The phrase "all that glitters is not gold" is a well-known saying that means that appearances can be deceptive and that not everything that appears valuable or desirable is actually so. This phrase is often attributed to the English playwright William Shakespeare, who included it in his play "The Merchant of Venice," but it has a long history and has been used by various writers and thinkers over the centuries.
In the world of Middle-earth created by J.R.R. Tolkien, this saying is also evident in many ways. Tolkien's works are filled with examples of characters, objects, and situations that appear to be one thing, but are actually something else.
One of the most prominent examples of this theme in Tolkien's work is the character of Gollum, also known as Sméagol. Gollum is a hobbit who was corrupted by the power of the One Ring and became a twisted, evil creature. On the surface, Gollum appears to be a simple, pitiable creature, but he is actually manipulative and scheming, willing to do whatever it takes to get the Ring back.
Another example of this theme is the city of Minas Tirith, the capital of Gondor in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. From the outside, Minas Tirith appears to be a beautiful, shining city, full of prosperity and happiness. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the city is facing many internal problems and conflicts, and that its beauty is only skin-deep.
Finally, the One Ring itself is a prime example of "all that glitters is not gold" in Tolkien's work. The Ring is an object of great power and temptation, and many characters are drawn to it because of its perceived value. However, the Ring ultimately brings destruction and misery to those who possess it, and it is only through its destruction that true peace and happiness can be restored to Middle-earth.
In conclusion, the theme of "all that glitters is not gold" is a prevalent one in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, and it serves as a cautionary tale against judging things solely by their appearances. In the fantastical world of Middle-earth, as in our own world, it is important to look beyond the surface and consider the true nature and value of the things we encounter.
