The Implications of Bilbo's Decision in 'The Lord of the Rings'

In The Lord of the Rings, the timing and motives behind Bilbo Baggins' decision to leave the Shire with the One Ring at the end of his journey are significant. This decision not only shapes the fate of the Ring and the quest to destroy it but also sets into motion the pivotal character development of Frodo Baggins. The question of whether Bilbo should have given the Ring to Frodo before leaving for Rivendell raises interesting points about responsibility, legacy, and the nature of evil.

Evil and the One Ring

The One Ring is a potent symbol of evil in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, an artifact designed to corrupt and control its bearer. Giving the Ring to Bilbo or Frodo would have been an act of tragic impunity, a grave mistake that could potentially have led to the continued evil influence of the Ring rather than its annihilation. Thus, the question highlights the moral complexities and the profound responsibility of those who wield such powerful objects.

The Eventual Destruction of the Ring

By the time Gandalf leaves Middle-earth, the One Ring and Smeagol/Gollum are already destroyed in Mount Doom. This event marks the resolution of the primary conflict in the story. The advent of the Fourth Age and the departure of the Ring Bearers—other characters having left Middle-earth alongside Bilbo and Frodo—signify the end of the Third Age. These characters' departures are a testament to the resolution of the forces of good and evil, a moment of triumph after a long and arduous battle.

Why Did Bilbo Give the Ring to Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings'?

The question might stem from a misinterpretation of the timeline. Bilbo did indeed leave the Ring for Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings', specifically in the first few chapters of 'The Fellowship of the Ring'. This act is crucial for several reasons. It serves to establish Frodo's connection to the Ring and his eventual role as its bearer. The events at Bag End and Bilbo's decision to prepare for his departure also highlight the growing threat and the necessity of the quest.

Furthermore, the act of leaving the Ring at the party of Bilbo's farewell is a powerful narrative device. It conveys the impending danger and the weighty fate that Frodo will carry. This event is a turning point in the story, marking the beginning of Frodo's quest and the start of his transformation into a heroic figure.

The Role of Gandalf

Bilbo's decision to give the Ring to Frodo was not an easy one. He did so with the intention of ensuring the safety and future of the Ring. Despite this noble intention, the moment still required a degree of 'assertive help' from Gandalf. This intervention emphasizes the complexity of the situation and the moral challenges faced by those who confronted the Ring and its legacy.

Bilbo's Missions and the One Ring

It is misleading to suggest that Bilbo and Frodo have any connection to Erebor. Bilbo's journey to Erebor and his encounter with Goblin Kings and Gollum in 'The Hobbit' are entirely separate from the events of 'The Lord of the Rings'. However, the One Ring's presence in 'The Fellowship of the Ring' is a continuity measure that connects the two stories. Bilbo's bequeathal of the Ring to Frodo is a key narrative device that links the two adventures and emphasizes Frodo's ultimate destiny.

In 'The Fellowship of the Ring', specifically in the second chapter of the first volume titled 'The Shadow of the Past', detailed background information and exposition are provided. Tolkien uses this chapter to elucidate the history and significance of the Ring. In the films, this exposition is streamlined to fit the movie's pacing, often with the help of character narrations like Galadriel's insightful commentary.

The interplay between Bilbo and Frodo, and the role of the One Ring, are crucial themes in both the books and the movies. They not only drive the narrative but also delve into deeper moral and philosophical inquiries about power, responsibility, and the legacy of evil.

In conclusion, Bilbo's decision to leave the One Ring for Frodo before his departure from the Shire is a pivotal moment in the story. It sets in motion the quest to destroy the Ring and defines Frodo's character and destiny. This act, while fraught with moral complexity, is a necessary step in the grand scheme of the narrative and the ongoing battle between good and evil in Middle-earth.

References:

J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit