What if Saruman Took the One Ring? Theory

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  • Опубліковано 2 лют 2025

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  • @sonokawaray
    @sonokawaray 5 років тому +463

    Y'know, with all that knowledge swimming around in Super-Saruman's head you'd think he'd know from Numenor's example that keeping Sauron around as an advisor is probably a bad idea.

    • @devonwooten170
      @devonwooten170 4 роки тому +11

      sonokawaray that is an excellent point!

    • @similaritiesendhere
      @similaritiesendhere 4 роки тому +75

      He'd have no choice. He could not destroy Sauron while the ring was intact and Sauron would be in his head as long as he bore the ring.
      The ring isn't simply Sauron's power. The ring IS Sauron and most of his power/corruption is Melkor's.

    • @vdmur7952
      @vdmur7952 4 роки тому +11

      @@similaritiesendhere exactly

    • @maxmercer1931
      @maxmercer1931 3 роки тому +7

      Well, Sauron knew the marred nature of Arda best. Sauron also had the most experience with the psychologies of Men and how to dominate them.

    • @maxmercer1931
      @maxmercer1931 3 роки тому +2

      It's unfortunate Gandalf abandoned the Fellowship

  • @samwisegamgee8318
    @samwisegamgee8318 7 років тому +870

    The main problem with this is i'd never let those filthy uruks get to frodo

  • @epicfailurecz2083
    @epicfailurecz2083 7 років тому +423

    I get the feeling that everything is going way too smoothly for Saruman. For instance I don't think that Aragorn would just surrender without a fight or that Gandalf would still try to reason with Saruman.

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +100

      That’s a very fair point. I believe Gandalf would’ve realized he could not beat Saruman with strength-of-arms and Aragorn would’ve lost much of his courage and will to refuse Saruman, knowing it would spend his men’s lives (in my opinion at least). But again, I definitely see where you’re coming from!

    • @RememberTheDead
      @RememberTheDead 7 років тому +30

      I agree. I think Gandalf would at least beat back the Nazgûl like he did on Weathertop.

    • @tar-maironlordofgifts5702
      @tar-maironlordofgifts5702 7 років тому +12

      +Men of the West I think that Saruman even with the ring will lose against either free peoples or Sauron

    • @lvd8122
      @lvd8122 7 років тому +10

      Dark Lord Sauron only if they join forces, and what then? Sauron would take control of sarumans forces, and destroy the weakened men, who fight at his side.

    • @tar-maironlordofgifts5702
      @tar-maironlordofgifts5702 7 років тому +7

      +Isenskjold D MY side, yes

  • @glenndavis5695
    @glenndavis5695 7 років тому +577

    What if THE BALROG got the ring?

  • @ohdannyboy4727
    @ohdannyboy4727 7 років тому +95

    Makes sense, if anyone of power gained the ring. It would herald Dagor sooner. As the Valar would not let their creation be completely dominated by Sauron, Saruman, or Mor­goth himself.

  • @redcloud16
    @redcloud16 7 років тому +417

    YEEEES, Sauron plays the long game, and Morgoth is unleashed. I loooooove it!

    • @gargoyles9999
      @gargoyles9999 5 років тому +32

      redcloud16 Then Tulkas hits Morgoth with the People's Elbow

    • @Carandini
      @Carandini 5 років тому +27

      Except Sauron wouldn't want Morgoth to return. The servant has outgrown the need of his master.

    • @marcovchb
      @marcovchb 4 роки тому +3

      Too far fetched

    • @Floral_Green
      @Floral_Green 4 роки тому +1

      You love to see it

    • @onemanarmysswampparty
      @onemanarmysswampparty 4 роки тому +7

      If anything i think saruman would master the ring before that also why would sauron summon morgoth lol

  • @SCScholar1
    @SCScholar1 7 років тому +54

    You did a wonderful job with this one. I like how Sauron used the tactics he did with the numenoreans.

  • @Raistlin__Majere
    @Raistlin__Majere 7 років тому +198

    Great story and great narration! Your videos are awesome!

    • @zonefreakman
      @zonefreakman 7 років тому +2

      Rad Russ Funny seeing you here. I see we have common interests brother.

    • @Floral_Green
      @Floral_Green 6 років тому +1

      Didn’t expect to see you here, Russ

  • @jaketheberge1970
    @jaketheberge1970 7 років тому +252

    What if Frodo never left the Fellowship with Sam? As in the group stayed together.

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +74

      Jake Theberge Very Interesting! That would be a fun video to make! Ultimately, I think there would’ve been so many military loses for the Free Peoples in Rohan and Gondor that I’m not sure the Ring would be destroyed... I’ll keep thinking about this idea. I’ll make sure this theory happens!

    • @tazzerdevil98
      @tazzerdevil98 7 років тому +12

      one likley possibility is they would have never learned of the cave through the mountains to get into the lands of mordor and would have likley fell at the black gate where the final battle for the ring would have been played

    • @d00m0racl3
      @d00m0racl3 7 років тому +9

      Nay, Nay I say!, thoust forget that both Gandal & Aragorn had previous knowledge of the cirith ungol pass & what lay in wait there.

