Part 4/7:
One of the more riveting aspects of the narrative is Sauron’s awareness of Shelob. Contrary to what one might expect, Sauron did not view her merely as a nuisance; rather, he recognized her as a strategic ally. Sauron was fully aware of the spider’s residence in the tunnels connecting Minas Morgul to his fortress and chose to accept her presence as a form of advantageous collaboration.
The relationship between Sauron and Shelob can be better understood as that of co-conspirators. Sauron, who gained delight from the suffering of others, would routinely send prisoners to her lair as offerings. This mutual arrangement was beneficial, as Shelob's predation on unsuspecting travelers provided Sauron with an efficient means of maintaining control over his territory.