[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Good topic. Subtle.

Gandalf pointed out to support his theory that Gollum was a Hobbit, that he and Bilbo shared much of the same background, knew the same riddles and so forth. Not to mention resistance to "fading."

Gandalf said they understood eachother better than, say an elf would understand a dwarf (that's not the quote, but you get the idea).

Based on this I think it's entirely possible Frodo would have more common ground, and therefore understanding, as a basis for pity for poor Gollum. Understanding is the basis for pity, ability to put oneself in another's shoes.

But I think more than that, Frodo's experience with the ring gave him insight into what had tortured Gollum into this state.

It's more of a stretch to say Sam detested Gollum for the same reasons. You could say that he had hobbit-like expections that Gollum certainly didn't measure up to, there was an equality between them you don't find with say, orcs or wargs.

But he detested Gollum because of the threat he posed to Frodo, and because G. was just disgusting. Sam didn't have the experience of carrying the ring to explain Gollum's behavior, he considered this his inherent personality and despised him. His attitude slightly changed after Cirith Ungol. Strangely, just when you'd think he'd hate Gollum most, after Shelob's Lair, he actually hated him less. He lightened up on the little bugger after wearing the ring a bit.

I believe that's part of the reason Sam didn't kill Gollum at Orodruin. You could say that the pity of Sam and Bilbo is what ruled the fate of many.

-Maril