If Sméagol Had Survived the Destruction of the One Ring, Could He Have Been Rehabilitated?

The question of whether Sméagol Gollum could have been rehabilitated had he survived the destruction of the One Ring is a complex one rooted in his character and the themes of addiction and redemption in J.R.R. Tolkien's work. Here are some key points to consider:

The Nature of the One Ring

The One Ring had a profound and corrupting influence on Sméagol. It amplified his darker traits, leading to his transformation into Gollum. Without the Ring, he might have had a chance to reclaim some of his former self, but the psychological scars from his long exposure to its power would likely remain. The Ring's enduring impact on him would make rehabilitation an arduous and challenging task.

Duality of Sméagol and Gollum

Sméagol's personality was split between his original self, Sméagol, and the darker Gollum. Throughout The Lord of the Rings, this duality is evident, as Sméagol struggles to maintain control over his darker tendencies while simultaneously remembering the goodness of his former self. This split personality would complicate any attempt at rehabilitation, as the Gollum aspect would likely resist any changes and actively work against them.

Potential for Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation often requires support, understanding, and a safe environment. If Sméagol had found allies or a community that could help him, he might have had a chance to reintegrate into society. Characters like Frodo and Sam showed compassion toward him, suggesting that with the right support, he could have begun to heal. However, the context in which Sméagol lives is critical here; without the right circumstances, even the most well-meaning efforts might fall short.

Tolkiens Themes

Tolkien often explored themes of redemption and the struggle between good and evil. Sméagol's journey could have served as a poignant narrative of recovery and forgiveness, suggesting that even those deeply affected by darkness can seek redemption. However, it's crucial to note that Sméagol's situation is unique. Unlike Frodo and Bilbo, who possessed the Ring for a significantly shorter period, and who were essentially good people, Sméagol was already evil and nasty even before the Ring came to him. His character was fundamentally different, making his rehabilitation more challenging.

The Role of Choice

Ultimately, rehabilitation would depend on Sméagol's choices. He would need to actively resist the pull of Gollum and the remnants of the Ring's influence. His ability to choose good over evil would be crucial in determining his path forward. Without the right circumstances and guidance, even the best of intentions might not be enough to overcome the ingrained evil in his character.

In conclusion, while Sméagol's path to rehabilitation would be fraught with challenges, it is conceivable that he could have sought redemption and healing had he survived the destruction of the One Ring, depending on the circumstances and support he encountered. The outcome would be heavily influenced by the availability of support, the underlying nature of his character, and the choices he made throughout his journey.