Choosing a Bodyguard from Lord of the Rings: A Strategic Decision

In the realm of Lord of the Rings, choosing a bodyguard from characters such as Wormtongue, Gollum, and others can prove to be a tricky task. Each character presents a unique set of traits that make for a complex decision. This article explores the potential of these characters as bodyguards for one's enemy and delves into why some may be more suitable than others.

Besides the Avoidables: Tom Bombadil and Wormtongue

One common pitfall in choosing a bodyguard, especially when the enemy is formidable, is to avoid characters like Tom Bombadil and Wormtongue. While Tom Bombadil is unique and possibly obstructive, his essence lies in an aura of neutrality and unpredictability. Wormtongue, on the other hand, is a character deeply motivated by self-preservation, making him a questionable ally. Would you trust someone who prioritizes their own safety above all else?

Gollum: The Engineer

When considering Gollum as a bodyguard, the logical choice seems to be obvious. Gollum is known for his vicious nature and his addictive obsession with the Ring. Despite his strength, he can be easily manipulated, especially if the enemy has possession of the Ring or a sword. His loyalty is questionable at best, yet his obedience is undeniable in the presence of the Ring. This combination makes him a desatabile and powerful bodyguard, but one that requires careful handling.

Salgant: The Odd One Out

Another intriguing choice is Salgant, an elf-lord of Gondolin who appears in The Book of Lost Tales. Salgant stands out from Tolkien's typical portrayal of elves, being described as heavy and squat. His physical attributes suggest he may struggle in combat, particularly against an attacker wielding a sword. However, his presence could serve as a distraction or a source of embarrassment to the enemy, perhaps leading to their downfall.

Bert the Troll

Bert the troll, after his encounter with Gandalf, Bilbo, and the dwarves, might be suitable. Trolls are inherently powerful but can be easily defeated when confronted with an enemy stronger than themselves. Their tenacity makes them formidable in the wrong hands, but their easily daunted nature could be exploited, leading to their defeat.

Lotho Pimple Sackville-Baggins

For a more subtle and cunning choice, one might consider Lotho Pimple Sackville-Baggins, a character from The Lord of the Rings. Lotho's vain and ambitious nature, combined with his sneaky abilities, make him a potential asset. If he can achieve power, his tendency to lose it when confronted with stronger forces means that he might accidentally harm the wrong person or fall short when needed the most. His deceit and vulnerability could serve as his downfall, much like Wormtongue, leading to the enemy's eventual demise.

Ultimately, the choice of a bodyguard depends on the specific circumstances and the nature of the enemy. Each character presents unique challenges and opportunities, making the selection a strategic and thoughtful process.