A Probably too Sympathetic View of Gríma

[Hot, crispy nice hobbit]

But what I found more interesting is whether Saruman could coerce Grima into cannibalizing. We know of course that by that time the relationship between Saruman and Wormtongue is exactly as Gandalf had put: "gnaw one another with words." But Saruman seemed to turn up much better off, with his command of words.

Cannibalizing is one of the most unspeakable acts that Prof T portrayed. In fact, he reserved this taboo acts for only animals and the unclean.

'Alas!' said Theoden. 'Must we pass this way, where the carrion-beasts devour so many good Riders of the Mark?" "This is our way," said Gandalf. "Grievous is the fall of your men; but you shall see that at least the wolves of the mountains do not devour them. It is with their friends, the Orcs, that they hold their feast: such indeed is the friendship of their kind. Come!"

Gollum is understandably a cannibal... Yet, Prof T had his way and displayed some of the redeemable qualities in him. Surely, Grima, who was subservient to a deceitful master, is more deserving of pity?