Boromir, Gollum and Eowyn

[Boromir88]

I find it interesting that so far we’ve had people come forward in defence of Éowyn and in condemnation of Gollum, but so far no-one has weighed in on Boromir – is this the result of G and E being far more sympathetic characters

I'm always sympathetic to Boromir, but I thought most people had seen my rantings about him already. I'll gladly jump to Boromir's defense if one wishes it .

As for another comment...

As Fordhim says, none of them are downright "evil," compared to Sauron and Saruman, they are good at heart, they just make bad decisions. Could this also be connected with eachother's places in the story? For all these characters seem out of place, at least at some part (if not through the whole story).

Boromir- He's out of place in Lorien, and very well could be out of place in the fellowship. He cares not for lore, and history, but battle, so the only time he fits in "place," is during chances of fighting (Moria, Gondor, Amon Hen...etc). However, when it comes to other occasions, like deciding where the Fellowship goes, or Lorien, he is out of place.

Eowyn- being amongst men practically her whole life. And even when she disguises herself as Dernhelm she is out of place. As far as we know the only ones that know she is actually is Eowyn, that set out from Dunharrow, are Elfhelm and Merry.

Gollum- Once he took the Ring he was out of place amongst his family members. Shunned upon and cast out.