What drives Gollum's actions?

Gollum's obsession with the One Ring and his internal conflict between his two personalities drive his actions.

What is Smaug's greatest weakness?

Smaug's greatest weakness is a single vulnerable scale on his body, which can be exploited by his enemies.

How do Gollum and Smaug relate to the broader Middle-earth story?

Both creatures play significant roles in the story, with Gollum's possession of the One Ring and Smaug's conquest of the Lonely Mountain influencing the fate of Middle-earth.

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Gollum vs Smaug

Better Middle-earth creature?

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Who's winning: Gollum or Smaug?

No votes yet — be the first to weigh in on Gollum vs Smaug.

Gollum's tragic fall and Smaug's terrifying presence have captivated audiences. Their contrasting natures raise questions about which creature is more compelling. The debate centers on their roles in Middle-earth and the impact of their stories. This matchup highlights the complexity of Tolkien's creations.

Why each side wins

💍 Gollum

Gollum's dual personalities and tortured soul evoke sympathy and horror. His 500-year struggle with the One Ring's influence is a haunting tale of corruption. Gollum's relatability and tragic downfall make him a compelling choice. His story explores the dangers of obsession and the blurred lines between good and evil.

🐉 Smaug

Smaug's intimidating presence and intelligent nature make him a formidable foe. His hoard of gold and dominance over the Lonely Mountain demonstrate his power and cunning. Smaug's ability to converse and manipulate others adds to his menacing reputation. His weaknesses, such as his vulnerable scale, also humanize him.

Tale of the tape

💍 Gollum

Age: 500+ yrs
Personalities: 2

🐉 Smaug

Hoard: A mountain of gold
Weakness: One scale

The verdict

To weigh the choice, consider whether tragic complexity or terrifying power is more captivating. Those who prefer character-driven stories may lean towards Gollum, while fans of epic battles and formidable villains may prefer Smaug. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences for storytelling and character development.

Screen standing

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Gollum

#22 / 185

1500 ELO

Smaug

#23 / 185

1500 ELO

Frequently asked

What drives Gollum's actions?: Gollum's obsession with the One Ring and his internal conflict between his two personalities drive his actions.
What is Smaug's greatest weakness?: Smaug's greatest weakness is a single vulnerable scale on his body, which can be exploited by his enemies.
How do Gollum and Smaug relate to the broader Middle-earth story?: Both creatures play significant roles in the story, with Gollum's possession of the One Ring and Smaug's conquest of the Lonely Mountain influencing the fate of Middle-earth.