The Torture of Gollum by Sauron: An Analysis of J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'

In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the topic of Gollum's torture is a critical and complex narrative element that highlights the dark themes of corruption, suffering, and the bitter desires of those who seek power. The methods used by Sauron to extract information from Gollum involve intricate psychological and physical torment, reflecting the darker aspects of Middle-earth.

Physical and Psychological Trauma

The primary method by which Sauron torments Gollum is rooted in his characteristic cruelty and the need to extract information about the One Ring. Unlike the orcs, who are known for their brutality, Sauron's methods are more subtle yet no less effective. Sauron's aim was to find the location of the Ring, as Gollum's long life strongly suggested his knowledge of its whereabouts. Any risk to Gollum's well-being was unacceptable to Sauron, as he did not want valuable information to fall into the wrong hands, such as his subordinates.

The Role of Sauron vs. The Orcs

Contrary to the tortures inflicted by the orcs, Sauron personally oversees Gollum's interrogation. As seen in the text where Shagrat and Gorbag discuss Sauron's orders, the message is clear: any prisoner must be treated with utmost care. Gollum's hands and feet were mentioned to be cooled by light breezes after his interrogation, suggesting that Sauron might have used extreme methods such as fire or hot irons.

Sauron's Direct Involvement

According to Shagrat's orders, prisoners were to be stripped, and every detail of their possessions was to be reported to Barad-dur directly. Gollum was to be kept intact and safe until Sauron or his representatives came to extract the information. Sauron's direct involvement indicates that Gollum's experience was far more cruel and complex, reflecting the darker themes of his character and the environment of Middle-earth.

Sauron's Interaction with Gollum

One of the most intriguing aspects of Gollum's torture is Sauron's personal involvement. It is suggested that Sauron might have burned Gollum's fingers with his own burning-hot fingers, posing as a 'friend' to gain his trust. This intimate touch could be seen as a psychological manipulation, playing on the deep emotional and psychological trauma Gollum had already endured.

The Dark Tower and Barad-dur

Grishnákh, an important character in the story, played a significant role in Gollum's torture. As the captain of the Dark Tower, Grishnákh was responsible for watching over Gollum. He was also the one who later stole Merry and Pippin from the other Uruk-hai at the field of Rohan. This event likely provided Grishnákh with crucial information about Gollum and the Ring, as he had seen or guessed enough during the interrogation at Barad-dur to justify his actions.

Barad-dur and the Interrogation

The direct involvement of Sauron at Barad-dur for Gollum's interrogation underscores the importance of the mission. Much like how Saruman aimed to deceive and sabotage Sauron's plans for the Ring, Grishnákh's desire for the Ring also threatened to compromise the mission. Sauron sent Grishnákh to oversee the actual capture and interrogation, ensuring that the crucial information about the Ring was extracted under the strictest conditions.

Conclusions

The torture of Gollum by Sauron in 'The Lord of the Rings' is a compelling study of power dynamics, psychological manipulation, and physical cruelty. Through his interactions with Gollum, Sauron showcases his ruthlessness and cunning, making his character even more compelling and complex. The methods used reflect the dark and oppressive environment of Middle-earth, elevating the narrative to new heights of tension and suspense.

This analysis reinforces the significance of Sauron in the story, demonstrating that his presence looms large over the narrative even when not physically present. It also emphasizes the intricate and multi-layered nature of the plot, making 'The Lord of the Rings' a rich and nuanced work with much to explore.