8. Gollum: identità, destino, mostrificazione del sé

The Silmarillion is a comprehensive narrative that details the creation of Tolkien's universe, Eä, and the history of the First Age. It includes the legend of the Silmarils, jewels crafted by Fëanor that contain the essence of the Two Trees of Valinor. The book covers the creation of the world, the history of the Elves and Men, the wars against Morgoth, and the legendary love story of Beren and Lúthien. Edited and published posthumously by Christopher Tolkien with the assistance of Guy Gavriel Kay, it is a foundational work that underpins the stories of 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'.

Il romanzo segue la storia di un gruppo di personaggi, principalmente hobbit, nella loro missione di distruggere l'Unico Anello creato da Sauron. La storia inizia nella Contea, una terra dei hobbit simile alla campagna inglese, e si estende attraverso tutta la Terra di Mezzo. I personaggi principali, tra cui Frodo, Sam, Merry e Pippin, sono aiutati da Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas e Gimli nella loro lotta contro le armate di Sauron. Il libro esplora temi come la lotta tra il bene e il male, la morte e l'immortalità, il destino e la libera volontà.

Published in 1937, 'The Hobbit' is a children's fantasy novel that introduces readers to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth. The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a home-loving hobbit, who is persuaded by Gandalf to join Thorin and his twelve dwarves on a quest to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug. During the journey, Bilbo encounters various creatures, including trolls, goblins, and the mysterious Gollum, and discovers a magical ring that renders the wearer invisible. The novel is a prequel to 'The Lord of the Rings' and explores themes of personal growth, courage, and unexpected heroism.