

But these materialistic desires only lead to greed and corruption. Crowns demand authority, and gold ensures comfort. Just like Smaug covets away his treasure in Tolkien’s prequel The Hobbit, man tends to lust after jewels and coins as a solidifier of power. The fact the One Ring is a piece of jewelry – a golden one at that – suggests that it’s figurative of wealth and materialism. It does connote military power (in which case it would be a weapon), but the power money and riches endanger. Tolkien chose the form of a golden ring for a reason, as it represents a specific form of power: wealth. However, others may believe the form the One Ring is an important factor when deciphering its symbolism. It could easily be a piece of clothing, a potion, or a crystal ball, so long as it’s alluring, dark properties remain the same. It’s the effects the One Ring has on people, rather than the object itself, that’s important. Some people may perceive the One Ring as an interchangeable prop. This contrasts with the men and elves who seek castles and thrones – even without the One Ring – making their races more corruptible as a whole. Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin all fantasize about the simplicity of the Shire at some point during their journey, as Hobbits are not inherently desirous of power. Hobbits, it seems, are the least susceptible because of their simple lifestyle and kind hearts, desiring a peaceful life over that of other men. Watch The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers Full Movie Online on Prime Videoĭue to Middle Earth being populated by a whole host of creatures and beings, each individual responds differently the One Ring. No matter who has it, the ring-bearer will always become possessed and corrupted by its absolute power, such that even to look at it is dangerous.

Boromir almost kills Frodo after few moments under the One Rings allure, and Galadriel becomes demonically enraged at the prospect of becoming an all-powerful Queen.

Although power itself is not inherently bad, it will always corrupt those who have it, perhaps as an allegory for human nature. The Lord of The Rings suggests the One Ring holds power above all else, able to control and rule whole realms.
