Did Gríma ever speak with his own voice? A whispered theory suggests his compliance is tied to a discreet ring and Saruman’s obsession. Cunning manipulation or merely a thirst for power?
A fan theory reignites the debate about Gríma’s submission to Saruman, not merely out of cowardice but through a ring forged to influence him. It draws on the wizard’s expertise in Rings of Power and contrasts books and films, where Gríma’s potential for redemption differs. Supporters see it as a mirror of the yoke Sauron exerts over the Nazgûl, while skeptics point out the lack of concrete evidence. Underlying this is the question of free will and control mechanisms that runs through Tolkien’s work.
A more complex relationship than it seems
Gríma Wormtongue, an advisor with venomous words and a shifty gaze, remains one of the most ambiguous figures in The Lord of the Rings. Subjugated to Saruman, he served as a spy at the heart of King Théoden‘s realm in Rohan. But was this allegiance truly voluntary? A theory suggests that Gríma might have been influenced by a minor ring, altering his will in favor of his master.
Saruman and his fascination with rings
The fallen leader of the Istari, Saruman never concealed his obsession with the Rings of Power. Through scholarship, experimentation, and calculations, he aimed to rival Sauron. In this context, the creation of secondary rings capable of enslaving vulnerable minds falls well within his supposed expertise. The hypothesis gains credibility: Gríma might have worn an artifact designed to bend his will.
The clues behind the theory
Several elements support this interpretation. Saruman possessed the knowledge necessary to create objects imbued with psychic power. Gríma exhibits an almost supernatural docility, especially when manipulating Théoden under Gandalf’s watchful eye. His blind obedience and difficulty breaking free from Saruman’s grip evoke the enslavement of the Nazgûl, bound by their rings.
Gríma adopts an extreme submission, surpassing ordinary corruption.
Writings describe Saruman’s vast knowledge of artifacts and enchantments.
Tolkien’s universe acknowledges that magic can sway the will of mortals.
An ongoing debate
Objections remain strong. Tolkien never explicitly states that Gríma wore a ring or depended on one. His downfall can be explained by opportunism, fear, and Saruman’s poisonous promises. In both texts and on screen, he shows signs of hesitation, even remorse, especially after his master’s fall, indicating a still-active conscience despite the influence.
What this theory reveals about Tolkien’s universe
Whether true or not, this hypothesis sheds light on a central theme of the work: the tension between free will and manipulation. Each character carries a mix of shadow and light, and Gríma, under Saruman’s influence, embodies this moral dilemma acutely. This possible ring of subjugation, real or imagined, reminds us how corruption also works through the weakness of hearts and the thirst for power, a tragic driving force in Middle-earth.