What Happens to Frodo After the One Ring is Destroyed in Lord of the Rings?

The destruction of the One Ring represents a critical turning point in J.R.R. Tolkien's monumental trilogy, The Lord of the Rings. This pivotal moment not only marks the defeat of the Dark Lord Sauron but also the beginning of Frodo Baggins' transformative journey. In this article, we will explore the events that unfold in the aftermath of the One Ring's destruction and how they affect Frodo and his companions.

The Immediate Recovery

Upon the destruction of the One Ring, Frodo experiences an immediate and profound recovery from the corrupting effects of the ring. The events that lead to this recovery are as dramatic as they are crucial. Frodo and his loyal friend Samwise Gamgee flee from the Cracks of Doom, a perilous location in Mordor, and escape up the mountain. They eventually find themselves on a slag-heap, surrounded by flowing lava. It is at this critical moment that Gandalf and a contingent of eagles arrive to rescue them.

The Journey Home

With the immediate danger behind them, Frodo and Sam make their way back to their home, the Shire, along with Merry and Pippin, who had earlier been rescued from captivity. In a heartwarming reunion, the four friends are once again reunited. Frodo plays a significant role in the events that follow, most notably when he crowns Aragorn, the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor, taking on the mantle of King Elessar. After the joyous wedding between Aragorn and Arwen, the newly-crowned monarch and his newfound bride, along with Frodo, set out to return to their homeland, venturing through Isengard and then back to Rivendell. Here, Frodo is reunited with his old friend, Bilbo Baggins, marking a poignant moment in their shared history.

The Scouring of the Shire

While Frodo's participation is more subdued compared to his earlier adventures, he still plays a vital role in defending the Shire against the threat posed by the restored Sauron through his agent, Saruman. The ensuing Battle of Bywater is a significant event in which Frodo assists in the fight, although he does not engage in sword combat. His primary function is to advocate for mercy, urging the hobbits to refrain from hostility towards those who have surrendered. This act of compassion reflects Frodo's evolving character, one that is more focused on reconciliation than revenge.

Following the battle, Frodo and Sam return to Bag End, the home Frodo had previously lived in. This return is bittersweet, as they are joined by Bilbo, who is returning from his own journey to the Undying Lands. The reunion with Bilbo is a nostalgic one, filled with moments of joy and sadness, as Frodo watches his friend depart once again.

Later Events

As the story progresses, Frodo and Sam's futures take different paths. Frodo, still burdened by the trauma of his ordeals and the weight of his experiences, decides to sail to the Undying Lands with Elrond, Bilbo, and Gandalf. This decision is both a fulfillment of his own personal peace and a continuation of his spiritual journey, which began with the destruction of the One Ring. The departure of Frodo from Middle-earth is a bittersweet occasion for his friends, who recognize the profound change that has occurred within him.

Sam, on the other hand, returns to the Shire, where he takes on the role of Mayor, succeeding Will Whitfoot. Sam's return is marked by his success in planting trees across the land, using the magic dust from the box given to him by Galadriel. This act not only beautifies the Shire but also symbolizes Sam's transformation into a leader and a guardian of the land. Sam eventually marries Rose Cotton, and he and his descendants continue to shape the future of the Hobbiton.

In the final scenes, Sam decides to follow in Frodo's footsteps and boards a ship bound for the Undying Lands, signifying the continuation of the legacy of these two remarkable hobbits. Their adventures and the indelible impact they have on Middle-earth make them some of the most memorable characters in literature. Their stories serve as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of friendship and courage.