The Most Disgusting Character in The Lord of the Rings: A Closer Look

When discussing characters in The Lord of the Rings, many readers find themselves delving into the depths of moral ambiguity and wickedness. From the terrifyingSauron to the deformed Gollum, there are several candidates for the most disgusting character. This article explores these dark figures and examines why some may argue that Saruman is the epitome of disgust and psychopathy.

The Weight of Character vs. Physical Appearance

Many consider characters with a physical appearance that's jarring or repulsive, such as Sauron, as the most disgusting. Sauron's form is described as having once been beautiful but now horrifying. However, the real critique of Sauron lies not in his physical appearance but in the scale of his corruption and malevolence. Despite his once-glorious form, Sauron's internal evil shines through in his pursuit of power and the torment of the living.

Others may consider Gollum or the orcs as the most repulsive due to their physical deformities or the atrocities they commit. Gollum, a creature deeply influenced by the One Ring, and the orcs, monstrous creations of Sauron, certainly evoke strong feelings of disgust. Nevertheless, these characters' tragic fates also elicit sympathy and, in some cases, pity.

Saruman: A Study in Vileness

Despite the physical ugliness of some creatures, many argue that Saruman is the most disgusting character. The importance lies not just in his appearance but in his actions and character. Saruman, once a member of the Istari, was entrusted with the task of aiding those in need but instead pursued his own selfish ends.

His Duplicity and Manipulations

Let us delve into the aspects that make Saruman so revolting:

Manipulative Breeding: Saruman deliberately bred orcs and humans to create the oruk-hai, a terrifying and bestial army. He went to great lengths, including imprisoning and exploiting numerous women for generations, to achieve his dark goals. His actions reflect a profound lack of compassion and a willingness to exploit the most vulnerable. Toxic Environment: Saruman's influence and actions led to the corruption of Rohan, where he manipulated Grima Wormtongue into instigating the fall of Theoden and Rohan's defeat. Saruman's manipulation of the White Council and his disregard for the alliance and original mission further highlight his despicable nature. Greed and Obsession: Saruman's relentless pursuit of power and knowledge is another factor that contributes to his revolting character. His intricate scheme involving the Shire demonstrates his unscrupulous nature, and his eventual betrayal when Frodo became a threat serves as a final nail in his reputation.

Tolkien's Insight

Tolkien, a prolific and insightful author, did indeed have a wealth of experience with sinister characters in his time. Saruman's character is a fantastic study of a classic psychopathic personality. The term 'psychopathic' refers to a personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, manipulation, and a disregard for the consequences of one's actions.

Pitiful Gollum

Gollum, much like a tragic figure, is portrayed with a great deal of pity. While his transformation under the influence of the Ring is undeniable, Saruman's actions are far more heinous and less forgivable. Gollum, despite his torment, retains moments of humanity, whereas Saruman's actions are nothing short of evil.

Conclusion

From a purely physical standpoint, Sauron, Gollum, and the orcs are certainly repulsive characters. However, when considering moral and character traits, Saruman’s actions and intentions are the most revolting. His greed, manipulation, and exploitation of others for personal gain make him a voice of infamy in the annals of Tolkien's world.

As readers, it is essential to remember that the most disgusting characters are often the most complex and multi-dimensional, reflecting the depths of human (and other) nature.