October 4, 2002

Nazgul Issues
Danny

I tend to disagree with the idea that the Black Riders are without their rings, but the Nazgul are wearing them. I do feel that it is all comes down to interpetation, but the only Wraith that would have any inherent power without the ring (as I interpet it) is the Lord of the Nine who was a powerful sorcerer. Sure they are slaves to Sauron's will, but it is through bearing those rings themselves that they wield power. That is my interpetation. Without their rings, I don't think they would be much more deadly than Gollum for example. They would be more dangerous than Gollum, but certainly not so powerful that only those who had seen the light of Valinor, and other Ring bearers like Gandlaf would be able to ride without fear against the Nine.

I see the reason that they grow in dread and power over the story is largely due to Sauron's power increasing. Another large issue to consider is the change in scenery and dread of the moments. A wraith in the shire, or even the wilderness is not going to be as dreadful as a wraith in the heat of battle, surrounded by orcs, under the shadow of Sauron's making. Also, during the Battle of Minas Tirith, the Captain in particular was exherting all his power, and viewed it as his moment of triumph. I think that was the height of his power and dread, and ironically the time he was defeated as well. I don't think however that that it had anything to do with him putting his ring on before going to battle. So I don't think that the noticeable increase in the Wraith's potency is anything that is due to wearing the ring or not. I think that the title Nazgul is synonimous with Wring Wraith. The only distinction I ever felt as a first time reader was that perhaps the Nazgul are more often called that when flying.

One other point. Another post said something like, in the movie he (The Lord of the Nine) was the wone who stabbed Frodo. It is very clear that it was the Captain of the Nine in the book as well. Frodo sees a steel crown on the headof the wraith that stabs him and views him as a terrible king. Just a litle point, but one worth making I think.