How Did Gollum Get Into Moria

How Did Gollum Get Into Moria? A Deep Dive into Lord of the Rings Lore

The question of how Gollum infiltrated the seemingly impenetrable fortress of Moria is a fascinating one, sparking debate among Tolkien enthusiasts for decades. While Tolkien doesn't explicitly detail Gollum's exact method of entry, we can piece together a plausible scenario based on the established lore of The Lord of the Rings.

Moria's Defenses: A Look at the Vulnerabilities

Before exploring Gollum's infiltration, let's examine Moria's defenses. While presented as a formidable stronghold, Moria wasn't entirely invincible. Its defenses were weakened considerably after the Balrog's eruption and the subsequent exodus of the Dwarves. This left many potential entry points vulnerable.

Key Weaknesses:

• The Western Gates: While initially secure, the destruction caused by the Balrog likely compromised the structural integrity of the Western Gates, creating potential breaches. Years of neglect and the chaos following the disaster undoubtedly left these entrances less guarded.
• Secret Passages and Tunnels: Moria was a vast network of tunnels and passages, many of which were unknown even to the Dwarves. These hidden routes, designed for mining and exploration, could have provided Gollum with a clandestine means of access.
• The Mines themselves: The sheer size and labyrinthine nature of Moria's mines presented numerous unguarded areas, particularly in the aftermath of the Dwarf exodus. Gollum, a creature of stealth and cunning, could have easily exploited such weaknesses.
• Lack of Consistent Patrols: After the Balrog's awakening, the remaining inhabitants of Moria likely scattered or were killed. There was a significant lack of systematic patrol and surveillance, making it far easier for Gollum to infiltrate unnoticed.

Gollum's Skills: A Master of Stealth and Deception

Gollum's abilities played a crucial role in his successful infiltration. He wasn't a powerful fighter, but he was a master of:

• Stealth: Gollum's small size and agility allowed him to navigate tight spaces and remain undetected. He was particularly skilled at moving silently and blending into the shadows.
• Cunning: Gollum possessed remarkable cunning and resourcefulness, traits that served him well in navigating the dangerous environment of Moria.
• Persistence: Gollum's relentless pursuit of the One Ring fueled his determination to explore Moria. His obsession allowed him to overcome obstacles that might have deterred others.

A Plausible Scenario: How Gollum Got In

Based on the existing lore and Gollum's abilities, a likely scenario involves Gollum exploiting one of Moria's weakened defenses, perhaps through a partially collapsed section of the Western Gates or a forgotten tunnel. Using his uncanny stealth, he would have navigated the vast underground network, avoiding patrols (which were probably minimal) and finding shelter in the darkness. His small stature and proficiency in navigating tight spaces allowed him to exploit crevices and hidden routes inaccessible to larger creatures.

Conclusion: A Story of Opportunity and Adaptation

Gollum's entry into Moria wasn't a feat of brute force, but a testament to his cunning, his adaptation to his environment, and the opportune circumstances presented by the weakened state of the Mines of Moria. It's a reminder that even the most imposing fortifications can be breached through cleverness, persistence, and exploiting vulnerabilities. The details are left to our imaginations, but the evidence points to a stealthy and opportunistic entrance that played a pivotal role in the events of The Lord of the Rings.