Defending Frodo From My Past Self
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- Опубліковано 5 тра 2021
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Tolkien Lore's video: • Frodo vs. Sam: The Tru...
After posting this, I saw that another booktuber, Wolfe the Story Nomad, recently made a video defending the movie Frodo, it's very well done and I recommend checking it out! • Why YOU should be defe...
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Protagonists who struggled to remain good are always underrated
Yep but they are very realistic i think
@@sciencystuff2106 yes very realistic but people like bad guys more now days
Isn't that...most of them?
When does he struggle to remain good? I cannot recall Frodo ever wanting to do any evil to anyone, ever. He's soft as a feather pillow. In a good way. He struggles, for sure, with lots of things, giving up being one of them. But remaining good? When? Boromir and Faramir now, they struggle with being good.
@@SysterYster He had that ring , he struggled with that
Just because Sam is one of the best literary characters ever doesn't mean Frodo is a bad protagonist, just saying.
Sam is absolutely loyal to Frodo. Sam is my favorite, but you can't like sam at frodo's expense. That's like stand laurel throwing ollie under the bus, like someone trying to separate peppermint patty and marcie.
Exactly
Frodo is the best character in the book lol.
> Sam is one of the best literary characters ever
Sam's good and a fan favourite but that's it. When looking at the study of literature and their characters Sam really doesn't come up often at all.
Frodo is always a damsel in distress what a weak ass character. if not for Sam, frodo is dead early in this story, even in the last part of story he needed to be saved by Sam.
Chapter 1 of Fellowship actually foreshadows Frodo's arc. Bilbo has a party, plays some tricks, and has some fun, but then when he's gone Frodo has to take over and we see him at his wit's end dealing with what Bilbo left behind for him.
Oh my God! Brilliant
Frodo reflects a lot of what Tolkien and his comrades went through when they fought in and returned from WW1. A lot of the soldiers came back very different people because of all the trauma they went through and experienced
I knew Tolkien was in a war but I never connected the two. The line about sacrifice to save the world hits so much harder now 😭
Which is why part of me is disappointed that the movie left out "Scouring of the Shire."
I understand WHY it was left out, being a major downer and all, but it was a very poignant statement on the aftereffects of war.
It wasn't just what the war did to people; the novel reflects the whole experience of the war. I doubt many of those who volunteered in 1914 really _wanted_ to go, but they saw it as their duty to King and Country. They also, like Frodo, had no idea what they were getting into (at least Frodo knew that he didn't know). Also, the relationship of Frodo and Sam is a lot like the relationship of an officer and his batman. For another fictional example, look at Peter Wimsey and Bunter.
I also think Smeagol/Gollum was a metaphor for the guilt and weight of what those soldiers had to do. Instead of throwing it away, Frodo accepted it. It wasn't always convenient, and it hurt, but he'd never make it if he had thrown the negativity away, as Sam begged him to.
The horrendous imagery of the Dead Marshes reflects that as well.
when you realize how the ring affected Boromir even tho he didn't even touch it just shows how strong Frodo really is. People were affected by it in a really short time just by being near it and now imagine how much Frodo had to resist when he was carrying it the whole time.
Book Frodo also had it for years, and the closer you were to mount doom the stronger it became, he’s a champ.
Bilbo is the real hero. Dude had it for like 80 years longer than Frodo and he actually overcame the ring and dropped it on the floor and walked out. Frodo had it for like a year and goes evil at the last second.
@@matthewterry9413
Frodo had the ring for 17 years and had to resist its influence when sauron was actively looking for it. Making the influence much stronger. He didn’t even snap until he was at the heart of mount doom, where the ring’s influence was the strongest. Bilbo wouldn’t have made it either. No one could have.
I also think they way the ring corrupts Frodo to be amazingly interesting. (Warning only saw the films and didn’t read the book so my info may be off) Instead of just being filled with desire/greed for it and wanting it for himself he sees how the ring affected boromir, corrupting him, and didn’t want the same to happen to the rest of his friends so he chooses to split off from the rest of them. He wanted to make sure no one else becomes corrupted so he makes sure to it doesn’t fall into their hands, meaning he is keeping it to himself. That just is fascinating and makes the ring 100x more scary, because it can corrupt you through noble means. I doesn’t just make you want its power it can turn you into basically a “gollum” by manipulating your noble goals into a dark path
Not me out here crying over my coffee when you talk about Frodo having to give up the shire for the rest of his life to save it for everyone
MEEEE TOOOO! Literally had to put my coffee down and pause the video for a minute. That hit DEEP!
He did get to go to the Undying Lands though.
Came to find a comment of someone crying too so I didn’t feel so alone hahahah
Funny you mentioned it cause I'm right here crying with my heart aching for that same reason. Other people may laugh, but there are few characters that have touched me emotionally as Frodo did.
Finally! Some respect for Frodo! I get a little annoyed when people really bash his character. 😤
me too!
I love Frodo. I agree, he has a different type of strength, a quiet bravery and selflessness. It's easy to love the Aragon-type characters, but we need more time to understand the struggles for other types of heroes.
Everyone gives so much focus to the part where Sam carries Frodo up the mountain, and rightfully so its an awesome moment, but I think a lot of people forget that before that, Frodo, who doesn't have the strength to stand at this point, was literally crawling towards his goal. He basically had nothing left, but was still determined to keep going, in any way he could.
So Frodo gets a video, Sam is getting a video, and Gollum is getting a video. Now I am just imagining Murphy sitting in the fellowship meeting yelling and you get a video and you get a video etc etc.
lol, you’re not wrong
😂😂😂😂😂😂
I'm excited lmao
Excited for Gollum. He might be my favorite fictional character ever, so tragic, interesting, deep, and yet funny.
