[Iris Alantiel]

Sindar - you just expressed exactly what I thought the Scouring of the Shire was all about. Well said, and welcome to the Downs. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

I think this scene shows how much the four hobbits have changed over the course of their quest. It shows their greater wisdom and mercy, particularly that of Frodo. Even Saruman himself says, "You have grown, Halfling . . . yes, you have grown very much." This scene is an illustration of the responsibility and leadership the hobbits are now prepared to handle as a result of their adventures. While, in the beginning, they were led by others, they have now come to a point where they themselves can be leaders of their people, in the same way that Gandalf was a leader. It also sets the stage for the responsibilities that Pippin, Merry, and Sam will take later on in their time in the Shire (such as Sam's becoming mayor, etc.)