Smeagol Versus Gollum: The Bridge Between Fantasy and Reality

Many literary scholars have observed J.R.R. Tolkiens The Lord of the Rings through biographical, allegorical, and source comparative lenses. Few, however, have focused their attention on characters such as Gollum and his importance in the mythology. The new wave of interest in Tolkiens literary work with the release of Peter Jacksons films has invited a closer look at the connection between Fairy Story and reality. This book offers a new perspective of The Lord of the Rings, focusing on Gollums journey and Jungian "myth" or self-actualization. The Shadow archetype of Jungian Psychology as applied to Gollum helps reveal the characters overall importance in Tolkiens work, as well as a deep connection between mythology and ourselves. The analysis in this book should be helpful to literary scholars, students, and Tolkien fans alike.