The Essential Role of Gollum in Lord of the Rings: The Dark Hero

The character of Gollum (or Sméagol) in Lord of the Rings is a complex and pivotal figure in J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tale. Many readers and scholars argue that without Gollum, the Lord of the Rings saga would be fundamentally different and darker. This essay explores the vital contributions made by Gollum throughout the story, focusing on his impact on Frodo, Sam, and the overall narrative.

Gollum in J.R.R. Tolkien's Narrative

Tolkien's extensive notes and interviews reveal the author's belief in the importance of Gollum. As a fragment of authorial omniscience, Gollum serves as both a guide and a dark force that ultimately ensures the destruction of the One Ring. This author's omniscience allows for the subtle manipulation of key events that otherwise might have altered the Lord of the Rings canon.

Gollum’s Role in the Journey to Mordor

Gollum's role in guiding Frodo and Sam on their perilous journey to Mordor is critical. Without Gollum, the journey would have been much more perilous and fraught with difficulty. Here are specific examples of how Gollum’s presence and guidance were essential:

Passage through the Swamplands: Frodo and Sam would have had no idea how to navigate the treacherous swamplands near Cirith Ungol. Gollum's knowledge of this path was crucial in their survival and progress.

Encounter with Shelob: Frodo would have been far more likely to fall prey to Shelob without Gollum's warning and prior cautionary tale. This encounter would have been a major setback in the quest to destroy the Ring.

Decision to discard the Ring: Frodo's decision to discard the Ring into the fire of Mount Doom would not have been made without Gollum's urging and unforgiving words.

Gollum's influence ensures that the Ring is destroyed when Frodo loses his will, making him an indispensable companion and a participant in the ultimate triumph over evil.

Alternative Scenarios without Gollum

Without Gollum, the narrative and its outcomes would have been dramatically altered. Here are several scenarios that could have unfolded:

Sauron and the Quest for Mordor

Sauron’s Knowledge: If Gollum had died before the events of the Hobbit, Sauron might have discovered the Ring much earlier, thanks to the Nazgul's relentless pursuit of it. Sauron's knowledge of Gollum's capture and the Ring’s return to Mordor would have put a significant dent in Frodo and Sam's quest. This could have led to the Ring being found and used again by Sauron, severely altering the timeline and plot.

The Shire and the Journey to Rivendell

Uninformed Hobbits: If Sauron’s forces had reached the Shire, the Hobbits would have faced significant challenges in their journey to Rivendell. The quest would likely have failed without the protection and guidance provided by Gollum. Encounter with Sauron's minions in the Shire would have put the entire plan at risk.

The Fate of Frodo and Sam

Voracious Orcs and Glorious Sues: Without Gollum’s guidance, Frodo and Sam would have had to navigate through Mordor by themselves. This journey would have been rife with danger and may have ended in their capture or death. Frodo might have eventually fallen under the Ring's influence, leading him to keep the Ring and become a new Gollum, or perhaps succumb to its power in other ways.

Sam would have been left to face Mordor alone, without Frodo's aid, which could have resulted in his untimely demise. The quest’s success and the ultimate accomplishment of destroying the Ring might have been compromised or lost.

The Author's Omniscience and Gollum's Purpose

Tolkien’s authorial omniscience allowed him to manipulate events and characters' fates without direct intervention. Gollum serves as a subplot bringing both light and darkness to the narrative. He is a product of Eru's (the transcendent god in Tolkien's mythology) will, much like any other created being.

Even if Frodo and Sam had succeeded in their quest without Gollum, Eru would still have had a plan for them. It could be that Sam would have taken Frodo into the fire, but Eru's divine intervention would have ensured that Frodo's soul (or Fea) would be protected, reflecting an age-old mythological narrative where the hero must face their fate to complete their quest.

Conclusion

In summary, Gollum's role in the Lord of the Rings saga is paramount. His presence ensures the quest remains on track, and his dark influence ultimately contributes to the destruction of the One Ring. Without Gollum, the narrative would be far darker and more challenging, and the ultimate success of the quest is significantly more precarious. Gollum is thus a critical element that enhances the complexity and depth of J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece.