The primary antagonist in The Fellowship of the Ring is Sauron, a dark lord whose presence looms over the entire story.
Sauron is depicted as a malevolent being, representing the very essence of evil in Middle-earth. Originally a Maia, a lesser divine spirit, Sauron was once known as Mairon before he was corrupted by Morgoth, the first Dark Lord. His ultimate goal is to regain control over the One Ring, a powerful artifact he forged to dominate the other Rings of Power and, by extension, all of Middle-earth.
Throughout the narrative, Sauron’s influence is felt even when he is not physically present. His dark powers are manifested through the Eye of Sauron, a symbol of his surveillance and will. This pervasive fear and dread affect the characters, driving the plot as they seek to thwart his plans. Sauron’s character embodies tyranny, manipulation, and destruction, making him a formidable force against which the Fellowship must struggle.
In summary, Sauron is not just a typical villain; he represents the overarching threat that binds the various narratives and character arcs together, illustrating the struggle between good and evil.