How does Tolkien develop the conflicting viewpoints of Thorin and Gollum with regard to forgiveness in The Hobbit? Tolkien shows Gollum to be empathetic toward Bilbo after he steals the ring, while Thorin is stubborn, refusing to hear Bilbo's reasons for stealing the Arkenstone. Tolkien shows Gollum to be stubborn, refusing to hear Bilbo's reasons for stealing the ring, while Thorin is empathetic toward Bilbo for stealing the Arkenstone. Tolkien shows Gollum to be merciful when forgiving Bilbo for stealing the ring, while Thorin is vengeful for banishing Bilbo after he steals the Arkenstone. Tolkien shows Gollum to be vengeful when he tries to kill Bilbo for stealing the ring, while Thorin is merciful when he forgives Bilbo for stealing the Arkenstone.