Delving into the realm of The Lord of the Rings, one of the most iconic villains, Sauron, stands out as a malevolent force. This fallen Maia, once a servant of Morgoth and creator of the One Ring, wielded such power that even the shattering of his physical form could not extinguish his malice. The very name 'Sauron' evoked terror across Middle-earth, signifying darkness and death to all who heard it.

However, Sauron's journey to infamy was not a direct path. Prior to his treachery as the Maiar, he bore several names like Gorthaur, Mairon, and Annatar. Among these, the moniker that resonates with fans of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings is The Necromancer. As depicted in The Hobbit, Gandalf's pursuit of The Necromancer unveiled a deeper connection to Sauron, unbeknownst to many. The question arises: Why did Sauron adopt the title of The Necromancer, and what sinister schemes did he orchestrate during his time in Middle-earth? Let's embark on a journey through the intricate lore surrounding one of Sauron's enigmatic identities.

Sauron's Retreat to Dol Guldur

Following Isildur's severing of the One Ring from Sauron's hand during the Battle of Barad-dûr, Sauron's physical form was vanquished, yet his essence endured through the Ring. Evading oblivion, Sauron veiled his existence, assuming the guise of The Necromancer. While a necromancer traditionally dabbles in dark arts, the prefix 'necro' alludes to the deceased, hinting at a resurrection motif. The name The Necromancer not only instills dread but symbolizes Sauron's intent to rise from the ashes.

Despite his diminished state, Sauron schemed in the shadows, awaiting his resurgence. In the Third Age's 1000th year, Sauron razed the Silvan stronghold Amon Lanc, erecting Dol Guldur as his seat of power. From this bastion, Sauron orchestrated his return, launching assaults on Gondor, Arnor, and establishing Angmar through the Nazgûl.

The ominous activities emanating from Dol Guldur prompted Gandalf's investigation, leading to the formation of the White Council, comprising luminaries like Gandalf, Elrond, and Galadriel, to counter The Necromancer's growing threat.

Confrontation with the White Council

During his exile, Sauron forged alliances with the Easterlings, bolstering his forces. After 400 years of convalescence, Sauron reclaimed Dol Guldur, initiating a quest for the One Ring's bearer and Isildur's heir destruction. His hordes besieged Moria, Gondor, and Mirkwood, while Smaug overtook Erebor, furthering Sauron's malevolent agenda.

Infiltrating Dol Guldur anew, Gandalf encountered Thráin, who unveiled The Necromancer's true identity before perishing. Urging the White Council to act, Gandalf's plea initially rebuffed by Saruman, who coveted the One Ring's discovery. Eventually, the Council assented, besieging Dol Guldur, causing Sauron to flee once more.

Sauron's Militarization in Mordor

Upon regaining Mordor, Sauron amassed a formidable coalition, including Nazgûl, Orcs, Uruk-hai, and werewolves, alongside Men factions like the Haradrim and Easterlings, forming the Morgul-host of the Third Age.

Reveling in his newfound might, Sauron shed The Necromancer facade, emboldened by his resurgent strength and formidable army. Aware of the One Ring's retrieval, Sauron proclaims his return from Barad-dûr, heralding the onset of the War of the Ring.