Above all, Sméagol is a creature that deserves pity. Sméagol—and his alter ego Gollum—are the epitome of the path towards redemption that faces many obstacles along the way. The dual personality helps exemplify a character that is tormented between good and evil. The concept is taken to the extreme by creating contrasting personalities within the same character to represent each side. It further illustrates the internal struggle Sméagol faces throughout the novel. When looking at Sméagol’s life as he acquired the ring, his time with the ring, and his actions once he lost the ring, it is clear to see that Sméagol’s actions are explainable and possibly even redeeming.
Even before his first experience with the ring, Sméagol was primed to be the perfect host, so to speak, for the ring. His questionable habits and the adverse reaction from his family created a creature that the ring could corrupt almost instantly. Before Sméagol came across the ring he often acted in mysterious and mischievous ways. He was characterized as lurking and spying on others. Sméagol’s personality was therefore fragile and easily influenced. The ring then amplified the characteristics it needed, pulling forth the least desirable…show more content… Boromir was overtaken in months, Frodo in a year, Bilbo in a few decades. While Sméagol’s transition to Gollum is much more extreme, it is more understandable considering the time that elapsed. Moreover, Sméagol lacked the support system the aforementioned individuals had. Frodo especially had possibly the best chance at resistance due to the support afforded to him. Not only were Gandalf and Aragorn there to guide him, Frodo had Sam, possibly the most loyal character throughout the entire series. Sam had no desire for the ring, thereby acting as a pure influence, pulling Frodo out of the
