Bilbo's Mercy and the Complexity of Good and Evil: Why He Did Not Kill Gollum

Within The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, the character of Bilbo Baggins, a simple and kind individual, faces the difficult decision of whether or not to kill Gollum, a cunning and corrupted creature. This decision encapsulates the broader themes of mercy, the complexity of good and evil, and the importance of individual change, which are central to Tolkien's narrative.

Compassion and Mercy

Bilbo's decision not to kill Gollum is deeply rooted in his character, which is marked by compassion. Despite the fear and danger facing him in the Misty Mountains, Bilbo recognizes the pitiful state of Gollum, a creature corrupted by the power of the One Ring. His choice to spare Gollum's life is a demonstration of his moral integrity and kindness. This act sets him apart from more ruthless characters, highlighting the theme of mercy in Tolkien's work.

Beyond his immediate feeling of compassion, Bilbo's actions also reflect a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings. His decision to show mercy and let Gollum live reflects the broader theme in Tolkien's works that individuals can change and that mercy can lead to unexpected outcomes. This nuanced view underscores the complexity of good and evil, and the potential for redemption.

Intuition and Wisdom

Bilbo's instincts guide him to understand that killing Gollum would not be wise. His intuition tells him that Gollum, although dangerous, is not purely evil. This intuition aligns with the overarching theme in Tolkien's work that even the darkest individuals can be influenced by good and are capable of change. This wisdom helps Bilbo navigate the dangers of the misty tunnels and find his way out.

Practical Considerations

In a moment of practical wisdom, Bilbo realizes that killing Gollum would not help him escape the dark tunnels of the Misty Mountains. Instead, he needs Gollum to serve as a guide. By sparing Gollum, Bilbo gains a valuable ally. Gollum, acting as a guide and faltering in his plans, inadvertently helps Bilbo navigate the treacherous tunnels of the mountains. This decision proves to be a critical turning point in their journey.

Overall Significance

Bilbo's decision not to kill Gollum is a profound reflection of his character growth and the overarching moral themes in The Hobbit. It underscores the importance of mercy and the complexity of every individual's nature. This act of mercy ultimately serves a greater purpose in the larger narrative, as Gollum's later significance plays a crucial role in the destruction of the One Ring.

Additional Context

The decision not to kill Gollum is further supported by Bilbo's inherent kindness and honesty. Despite the temptation to take advantage of the situation, Bilbo refrains from killing Gollum because he knows it wouldn't be a fair fight while Gollum is invisible. Moreover, Bilbo feels genuine pity for the poor creature. These factors contribute to the moral complexity and depth of the character's decision.

Conclusion

Bilbo Baggins' journey is a testament to the power of mercy and the transformative nature of individual choices. His decision to spare Gollum's life rather than annihilate him reflects a deeper understanding of the complexities of good and evil. This act of mercy ultimately leads to unexpected outcomes, highlighting the importance of compassion and the capacity for change in every individual's nature.