[greyhavener]

It seems to me Tolkien has created what looks like a power dichotomy. There are the tiers of the powerful such as Ea, the Maiar, the High Elves, Elves who held the rings of power, Wizards, Kings of men, other elves, beings possessing particular strengths such as the Ents, Balrog, Shelob, etc, Dwarves, Common People, Hobbits, etc. The order is arguable, but established by Ea. Those who sought to usurp authority like Saruman and Sauron, those who jockeyed for position like Grima and Lotho, even those who sought to manipulate with good intentions like Boromir and Eowyn suffered defeat.

Then there are the individuals whose power comes from a strength of character that impacts the ongoing battle between the powers of good and evil. It is indeed mostly due to this latter power that the ring is destroyed. Frodo's strength is in his determination and his willingness to submit himself to what he has been called to do. Sam's strength is his devotion and simplicity. Gollum is there only due to the strength of mercy. His presence is key because Frodo is only strong enough to get himself there, not strong enough to cast the ring into the fire, yet this is stronger than Gandalf, Galadriel, or any of the kings of men.

The effect of the rings' destruction is yet another power shift with elves diminishing and men increasing, at least within Middle Earth. The elves willingness to diminish is also strength. Aragorn's attitude throughout the story demonstrates a sacrificial strength that recognizes leadership as servanthood. The strength of his rule is in the love he bears his people and the regard he shows his subjects.


This reminds me of a scripture "Strength is made perfect in weakness."

[ October 26, 2002: Message edited by: greyhavener ]