Unfinished Tales - Part Three - IV - The Hunt for the Ring

[Estelyn Telcontar]

This chapter fills in some of the gaps and gives additional information on the events related at Elrond's Council. In part, we've seen this made into a short film - "The Hunt for Gollum".

I don't think the narrative gives major new information, but there are some interesting details. Sauron's mistrust of Gollum, in whom "he divined something indomitable... which could not be overcome, even by the Shadow of Fear, except by destroying him", is a fascinating statement. Gollum is indeed a Hobbit, "tough in the fiber", and Sauron foresees his end.

Another aspect is that of the relationship between Sauron and Saruman. The former is much more aware, and sooner than the wizard thought, of the latter's deception and double-dealing. An important question is also answered - why the Nine Ringwraiths did not search more openly for the Ring. Wormtongue's role is also mentioned in the narrative.

The Nazgul's fear of water is not explained, though CRT mentions the problems involved if it had been applied consistently.

It's interesting to see that such a small matter as the "Halflings' leaf" plays a part in the story! The tension between Saruman and Gandalf is shown by their respective relationship to Hobbits and the Shire.

Which part(s) of this story interest you most? Does it enhance your understanding of the events of the LotR?


(The next chapter thread will open after the Easter weekend.)