    • @tazzerdevil98
      @tazzerdevil98 7 років тому

      Gus Bernal they may have known of the cave and what waited there, they may never had tried. Or frodo and sam could have slowed the party enough that the tracks left by merry and pippin were removed and they never find gandalf the white

    • @jaketheberge1970
      @jaketheberge1970 7 років тому +8

      tazzerdevil98 Gandalf probably would have found them eventually regardless. A Wizard is never late. He arrives precisely when he means to you smartass Hobbits!

  • @darksavant3571
    @darksavant3571 7 років тому +66

    We come, we come with roll of drum: ta-runda runda runda rom!To Isengard!Though Isengard be ringed and barred with doors of stone;Though Isengard be strong and hard, as cold as stone and bare as bone,We go, we go, we go to war, to hew the stone and break the door;For bole and bough are burning now, the furnace roars - we go to war!

    • @darksavant3571
      @darksavant3571 7 років тому +5

      One of my favorite moments the martch of the ents!!!

  • @jacobymt
    @jacobymt 7 років тому +54

    That was fantastic. You are a great storyteller. Really enjoyed this episode Men of the West.

  • @RomanHistoryFan476AD
    @RomanHistoryFan476AD 7 років тому +44

    sauron played the long game and saved the world in a way. never thought I would say sauron saved the world.

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +14

      Madman Loves Power That’s very true haha. I think Sauron believed Melkor could return him some of his power, and rather than see his Ring in the hands of another, he hit the self-destruct button for Arda in a way. But he didn’t know that evil would lose, so he really renewed and did save this universe.

    • @RomanHistoryFan476AD
      @RomanHistoryFan476AD 7 років тому +9

      I bet sauron was getting mocked by all the other maiar for helping good win in the end. well that is if he is also reborn into the new universe and has memories of the old universe.

    • @tar-maironlordofgifts5702
      @tar-maironlordofgifts5702 7 років тому +4

      +Madman Loves Power *Cough

    • @bobby4tw
      @bobby4tw 7 місяців тому

      Sauron or Saruman? I'm confused

    • @RomanHistoryFan476AD
      @RomanHistoryFan476AD 7 місяців тому

      @@bobby4tw Sauron.

  • @jonathongoulding9780
    @jonathongoulding9780 7 років тому +18

    Honestly I look forward to the end of the videos with the nice music and discussion of Tolkien's world and the meaning behind it. It is calm, soothing, and leaves me feeling pretty happy with life! Thank you!

  • @ToddTheTolerable
    @ToddTheTolerable 7 років тому +34

    What if Saruman never betrayed the Free Peoples? Or What if he had a change of heart sometime before the end of The Two Towers?

  • @w-james9277
    @w-james9277 7 років тому +38

    "The ring answers to Sauron alone. It has no other master!"

    • @arunroy9997
      @arunroy9997 4 роки тому +10

      That's for mortal.....did u Remember Gandalf told if the ring is in hands of someone with immerse powers ....they will take the place of dark lord

    • @Jay_76
      @Jay_76 3 роки тому +2

      Beings of immense power, like Saruman, Gandalf, and Galadriel, could take control of the One Ring. Galadriel foresaw what she _could_ become if she took the ring from Frodo(Instead of a Dark Lord you would have a Queen...). Gandalf saw similar images when Bilbo offered him the ring as well.

    • @arvidbjoerk5307
      @arvidbjoerk5307 3 роки тому +3

      @@Jay_76 the only one who could defeat sauron is Gandalf. (if he possess the one ring) Tolkien stated that he was thee only one powerfull enough but Saruman and galadriel could take possession of it but it wouldn't help if he/she faced sauron one on one

    • @NorMarkus
      @NorMarkus 3 роки тому +1

      @@arvidbjoerk5307 If she faced him one on one yes. But it's more likely that Galadriel would've had massive armies with her if she got the Ring

    • @r.alexander9075
      @r.alexander9075 3 роки тому +1

      @@Jay_76 i dont know why you bring up galadriel in the same sentence as maiars...
      Galadriel is slightly weaker than even the weakest maiar, whereas gandalf and saruman rank among the strongest of their race.
      Galadriel has a ring from which she has power, and from being and Noldur a little too. Gandalf serves Manwe, an overpowered maiar and commands a group of valarian eagles.

  • @dalesteffens6769
    @dalesteffens6769 2 роки тому +3

    Saruman was no friend of Sauron. He was a freelance traitor to everyone. Dale

  • @tysonmccorkle1036
    @tysonmccorkle1036 7 років тому +13

    Another great vid Yoystan! And the idea of Sauron making Saruman start Dagor Dagorath is so insane! Keep up the amazing work!

  • @lvd8122
    @lvd8122 7 років тому +77

    What about Tom bombadil? He seems to love nature, and we all know what saruman does to nature.

    • @Wjong459
      @Wjong459 7 років тому +10

      yeah i think he would destroy Saruman with ease

    • @SuperSongbird21
      @SuperSongbird21 7 років тому +14

      I think Saruman would've been clever and destroyed Bombadil's realm slowly, a small piece at a time, so Bombadil wouldn't realise what was happening until it was too late. Even if Bombadil then decided to make a move against Saruman he wouldn't be any more than a minor annoyance because Saruman's power would be so overwhelming by now.

    • @ludvigiversen5855
      @ludvigiversen5855 7 років тому +1

      Isenskjold What if the ring came to Bombadill!

