The Tragic Fate of Gollum/Smeagol: Beyond Mordor's Shadow

The character of Gollum/Smeagol remains one of the most unforgettable in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. After Frodo and Sam left him in Mordor, his tragic fate took a dark turn, leading to a dramatic and destructive end. This article explores Gollum's ultimate destiny and the various stories that have been woven around his final moments.

Regaining the One Ring

Upon their departure, Gollum, driven by his overwhelming desire for the One Ring, bit off Frodo's finger carrying the Ring. It was a moment of pure madness, a sign of his obsession. However, Gollum's actions didn't bring him the victory he sought. Moments later, he slipped and fell into the fiery depths of Orodruin, the mountain volcano of Mordor. This cataclysmic event marked the end for both the creature and the Dark Lord's final hope of world domination.

The Sad Fate of Smeagol

Other versions of the story paint a picture of Smeagol who, after his master's departure, was left to mope in the woods, seeking solace. He found none and tragically met his end at the paws of a bear. This tale adds a poignant note to his story, suggesting that even without the Ring's corrupting influence, Smeagol's fate was bleak.

Gollum's Journey and Redemption

A more compelling narrative often includes Gollum's journey back to Mordor after his unguarded moments with Frodo. He reappeared in various forms, escaping from various adversities. This includes:

surrendering to Aragorn being imprisoned in Mirkwood being questioned under duress by Gandalf escaping to Moria happening upon the Fellowship following Frodo and Sam into the mountains outside of Mordor being captured and agreeing to guide them into Mordor guiding them all the way to Mount Doom

Finally, when the tension reached its peak, Gollum wrestled the Ring from Frodo and plunged into the fires of Mount Doom, marking the end of his reign of terror and the ultimate destruction of the One Ring.

The Explanation from Gandalf

The story of Smeagol/Gollum is closely detailed in the book The Fellowship of the Ring, specifically in Chapter 2, "Shadow of the Past." In this, Gandalf provides the necessary context, explaining how both Smeagol and Gollum met their ultimate ends. According to the narrative, Gollum fell into the forge-fires of Mount Doom, following the loss of the Ring, effectively ending his life and the threat he posed to Middle-earth.

Conclusion

The fate of Gollum/Smeagol is a testament to the power and influence of the One Ring, and the tragic consequences of succumbing to its call. Whether through a fiery death in Orodruin or a more uncertain end in the woods, his story remains a poignant reminder of the destructive nature of the Ring's power.