The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum - View Single Post - Why is the ending so sad in the Return of the King

ElanorGamgee · 08-10-2002, 04:52 PM

I love the ending all the more for its bittersweet ending. By having Frodo need to leave the Shire for comfort from harm that came to him during the quest, Tolkien brings up a point that is often over-looked in stories of heroic deeds; in reality, the hero more often than not does not exactly live "happily ever after." That is part of the price paid by Frodo; not only does he suffer more than any average hobbit would in the actual destroying of the Ring, but he also loses his innocence and gives up part of himself to the evil he helps to destroy. After suffering the trauma of journeying through Mordor at the constant temptation of the Ring, he simply cannot return to his former life. Freedom from the threat of Sauron was bought at a great price. A deed really worth doing does not come at a small cost.

[ August 10, 2002: Message edited by: ElanorGamgee ]

08-10-2002, 04:52 PM	#3
ElanorGamgee Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 314	I love the ending all the more for its bittersweet ending. By having Frodo need to leave the Shire for comfort from harm that came to him during the quest, Tolkien brings up a point that is often over-looked in stories of heroic deeds; in reality, the hero more often than not does not exactly live "happily ever after." That is part of the price paid by Frodo; not only does he suffer more than any average hobbit would in the actual destroying of the Ring, but he also loses his innocence and gives up part of himself to the evil he helps to destroy. After suffering the trauma of journeying through Mordor at the constant temptation of the Ring, he simply cannot return to his former life. Freedom from the threat of Sauron was bought at a great price. A deed really worth doing does not come at a small cost. [ August 10, 2002: Message edited by: ElanorGamgee ] __________________ Soli Deo Gloria