The Duality in Middle-earth: Gollum and Golem’s Path of Corruption

The duality of identity is a notoriously prevalent theme in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. This duality is exemplified by the characters of Gollum and Golem, both of whom exhibit a split personality, embodying an endless cycle of corruption and obsession. This essay explores the similarities between these two unique characters through their duality, obsession with the One Ring, isolation, tragic backstories, and physical deformities.

Duality of Identity

Both Golem and Gollum showcase a profound duality within their identities. Golem represents the corrupted, gaunt form of the once-human Sméagol, while Gollum is the darker, more malevolent side seeking to reclaim the One Ring. In contemporary terms, this duality can be likened to the psychological concept of a split personality, where two distinct but interdependent identities exist within a single individual.

Obsession with the One Ring

Their shared obsession with the One Ring is a stark and driving force that defines both Golem and Gollum’s characters. The Ring’s corruptive influence profoundly affects their psychological and moral states, pushing them into deeper cycles of corruption and deception. This obsession is what drives their actions and decisions throughout their respective narratives, ultimately leading to their downfall.

Experiences of Isolation

Both Golem and Gollum are characterized by extreme isolation. Golem, the corrupted Sméagol, lives in dark caves away from society, while Gollum’s isolation is driven by his sinister and malevolent actions. Gollum’s obsession with the Ring isolates him from his companions, leading to betrayal and alienation. The sense of isolation these characters experience further emphasizes the solitary nature of their quests.

Tragic Origins

Behind the appearance of Golem and Gollum lie tragic backstories. Sméagol was once a Hobbit-like creature who was corrupted by the One Ring after killing his friend Deagol for it. This deeply tragic origin evokes sympathy for the Golem, as he was not always malevolent. Similarly, Gollum’s journey from Deagol to Gollum is riddled with loss, betrayal, and corruption, revealing a poignant narrative of human (or hobbit-like) tragedy.

Physical Deformity and Corruption

The physical traits of Golem and Gollum reflect their corruption and obsession. Golem is often described as thin and gaunt, reflecting the physical toll of corruption. Gollum’s features, on the other hand, are twisted and grotesque, a direct result of his prolonged obsession with the One Ring. These physical deformities underscore the extent of their respective transformations.

Cunning and Deception

Both Golem and Gollum are cunning and capable of deception, often manipulating others to achieve their goals. Whether it’s gaining the Ring or seeking revenge, they both rely on their wit and trickery to navigate their environments. This cunning nature is a crucial aspect of their characters, driving their interactions and decisions throughout the narrative.

Parallelism with Golemian Myth

While J.R.R. Tolkien never explicitly mentions golems in The Lord of the Rings, the fictional world of Middle-earth presents analogous beings, especially in the form of Drúedain and the Púkel-men of Dunharrow. The Púkel-men are humanoid statues imbued with extraordinary abilities, reflecting the magical nature of golems. These statues embody a fascinating duality: created in the likeness of men but with immense and perceptive supernatural powers.

Conclusion

The shared duality, obsession with the Ring, isolation, tragic origins, physical deformities, and cunning of Golem and Gollum from The Lord of the Rings are compelling parallels to the mythical concept of these characters, Tolkien’s work explores the complex themes of corruption, obsession, and the struggle between good and evil, revealing the profound parallels between myth and fiction. These characters continue to captivate readers and scholars, inviting endless analysis and interpretation.