Bilbo's Fate: Did He Keep the Ring or Return It?

Often, questions about Bilbo Baggins and the one ring are met with the simple response, 'Read the book or watch the movie to find out.' However, this query deserves a more detailed exploration, especially for those seeking a deep understanding of the lottery of fate that Bilbo Baggins faced. Let's delve into Bilbo's decision, the consequences of each choice, and the significant narrative elements that shaped his ultimate decision.

Understanding Bilbo's Dilemma

Bilbo Baggins, a character in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, found himself in the possession of the One Ring. The ring, capable of corrupting even the mightiest of beings, offered immense power but also immense peril. This article explores whether Bilbo ultimately kept the ring or returned it, focusing on the consequences of each choice and the immutable path that his destiny led him on.

Why Bilbo Did Not Keep the Ring

While keeping the ring offered Bilbo a chance to harness its power, the historical narrative and the inherent risks associated with it made keeping the ring an impractical and dangerous choice. As his days in Hobbiton grew more placid and mundane, Bilbo yearned for adventure once again. The pressure from Gandalf to pass on the ring to Frodo, Bilbo's heir, became increasingly significant. Gandalf's insight into the nature of the Ring and its ultimate destiny was unparalleled, and his urging for Bilbo to pass it on provided the moral and logical justification for doing so.

Why Bilbo Did Not Return the Ring to Sauron

Returning the ring to Sauron would have been a catastrophic mistake. If Bilbo had returned the ring to the Dark Lord, Sauron would have had the opportunity to regain its power and reestablish his dominion over Middle-earth. Sauron, with the Ring's power, would have easily cleared all obstacles in his path, rendering any resistance futile. Furthermore, the reappearance of the Ring in Sauron's possession would have meant the complete annihilation of the Free Peoples of Middle-earth. Bilbo, understanding the dire consequences of such an action, would not have considered returning the ring to Sauron.

What Bilbo Actually Did: Pass the Ring to Frodo

Instead of keeping the Ring or returning it to Sauron, Bilbo's final act was to pass the Ring to Frodo Baggins, his adopted heir. This decision was rooted in a combination of love, duty, and foresight. Bilbo recognized that Frodo, with the support of his friends, stood a better chance of destroying the Ring and safeguarding Middle-earth's future. Frodo, armed with the ring, embarked on a perilous journey with the Fellowship of the Ring, determined to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom.

Implications of Bilbo's Act

Bilbo's decision to pass the Ring to Frodo had far-reaching implications. First, it set Frodo on a path that would lead him into the heart of darkness, facing impossible challenges and making immense sacrifices. Second, it highlighted the responsibility of the Ring-bearer and the weight of such a significant artifact. The ring, as it isolated Bilbo from his family and friends, also served as a metaphor for the isolation and corruption faced by those who wield immense power. Finally, it emphasized the importance of courage, loyalty, and the collective effort required to defeat a looming threat.

In conclusion, Bilbo's decision not to keep the Ring or return it to Sauron was a pivotal moment in the narrative. It was a testament to the wisdom and courage of Frodo and the commitment of Gandalf. Through these actions, Bilbo fulfilled his duty as a guardian and paved the way for a final struggle against evil, ensuring that the legacy of the Free Peoples of Middle-earth would endure.