Race: Hobbit (Stoor)
Sex: Male
Faction: None
Overall Rating: 4.4
Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
Arena Status: Active (S1)
Gollum, originally named Sméagol, journeys from an ordinary Stoor Hobbit to q twisted creature under the dark influence of the One Ring, offering a profound exploration of themes like corruption, redemption, and the dual nature of evil and goodness within one's self.
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| Gollum, Ring-bearer |
The Transformation of Sméagol: From Hobbit to Gollum
Sméagol's life was irrevocably altered the day he murdered his cousin Déagol for possession of the One Ring. The Ring, which he called his "precious," extended his life far beyond natural limits but at a severe cost. It corrupted his body and mind, creating a split personality—Sméagol, his Hobbit-self, and Gollum, the darker identity dominated by the Ring's influence. Gandalf's reflection on Gollum's existence poignantly highlights the tragic nature of his character: "He will never be rid of his need for it. He hates and loves the Ring, as he hates and loves himself."
A Life in Shadows: Under the Misty Mountains
For over four centuries, Gollum lived in the gloom of the Misty Mountains, his existence centered around the Ring. His encounter with Bilbo Baggins, which led to the loss of his precious Ring, became a turning point, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him to play a crucial role in the War of the Ring. Despite his often malicious intentions, Gollum's intricate knowledge of Middle-earth and survival skills made him an unlikely guide for Frodo and Sam on their journey to Mount Doom.
The Quest for Redemption: Gollum's Role in the War of the Ring
Gollum's actions, driven by his obsession with the Ring, significantly influenced the course of the War of the Ring. His internal struggle between the Sméagol and Gollum personas reflects the overarching theme of the battle between light and darkness in Middle-earth. Despite his darker tendencies, moments of genuine connection with Frodo, where his Sméagol persona surfaced, hint at the potential for redemption that lingers within him.
The Precarious Balance of Good and Evil
Gollum embodies the precarious balance between good and evil. His character raises questions about free will, the corrupting influence of power, and the possibility of redemption. The complexity of Gollum's character is further highlighted by his pivotal role in the destruction of the One Ring—not through heroic sacrifice, but through a final act of betrayal that ultimately fulfills the quest.
Gollum's legacy within the Lord of the Rings saga is a testament to Tolkien's ability to create characters of profound depth and ambiguity. Gollum is neither a hero nor a villain in the traditional sense; instead, he is a deeply flawed individual whose life story adds richness and complexity to the narrative. His tragic end, falling into the fires of Mount Doom with the Ring, serves as a poignant conclusion to his tormented existence.
Gollum's Raw Power
Physically, Gollum is described as wiry and surprisingly strong for his size, a trait that aids him in his desperate moments and in his life beneath the Misty Mountains. His endurance and ability to navigate treacherous terrains, from the dark caves to the marshes of the Dead Marshes, showcase a form of resilience and adaptability, but not necessarily what would typically be classified as "raw power." Gollum's strength is his stealth and his ability to go unnoticed, allowing him to survive encounters with beings far stronger than himself.
His combat skills are limited; while he can be deadly in a surprise attack or in a moment of desperation—such as his final struggle with Frodo and Sam at the Cracks of Doom—Gollum does not possess the martial prowess or magical capabilities of other characters in the fantasy genre. He has no known ability to wield magic or to influence the elements, and his physical confrontations often rely on surprise or deceit rather than sheer force.
Given these considerations, maintaining Gollum's rating at 2 for "raw power" seems appropriate. This rating acknowledges the minimal physical and magical abilities Gollum possesses, especially when compared to the vast array of fantasy characters who command elemental forces, exhibit superhuman strength, or wield powerful magic. Gollum's influence on the narrative of The Lord of the Rings is profound, but it stems from his complex relationship with the One Ring and the pivotal role he plays in its destruction, rather than from any conventional sense of power.
Gollum's Tactical Ability
Gollum's most notable tactical maneuvering involves his tracking and guiding of Frodo and Sam to Mordor. His knowledge of secret paths and his ability to navigate the treacherous landscape of Middle-earth—especially the Dead Marshes and the approach to the Black Gate—demonstrate a keen understanding of his environment. Furthermore, Gollum's plan to betray Frodo and Sam to Shelob in the hopes of retrieving the Ring showcases a darker, yet tactically minded aspect of his character, blending manipulation with his understanding of the dangers within the realm.
