Shelob
Shelob is a fictional character in J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth legendarium. She is a giant spider associated with Cirith Ungol and with obstruction and predation along the paths leading into Mordor.
Shelob is discussed in literary studies, fantasy literature analysis, and interpretations of monstrous figures in Tolkien’s narrative.
Status
Shelob’s role is examined in relation to themes of ancient evil, territorial power, and non-aligned antagonism. Interpretations situate her character outside conventional hierarchies of allegiance within the narrative.