J.R.R. Tolkien's classic, Lord of the Rings, a trilogy of universal scope and relevance, tells the story of a quest led by Frodo Baggins to destroy the ring of power in the Crack of Doom on Mt. Mordor. In the prequel to this series, The Hobbit, a character by the name of Gollum is introduced when the main character Bilbo meets him while on a quest. Throughout the trilogy a distinct contrast is shown between Frodo and Gollum but also some noticeable similarities. These aspects can be explored through their heritage, appearance, personality, and their experiences with the ring.

First of all, Gollum and Frodo have the same heritage. Although Gollum has deteriorated over the years, he was once a hobbit much like Frodo. Gollum was originally named Smeagol, as a hobbit, and came from the clan known as the Stoors. The Stoors first made their...