Part 2/8:
To establish a foundational understanding, it is important to note that both Sauron and the Balrogs belong to the Maiar, a race of divine spirits in Tolkien's legendarium. The Balrogs, originally known as Balrogs of Morgoth (their master), are described in "The Silmarillion" as spirits who became corrupted by darkness. They followed Melkor, also known as Morgoth, during his reign of terror. Tolkien writes that these spirits "first adhered" to Morgoth in his days of splendor, and over time, they adopted his malevolence and horrific presence.