What would have become of Gollum if he had not fallen into the fire of Mount Doom with the ring destroyed?

Considering J.R.R. Tolkien's intricate storytelling, the fate of Gollum if the Ring had not been destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom presents a fascinating exploration. The themes of corruption, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil deeply inform potential outcomes.

Continued Corruption

Without the Ring's destruction, Gollum would likely have continued his downward spiral. The relentless influence of the Ring would deepen his obsession, leading to further isolation and mental degradation. His pursuit of Frodo and Sam would have intensified, driven by his insatiable desire to reclaim the Ring. Such a scenario could result in violent clashes and more tragic events, as Gollum's corrupted nature converges with his relentless pursuit.

Redemption Arc

If Gollum had survived and without the Ring's influence, there could have been a glimmer of hope for redemption. Gollum's occasional flashes of his original self, Smeagol, especially in moments of vulnerability, hint at a possible path towards self-realization. Overcoming the Ring's hold could have allowed Gollum to confront his past, potentially leading to a form of reconciliation with his former self or others. This arc would reflect the journey from darkness towards light, a testament to the resilience of the human (or creature) spirit.

Manipulation by Others

Surviving the Ring's destruction, Gollum could have become a pawn for darker forces. Figures like Saruman or even Sauron might have sought to manipulate him, using his intimate knowledge of the Ring and its history for their own nefarious purposes. This could lead Gollum into unexpected alliances and schemes, further entangled in the web of treachery and power within Tolkien's universe.

Life as an Outcast

In the absence of the Ring, Gollum might have continued his life as a creature of the shadows, an outcast in Middle-earth. Wandering the wilderness, he would be haunted by his past and the loss of the Ring. This condition would have given rise to tales among the Free Peoples, perhaps becoming a cautionary legend or a symbol of the perils of power and corruption.

Influence on the Quest

The survival of Gollum could have significantly altered the course of the War of the Ring. His continued involvement might have led to guiding, misguiding, or even diverting Frodo and Sam, potentially leading to different outcomes of their quest. The uncertainty of his loyalties and motivations would have added layers of complexity to the saga, testing the resilience and integrity of the Fellowship.

Ultimately, Gollum's fate without the Ring's destruction would reflect Tolkien's profound themes of corruption, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. His character serves as a poignant exploration of how power can be both a corrupting influence and a point of potential redemption, underscoring the enduring nature of hope in the face of immense darkness.