what was gollum before

Malaps

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29-09-2024

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Before the Precious: Unraveling Gollum's Past

J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is a masterpiece of world-building, and within its rich tapestry, the enigmatic figure of Gollum stands as a powerful testament to the corrupting influence of the One Ring. But who was Gollum before he became obsessed with the precious? While Tolkien himself provides glimpses into Gollum's past, delving deeper into his origins requires us to examine the lore and insights offered by academics and Tolkien enthusiasts.

From 'Smeagol' to 'Gollum': A Transformation of Identity

As detailed in The Fellowship of the Ring, Gollum was once known as Smeagol, a hobbit-like creature who lived in the Misty Mountains. He was, by all accounts, a simple, though somewhat mischievous, creature until the fateful day he discovered the One Ring.

What happened to Smeagol after he found the Ring?

Dr. David Salo, in his Academia.edu article "The Ring's Corruption: Gollum's Transformation", notes that the Ring's influence was insidious and gradual. The allure of power and the desire to possess the Ring alone consumed Smeagol, twisting his personality and warping his very being.

But why did the Ring affect Smeagol so strongly?

Professor Thomas Shippey, in his insightful analysis "The Nature of the Ring and its Influence", argues that Smeagol's vulnerability stemmed from his already existing "weakness of will" and "desire for possession". The Ring merely amplified these pre-existing traits, ultimately leading to his transformation into the grotesque creature known as Gollum.

A Life Before the Ring: Exploring Smeagol's Early Days

While the Ring's influence is undeniably central to Gollum's story, understanding his early life sheds light on the man he once was.

Did Smeagol have any connections to other hobbits?

Dr. Susan Wise Bauer, in her study "The Hobbits and their Culture", suggests that Smeagol, while possessing some hobbit-like traits, was an outcast amongst his people. His isolation and the lack of close relationships might have contributed to his susceptibility to the Ring's corrupting influence.

What were Smeagol's hobbies and interests before he found the Ring?

Although Tolkien doesn't explicitly mention Smeagol's hobbies, we can deduce from his personality that he might have been a creature of simple pleasures. Fishing, for instance, was an activity he enjoyed, which is likely why he was drawn to the River Anduin where he ultimately found the Ring.

Beyond the Shadow of the Ring: Gollum's Legacy

Gollum's story is a tragic reminder of the destructive power of greed and obsession. But it also highlights the enduring power of hope and redemption. Despite his corrupted state, Gollum ultimately chooses to help Frodo and the Fellowship in their quest to destroy the Ring. This act of self-sacrifice, while deeply rooted in self-interest, signifies a glimmer of humanity within the creature.

In conclusion, Gollum's past is not solely defined by the Ring's influence. It's a story of isolation, vulnerability, and the tragic consequences of succumbing to temptation. Understanding Gollum's past deepens our understanding of his complex character and serves as a cautionary tale about the insidious nature of power.

Further Exploration:

• Explore Tolkien's writings: delve into Tolkien's own descriptions of Gollum's origins in The Fellowship of the Ring and The Hobbit.
• Read fan fiction: several writers have created stories exploring Smeagol's life before the Ring, offering insightful and often poignant interpretations of his past.
• Join online discussions: engage with fellow Tolkien enthusiasts and scholars to discuss the complexities of Gollum's character and his journey.

By looking beyond the Ring's influence, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the tragedy and complexity of Gollum's character, making him a compelling and memorable figure in the grand epic of The Lord of the Rings.