In every story, fable, or even everyday life, there is always a villain to twist things… or a betrayer.
J. R. R. Tolkien presents an eerily-designed character: the warped and perverted Gollum.
Gollum, the deceitful and manipulative creature from The Lord of the Rings, is an example of how a single person can have control over many. Really, with the gift of human life, all people have this power, and can use it for good, or bad. Gollum, like many others, used it for himself — to weasel trust out of Frodo, which gave him the power to betray. This completely parallels Judas and Jesus Christ.
Judas was a disciple of Christ, making Jesus his Master. Yet, Judas went back on Our Lord, and betrayed Him, just for money. The portrayal of Gollum and Frodo mirrors this.
Another interesting thing to consider is the fact that Frodo gave Gollum the chance to return to a more human (or hobbit) way of life. He entrusted Gollum with an immense responsibility, while knowing there was a great chance he’d turn on himself (Frodo). Really, though, that’s how free will works — the beautiful gift, giving everyone another chance, the benefit of the doubt, before the end. If Gollum was forced to regain his dignity, there would have been no kindness, love, or even just free will in what Frodo did for him. Yet, because he was given the chance to consent, he was also given the chance to betray… which he did.
Gollum went back on Frodo for the sake of the Ring — as Judas betrayed Christ for the sake of thirty pieces of silver. Judas should have been trustworthy, but, when given the chance, he chose to betray. Jesus not only knew there was a high chance of this, but (being the Son of God) He also knew beforehand that Judas would do this… yet, He gave him the freedom to choose — the very essence of free will.
Thus end the stories of Gollum and Judas Iscariot. They both valued money, or power, over their masters, and turned on them when given the chance… and then died in their misery, for lack of love.
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Artwork: Jose Ferraz De Almeida Junior, Judas’ Regret / PD-US
3 thoughts on “Gollum… The New Judas Iscariot”
Very good essay. Well thought out and well written. We need people who can express their ideas clearly! Keep up the great work, Fanny. (PS You have a great catchy name for a writer. I think we will see your byline in years to come!)
This is a very good essay. Your ideas are well thought out and clearly presented. I hope you keep thinking and writing. We need good writers! (PS You have a great name for a writer. I think we might see your byline often in years to come!)
Very perceptive for such a young lady! I taught 8th Grade for a number of years and was always so excited when one or two students would have such a precious gift of insight. May you be a Frodo and use it to always benefit the good in you and others!