Galadriel had kept the One Ring. The power dynamics would have shifted, and Sauron’s ambition would have been stymied but not defeated. This could have delayed his ultimate reclamation for many years, but it by no means guarantees the preservation of peace and freedom.

The Roles of Gandalf and Elrond

Gandalf and Elrond would have played crucial roles in such a scenario. Gandalf, noted for his wisdom and bravery, would have staunchly refused to take or use the Ring, even if it meant his own destruction. His dedication to the free peoples of Middle-earth would have made it impossible for him to willingly join Sauron's cause. Elrond, the wise and benevolent leader of the elves, might have been torn by the decision, questioning the sanity and wisdom of the quest itself.

Conclusion

The fate of the One Ring is integral to the development of Middle-earth. If Galadriel had kept it, the path to power and freedom would have taken a different turn. Sauron would have fought harder, and the struggle would have been prolonged. As Tolkien’s works illustrate, the Ring’s influence is pervasive and choosing to wield it is a desperate choice that ultimately leads to the destruction of the wielder. The quest for the Ring was about more than just possessing an artifact; it was about the integrity of countless lives and the very essence of Middle-earth. In conclusion, the journey to Mount Doom and the self-sacrifice of the Ring-bearers serve not just as an epic quest but as a reminder of the ultimate power of free will in the face of overwhelming evil.