I want to finish the thought I started over in the Dragon about Frodo's quest being spiritual. Specifically, I think his two worst wounds tie in with this. There's the Morgul-blade wound, given to him by a creature that's at least half in the spirit world, with an 'unholy' weapon - it's far more than a physical wounding. And Shelob... that creature is basically a living manifestation of evil. She is descended from a Maia-level spirit, which also puts her beyond the merely physical
Incidentally Frodo seems to recognize this and he fights with spiritual weapons: calling on Elbereth. I see this as a sign that he realizes that his struggle is beyond mere physical hardships.
Nicely put. I have never given Shelob a lot of spiritual thought. Will be interesting to hear you when we get to that. I had previously put her on the same level as The Watcher in the Water. a big ole beastie of old, without any spiritual meaning. But Frodo definately relies on the power of grace when threatened by these demons. Whether they fear the word Elbereth or not, it gives him strength.
I am having a quick lunch then off I go!
