Why Does Frodo Not Marry in The Lord of the Rings?

In the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins plays a vital role in saving Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron. Yet, despite his significant contributions, Frodo never marries. The reasons behind this decision are multifaceted and rooted in both his internal struggles and the unique circumstances of his journey.

The Bitter Sweet Ending

After the perilous events of The Lord of the Rings, Frodo cannot find comfort in the Shire. The trauma of his experiences leaves him physically, mentally, and spiritually wounded. Unable to return to his former life, Frodo joins Gandalf, Galadriel, and the Elves on a journey to the West. This act signifies not just a physical journey but also a spiritual healing. Though the ending is bittersweet, it underscores Frodo's resolve to find peace and healing for his soul.

Marriage at the Right Time

Several reasons contribute to Frodo's decision not to marry:

Species Barriers: Frodo is a Hobbit, while Eowyn is a Human. Hobbits and Humans have never intermarried within the ring of Middle-earth, an important cultural barrier. Additionally, Frodo and Eowyn are not related through any form of kinship, eliminating that avenue for marriage. Psychological Trauma: After witnessing the death of the One Ring and the resulting morgul wound, Frodo's mind is deeply affected. The morgul wound, imbued with Shelob's venom, adds to his physical and emotional pain, leaving him in a state where he cannot think of settling down. Age and Uniqueness: Tolkien explicitly states that Frodo was a bachelors in his time, a state that was considered exceptional for a Hobbit. He was already 50 years old when the journey began, which is well beyond the typical marriage age for Hobbits. Samwise Gamgee, for instance, marries Rosie at 37, which is the equivalent of a human marrying in their mid-twenties. This age difference further emphasizes Frodo's outlier status.

The Lone Bremolicit

In an effort to find a companion who might share his journey, Frodo places an advertisment in the Westfarthing Times:

If you like pipe-weed and mushrooms
If you get caught in the rain
If you are into adventure
If you have half a brain
If you like running from Black Riders
And the occasional Jabber
Then I am the love that you've looked for
Write to me and escape.

Noone replied. This ad highlights Frodo's desire for a companion who would share his unconventional lifestyle and understanding of his traumatic experiences.

A Doyleian Perspective

From a Doyleian point of view, it is hard to imagine the four hobbits leaving their loving families and established lives to embark on a perilous journey. However, the narrative restricts this storyline by having three hobbits be relatively young, thus avoiding the complications of marital commitments.

Moreover, Frodo's character shows a unique traits that set him apart from his fellow Hobbits. His refusal to acknowledge Bilbo's death and his love for adventure and the company of Elves further contribute to his solitary status.

Conclusion

The non-marriage of Frodo in The Lord of the Rings is a reflection of his inner turmoil and the unspoken aspects of his journey. While the absence of a marital companion may seem trivial, it underscores the complexity and depth of Frodo's character. His decision to remain single speaks to the enduring legacy of the 'odd littler folks' who saved the world but could not find peace in the familiar confines of their homes.

References and Further Reading

Further reading on Hobbit culture and marital customs can be found in The Lord of the Rings and the Appendices. Additional insights into the characters can be explored in scholarly works on Tolkien's literature.