Despite these instances, Gollum's tactics often stem from a place of desperation and obsession rather than calculated strategy. His actions are largely improvisational, guided by the singular obsession with reclaiming the Ring. This focus undermines any broader strategic planning, limiting his effectiveness in a broader tactical context, especially when compared to characters across fantasy universes who lead armies, orchestrate sieges, or wield magic to manipulate the battlefield.
Given these considerations, a rating of 3.5 for Gollum's "tactical ability" is justified. This slight increase from the initial rating acknowledges his cunning and resourcefulness, particularly in survival and manipulation, while also recognizing the limitations imposed by his narrow focus and the impulsive nature of his plans. In the grand scheme of fantasy characters, Gollum's tactical ability is nuanced, relying on stealth and cunning over brute force or grand strategy, positioning him as slightly below average in a universe where characters often exhibit more comprehensive strategic capabilities.
Gollum's Influence
Gollum's manipulation of Frodo and Sam on their journey to Mount Doom showcases his ability to sway others, albeit in a more insidious manner. His knowledge of Middle-earth's landscapes and his cunning plans to reclaim the Ring demonstrate a type of influence that is deeply intertwined with his personal objectives. Furthermore, Gollum's interactions with Frodo, particularly his ability to stir Frodo's pity and mercy, reveal a subtle form of influence rooted in psychological manipulation.
Despite these examples, Gollum's influence is limited by his obsession with the Ring and his lack of broader ambitions or desire to lead. His actions, while crucial to the narrative's climax, are primarily self-serving and do not extend to influencing larger groups or the course of the war against Sauron in a direct manner. Compared to other fantasy characters who command armies, wield significant magical power, or inspire followers through leadership and charisma, Gollum's influence is markedly narrower in scope.
Considering these factors, a rating of 4 for Gollum's "influence" seems appropriate. This slight increase from the initial rating recognizes the significant, albeit indirect, impact of his actions on the quest to destroy the Ring and the fate of Middle-earth. It acknowledges his complex relationship with key characters and his role in pivotal moments of the story. However, it also reflects his limitations and the highly focused nature of his influence, positioning him as somewhat below average in the broader landscape of fantasy characters, where influence is often equated with broader spheres of control and leadership.
Gollum's Resilience
Living in the depths of the Misty Mountains, surviving on a diet of raw fish and the occasional goblin or bat, Gollum's physical resilience is undeniable. His body, twisted and deformed by the Ring's influence, still manages to navigate the treacherous terrain of Middle-earth from the Misty Mountains to Mordor. Furthermore, Gollum's mental resilience, while complicated by his split personality and obsession with the Ring, is evident in his ability to scheme and survive encounters with characters ranging from Shelob to Aragorn.
Despite his resilience, Gollum's story is tragic. The Ring's corruption is a constant source of agony, driving him to acts of betrayal and violence. Yet, it's his resilience that keeps him alive, pushing him toward his fate at Mount Doom. This level of endurance, particularly for a character not endowed with traditional magical powers or heroic physical strength, is remarkable within the context of fantasy literature.
Considering Gollum's enduring nature and his capacity to survive against the odds, a rating of 7.5 in resilience is justifiable. This slight increase from the initial rating acknowledges not just his physical and mental endurance but also the extraordinary length of time he survives under the influence of a powerful magical artifact. Compared to other fantasy characters who exhibit resilience through recovery from physical wounds or magical attacks, Gollum's form of resilience—surviving centuries of existential torment—is unique and profound. This adjustment reflects the nuanced understanding of resilience in fantasy characters, where the ability to endure can take many forms, from the physical to the psychological.
Gollum's Versatility
Living for centuries under the influence of the One Ring, Gollum adapted to life in the dark caves of the Misty Mountains, developing exceptional hunting and fishing skills. His ability to navigate through treacherous landscapes, from the goblin-infested tunnels beneath the mountains to the Dead Marshes, showcases his physical adaptability. Furthermore, Gollum's stealth and ability to move unseen through enemy territories highlight his skill in using his environment to his advantage.
Gollum's interactions with various characters also demonstrate his psychological versatility. He can be cunning and manipulative, as seen in his interactions with Frodo and Sam, where he plays on their fears and hopes to achieve his goals. Additionally, his capacity to engage in complex planning, such as his scheme to betray Frodo to Shelob, illustrates a level of strategic thinking that contributes to his versatility.
