Is Gollum Intelligent or Just Ruthless?

When discussing the intelligence of the titular character from the The Lord of the Rings trilogy, it is crucial to examine his behaviors and actions in detail. Gollum, often referenced as Sméagol, is a creature with complex motivations and actions, reflecting a mix of intelligence and uncompromising greed. This article will delve into his strategic maneuvers and the depth of his intellect in pursuing his objectives.

Introduction to Gollum

**Gollum** is not merely a minor character; he plays a pivotal role in the narrative of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. His primary goal is to reclaim the Ring, which he once possessed in its mithril coil form. Throughout the trilogy, his actions are driven by his desire to possess the Ring at any cost, a characteristic that often obscures his apparent intelligence.

Strategic Intelligence: Tracking the Fellowship

One of the most striking aspects of Gollum's intelligence is his ability to track and evade his pursuers. In The Two Towers, he skillfully trails the Fellowship, moving through the dense forest and desolate wastes without being detected. His knowledge of terrain and his ability to move silently and stealthily demonstrate a level of strategic thinking. For instance, he avoids light and noise, using the cover of darkness and dense vegetation to his advantage. This demonstrates a keen understanding of both his enemies and the environment he navigates.

Brilliant Strategies: Using Shelob

Perhaps the most remarkable example of Gollum's intelligence is his plan to use Shelob, the giant spider, to eliminate his rivals. In The Return of the King, he carefully orchestrated the situation, manipulating both the Fellowship's and Gandalf's paths, ultimately leading to the inheritance of the Nazg?l in Minas Morgul. This strategy was a meticulous plan, showing a level of foresight and calculated risk-taking. By using the monstrous Shelob as a weapon, he eliminated a significant obstacle and maintained his own survival. This tactic highlights his ability to think several steps ahead and use resources effectively to achieve his ends.

Gollum's Mental Battle

Another aspect that reveals Gollum's cognitive capabilities is his internal struggle. He is often portrayed as an antagonist, but his mental battles reveal both intelligence and vulnerability. In The Two Towers, Gollum is caught between his desire to return the Ring to Frodo and his fear of losing it. His internal dialogue and monologues demonstrate a deep understanding of his own motivations and emotions. This inward conflict reveals a complex mind, capable of sophisticated thought processes. His ability to argue with himself, considering the Ring's power and his own peril, indicates a degree of self-awareness and intellectual depth.

Intellect vs. Greed

Gollum's intelligence is often overshadowed by his insatiable greed. However, his actions show that he is capable of making strategic decisions to maximize his chances of reclaiming the Ring. Even when faced with near-impossible odds, he remains resourceful and manipulative. His interactions with Sam and Frodo, particularly in the Shire, show that he can read people and situations, though his motives are never purely altruistic. His manipulative behavior, such as leading the supposed allies of Frodo into dangerous territory, further underscores his intelligence.

Conclusion

Is Gollum intelligent, or is he simply ruthless? Both answers are correct, to some extent. Gollum possesses a surprising degree of strategic and tactical intelligence, which he uses to his advantage in pursuit of the Ring. However, his intelligence is often compromised by his overwhelming desire for the treasure that magically corrupts him. His actions and decisions, though marked by selfishness, reveal a mind that is capable of complex planning and strategic thought. Despite his flaws, Gollum remains one of the most intriguing characters in The Lord of the Rings, a testament to J.R.R. Tolkien's rich and nuanced portrayal of his fictional world.

Keywords: Gollum intelligence, Middle-earth, Hobbit intelligence