The Transformation of Sméagol: A Closer Look at Gollum’s Identity

Sméagol, the early Hobbit-like creature who later became infamously known as Gollum, serves as a fascinating exploration of how one's environment and choices can drastically alter one's identity. Born around the year 2430 of the Third Age, Sméagol was part of a small Hobbit-like community near the Anduin River, where he lived a simple life focused on fishing and family. However, everything changed on his birthday, where he murdered his cousin Déagol over a ring, the One Ring.

This act of violence was not just a crime; it marked the beginning of his transformation into a wretched creature. I find the story of Sméagol to be a profound tragedy, illustrating how a single moment can profoundly alter the course of a life. The duality of Gollum—his Sméagol side and his Gollum side—highlights the internal conflict that many people face, reminding us of those moments when we are torn between good and bad choices.

Internal Conflict and the Sins of Inaction

The duality experienced by Sméagol is reminiscent of the struggles faced by real-life individuals, such as my friend who struggled with addiction. At his core, he was a kind-hearted person, much like Sméagol. However, the addiction transformed him into a person unrecognizable to his own reflection, just as the Ring transformed Sméagol into Gollum. Such stories serve as reminders that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant choices can have monumental impacts on our lives.

The Significance of Gollum in Tolkien’s World

Sméagol’s existence as a Hobbit-like creature is crucial to understanding the broader themes of Tolkien’s work. It underscores the idea that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant beings can have a profound impact on the world. This concept is beautifully illustrated in the tale of Gollum, who, despite his wretched condition, holds a significant place in the story of Middle-earth. Stories often reveal that the most ordinary characters can possess extraordinary depth, and Gollum is a perfect embodiment of that.

The Dangers of Obsession and the Loss of Self

However, Gollum’s tale is not solely a tale of tragedy. It is also a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession and the loss of self. The influence of the One Ring over Gollum serves as a reminder of how easily one can become consumed by desire, leading to isolation, despair, and ultimately, the loss of one’s true self. I strongly feel that Gollum serves as a mirror to the darker aspects of the human psyche and our own struggles with temptation.

Understanding the transformation of Sméagol to Gollum offers insights into the complexities of human nature, including the impact of our choices and the enduring truths of human morality and struggle. As we navigate our own lives, the story of Gollum serves as both a warning and a reminder of our own inner conflicts and the profound impact of our choices.