Saruman’s Shocking Color Change: The Hidden Truth Behind Middle-earth’s Betrayal

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In J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic The Lord of the Rings, although Sauron, the Dark Lord, is portrayed as the primary antagonist, it could be argued that Saruman the White, a former member of the order of Istari, is even more malevolent. Initially, Saruman seemed as noble and well-intentioned as his fellow wizard Gandalf when they first came to Middle-earth during the Second Age to aid the Free Peoples in resisting Sauron’s influence. However, Saruman eventually abandoned his allegiance and almost managed to strengthen Sauron’s power.

In Peter Jackson’s adaptations of The Lord of the Rings, they skillfully depicted Saruman’s villainous transformation, even showcasing Gandalf and Saruman’s duel. However, there’s a crucial aspect that these films left out: Saruman’s betrayal was not just metaphorical; it involved a literal change in his appearance. He renounced the title “the White,” symbolizing his role among the Istar, and instead claimed to be Saruman of Many Colors. In line with this new identity, he altered his wardrobe as well. As Gandalf narrated, this revelation was as striking as it sounds.

Initially, I thought Saruman was clad in white robes, but upon closer inspection, I realized they were not simple white garments. Instead, his attire was a vibrant tapestry woven from multiple colors. As he moved, the colors danced and shifted, making it difficult for the eye to focus due to their ever-changing hues. – The Fellowship of the Ring, Book 2, Chapter 14, “The Council of Elrond

Saruman Changes Colors In The Lord Of The Rings To Physically Show His Corruption

Saruman Attempts To Divide The Free People Like A Prism Divides Light

When the five powerful beings, known as the Istari, came to Middle-earth and concealed their divine identities, they adopted the roles of wise mentors among the Free Folk. This disguise reflected their purpose as educators and guides. Originally, these beings were Maiar – divine spirits resembling angels – linking them to the Valar, who had entrusted them with this mission. Saruman, being their head, was titled the White, symbolizing him as the purest and most resplendent representative of the Valar’s messengers. Gandalf was referred to as the Grey, Radagast as the Brown, while the other two Istari were collectively called the Blue Wizards.

The Names and Ranks of the Order of Istari
Mortal Name Maiar Name Rank
Saruman Curumo The White
Gandalf Olórin The Grey
Radagast Aiwendil The Brown
Unknown (possibly Rómestamó) Unknown (possibly Alatar) The Blue
Unknown (possibly Morinehtar) Unknown (possibly Pallando) The Blue

Saruman’s preference for the title “Many Colors” rather than “the White” symbolically showcases various aspects of his character. His betrayal, by aligning with Sauron against the unified front of the White Council, is akin to light refracted through a prism, causing the shattering of the Free People’s efforts. Moreover, it signifies an element of arrogance and vanity, as he discards centuries spent in counseling and tutoring, succumbing to Sauron’s flattery that fanned the flames of his ego.

As a movie critic, I found the portrayal of Gandalf’s transformation particularly impactful. He was never intended to be a despot like Saruman, but rather a mentor, a beacon guiding us through the darkness. His declaration that he should have been “Saruman as he should have been” underscores this point powerfully, reminding us of what could have been if only he had stayed true to his purpose.

The Lord Of The Rings Movies Leave Out This Detail Of Saruman’s Villain Turn

Peter Jackson’s Films Still Preserve The Emotional Weight Of Saruman’s Betrayal

As a film enthusiast who adores J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth saga, I must say that while Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring does an admirable job portraying Saruman’s descent into darkness, it lacked the captivating visual impact I imagined when reading the books. To put it simply, the vivid, multi-hued transformation that Saruman undergoes in my mind’s eye didn’t quite make it onto the silver screen – a loss that, while not critical to the overall story, might have added an extra layer of enchantment had it been included. In the grand scheme of changes made from the source material, this is one that I believe was best left unfilmed; Peter Jackson’s trilogy prides itself on its careful use of color, and introducing Saruman in a rainbow of hues could have potentially shattered the audience’s immersion in the fantastical world.

In a somewhat less noticeable aspect of “The Lord of the Rings,” Saruman’s color transformation is explained. This element may seem unusual, but it blends seamlessly with the rest of the narrative given that J.R.R. Tolkien, being an expert in ancient European mythology, incorporated imagery reminiscent of old Norse and Saxon tales. However, Peter Jackson’s adaptational decisions effectively modernized this scene, preserving the impact of the storytelling moment without compromising its effectiveness due to a potentially outdated visual effect.

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2025-04-18 22:39