1. Obsessive and Driven by Greed: His entire existence revolves around the One Ring, possessing an almost pathological obsession with it. He's driven by an insatiable desire for it, even sacrificing his own well-being for its sake.
2. Twisted and Deformed: Both physically and mentally, Gollum is a tragic figure. He's hunched over, pale, and emaciated, reflecting the Ring's corrupting influence. His mind is equally warped, filled with paranoia, suspicion, and a split personality between "Gollum" (his possessive side) and "Smeagol" (his kinder, more innocent past).
3. Clever and Resourceful: Despite his physical and mental limitations, Gollum is surprisingly clever. He's adept at navigating the underground tunnels of his home, knows the secret passages and tricks, and is surprisingly capable of strategic thinking, which he demonstrates by leading the hobbits towards the Ring.
4. Ambivalent and Contradictory: Gollum is a character of contradictions. He's both cruel and surprisingly compassionate. He can be possessive and vengeful but also surprisingly helpful and even friendly at times. He's a tragic figure trapped between his good and evil nature, constantly struggling with his inner demons.
5. Ultimately Tragic: Gollum is a character who evokes both pity and fear. He's a victim of the Ring's corrupting influence, yet he also willingly succumbs to its power. His ultimate fate is tragic, highlighting the Ring's insidious nature and the price of obsession.
Overall, Gollum in The Hobbit is a compelling and memorable character. His complexity and contradictory nature make him a fascinating study of obsession, corruption, and the struggle between good and evil. He's more than just a monster; he's a tragic figure with a complex past and a tragic end.