[Lush]

You know what? I understand we're all here because we think Tolkien was a great writer (Yeah, and then there are people like me, who are on page 15 of Book I of LotR), but maybe, he just wasn't sure about how to create a number of deep, interesting female characters. Maybe he didn't know women enough, and didn't want to screw it up. Today this may seem sexist, but back then, it might have been caution.
When I write, I want to know what it is I am describing, otherwise everything comes out trite, and hopelessly dull. I'm sure Tolkien felt the same way; while his stories are set in a place straight out of his imagination, the themes and emotions presented in the books are familiar in some shape or form to all of us. This is the reason why LotR has stood the test of time. I think it would be logical to conclude that Tolkien had to use his knowledge of his own world to create his characters, and maybe his understanding of women did not run deep enough for him to be able to flesh out more than a few decent females throughout the books, and that is why they seem so under-represented.
To use an example: When I read Stephen King, I am always amazed at the scope and depth of his male characters, yet the females almost always fall flat. Minus a few expcetions The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon being one of them, I almost wish he'd just concentrate on the men. But people will surely start crying out if that happens! Probably label him sexist!...See what I mean?
For now, I will just satisfy myself with the fact that the males in Tolkien's books are quite fascinating and entertaining, and will enjoy them to the foolest!