Thank you for proving that point, Saucepan. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Now we can see that, though they were perhaps learned men, lords and knights before they recieved their gifts from Annatar, they did not change to a higher (or lower) level until they began to use the rings, which allowed them great power. This is when they became great sorcerors, kings, and heroes. Therefore, the Morgul King was not, as some have suggested, a great sorcerer before he recieved his great ring. He did not fall into shadow, but as soon as he began to misuse the power the ring gave him he began to slip into the abyss.
Another quote, from the Sil:
Quote:
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It was in Eregion that the counsels of Sauron were most gladly received, for in that land the Noldor desired ever to increase the skill and subtlety of their works. Moreover they were not at peace in their hearts, since they had refused to return into the West, and they desired both to stay in Middle-earth, which indeed they loved, and yet to enjoy the bliss of those that had departed. Therefore they hearkened to Sauron, and they learned of him many things, for his knowledge was great. In those days the smiths of Ost-in-Edhil surpassed all that they had contrived before; and they took thought, and they made Rings of Power. But Sauron guided their labours, and he was aware of all that they did; for his desire was to set a bond upon the Elves and to bring them under his vigilance.
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Sadly this may contradict my belief of the lack of learned power. Any thoughts?
Iarwain
[ March 21, 2003: Message edited by: Iarwain ]