Quote:
Dictionary.com defines a foil as One that by contrast underscores or enhances the distinctive characteristics of another
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In that case, I suppose
Gollum would be more a foil to
Frodo than would
Sauron. It is through interaction with Gollum and the ultimate difference in their outlooks and reactions to their adventures that the essential nobility of Frodo and the entrenched "fallenness" of Smeagol/Gollum is underscored. Also
Gandalf/Saruman qualifies in this way, since the two are similarly positioned and their actions underscore the fact that one is fallen to evil and the other a crusader against it. I wonder if Sauron's incorporeal form means something in this regard, since he then would be placed as the lurking, yet unseen evil over Middle Earth. Would then the unseen forces for Good be his foil? Perhaps Eru in his grace, remains unseen, yet protects through providential goodwill the errand of Gandalf and the Fellowship and those who seek Him...just a thought anyway!
Cheers,
Lyta