The Origins and Legacy of the Ring: From Bilbo to Frodo

The Ring was a pivotal object in the The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, a trilogy written by J.R.R. Tolkien. The story of how Bilbo Baggins came to possess the Ring and why he eventually gave it to Frodo Baggins is a fascinating journey into the dark heart of Middle-earth.

Bilbo's Discovery of the Ring

Bilbo found the Ring in Gollum's cave under unusual circumstances. In the chapter titled Riddles in the Dark from The Hobbit, Bilbo, while searching through the darkness of Gollum's cave, happened to poke his hand into a dark, cavernous area where he discovered the Ring. Gollum, the original keeper of the Ring, never laid claim to Bilbo as the Ring bearer. Gollum's parting words to Bilbo were, "Thief, thief, thief! Baggins! We hates it, we hates it, we hates it forever!" indicating no preference for Bilbo as the new custodian.

Premonitions and Consequences

Gandalf, a wise wizard and a close friend of Bilbo, became increasingly concerned with the Ring's influence on his friend. Gandalf recognized the power and the danger of the Ring, and its growing hold on Bilbo. In the latter half of Bilbo's life, the Ring began to obsess him, a clear sign of its malevolent nature.

Understanding the severe risks posed by the Ring, Gandalf advised Bilbo to leave the treasure behind and named Frodo as his heir. Bilbo accepted Gandalf's advice, choosing to pass the Ring and his other possessions to Frodo when he left for the safe haven of Rivendell. This decision was crucial in preventing the Ring from falling into the wrong hands, as it would have brought immense danger to Middle-earth if it were in Bilbo's possession for too long.

The Significance of Giving the Ring to Frodo

Bilbo's decision to give the Ring to Frodo was a significant act of selflessness and foresight. Gandalf recognized that the Ring had to be destroyed, and Frodo was the one chosen to do so, despite the immense dangers it entailed. With Gandalf's guidance, Frodo was prepared to undertake this perilous journey, ensuring that the Ring's corrupting influence would be neutralized.

Further Reading

To delve deeper into the story of the Ring and its journey through Middle-earth, you will find valuable information in both The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. These classic works, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, provide detailed accounts of the Ring's origins and the dire consequences if it were to fall into the wrong hands. By exploring these books, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Ring's significance and the trials faced by Bilbo and Frodo in their quest.