Why'd Sharkey do that?

[Holbytlass]

Originally Posted by Eomer

He was basically asking for the Hobbits to kill him by killing Frodo.

Reminds me of suicide by police. Interesting, a death wish, never thought about it before.

One of the most dangerous kind of people are the ones who've lost everything and therefore have nothing to lose. And Saruman fits that bill, lost his domain, his status, his powers (except his voice) even his staff.

I disagree though, I don't think Saruman was wanting to die. I believe his attempt on Frodo was a spite and he was blinded from rational thought of what the immediate consequence would be. Though Saruman was stripped of any powers he still retained his voice and his smarts, in due time he could of as Elu Ancalime pointed out gone to some other parts and start some new mischief.

As far as Saruman leaving before Frodo got there, good point but isn't part of the fun is seeing the reactions of those victimized? He just didn't realize what he would be dealing with.