[greyhavener]

Child, that was a beautiful analysis. I tend to agree.

Rather, two questions come to my mind:
"Would Frodo have been able to throw in the ring if he had never put it on?"
"Has any bearer of the ring been able to resist putting it on?" (someone may actually have an answer for this one)

Gandalf told Frodo not to ever put on the ring, but he did. Even after the first frightening experience, he used it several more times. Yes, the wound played a part. Yes, proximity to Mordor was involved. But every character who gains possession of the ring puts it on. Some without knowing what it is. Some knowing but justifying themselves with pragmatic or noble motives, believing they can use it's attributes without absorbing its nature. Perhaps Frodo could have thrown it in alone if he had never worn it. This is further commentary on original sin...even when evil has been identified, even when it's power has been experienced, in Tolkien's view it seems sin is irresistible.