True Hero: Frodo or Samwise?

[Lotrelf]

Originally Posted by Faramir Jones

I think the reason, Lotrelf, why Tolkien said that without Sam Frodo would have failed is because Sam, when he thought Frodo was dead, decided to continue the quest to Mount Doom without him, and took the Ring. It's clear, from what he said in the chapter, appropriately entitled 'The Choices of Master Samwise', that if Sauron got his hands on the Ring that the War would be lost, and everything he knew and loved would also be lost.

Actually, that's what I asked, why because of this reason Professor would say so? Frodo's decision and choices affected the quest most. He sacrificed and suffered most.

Not only did he take the Ring; he managed to resist its blandishments, using his hobbit common sense. He was successful until after he rescued Frodo and freely gave it back to him. He was one of only two people, including Bilbo, who were able to voluntarily give up the Ring.

I'd like to correct you, Sam doesn't give up the Ring voluntarily. I'd post my thoughts that I had posted on another thread.

Sam makes his decisions, particularly the one to take the Ring, completely on his own. He is in no position to ask anyone for advice; but he goes ahead and makes what turns out to be the right decision, the one that wins the War.

Absolutely! But it is Frodo who bears the Ring still. Sacrificing and giving up all he has. Sam becomes more active and Frodo more passive. But Frodo's battle is worse and not visible to the "ordinary" eyes, not even to his own Sam. Sam understands it, but not completly.
I read few posts and realized almost everything is said that was in my mind. And someone said, "Sam's task was hard while Frodo's was impossible." Frodo from the start knew what is going to happen to him, and still decided to undertake the task.
Sam being chief hero, as one of my friends says, is that he represents "fairy tale" hero. Goes on a quest, comes home grown and altered, builds his homeland, heals its wounds, and lives happily. Frodo, unlike Sam, sacrifices all he has. Gives up his life and everything "so that others may keep them," and becomes the biggest tragic hero of LotR. Main hero, this way is Frodo. Sam exhibits the qualities of a true friend, all those that you mentioned, instead of "the" hero.