    • @jimmyboy131
      @jimmyboy131 6 років тому +35

      It did come to Bombadil. Frodo and the hobbits stayed with him in his house for a night while they were on their way to Bree to meet up with Gandalf. Bombadil held the ring, looked at it closely, knew exactly what it was, but had zero interest in it. He then gave it back to Frodo as if it was any ordinary ring.
      The ring has no effect on Bombadil at all.

    • @theplayasclub5948
      @theplayasclub5948 6 років тому +5

      jimmyboy131 Yup & he even wore the ring which had no effect lol.

  • @thegeminidk
    @thegeminidk 7 років тому +19

    Imagine an alternate ending in the films based on this. Amazing.

  • @bend553
    @bend553 7 років тому +133

    Can you do. "What if a orc got the one ring" if that's possible.

    • @traezor3753
      @traezor3753 7 років тому +48

      It would have just been given to sauron or saruman, depending on whose orc got it. It might have tried to use it, but it couldn't do any more with it than the hobbits could.

    • @JRRToIkien
      @JRRToIkien 7 років тому +8

      The orcs all serve sauron, the ones at isengard were like rentals lol

    • @achaosspacemarine5140
      @achaosspacemarine5140 7 років тому +17

      Most orcs don't truly serve anyone. They just obey out of fear of their dark masters.

    • @ottovonoof
      @ottovonoof 7 років тому +8

      An orc wouldn't be capable of using it or becoming the next dark lord. It could be lost again as they might fight over it.

    • @SuperSongbird21
      @SuperSongbird21 7 років тому +6

      Maybe Sauron's essence would've overwhelmed said orc's mind (just like he was possibly trying to do with Frodo's, but way faster), taken over his body and effectively allowed Sauron to be reborn?

  • @captcorajus
    @captcorajus 6 років тому +1

    I have to say your reasoning, and knowledge of Tolkien lore is astounding. Time after time, as you progressed through your narrative, I found myself shaking my head yes... 'yep, that makes sense' time again. Very enjoyable narration, and your character vocalizations are pretty darn good too!
    Thanks!

  • @shoolroyq1055
    @shoolroyq1055 7 років тому +20

    A very interesting twist on the fate of Middle Earth. Really enjoyed this video like the others. Can't wait for the Celebrimbor video since I have become more intrigued with him since the Silmarillion and the Shadow games.

    • @A7xFo
      @A7xFo 4 роки тому

      Oh great. Another LOTR wannabe thinking Shadow games were remotely accurate.

  • @erick-gd7wo
    @erick-gd7wo 5 років тому +9

    When you speak as Saruman, i can sense Christopher Lee's voice. Your speech rhythm was so similar. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

  • @connielewis3623
    @connielewis3623 7 років тому +4

    This was incredible. You're writing is wonderful and the music was beautiful and wrenching.

  • @TheMerc1993
    @TheMerc1993 7 років тому +15

    You're next What if should be either What If Kili and Fili had Survived or What If Thorin Survived. Other suggests are What If Gollum redeem himself, What If Saurman never joined Sauron, What If Isildur survived the ambush of orcs, or What If Deagol killed Smeagol.

  • @FLuZzyiE
    @FLuZzyiE 6 років тому +7

    I've always imagined if a wizard got the ring, they'd be freed of their handicap, they wouldn't lose their powers while also amplifying them.
    In Saruman's case, his voice controllong anyone, or extremely manipulating the weather

  • @IanCombs1337
    @IanCombs1337 6 років тому +56

    I love this hypothetical. I don’t think the One Ring would ever betray Sauron though. “They are one and the same”

    • @godemperorofmankind3.091
      @godemperorofmankind3.091 4 роки тому +18

      it didnt. it was working with him all along to unleash Morgoth

    • @trekstarsam2494
      @trekstarsam2494 2 роки тому +4

      @@godemperorofmankind3.091 Maybe, but Sauron wanted to be lord of middle earth, and though of course served Melkor faithfully when he was around, due to not having the power to oppose him, I don't think he would want morgoth released so he could return to simply being his chief lieutenant.

    • @Matli1804
      @Matli1804 2 роки тому +3

      @@trekstarsam2494 I think he would freed him if it was the only option he had left if he can’t have middle earth no one can

  • @darthstarkiller6605
    @darthstarkiller6605 7 років тому +14

    What if Aragorn succumbed to the temptation of the ring and took it for himself?

    • @jippolito8059
      @jippolito8059 7 років тому +1

      He would likely meet the same fate as Isildure.

    • @A7xFo
      @A7xFo 4 роки тому

      Shitty question. He would've met his end just like Isildur. That's basic LOTR knowledge. Get a different hobby.

    • @GameKvasir
      @GameKvasir 4 роки тому

      Not a shitty question
      ua-cam.com/video/y-lpcbB1JFU/v-deo.html
      (yes i know im late, still i wanted to reply to the question)

  • @AtaMarKat
    @AtaMarKat 5 років тому +16

    What if Lobelia Sackville-Baggins got the ring?

  • @Evenstar213
    @Evenstar213 7 років тому +1

    Yeah, I was expecting Valar intervention and I got served. Thanks bruh, that's awesome. Subscribed

  • @BolasDaGrk
    @BolasDaGrk 4 роки тому +1

    Better question... What if Saruman the wise abandoned madness for reason!?!?

  • @JoaoPedro-qp9cw
    @JoaoPedro-qp9cw 7 років тому +13

    Good morning, I've already commented this, but I was kinda late so here is the copy & paste:
    "Hey Yoystan, I've been thinking about a lotr game concept for a while, it would change a major event of the legendarium, but remain faithful to Tolkien's concepts and rules(the one thing SoM and SoW haven't done). What are your thoughts about it?"
    Also, I would like to see videos about necromancy(and variations of the "things that avoid Ilúvatar's Gift", such as Oaths and Curses) and how it works in the Legendarium. Also, it would be great to see more of magic, specifically dwarven magic, is it inherent or just lore/goetia? Can it cause physical effects or just create artifacts? There are many other questions I would like to ask but, for now, thanks for the attention

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +4

      João Pedro Great questions and suggestions, my friend! I would be interested in such a game, as long as it felt like it could happen in Tolkien’s world. I’ll delve more into necromancy, the magic of crafting and oaths, as they are very interesting parts of the legendarium that need some research! I would just say that there are always certain rules in fiction, like I have mentioned in past videos, established by the author, but then the author purposefully breaks those rules at least once to add a modifier to his or her story. That’s what these are in my opinion.

    • @JoaoPedro-qp9cw
      @JoaoPedro-qp9cw 7 років тому +1

      Men of the West I will continue developing the game concept. Again, thanks for the attention and continue your great work

  • @blackmetalnazgul4519
    @blackmetalnazgul4519 7 років тому +12

    i love sharing this channel with other people. best LOTR channel on yt 🖒

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +2

      Thank you! :)

    • @bucketman3095
      @bucketman3095 6 років тому +1

      Alright, I just gotta say, 'Black Metal Nazgul' sounds like an awesome metal band name.

  • @thugli4328
    @thugli4328 7 років тому

    Really great narration, I got so immersed. Mde me lose track of 15 minutes like it were 15 seconds. This is the gold standard of lore videos

  • @HobbitT_B
    @HobbitT_B 7 років тому +21

    What happens to tom during this period?

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +18

      TJ B I would imagine he would stay in his forest, without care for the rest of the world, as he doesn’t feel fear for himself or Goldberry. Great question!

    • @A7xFo
      @A7xFo 4 роки тому

      Shitty question. He'd be doing the exact same thing he's done since the start of Middle Earth.

  • @nspcrazy1122
    @nspcrazy1122 5 років тому +6

    You forget that the One Ring Of Power has a mind of lts own. Whichever of Saruman's troops captures lt will get corrupted & thus not bring lt back to him. He would have to capture lt himself, but then lt would corrupt him. Also keep in mind the fact that the Ring wants to return to Sauron, lts one true master. It did everything in lts power to prevent Frodo & Isildur from destroying lt, which succeeded. It was only defeated by Frodo holding Gollum's treacherous promises to the Ring. In essence, the Ring defeated ltself. There is also the fact that Eru Illuvatar intervened, so the victory was predestined.

  • @tathemrelag3123
    @tathemrelag3123 7 років тому +15

    Yay, my recommendation! Thanks!

  • @hanslund308
    @hanslund308 4 роки тому +3

    "So that i may defeat sauron and save this world" Well, i do not think that would be a lie and that was sarumans plan after all.

    • @kyleenglot9184
      @kyleenglot9184 3 роки тому +1

      I think that was Sarumans plan. He had no hope in the free people being able to defeat Sauron in war, and believed finding the ring would allow him to control the dark lord by force. Of course this pathway was all sorts of wrong because in order to achieve what he did he still cost hundreds if not thousands of lives of the Rohirrem as he built his army or Uruks which is in itself dark magic. He also betrayed his allies including the Eldar, Istari and free people's in pursuit of the one Ring.

  • @ianhubbard4954
    @ianhubbard4954 5 років тому

    I've watched a good few of your videos and I must say you've made the films so much better , now I know more about some of the main characters, thanks a lot bro

  • @manicmechanic1881
    @manicmechanic1881 7 років тому +4

    how terribly awesome Yoystan such a incredibly dark version

  • @erikrounds
    @erikrounds 7 років тому +4

    Thanks for the video! I always enjoy these what-if stories.

  • @jessehilton1337
    @jessehilton1337 7 років тому

    LOVE your videos. Your passion for Tolkien’s work is just oozing in your vids and it makes them so compelling. One of the very best Tolkien channels on the entirety of UA-cam. Please keep up the great work, for all our sakes :)

  • @michaelfurtwangen1662
    @michaelfurtwangen1662 7 років тому +4

    i think something else would have happen. When saruman reveals his plans to use the ring himself in the first book of the lord of the rings, gandalf tells him, that the ring only has one master - sauron. So first Saruman would gain great power and easily conquer rohan and fangorn an may march against either elves in the north, gondor in the south or even morder in the east, the ring would currupt his mind and soul. Saruman is wise and has a strong will, but he is jealous and greedy by his nature and therefore an easy victim to the power if the ring. In the end I think the goidhearthed earthbound hobbits are more resilent against the power of the ring than saruman. After a few victories on the battlefield his will would perish and sauron would take control him. saruman would become a puppet of sauron and after giving the ring to sauron, he himself would face endless torture for his arrogance

  • @megalaxmax9979
    @megalaxmax9979 6 років тому +1

    I haven't actually read the book and until I remembered that this was a fantheory, thought you were quoting the book. I was really confused and was astonished at how different the movies were (especially Sam getting captured). Nice work.

