Gollum’s Survival Tactics in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings

Introduction

In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Gollum, with his perilous past and enduring obsession with the One Ring, often finds himself in dire situations. One such perilous encounter is with Shelob, an ancient and lethal spider. Gollum's survival tactics and cunning nature are pivotal in evading capture and ensuring his own survival. This article delves into how Gollum avoided getting caught and eaten by Shelob, drawing insights from his character in the narrative and exploring the factors that contributed to his success.

Understanding Shelob

Gollum's Familiarity with Shelob and Her Lair

Before delving into the specific tactics Gollum employs, it's essential to understand his relationship with Shelob. In The Two Towers, Gollum displays a deep familiarity with Shelob and her lair in Cirith Ungol. This knowledge grants him a significant advantage over other characters, such as Frodo and Sam, who are less aware of the dangers. Gollum’s understanding of Shelob's behavior and terrain allows him to navigate around her territory effectively, making it easier for him to avoid drawing her attention.

Survival Tactics

Stealth and Cunning

Enhanced Mobility Through Stealth

Gollum's ability to move stealthily proves to be one of his most valuable survival tactics. He masters the art of slipping through shadows and utilizing the dark environment to his advantage. This skill is crucial in evading detection, especially by Shelob, who would likely detect any movement in her lair. Gollum's prowess in stealth is evident in the way he navigates through the perilous environment of Cirith Ungol, often lingering in the darkness rather than drawing attention to himself.

Manipulation and Distraction

Distracting and Manipulating the Situation

When Gollum and his companions, Frodo and Sam, encounter Shelob, Gollum's initial plan is not to avoid her directly, but to lure her into an attack. His plan involves leading them into her lair, testing her patience, and ultimately redirecting her focus away from them. When Shelob attacks, Gollum utilizes the chaos to slip away, distraction becoming a crucial element in his survival strategy. He remains out of her immediate focus, climbing up the walls and hiding among the shadows to avoid detection.

Survival Instincts and Opportunism

Adapting to the Situation

Gollum's survival instincts are further enhanced by his opportunistic nature. While his primary desire is to retrieve the One Ring, he recognizes that his actions must remain shrouded in secrecy. When the opportunity presents itself, such as during the chaos of Shelob's attack, he seizes the moment to retreat and regroup. His cunning nature enables him to adapt to the situation, waiting for the right moment to reassert control and maintain his freedom.

External Factors

Sauron's Influence and Misunderstanding

Gollum's Release and His Freedom to Act

Although Gollum's success in evading capture is primarily attributed to his own cunning and survival tactics, it's worth considering the external factors that contributed to his situation. After his release from Barad-d?r, Sauron continued to influence Gollum, using his obsession with the One Ring to guide his actions. Gollum was ordered to work for Shelob, leading him to guide Frodo and Sam into her lair. However, his capture is a complex event, reflecting Sauron's underestimation of other forces, such as Aragorn, whom he did not anticipate apprehending Gollum so quickly.

Captured and Tortured

Sauron's Usage of Gollum for Information

Gollum's capture by Sauron is a pivotal moment in the narrative. He is taken to Barad-d?r and subjected to torture to extract information about the Ring. This experience reveals the depth of Sauron's knowledge of the Ring's location, as he learns of its discovery and Frodo's residence in the Shire. Despite Sauron's plans, Aragorn's timely intervention leads to Gollum's capture being thwarted, demonstrating the intricate balance of power in Middle-earth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gollum's survival tactics and cunning nature played a crucial role in his ability to avoid getting caught and eaten by Shelob. His deep familiarity with the landscape, combined with his ability to move stealthily and use manipulation and distraction, allowed him to navigate the threats effectively. Additionally, the external influence of Sauron and the subsequent capture and torture further highlight the complex interplay of forces at work in Middle-earth. Gollum's character remains a compelling study in survival and the lengths one will go to in pursuit of their desires.