Did the Fellowship Consider Taking Gollum with Them When They Left Moria?

Questions about Fellowship of the Ring often stem from a lack of thorough reading or viewing of the original source material. To answer the question, let’s explore the events from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

1. Gollum's Hidden Role

It has been noted that Gollum followed the Fellowship as they traveled through Moria, even while the rest of the group was unaware of his presence. Aside from Aragorn and Frodo hearing footsteps behind them in the dark, Gollum kept his distance. His purpose was to gain information and stay close enough to ensure he could find a way out of the former dwarf kingdom. Gollum then continued to follow the Fellowship along the river after they left Lothlórien.

2. Gollum’s Capture and Purpose

The Fellowship did not fully consider taking Gollum with them at the time. This was because Frodo, bearing the One Ring, was capable to resist its influence. Additionally, Aragorn and Lúthien were excellent trackers, which further minimized the need to bring Gollum. However, Gandalf had a suspicion that Gollum would play a more significant role in their journey, knowing that he could remain hidden and follow the Fellowship without being captured.

3. The Fellowship's Awareness and Strategy

The Fellowship was unaware that Gollum had been hiding within Moria and that he had guided them out of the dungeon and down the Anduin. Later, Samwise and Frodo became aware of Gollum’s tracking their movements; however, they kept this information to themselves, hoping to “lose” Gollum during their escape.

4. Gollum’s Ambitions

Gollum's intentions were less about being taken as a captive and more about obtaining the One Ring for himself. His actions were driven by a deep, dark desire to reacquire the power and control the Ring once gave him.

5. The Importance of Trust

The Fellowship's actions were guided by a desire to protect each other and the One Ring. Trust in each other as well as the ability to outmaneuver Gollum without his knowledge were key strategic elements in their quest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Fellowship did not consider taking Gollum with them when they left Moria. Gollum's role was more one of tracking and gathering information from a distance, while the Fellowship focused on their primary goal of destroying the One Ring. Their method of escaping Gollum by keeping his presence a secret was a calculated strategy to ensure their survival and completion of their mission.