  • @rorydonaldson2794
    @rorydonaldson2794 7 років тому +1

    Yes. Such a great idea. Love the video!! Thanks so much for the awesome content. I'll never get tired of your channel.

  • @cwbuxton
    @cwbuxton 5 років тому +1

    Petition for these videos to be uploaded to podcast apps

  • @jonaski08
    @jonaski08 7 років тому +2

    Love your videos man. From the Philippines here😊

  • @das250725
    @das250725 7 років тому +4

    Amazing job, this is about how I would imagine it would be. Grand job

  • @stevesmith9447
    @stevesmith9447 7 років тому +1

    Awesome take on it. Totally didn't see that coming. Was grumbling about "Sauron would never bow to a lesser being" but of course he would if it meant restoring Melkor. Yikes. I love the channel and recommend it to all my Lotr friends.

  • @sammcvey6245
    @sammcvey6245 6 років тому

    You REALLLYYYYY need to do a series. Like do several parts to a story like this. Please. It’s really awesome

  • @khamulthewack4732
    @khamulthewack4732 7 років тому +1

    This is the one theory I ever needed in my life.

  • @ΜαρίαΤσιγκρη-λ9ρ
    @ΜαρίαΤσιγκρη-λ9ρ 7 років тому +5

    3:50 Great Aragorn sketch, very beautiful!!!

  • @lukeskywalkerthe2nd773
    @lukeskywalkerthe2nd773 7 років тому +39

    Love this video Yoystan the What if scenario if Sarumon had claimed the One has always facnated me though I am glad it never happened but it still is a facnateing concept to me as with all Middle Earth what if scenarios and thanks so much for explaining this one so well you have such great storytelling and I love the little twist you put with that Sauromon made Dagor Dagoroth actually happen because Sauron once again (in a sense) deceive all anyway love this video an can't wait for the next one!!!!!! :)

    • @ponline3170
      @ponline3170 7 років тому

      Luke Skywalker the 2nd fascinated

    • @j.g.9045
      @j.g.9045 6 років тому

      I don't know how this is one sentence.

    • @Bobba8590
      @Bobba8590 5 років тому

      Luke had a stroke.

  • @greypilgrim6157
    @greypilgrim6157 4 роки тому +3

    This is very good. Especially how Sauron pulls, well, a Sauron and ultimately brings about Saruman’s doom, and the final battle as prophesied, and wrapping a neat bow on things in the process. However, I don’t see things necessarily going down as outlined here.
    I think Gandalf, having already been betrayed and imprisoned by Saruman once, and presumably being wiser and more powerful anyway as the white version of himself, would not confront Saruman and try reason. He would likely send Legolas and Gimli both back to their respective lands and peoples and inform them of events and rouse them quickly to war preparedness and even swift action.
    And then I think he and Aragorn would both be needed to rouse Rohan and pull Theoden back to reality (presumably a tougher job now that Saruman has the ring, but still doable I believe), and also prepare to wage war and defend against Saruman.
    But firstly Gandalf must take leave of Aragorn and go to Fangorn to warn the Ents, and ask them to make the supreme sacrifice and attack Orthanc to buy time (no more Entwives anyway dudes, may as well go down in a literal “blaze” of glory, striking a hard, but doomed blow, for trees everywhere) for Rohan, before meeting up with Aragorn there.
    Aragorn must of course reveal himself as The King to get maximum cred, and then tread the Paths Of The Dead to rouse those guys to battle vs Saruman, perhaps saving Rohan’s bacon temporarily so they can postpone their doom at least a bit longer. Then it’s off to Gondor where Denethor is quickly deposed and since we don’t have much time before D-day, the kingdom quickly rallies behind Aragorn in opposition to Saruman.
    Sauron would indeed offer to join forces with Saruman though, because if he waits until the west is (presumably) destroyed, his value to Saruman goes way down. Although he could simply vacate Mordor and move to the Far East and prepare for a larger war vs Saruman, hoping time somehow proves his friend rather than enemy.
    Either way, if Saruman gets the ring he just becomes the next Sauron, and the Valar likely would eventually need to intervene. Or even more exciting of a story would instead be a huge host of the Vanyar and Teleri, and the Noldor that stayed behind, suffering from a form of observers guilt, petition to help save the free peoples of middle earth, and show up with a vast host and maybe a second group of Istari, to take on Saruman. That’s probably pushing it but man that would be awesome!
    And maybe also Sauron in the Far East would figure out a way to bring Melkor back from the void, making that tandem a much more interesting third player in the deal and allowing the final battle to become a reality also. Anyway, just my ramblings here. Probably tons of flaws in my logic, but it is fun to imagine all these what-ifs!

  • @chrisperry8636
    @chrisperry8636 6 років тому

    That was awesome! Great job- really enjoyed that

  • @smemzy
    @smemzy 7 років тому

    Amazing job! I am happy to see that you are growing as a channel, it is well deserved!

  • @Integer_Overload
    @Integer_Overload 6 років тому

    This is definitely one of your greatest videos! Loved it!

  • @agustinvitti
    @agustinvitti 7 років тому +9

    I've heard this theory about the one ring representing the ablility to control lenguage. Meanning, if you can use it, it turns you into a cult leader who influences others and if not into a cult follower who tyrannizes himself (golum). If this is right then the ring would not just let you control other ring bearers, it would let you corrupt and influence (relatively) weak minded beings at a massive scale, wich would explain how sauron got his massive army and caused the fall of numenor. What do you think?

