The Aftermath of Smeagol's Journey to Mount Doom: A Study in Fate

In J.R.R. Tolkien's classic tale, the fate of Smeagol (or Gollum) after his journey to Mount Doom is a subject of much speculation among fans. The end result, as described in various adaptations, is a poignant and brutal conclusion. Let us delve into the details, exploring the various accounts and interpretations.

Regaining the One Ring and Epic Consequences

Following his perilous journey to the Cracks of Doom, Smeagol found himself once more in possession of the One Ring. His victory was short-lived, however, as the moment he reclaimed the ring, he bit off Frodo's finger,(symbolic of the power the ring has over its bearer). This act of triumph was followed by his untimely demise as he fell into the molten lava of the volcano, meeting a fiery end.

Allegory of Destruction

The fall of Gollum into the volcano's lava serves as a metaphor for the complete destruction of his will and ego. The phrase "crispy critter" aptly describes his fate, highlighting the sheer extremity of his downfall. In the end, not only did he die, but the very ring that controlled his life was destined to meet the same fiery end, as it expired shortly after Gollum did.

Smeagol and the Cracks of Doom

A compelling narrative also suggests that Smeagol and the One Ring fell together into the Cracks of Doom, with both being consumed by the intensifying heat and flames. This depicts a complete and utter destruction, both figuratively and literally. With this, there was no lingering trace of either the Sméagol who once was nor the One Ring that had brought so much chaos and despair.

Did Smeagol Leave Mount Doom?

Contrary to popular belief, many argue that Smeagol did not leave Mount Doom. Instead, he was destroyed within its fires, with the One Ring and he progressively melting into the inferno before being obliterated. Some interpretations suggest that the Ring's final moments were particularly graphic, with the ring itself not surviving its fiery demise.

The Duality of Smeagol's Motivations

While Smeagol initially sneaked behind his foes to attack, this behavior marked a dark turn in his already unstable psyche. Given his habitual inclination toward both good and evil, the events leading up to his demise offered a glimpse into his complex motivations. After he reclaimed the ring, he began gloating and dancing, a testament to the ring's corruptive influence even in the face of potential annihilation.

However, as fate would have it, his liberated joy was short-lived. His misstep and subsequent fall into the lava suggest an ironic fate, as his initial joy was quickly replaced by his ultimate destruction.

Ultimately, the afterlife of Smeagol and the One Ring provides a fascinating study in the destructive power of such a artifact. While some accounts suggest he left, a more poignant interpretation portrays his complete and utter demise, leaving no trace behind after the cataclysm at Mount Doom.

The fate of Smeagol and the One Ring remains a subject of intrigue for fans of the works, offering a richer understanding of the story's climax and denouement.