The Nine Nazgûl of Middle-earth
The Nine Nazgûl, also known as the Ringwraiths, were powerful servants of Sauron, the Dark Lord of Middle-earth. These creatures were once Men, corrupted and enslaved by the power of the One Ring. In this article, we will delve into the history and makeup of the Nine Nazgûl, answering the question of how many Nazgûl were there.
Who were the Nine Nazgûl?
The Nine Nazgûl were a fellowship of powerful ringwraiths who served Sauron, the Dark Lord of Middle-earth. They were once powerful kings and nobles of Men who were corrupted and enslaved by the power of the One Ring, forged by Sauron. Over time, they became utterly devoted to the will of Sauron, carrying out his dark and nefarious desires.
The List of the Nine Nazgûl
So, who were the nine Nazgûl? Let’s look at the list of names:
• The Witch-king of Angmar: Also known as the High King of the Nazgûl, he was the most powerful and feared of all the Nazgûl.
• Khamûl the Easterling: Little is known about this Nazgûl, but it is believed that he served as a general and commander under the Witch-king.
• Dwimmerlaik the Dark: One of the less-known Nazgûl, nothing much is written about his role in the history of Middle-earth.
• Durthang: Another minor Nazgûl, details about his role and life are limited.
• Gorgoroth the Nameless: Also known as Shagrat, this Nazgûl served as a captain in the armies of Mordor.
• The Black Riders: Unnamed and nameless, this group of Nazgûl, also known as the Dark Riders or the Nine Walkers, are infamous for their hunting of hobbits in The Lord of the Rings.
• Tainted Man: A minor and unknown Nazgûl, his purpose and role in Middle-earth is vague.
• Ulairet Toldea: Yet another little-known Nazgûl, only mentioned briefly in Tolkien’s notes.
• Unknown Ninth Nazgûl: The exact identity and role of the ninth and final Nazgûl remain unclear in the records.
How Were the Nazgûl Created?
According to J.R.R. Tolkien, the Nine Nazgûl were created when Sauron forged the Nine Rings of Power and presented them to various kings and nobles of Men, who became bound to his service. Over time, they were corrupted and turned into wraiths, leaving their mortal forms behind, becoming powerful spirits devoted to Sauron’s will.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "How many Nazgûl were there?", it is clear that there were nine of them. The list above contains the names of all the known Nazgûl, although there may have been more. However, the eight Nazgûl mentioned here, plus one unknown (the ninth Nazgûl), form the main group known from the history of Middle-earth.