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +2

      Agustin Vitti You have definitely found something very interesting, and I would say it is true, to a certain degree. The One Ring enables its wearer to become a tyrant with metaphysical power beyond normal skills and senses. This raw and selfish power would allow for many followers trying to attain that power or a similar one. It is possible that this is what happened with Númenor, however, I’m not sure that Sauron had the Ring with him on the island or if it remained in Mordor as the island drowned and he returned to the dark land. But it his persuasion skills through power and tyranny definitely played a part in the Downfall of Númenor. Again, that is a very great point, my friend!

    • @agustinvitti
      @agustinvitti 7 років тому

      i thought the same about him leaving the ring but it appears he did have it in numenor and he did use it to control the minds of the men there
      www.lotro.com/forums/showthread.php?319355-Did-Sauron-take-the-One-Ring-to-Numenor&styleid=7

  • @fizzplease6742
    @fizzplease6742 7 років тому +1

    I love listening to you telling these stories.

  • @saintsrowandmasseffect4lif825
    @saintsrowandmasseffect4lif825 7 років тому +5

    God this channel is fantastic plz do a '' what if aragorn had taken the one ring'' theory

  • @joshjones6072
    @joshjones6072 6 років тому +3

    I've always wondered what would have happened if Sauruman the White had got hold of the One Ring. JRRT certainly built this tension into the story by purposely making the names of Sauron and Sauruman so similar, and cleverly slightly confusing.
    Great storyline Men of the West! This is easily my favorite of your what-if alternate explorations. I agree, I'm sure the 2nd Song of Creation would have been the conclusion in this case.

    • @tylersoto7465
      @tylersoto7465 2 роки тому

      I heard there was going to be a 3rd person called Sexyman sounding familiar to sauron and saruman but was too inappropriate lol

  • @mralfpit
    @mralfpit 7 років тому

    Thank you for making this, this is my favourite video of yours so far! Keep it up! I want more of these! :)

  • @RustyTreeMan
    @RustyTreeMan 7 місяців тому

    What a fantastic version of events, well done

  • @vanitasnuin-giliath9838
    @vanitasnuin-giliath9838 5 років тому

    This was awesome, well done mate!

  • @lucasslager1103
    @lucasslager1103 7 років тому +2

    Nice video ;), i really love to see a video about the haradrim and the corsairs in the future.

  • @bucketman3095
    @bucketman3095 6 років тому

    Wow. The narration is absolutely amazing!

  • @homursumpsen8748
    @homursumpsen8748 7 років тому

    This video was amazing! Im so happy to see your channel grow :D

  • @briana208
    @briana208 7 років тому

    Best video on lotr I've ever seen:)) thanks for making these videos

  • @thorsyer9201
    @thorsyer9201 7 років тому

    Love this video man keep up this amazing work/videos

  • @WarlokSK
    @WarlokSK 7 років тому +5

    This was almost better then the original story nice job.

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +1

      War Lok Thank you very much! The original story will always be the best in my opinion :)

    • @tar-maironlordofgifts5702
      @tar-maironlordofgifts5702 7 років тому

      +Men of the West Agreed

  • @rolfdrechsel7607
    @rolfdrechsel7607 7 років тому

    i LOVE your theories, they almost sound like you just read the original books and i really like how you explain your thoughts that go into your theory. Have a great Day and Keep on doing what you´re doing

  • @andrewbaughman5379
    @andrewbaughman5379 7 років тому

    keep the what ifs coming please! well done sir.

  • @alexconti7932
    @alexconti7932 6 років тому +1

    Awesome! I really hope this will become an animation/movie some day.

  • @vercingetorixavernian8978
    @vercingetorixavernian8978 4 роки тому

    These theories are amazing!!! I’m an intermediate Tolkien fan.... but even for me..... I ripped a bong hit.... and felt like I was watching a NEW Tolkien movie for the FIRST TIME...!! It’s so thrilling to listen to
    I salute not only your Tolkien knowledge but your storytelling!!

  • @roygrutchfield5715
    @roygrutchfield5715 7 років тому +10

    Thank you , I enjoyed this one but would like to suggest a slightly different path.
    Lord Saruman head of the White counsel , Warden of Orthanc, offers to broker peace between the good men of Dunland and Rohan. King Théoden is persuaded to have peace and names his niece Éowyn as his heir. King Théoden retires from public life and Rohan is governed by Éowyn aided by counselor Gríma, son of Gálmód whom she soon weds.
    Saruman send messages to Denethor informing of the sad death of Boromir in battle with the Orcs of Moria, near the lands of the elfen sorceress. He warns of Aragon ranger of the North is coming to usurp his rule. But reaffirms his friendship with the Stewards of Gondor, he invites Denethor to join the White Counsel and others his aid to recover Minis Ithil and knowledge of the palantír . Steward Denethor is persuaded , invites Saruman to join him in Gondor, where with Saruman's help Minis Ithil is recovered and Aragon is exiled from Gondor and disappears . Denethor is hailed as a hero by the people of Gondor , whilst Saruman becomes his chief advisor and helps to negotiate peace between Gondor and the men of the south and east.
    Soon Saruman's fame and knowledge spread throughout the realms of Middle Earth and his friendship and advise is sort by many. Saruman offers help and knowledge inviting many of his new friends to join his New White Counsel. With his aid the Dwares recover Moria, Dol Guldur is cleansed, the Old Forest cleared for farming , the Barrow Downs leveled. All new member of the New White Counsel wear a ring of clear crystal which aids their decision making and renewals their vitality , lengthening their life time.
    It becomes an age of peace, crafting, building , irrigation, deforestation, the number of men and dwarves increase but the elves quickly leave going west. Peace is ensured by the New White Counsel lead by Saruman the Wise.

