[HCIsland]

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR> HCIsland, you wouldn't care to elaborate, would you, on Saruman's shortcomings? And is this pity in Tolkien's book or is it something unique to Christopher Lee's interpretation of Saruman?<BR> <HR></BLOCKQUOTE><BR>All of Tolkien's villains are victims of their own shortcomings and Saruman is no exception. I think envy was Saruman's biggest, envy of Gandalf. Envy and ego to give him two. I don't want to go into it too much as it more belongs in the book forum.<P>I do think this comes across in Lee's performance in little ways. Him sitting in Orthanc clutching himself after using the palantir has already been brought up. He looks spent there. It's interesting to note though, that the reason for him sitting like that is to cover his hand as it was bandaged after being caught in a car door, it think. Quite fortuitous.<P>Book spoiler coming ...<P>.<BR>.<BR>.<BR>.<BR>.<BR>.<BR>.<BR>.<P>Maybe I'm the only one, but I also had a smidge of pity for Saruman at the end when his spirit rises and turns to the west and the wind blows him away.<P>H.C.<p>[ June 10, 2003: Message edited by: HCIsland ]