Introduction

In J.R.R. Tolkien's epic saga, 'The Lord of the Rings', the showdown at Mount Doom serves as the climax of Frodo's quest to destroy the One Ring. Fans often wonder how the story would have changed if Gollum had prevented Frodo from destroying the ring. This article delves into that hypothetical scenario and examines the implications for both the narrative and the broader universe of Middle-earth.

The Nature of Gollum

From the outset, Gollum's relationship with the One Ring is complex. Consumed by its corrupting influence, he becomes a twisted reflection of the original ring bearer, Gollum. Sauron's will and evil are embodied in the ring, making its destruction paramount. Gollum, himself, is often torn between his desire for the ring and his survival, leading to a mental and physical anguish that drives his actions.

Consequences of Gollum's Interventions

Speculating, if Gollum had prevented Frodo from destroying the ring at Mount Doom, several outcomes come to mind. Firstly, Gollum would have likely waited for Frodo to return, as his sole desire is to possess the ring. This scenario hints at a prolonged period where Gollum would manipulate Frodo, holding the power the ring bestows. However, Gollum's true motivations lie in the ring itself, not the power it brings.

Gollum's Role and Destiny

Tolkien's own vision hints at a larger cosmic plot, suggesting that no ring-bearer could willingly destroy the ring. The text, through Gandalf, foreshadows Gollum's crucial role, emphasizing both his villainy and his destiny. If Gollum had taken the ring, it could lead to a different narrative, as he would be forced to succumb to Sauron's will.

Moreover, Gollum's fate is tied to his commitment to evil or good. In the original ending, his madness and despair in the Crack of Doom symbolize his ultimate downfall, as his demise aids in the ring's destruction. If Gollum had chosen a path of good, he would have thrown the ring into the fire, fulfilling his destiny but at a cost, as his age would catch up to him and he would soon perish.

Impact on the Fellowship and Sauron

The survival of the ring would have significant implications. With the ring in Gollum's possession, Sauron would likely detect its presence and seek to reclaim it. This scenario suggests a prolonged struggle, with the forces of good fighting to reclaim the ring before Sauron could use it to his advantage.

Even without divine intervention, Sauron might succeed in recovering the ring, leading to the downfall of the Free Peoples and potentially a new invasion by Sauron and his forces. However, if Sauron fails, his defeat could set the stage for a new era in Middle-earth, with the ring's destruction leading to the unraveling of Sauron's power.

Conclusion

While it is intriguing to imagine an alternative scenario where Gollum prevents Frodo from destroying the ring, the original narrative serves as a masterclass in fantasy plot construction. Tolkien's meticulous planning and intricate world-building make the story both plausible and inevitable. The lore of Middle-earth remains a testament to the genius of J.R.R. Tolkien, whose works continue to captivate readers and inspire scholars to this day.