    • @tar-maironlordofgifts5702
      @tar-maironlordofgifts5702 7 років тому +2

      Saruman the Wise is too weak to challenge Me.

    • @alexjones1985
      @alexjones1985 7 років тому +2

      What about Gollum? Does he join the white council as Saruman's head advisor?

    • @Faerwing66
      @Faerwing66 7 років тому +3

      That's interesting. But you are ignoring Saruman's mean heart. If you pile the Ring's malice and power on top of that, you would have an uber-tyrant bent on domination and destruction.

    • @alexjones1985
      @alexjones1985 7 років тому

      Faerwing66 But this is a different Lord of the Rings. Maybe in this reality, Saruman is more like Gandalf. Don't forget, in this reality Aragorn seems to basically be a wild terrorist! The series rules don't apply here!

    • @alantaylor6691
      @alantaylor6691 6 років тому +1

      I don't think Saruman would help any of the free people's of Middle-Earth to reclaim or consolidate anything, reason being that would be a threat to his dominion, he won't do anything that strengthens any of the free people's, in fact he'll be doing the opposite. To be honest, going off the way The Ring operates as well as Saruman's character, I'm sure Saruman would become pretty overt in his tyranny not much less overt than Sauron himself.
      As well, why would Saruman ally and encourage societies of the free people's of Middle-Earth when he's already demonstrated his use of orcs as his chief servants. It would seem that Saruman would not go backwards on that, but expand it, doing the same as Sauron. As well, he wouldn't ally with free people's over orcs because he can't control free people's as easily and slave them to his will. I don't think there would be much that is benign or benevolent at all about Saruman's use of The One Ring, he was overt enough as it was without The Ring, but WITH The Ring that overtness would multiple unbelievably. He wouldn't become friendlier than he was when he got The Ring, no way. Without The Ring he was trying to destroy Rohan itself for goodness sake!
      No, if Saruman had The One Ring, all the free people's of Middle-Earth would make all the free people's of Middle-Earth his enemy and seek to slave them completely or destroy them completely. No way would he help dwarves retake Moria, that would be a threat to his power. He'd send his Uruks there before dwarves, in fact that's exactly what he'd do, orcs would be his overseers everywhere, including Gondor, orcs occupying the Citadel.
      Saruman's will to dominate would be equal to his power, and we should remember exactly how powerful he really is in his original form, almost as powerful as Sauron himself. If he got The Ring, would he not throw off all pretense of the Istari incarnation so he could utilize all the power at his disposal? Now you're talking about a full unrestrained Maiar with The Ring, like Sauron. It's easy to underestimate the Istari and forget they have the option of much greater power by completely forsaking their allegiance to The Valar with the Mission they swore to undertake. I don't think Saruman with The Ring would need to make any compromises or humour the free people's of Middle-Earth.

  • @bartekwesoowski1113
    @bartekwesoowski1113 7 років тому +3

    Thanks for accepting my idea,and you should do if Aragorn or Leoglas or Gimli or Boromir took the one ring

  • @NickSibz
    @NickSibz 7 років тому

    Dude...this was absolutely amazing. Great story, thoroughly enjoyed it. Would love more vids like this.

  • @TheFamousDaniel
    @TheFamousDaniel 7 років тому

    Wow! Definitely loved this, i love these theories a lot, this one is one I’ve thought of a few times, you did such a good job!

  • @davidd6501
    @davidd6501 7 років тому

    This video was absolutely awesome. Saruman is a great character in my opinion due to his complex background. He used to be a very wise wizard with a lot of power, who wanted to help the habitants of middle earth, but sadly the corruption of the ring was too great for him to handle :( The way you came up with this what if scenario was great, but deep down I would still like to believe the fact, that the wizard of many colours redeemed himself in the end :D Anyways love your videos man :D. Keep up with the great work.

    • @andygreen7314
      @andygreen7314 7 років тому

      Dave Trojacek It's not actually the corruption of the ring... It's taking corporeal form and being tied to middle earth. It's like the longer you have a body the more tied to it you become and more susceptible to weaknesses of having a body, pursuit of power, pleasure etc. The use of the one ring speeds up and accentuates this process itself being forged of both middle earth gold and containing Saurons corrupt power.

    • @andygreen7314
      @andygreen7314 7 років тому

      Dave Trojacek It's not actually the corruption of the ring... It's taking corporeal form and being tied to middle earth. It's like the longer you have a body the more tied to it you become and more susceptible to weaknesses of having a body, pursuit of power, pleasure etc. The use of the one ring speeds up and accentuates this process itself being forged of both middle earth gold and containing Saurons corrupt power.

    • @davidd6501
      @davidd6501 7 років тому

      Andy Green thanks man. I have never thought about this, but still dont you think that there is a slight chance of Saruman using the one ring to do good? I mean that was initially his goal when he arrived to middle earth :D

  • @phxbillcee
    @phxbillcee 7 років тому +2

    Interesting theory. Great videos, thanks!

