Gollum’s Power in The Lord of the Rings: Did He Gain Might Before or After Becoming a Ringwraith?

One of the most enigmatic characters in The Lord of the Rings is Gollum (formerly Sméagol). His journey from a petty thief to the villainous accomplices of the Dark Lord Sauron raises many questions. A key point of contention among LotR enthusiasts is whether Gollum became a Ringwraith before or after the Ring’s influence took hold. However, the truth is quite different. Let's explore what we know about Gollum’s power before and after his possession of the One Ring.

The Unprecedented Nature of the One Ring

While the Rings of Power created by Sauron for Men, Dwarves, and Elves have the potential to turn their bearers into Ringwraiths, the One Ring is unique and far more potent. This is not just a matter of personal interpretation but a direct statement in J.R.R. Tolkien’s works. Specifically, it is mentioned that the One Ring turned the wielder’s mortal form into a wraith, rather than making them disappear altogether as was the outcome for those who possessed the earlier rings. This led to some confusion, as Gandalf initially believed that any ring of power would eventually turn a mortal into a wraith, even after thousands of years. However, Gollum’s long-term possession of the One Ring does not seem to have turned him into a Ringwraith. This raises an interesting question: why not?

Speculations on the Boundaries of Mortal Wielders

Theories abound on why Gollum did not become a Ringwraith. One possibility is that he is related to hobbits, and their inherent connection to the land and a resistance to the corruption of power prevents him from becoming a wraith. Another theory suggests that the One Ring specifically targets the corruption of those with a direct connection to Sauron, thus Gollum’s unique situation made it impossible for him to fully transition into a wraith.

From a Weakling to a Dangerous Companion

Initially, Sméagol/Gollum had very little power. He resided in a lightless cave under the Misty Mountains for several centuries, surviving on raw fish and Goblins. His lack of wealth, followers, and even basic tools speaks to his insignificance. Even Smeagol’s only strength seemed to be his unrivaled agility and the ability to strangle orcs—yet only in situations of complete surprise.

Bilbo's Perspective on Power

Bilbo Baggins, in contrast, did not desire power. He was content with the comforts and opportunities his wealth provided. This stark contrast between Bilbo and Gollum highlights the different natures of power and its attractions. Bilbo did not feel the need to manipulate or deceive for the sake of power, whereas Gollum was consumed by it.

Minimal Influence and Stealth

For most of his life, Gollum was utterly powerless, represented by his wretched state and his constant need for stealth. His rise to villainy was marked by his relentless pursuit of power through the One Ring, but this did not translate into overt strength or commanding presence. Instead, his power lay in his ability to operate in secrecy, to outmaneuver and outsmart his opponents. Even after becoming more dangerous, Gollum’s power was still largely a product of his wits and the horrors of the Ring, rather than his physical prowess.

A Dangerous Haven

The one place that seemed safest for the Ring to be hidden was Gollum’s underground cave. His lack of interests in possessions, followers, or companions, combined with his immense skill in thievery and stealth, made him the perfect guardian for the precious ring. His very insignificance made him an ideal subject for the Ring’s influence, straddling the fine line between a potential wraith and a mere subjugated being.

In conclusion, Gollum’s journey from Sméagol to the Ringwraith is complex and unique. His possession of the One Ring did not turn him into a Ringwraith, and his power was more a matter of stealth and manipulation rather than overt strength. The Lord of the Rings is a testament to the many maddening aspects and the gradients of power in Middle-earth. So, while Gollum’s power grew under the Ring’s influence, it was never about overt might but rather in his cunning and his ability to stay hidden.