However, Gollum's versatility is ultimately constrained by his obsession with the One Ring. His actions and decisions are often driven by his desire to reclaim his "precious," limiting his ability to adapt or think strategically in situations unrelated to the Ring.
Considering these factors, a rating of 5 for Gollum's versatility is appropriate. This rating acknowledges his survival skills, cunning, and adaptability in various environments, while also recognizing the limitations imposed by his obsession with the Ring. Compared to characters across fantasy universes who exhibit a broader range of skills and abilities, Gollum's form of versatility is significant but focused, reflecting his unique position within the narrative of The Lord of the Rings and the broader fantasy genre.
Gollum's Alignment
Gollum's actions are predominantly driven by the chaotic influence of the One Ring. His unpredictability, driven by the internal conflict between his Sméagol and Gollum personas, embodies the essence of chaos. He does not adhere to any laws, social norms, or codes of conduct, operating solely on impulse and the overwhelming desire to reclaim the Ring. This chaotic nature is further emphasized by his willingness to betray, deceive, and manipulate to achieve his ends, showcasing a disregard for the well-being of others unless it serves his immediate needs.
Gollum's moral compass is heavily skewed by the corruption of the Ring. While he exhibits moments of what could be perceived as goodness or at least a semblance of his former Hobbit self, these instances are overshadowed by his more selfish desires. However, it's important to note that Gollum's actions are not inherently evil; they are driven by an external force that has consumed him. His capacity for good, however dim, suggests that he does not wholly embrace evil for evil's sake, placing him within the realm of neutrality, albeit tenuously.
Given these considerations, the alignment of Chaotic Neutral remains the most fitting for Gollum. This alignment captures the essence of his character: a being torn by internal conflict, acting on impulse and desire rather than any allegiance to either good or evil, law or chaos. Gollum's tragic story is a testament to the destructive power of the One Ring and the remnants of a once innocent creature caught in its wake. While he may perform acts that have both positive and negative impacts on the world of Middle-earth, his motivations are ultimately self-centered, driven by the chaotic influence of his "precious." Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Gollum's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #103 (of 107) |
Overall Conclusion on Gollum and Position Across Planes of Existence
Gollum, a character ensnared by the complexities of his own psyche as much as by the dark allure of the One Ring, stands as a testament to the profound storytelling and character development in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. The rating of 4.4, indicating a slightly below-average power level across all fantasy universes, takes into account Gollum's unique position within the spectrum of fantasy characters.
Gollum lacks the raw power and combat prowess seen in many fantasy characters. He possesses no magical abilities, his strength is minimal, and his combat tactics rely heavily on stealth and surprise rather than direct confrontation. However, his survival skills, honed over centuries of living in the Misty Mountains and navigating the perilous landscapes of Middle-earth, demonstrate a cunning and adaptability that is remarkable in its own right.
One of Gollum's most notable attributes is his resilience. The centuries spent under the Ring's influence, while corrupting him, also granted him a tenacity and will to survive that is unparalleled. This resilience, combined with his ability to adapt to various environments—from the dark caves of his dwelling to the marshes of the Dead Marshes—showcases a level of versatility that exceeds what his physical form might suggest.
Gollum's influence on the narrative of The Lord of the Rings is profound. Despite his lack of traditional power, his actions directly impact the fate of Middle-earth. His guidance of Frodo and Sam to Mordor, his betrayal, and ultimately, his accidental role in the destruction of the One Ring, highlight a character whose influence transcends his physical limitations.
Gollum's character is a study in moral ambiguity. His alignment as Chaotic Neutral reflects a being driven by internal conflict and obsession. This complexity adds depth to his character, elevating him from a mere antagonist to a pivotal figure whose actions are as consequential as those of the heroes of the saga.
The overall rating of 4.4 acknowledges Gollum's nuanced role within the vast array of fantasy characters. While he may not wield the raw power or command the awe-inspiring abilities of other beings, his survival skills, resilience, and the pivotal role he plays in the narrative of Middle-earth distinguish him. Gollum embodies the essence of a character whose strength lies not in physical might but in the capacity to endure, adapt, and inadvertently shape the course of history.
In assessing Gollum's place across planes of existence, it's clear that his power cannot be measured solely by magical prowess or combat ability. His story is a poignant exploration of corruption, redemption, and the indelible impact of seemingly insignificant beings on the world's fate. Gollum remains a deeply tragic yet undeniably influential figure within fantasy literature, a character whose legacy endures as a reminder of the complex interplay between power, morality, and destiny. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
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