Sauron vs. Hitler. Who would win? Regardless the outcome of that epic battle, have you ever noticed the parallels between Lord of the Rings and World War II? There is a shocking amount once you start paying attention. This is most likely because of when Tolkien was alive.
West vs. East
In elementary textbooks, children are taught that the armies of the Western countries worked for peace and liberty, whereas the Eastern countries fought for domination in World War II. This concept is somewhat stereotypical, but the idea does exist in Lord of the Rings. Think about it. Gondor, Lothlorien, Rivendell,and even the Shire are all located in the West. Moria, Mordor, and Mount Doom are strongly established on the Eastern side of Middle Earth. In the final battle, it is the kings of the West versus the dark, forbidding forces of the Eastern armies. From this perspective, it is quite possible that the courageous heroes, i.e. Gandalf, Eragorn, Merry, Pippin, Legolas, Gimli, etc., represent the Western armies fighting against the potent evil of the East. To emphasize my point, you should watch Peter Jackson’s movie trilogy because he does an amazing job with the visual imagery.
Map Of Europe
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Mussolini is to Hitler as Saruman is to Sauron
Every evil dictator must have a disposable, easily manipulated sidekick. It is beyond cruel how the dictators regard their loyal followers, but it is also necessary to strengthen their rule. Both Mussolini and Saruman were puppets for their great masters. Both men were powerful and influential, but their hearts fell into corruption. If you are doubting my comparison, look at the documentaries and other episodes on the History Channel!
http://www.history.com/shows/wwii-in-hd
Manipulation
Which is more dangerous, words or the palantir of Orthanc? Hitler’s weapon of choice was the effect words have on the human psyche. His words were able to change the morals and minds of some the most dignified people. In Lord of the Rings, words are represented by the palantir of Orthanc. Its harsh, unrelenting force draws people to Sauron like words drew people to Hitler.
Ending the Battle
Long wars must go out with a BANG, literally and metaphorically. In World War II, the entire thing came to an end when the Americans dropped the two atomic bombs on Japan. The country was so severely crippled that it was unable to fight the assault since the American had done the unthinkable. Similarily, Frodo, Sam, and even Smeagle completely eliminate Sauron and his forces when the ring is returned to Mount Doom.
The War Goes Everywhere
World War II effected just about the entire world. When soldiers would return home, they would find wounded and desperate homes. Fortunately, many of the homes were repaired and a new era arose. When the hobbits eventually returned home to the Shire, it was not the place they had left. War had touched even the friendly creatures of the Shire, but the villagers were able to overcome the horrors (such as missing second breakfast or tea) with the help of the returning heroes. Now, you should go read the book to see exactly what I’m talking about!
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Lord-of-the-Rings/J-R-R-Tolkien