The Souls of Evil Creatures in Tolkien's World

In J.R.R. Tolkien's vast and intricate universe, the concept of souls is intricately linked to the essence of characters, both good and evil. This essay explores the idea of whether orcs and trolls, among other evil creatures, possess souls. We'll analyze their origins, the texts of the The Silmarillion, and Tolkien's personal views on moral and spiritual existence.

Origins and Nature of Orcs

One cannot truly compare orcs to dwarves; their origins, characteristics, and destinies are vastly different. Although the The Silmarillion reveals much about the dwarves’ creation, it is conspicuously silent on that of the orcs.

Originally, Tolkien had envisioned the orcs as corrupted elves. However, this idea did not survive in the final version of The Silmarillion. Tolkien later revised his concept, suggesting that orcs were not corrupted elves but rather animals manipulated and shaped by Melkor (Morgoth) and given the ability to speak. This creation method implies that, according to Tolkien, these creatures were "soulless animals."

From this perspective, orcs do not have souls. However, their actions and behaviors present a more complex picture. Orcs exhibit some semblance of free will, though their choices invariably lead them down the path of evil. Unlike the pure evil of Sauron or Morgoth, orcs remain fundamentally evil but not consumed by the purest form of malevolence.

Free Will and Morality

Free will would enable orcs to choose goodness over evil. However, throughout the entire chronology of Middle-earth, there is not a single recorded instance of an orc choosing good over evil. Speaking against Morgoth or Sauron does not indicate true free will but rather rebellion against a tyrant or their master.

Tolkien himself stated that "evil is non-co-operative." Evil creatures may sometimes appear to cooperate, but it is not for a shared goal but for their own ambitions. Orcs, like many of their ilk, serve as pawns in larger schemes—wretched creatures without grand ambitions or dreams of their own. Thus, when called upon, orcs still come to fight, demonstrating their lack of true moral freedom.

The Roles of Eru and Dark Lords

According to Tolkien, only Eru Illúvatar possesses the power to create living beings. Both Morgoth and Sauron are limited in their abilities; they can only twist and corrupt. Orcs were first envisioned as corrupted elves, while trolls were thought to be corrupted ents. This corruption is a fundamental aspect of their nature.

In contrast, the dwarves were originally puppets of Aul? until Eru breathed life into them. This highlights the stark difference between good and evil creation in Tolkien’s world. Good beings are imbued with life, while evil beings are inherently twisted and corrupted, lacking the full potential for genuine moral action.

Figure 1: An artwork depicting the genesis of orcs and other creatures of darkness

Concluding Thoughts

The question of whether orcs and trolls have souls is a deep philosophical and moral inquiry in Tolkien’s universe. While they may exhibit some elements of free will through their actions, these actions are more a result of their fundamentally evil nature rather than true moral agency. This exploration underscores the complexities of good and evil in Tolkien's work and invites us to ponder the nature of free will and the true essence of being.
Image Credit: Spiderweb Art