Are Sméagol and Déagol brothers?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Sméagol and Déagol are not brothers. They are cousins and best friends. They share a close bond and have likely grown up together in the Gladden Fields as Stoor-hobbits.

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth mythology, Sméagol and Déagol are both Stoor-hobbits, one of the three sub-races of hobbits. They belong to the same family, but the exact nature of their relationship is not specified. However, it is mentioned that they are cousins, which suggests a familial connection.

Déagol plays a significant role in the story as he is the one who finds the One Ring while fishing in the Gladden River. This discovery sets in motion the events that lead to the corruption of Sméagol, who becomes obsessed with the Ring and eventually transforms into the creature known as Gollum.

The relationship between Sméagol and Déagol is portrayed as close and intimate before the Ring enters their lives. They are described as being best friends, sharing adventures and enjoying each other’s company. Their bond is shattered when Déagol discovers the Ring, as Sméagol becomes consumed by jealousy and greed. He kills Déagol to possess the precious Ring for himself and hides his body.

The transformation of Sméagol into Gollum is a tragic consequence of his obsession with the Ring. It leads him to a life of isolation and corruption, ultimately becoming a twisted and tortured creature. Despite their shared past, Sméagol’s actions towards Déagol underscore the destructive power of the Ring and its ability to corrupt even the closest of relationships.

While Sméagol and Déagol are not brothers, they are cousins and best friends. Their relationship is ultimately torn apart by the discovery of the Ring and the subsequent corruption it brings upon Sméagol.