Introduction

Much has been speculated about the outcome of the battle between Gandalf and the Balrog in The Lord of the Rings. While it is widely known that Gandalf defeated the Balrog in the mines of Moria, leading to his own death and eventual promotion, various fans engage in discussions about what might have happened if the Battle of the Bridge had a different outcome. This article explores these alternate scenarios and their implications on the larger story of Middle-earth.

Preceding Events and Gandalf's Original Assignment

The original story line had Gandalf guiding the Fellowship of the Ring, with the primary goal of safely escorting Frodo Baggins to Mordor. Gandalf’s confrontation with the Balrog happens only as a secondary mission to protect Frodo. If Gandalf had defeated the Balrog instead of Saruman, the immediate consequence would have been the removal of a significant enemy. However, the overall plot may have remained remarkably similar.

Impact on the Fellowship

One point in particular that stands out is the integrity of the Bridge of Khazad-d?m. With the bridge intact, Saruman, had he reached it, could have potentially joined the battle, attacking the rest of the Fellowship from behind. This threat would have made the Fellowship’s journey even more perilous. The implication is that Gandalf, perhaps more daring, might have pressed the Balrog more aggressively, thereby worsening the situation for Gandalf and the remaining Fellowship.

Symbolism and Spiritual Resurrection

Despite the immediate success of the fight, Gandalf's victory and subsequent death carry deeper symbolic meanings in J.R.R. Tolkien's work. As Tolkien himself mentioned in his letters, Gandalf’s power was limited concerning the direct conflict against Sauron. However, his battle against the Balrog was autonomous and free of such constraints. Interestingly, Gandalf was resurrected by Eru Illuvatar, a spiritual and supernatural event that signifies his bravery and unwavering resolve.

What If: Gandalf Defeated Saruman Instead

Delving into an alternate scenario where Gandalf defeats Saruman, we must consider the implications. If Saruman were defeated, it would have directly undermined the forces of evil, leading to a significant power shift. In the initial battle, Saruman would have had the same contested outcome with the Balrog, revealing that he was a formidable adversary.

However, if Saruman had fled and used his magic openly, this would have escalated tensions and shifted the dynamic of the conflict. Saruman was forbidden from using his magic outside of his domain in the White Council, and such an act would have likely drawn the attention of Sauron and the Balrog, leading to further complications.

The Balrog's Nature and Decisions

The Balrog, a powerful and ancient being, operated under the rule of Morgoth, not Sauron, initially. This distinction is significant when considering potential encounters. The Balrog would likely have sensed the deep fear and malice within Saruman and would have viewed him as an equal, possibly choosing to ignore his attempts to engage. This suggests that if Saruman had encountered the Balrog in Moria, the Balrog might have allowed him to pass, considering Saruman’s compliance with Morgoth’s greater goals.

Furthermore, both the Balrog and Saruman feared death, which explains the Balrog’s flight after the War of Wrath. Given this fear, the Balrog might have been inclined to avoid a direct conflict with Saruman unless absolutely necessary. Without the bond of loyalty and cause that brought him to Sauron, the Balrog would have seen no reason to oppose Saruman given his service to Morgoth.

Conclusion

The potential alteration of the Battle of the Bridge, where Gandalf defeats Saruman instead of the Balrog, presents a compelling yet divergent narrative. Such a change would have reshaped the conflict and possibly redirected the strategy and outcomes of the war. However, as Tolkien’s works are known for their complex interplay of fate and free will, the true nature of Middle-earth would have remained just as intricate and intellectually stimulating, regardless of the direct outcomes of individual battles.