  • @isaacwhite9706
    @isaacwhite9706 10 місяців тому

    I love how he said “this is only the beginning “ quoting the actors role as count duko lol

  • @frankcastleisdead7473
    @frankcastleisdead7473 7 років тому +2

    I could use one of these Videos every morning.

  • @kevinmartinez114
    @kevinmartinez114 7 років тому

    Great video where have you been brother been waiting for more lol best channel

  • @brandonmarshall3360
    @brandonmarshall3360 7 років тому

    Yet another fantastic video :)

  • @andrewpaige1194
    @andrewpaige1194 3 роки тому

    VERY cool! I love how u brought it to dagor dagoroth! And u didn’t just phone it in. I can actually believe that there’s a chance saurumon really could have been fooled by sauron into doing that! I was thinking “here we go, this guy is just gonna make saurumon idiotically fall for a sauron ploy”, cause I couldn’t imagine there was any way, with his knowledge of both sauron, and the history of Sauron tricking numenor in the exact same way, for sauron to b able to trick him, but ESPECIALLY given hundreds of years of Sauron probably somehow subtly working on saurumon, I can totally accept the possibility that he would fall for THAT!

  • @eileensmiller8041
    @eileensmiller8041 7 років тому +1

    You really have a way when it comes to talking about the death and rebirth of a world. And I suppose we think a lot alike because if such great evil did exist-which I sadly think it does-then the only possible way for peace would be a rebirth of the world, even if we were to end with it, it would need to happen.

  • @fortnitenostalgia5707
    @fortnitenostalgia5707 7 років тому +1

    Great video with good concepts!

  • @jello__0113
    @jello__0113 5 років тому +2

    Your “hurry Sam!” really sounded like Elijah Wood, you should be proud : )

  • @WestNorf
    @WestNorf 7 років тому

    thank you for your videos been great watching and learning

  • @mikelong3030
    @mikelong3030 5 років тому

    That was fantastic. Tolkien would be proud of you.

  • @sirprepsalot6268
    @sirprepsalot6268 7 років тому +1

    AWESOME! Once again... THANKS :)

  • @ryangr9833
    @ryangr9833 7 років тому +1

    I love this! Amazing and epic alternative lotr stories! :D

  • @whtbobwntsbobget
    @whtbobwntsbobget 4 роки тому

    Men of the West is such an amazing channel! This alternative story was so great I listened to it thrice in a row!

  • @dolpahkiin5371
    @dolpahkiin5371 7 років тому +27

    Hey I was wondering what would happen if the dwarves were more involve with middle earth and help the free people of middle earth

    • @MenoftheWest
      @MenoftheWest  7 років тому +9

      wrath Lord Talion That is an excellent question! I believe the Dwarves would’ve provided far more military strength throughout the many wars against Melkor and Sauron, bringing new defenses to strongholds in Beleriand and Middle-Earth.

    • @dolpahkiin5371
      @dolpahkiin5371 7 років тому +4

      Men of the West it would be so cool to see you do a what if on that. Thank you for reading my comment love your video.

    • @tazzerdevil98
      @tazzerdevil98 7 років тому +5

      well remember what Gimli said at the helms deep about what he could do with twenty dwarves and a year. they would have made helms deep truly impenetrable seeing as just him and a a few men was able to build a wall inside the gliterring caves imagine what an army of dwarves could do seeing as dwarves are trained primarily in stone work or forging weapons and jewels and fighting is an extra

    • @dolpahkiin5371
      @dolpahkiin5371 7 років тому +3

      tazzerdevil98 can you imagine the last defence of men elf’s and dwarves

    • @tazzerdevil98
      @tazzerdevil98 7 років тому +4

      if all the races of middle earth had joined to fight the dark forces of sauron, it'd be like an adult curb stomping a baby but unfortunately sauron knew this and with the previous events between the races, they weren't to reluctant to help each other and would rather focus on their own lands. if they had made a final stand together and they had worked and thought of each other as equals they could roll through the black gates and take frodo up to mount doom.

  • @katherinegraham3803
    @katherinegraham3803 2 роки тому

    From this tale, we see that while good and hope will always prevail in the end, Yostan will take you on an emotional rollercoaster to get there.
    More seriously, the idea that Saruman's drive for knowledge could be turned against him is a very insightful one. While it should seem obvious that of course the Dark Lord would ultimately betray Saruman just like he betrayed Al Pharazon, the Dark Lord is a master at deception and bending others to his will. Plus, Sauron plays the long game. Saruman might be skeptical of his "advisor" at first, but Sauron's patience is on the order of centuries or millennia. Guy could play nice for ages of the world if that's what it took to accomplish his aims.

  • @jakobrenner2230
    @jakobrenner2230 7 років тому

    Awesome theory! I agree on most points but I personaly think that near Sauron, the Ring would instatantly return to it's maker. You surprised me with Sauron manipulating Saruman into starting Dagor Dagorath haha! Very interesting and Great Video!

  • @vbywrde
    @vbywrde 7 років тому

    Well played. I think you really nailed it.

  • @zachiboi5253
    @zachiboi5253 7 років тому +1

    We should totally see Aragorn claiming the One Ring. That would be something we'd want to see.

  • @MrProBad
    @MrProBad 7 років тому

    Nice work man

  • @adambrooks822
    @adambrooks822 5 років тому +2

    Frodo gets scared, tries to yeet himself off a cliff