How Strong Was Sméagol/Gollum in The Lord of the Rings?

The character of Sméagol/Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is often seen as a formidable foe, but in reality, his strength is far from intimidating. Let's delve into the reasons behind his limited prowess and explore the unique attributes that made him a significant figure in the narrative.

Impotence in Combat — Sméagol's Ineffectiveness

When it comes to direct confrontation and physical combat, Sméagol, the much-feared Gollum, proves to be surprisingly weak. Even the hobbit Bilbo Baggins, a timid and virtually inexperienced fighter, manages to outlast and outsmart him during encounters. Bilbo's courage and determination, despite his lack of actual weapon proficiency, give him an edge over Sméagol. This sneak and monstrous creature, who relies on stealth and subtlety in most of his endeavors, becomes easily outmaneuvered by a well-intentioned hobbit. It is critical to note that Sméagol's nature has been irrevocably altered by the power of the One Ring, making him a shadow of what he once was.

Gollum as a Hunter and Strangler — Not a Fighter

Sméagol/Gollum may have had his strengths, but they lay in his ability to sneak and strangle, rather than his capability as a combatant. His modus operandi involves luring his prey into an unsuspecting trap and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. A direct confrontation would leave him vulnerable, as he would rather prefer to catch his victims in their sleep or unawares. This sneakiness, combined with his cunning, makes him a formidable opponent, but it does not translate into conventional fighting prowess. Hence, while he poses a significant challenge, his strength is more mental and psychological than physical.

The Complexity of Sméagol — Beyond Physical Strength

Despite his physical limitations, Sméagol/Gollum exhibits a remarkable strength of will that makes him an intriguing character. For nearly 500 years, he managed to resist the all-consuming influence of the One Ring, a feat that is itself astonishing. During his captivity by the forces of Mordor, when he was brought before Sauron himself, the Dark Lord was unable to subdue him. This is a testament to the strength of Sméagol's will and character. Even Sauron, the most powerful of beings, could not fully dominate him. This remarkable resilience indicates that, within himself, there was a force that could not be completely suppressed by the Ring's malevolence. This is a character trait that differentiates Sméagol from mere physical strength and elevates his significance in the story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Sméagol/Gollum's limited physical prowess makes him an interesting character in terms of his adaptive methods and quirks, his strength truly lies in his willpower and mental fortitude. His ability to resist the One Ring, even for a prolonged period, and to maintain his own identity against the overwhelming power of darkness, is what sets him apart in The Lord of the Rings. This unique blend of character contrasts the typical portrayal of evil/negative characters, making him a compelling and complex figure in Tolkien's epic.