Saruman's Ring: Exploration and Implications

Among J.R.R. Tolkien's vast world of The Lord of the Rings and its connected works, little is mentioned about Saruman's own ring. However, the fleeting reference to it leaves many questions unanswered. In this article, we delve into the possible functions, implications, and contexts of Saruman's ring, exploring various theories and speculations based on Tolkien's works and the broader narrative within Middle-earth.

The Possibility of Saruman's Ring Magnifying His Power

One of the most prominent theories is that Saruman's ring magnified his existing power, allowing him to exert a greater influence over his domain and aides. This would explain how Saruman was able to orchestrate complex events such as the speedy return of Ugluk's raiding party to Isengard and the delay of the three hunters mentioned in The Two Towers. However, without direct confirmation from Tolkien, these remain speculative.

Control Over Orcs and Other Servants

Another plausible function of the ring would be its capacity to enhance Saruman's control over his servants, particularly the Orcs. By amplifying his authority, the ring could have allowed him to better manage and dominate the various factions within his service. This level of control would have been essential in his grand ambitions, which included taking on Sauron himself.

Experimentation in Ringlore and Scholarly Pursuit

Given Saruman's extensive study of the Rings of Power and their creation, it is also possible that his ring served more as an experimental tool. As he states in The Return of the King, he spent considerable time studying the crafting and properties of the Rings. Creating his own ring might have been a form of scholarly experimentation, an “essay in the craft,” aimed at deepening his understanding of the Rings and their ultimate power.

When Was the Ring Made?

The timing of Saruman's ring's creation is another mystery. It is unclear whether the ring was made before or after his alliance with Sauron became more formal. Tolkien’s works do not provide a definitive answer, leaving the matter open to interpretation. However, given that Saruman's ring was created from the knowledge gained through his study of the ancient Rings, it would logically be subject to the same fate as the One Ring. When the One Ring was destroyed in Mount Doom, Saruman's ring also lost its power.

Destroying "Your Own House"

In Saruman's final speech in Fellowship of the Ring, he mocks the destruction of the Ent-houses. This line, "And now what ship will bear you back across so wide a sea? It will be a grey ship and full of ghosts." hints at the loss of his power and the void left by his downfall. Here, "house" likely refers to the power and influence derived from his own ring, rather than the physical Ent-houses.

Conclusion

While Saruman's ring remains a shadowy figure in The Lord of the Rings, its potential effects—be it magnifying Saruman's power, enhancing his control over allies and adversaries, or serving as a tool for scholarly exploration—raise intriguing questions. Ultimately, the direct functions and significance of the ring remain open to interpretation, inviting readers to speculate and draw their own conclusions based on the extensive lore of Tolkien's Middle-earth.