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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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⚠️ This section is mostly complete, with a handful pending updates.
As is the case with any good art, Rings of Power offers viewers ample room to interpret meaning from the show and its characters. What follows are my interpretations of Sauron’s character arc in Seasons 1 and 2, based on the following: the direct surface-level images, plot, dialogue, and actions of the characters; themes stated within the show; source materials to which the show alludes; themes in Tolkien’s other works, especially The Hobbit and LOTR; perspectives on characters, symbols, and themes share in Tolkien’s letters and other works; meanings implied by the symmetries and reflections of chiastic structure; themes, symbolism, and meanings in ancient texts and discourses in philosophy and psychology contemporary to Tolkien which is documented to have influenced his works; and deliberate artistic choices in the cinematography and choreography of the show. In other words, how can we interpret Sauron’s actions and words in a way that makes sense, given the imagery and structure of the show and what we know of Tolkien’s work? I do my best to pull all of these threads together in a way that makes sense of his actions and words throughout both seasons.
⚠️ This section is currently under heavy construction. Expect significant updates.