Gollum and Orcs: A Complex and Tenuous Relationship

Introduction

In J.R.R. Tolkien's literary masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings, Gollum (or Smial as he is known) has a complex and often tenuous relationship with the orc species. This relationship is not always clear, as evidenced by various scenes in the books and films. While Gollum frequently finds himself in proximity to orcs, it is questionable whether he gets along with them or only uses them to achieve his own ends.

Initial Encounter with Orcs

When Gollum first encounters orcs in The Lord of the Rings, it is in an explicitly hostile context. Gollum is rescued from the Wood-elves by orcs at the beginning of the story. The orcs likely act on instructions from Sauron or one of the Nazg?l, using Gollum to cause mischief, possibly leading them to the location of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. Despite being rescued by orcs, Gollum appears to have a sense of independence, quickly disappearing into the wilderness after his rescue.

Perceptual Distance from Orcs in Moria

Later in the story, Gollum hides in Moria, avoiding the orcish garrison there. He avoids being captured by the orcs and uses his knowledge of the mines to follow the Fellowship of the Ring. It is questionable whether he gets along with the orcs, as he is often described as hiding from them and maintaining a perceptual distance. The evidence suggests that Gollum is trying to keep a low profile, hoping to remain unnoticed by the orcs.

The Plot Against the Fellowship

The Fellowship believes that Gollum might have been responsible for their waylaid down the river. However, Gollum is following behind them and would find it difficult to directly orchestrate an attack. His position on a floating log makes it even more unlikely that he was the one who hatched the plot. Moreover, Gollum's distance from the Fellowship suggests that he is not closely associated with orcs and is not part of any planned attack.

Later Encounters with Orcs

Later in the story, Gollum is spotted on the stairs leading up to Shelob's lair. When news of this reaches the orcs, they want to take Gollum for questioning. In Mordor, Gollum is briefly attacked by a couple of orcs, including an archer. He is described as being quite weak at the time, and it is doubtful that strong orcs would have deliberately helped him. This further suggests that Gollum is not on good terms with orcs and that they do not readily support him.

The Final Confrontation

Finally, during the confrontation at Orodruin (Mount Doom), Gollum attacks the hobbits. If he had a good relationship with orcs, he might have received supplies or assistance. However, Gollum's actions are driven entirely by his own desires and not by any support from the orcs. His weak state at the time of the attack further suggests that he is not being provided with supplies or support by the orcs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gollum's relationship with the orcs is marked by a lack of trust and a lack of companionship. He avoids them whenever possible and does not seem to rely on them for support or supplies. While orcs play a significant role in Gollum's story, his interactions with them are often defined by his personal ambitions and survival instincts, rather than a genuine friendship or alliance.