The death of Saruman at the hands of Grima Wormtongue presents a unique end to one of the primary antagonists in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Whereas many characters perish throughout the trilogy, Saruman’s ending is unique in that it suggests a total annihilation, a dissipation that men, elves, dwarfs, hobbits and the evil races alike never suffer.
Though it goes unstated, the Wizards Saruman, Gandalf, Radagast and others are likely Maia, sent from Valinor to oppose the disciple of Morgoth and to assist the people’s of Middle Earth in their struggles against evil. It can be supposed that the Wizards enjoy eternal life much like all the inhabitants of Valinor, and are free to return to the blessed continent upon the completion of their duties. Sauron was also likely a Maiar, and upon his ending, he is relegated to an eternally hateful shadow life, diffused but aware, and unable to ever must the strength to take shape again.
Saruman, though, after being stabbed by Grima Wormtongue, has what may be supposed as his soul or spirit leave his body, and linger malevolently for a moment before a wind from the west wipes away all trace of him. While Tolkien never exactly states what this fate means for Saruman, it may be something like total annihilation, unlike the eternal torment meted out to Sauron.
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