The reason Sauron wanted to conquer Middle Earth... my theory...

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Originally Posted by doug*platypus

So, what I'm saying is that, with these things taken into consideration, his hatred, and his growing lust for power (if I may paraphrase one of my favourite movies, all those who gain power are afraid to lose it) are enough to explain why he wanted to conquer Middle Earth. I don't believe that he would have been seeking the return of his former master. I feel he would have been reluctant to once again assume a subservient role, as his ambition had grown in the interim. Or, as Willie says, perhaps his daddy decided to hug the mailman?!

But then what? If he would have conquered all, would there be anything of interest to keep the Old Eye going? If everyone who remained were dissatisfied, would that be enough? If all of the Free Folk ended - by choice like Denethor II or either fallen in bitter battle or by the games of the orcs - what would Sauron do then?

You really want to give some consideration to those retiring years before they show up.

Or would he, having conquered all resistance in Middle Earth, think that with its entire resources at his disposal, that he could export war to the West?