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The Hobbit

Saruman, also known as Curunír, was one of the Istari, wizards sent to Middle-earth by the Valar to aid in the fight against Sauron. He was originally the head of the White Council and highly respected for his knowledge of lore, particularly regarding Sauron and the Rings of Power.

However, Saruman’s pursuit of knowledge eventually led to his corruption. He secretly desired the One Ring for himself, believing he could wield it to bring order to Middle-earth. He began experimenting with ring-making and industrializing Isengard, the fortress where he resided.

While not present in The Hobbit book, his character is referenced. Gandalf leaves the party to attend a meeting of the White Council, a council which Saruman leads at that time. Later works, primarily The Lord of the Rings, reveal the full extent of Saruman's treachery and ambition. His desire for power ultimately leads to his downfall, turning him into an enemy of both the Free Peoples of Middle-earth and Sauron himself.