So you're saying Murphy is in essence Oprah?
I love Frodo with all my heart and when I think of him, I always remember the first time I read "I tried to save the Shire, and it has been saved, but not for me." and how much I actually cried because I didn't want him to leave but I understood his pain. ❤️
Sameeee ❤
I think Frodo might actually come across as less interesting than he is because Lord of the Rings is written in an omniscient, storyteller style, rather than the deep POV third limited style we are used to today. But as you pointed out in this video, Merph, he is a pretty interesting and complex character (and maybe unique in classic fantasy in this way).
I'm glad to see someone point this out, I think it's something that's often overlooked when it comes to analyzing the characters in this book
“He could not have accomplished it without the Fellowship, but the Fellowship could not have accomplished it without Frodo either.” You are spot-on! People argue that Sam is the real hero, but I think that you can’t really have Sam without Frodo, and you can’t have Frodo without Sam.
I also love the fact that frodo ended up not being able to actually complete his quest. it's a nice reminder that he wasn't a fighter, he didn't really WANT to leave in the first place. the sequence of events and consequences ended up being so realistic and that much more powerful. not everyone can be the all-powerful, heroic protagonist. frodo represents most of us very well. I don't think I'd be strong enough to go through all the turmoils he did, not would I want to. I would do my best, but in the end... I might not be strong enough. and that's okay. frodo is a very interesting character, for sure
Part of the point was that none of the legendary, larger than life characters in the story could have succeeded either. At the Cracks of Doom, the power of the Ring was undeniable, and there was no-one in Middle-Earth who could have resisted. Thing is, none of them could have gotten the Ring there in the first place, either. Frodo’s achievement in bearing the Ring all the way there is nigh superhuman.
He couldnt do it alone, and if at the end he would dobe able to alone, it would really make the ring less scary than he is. its impressive enough he got to the finishing line. Even with sam, it needed gollum to do it.
Frodo has always been my most favorite character from the books. It's easy to see Sam as the protagonist and the main character/the most heroic/most important character and stuff, but being Frodo takes a lot more than most people can see. He isn't your regular main character that's fighting with swords, killing enemies to prove his bravery and courage. He's fighting within himself with an evil that is impossible to be defeated in the literal sense. People complain about him not having a personality and all. But guess what? He DOES have it. He can laugh, sing, dance, make jokes, and host parties. He's sensitive, kind, and funny. But he's NOT your regular hero. His very essence gets drained as the journey progresses and he's very much aware of it. While Sam, Merry, Pippin, and other characters RISK their lives, Frodo WILLINGLY sacrifices it. Not to forget, he's literally the only character that has no special rewards. Sam lives his HEA, so does Aragorn, Gandalf finds the closure to his mission, Merry, Pippin find their growth and friendship with the King, Boromir, in his death, finds his redemption, Bilbo, at the end, finds his own closure by going on one last adventure.
But Frodo? Yes, he definitely needs to go to the Undying Lands. How is that a reward? Would he not rather live in the Shire and grow old? As the last stab of justice and reward, Frodo has to sacrifice what's dearest to him - his home.
He's also an enigma that's hard to read. He links good and evil, life and dead, and men and elves in Middle-earth. He's at the intersection of all that's good and bad about the world he's about to save.
Damn, my boy deserves all the love. He's phenomenal. Though he's been excruciatingly underrated and Tolkien's letter about Sam being the chief hero doesn't help either (well, if Tolkien did mean Sam to be the chief hero, then why write Frodo as one? If that's the case, I feel he was unfair to Frodo himself!).
Frodo is my favourite character alongside Faramir in LOTR. Such a realistic character, I adore him. I understand the whole Sam thing but Frodo never asked for anything and yet went on with it because he understands he needs to play his part. Such a strong character 🥰
Frodo went through a lot, and so did Sam. They both needed each other. And so did Merrie and Pippen. Everyone is greatly needed and appreciated.
It feels common to dislike Frodo probably in part because he's directly compared to Sam for the entire story. We almost never see them separate and Sam is so heroic and so strong that he makes Frodo look kind of weak by comparison but hardly anyone ever really takes into account the literal evil that Frodo is holding around his neck and how badly the burden of that weight truly is.
I love Frodo. His strength has always struck me as the kind we desperately need more of in real life.
The kind of person who takes up a burden to do good, even though it will cost them, even though it isn’t flashy or even noticed by everyone.
It’s a true virtue.
I love this video! I love Frodo’s character. He starts out so innocent, and we see him bravely sacrifice that to save the world. After the Shire, we see him only in the most difficult circumstances someone could possibly be put through. He’s a reminder that sometimes the things you experience can change you. I’ve always imagined that Tolkien put a lot of his war and post-war experience into Frodo.
Wonderful video. Frodo deserves so much more appreciation than he gets... I love him more with every time I read LOTR, and by now he's among my favourite characters, maybe even the first of them.
He's a complex character with a lot to depth, but I agree with what you said about the movies. They don't do him justice at all and I believe a lot of people judge him so harshly because of them. He's passive in the movies and all his best scenes are either removed or changed so that other people can shine instead. So the audience might wonder why Frodo of all people carries the Ring...
In the book I don't think the reader would ever question that. Frodo shows great courage, and on several occasions faces his fears and enemies with determination. He's an unlikely hero in such a epic story, a protagonist without the strength to fulfill the quest, and without a happy ending.
There was a comment to this video that said the all-knowing narrator makes it a bit difficult to feel for the characters because we're used to getting the characters' povs. But actually I think we do get them. Especially Frodo at the start, and then slowly it shifts to Sam. "Slowly he fades 'out of the picture'" is how Tolkien described Frodo's development towards the end, and it's such a fascinating aspect of the story that even in writing Frodo is becoming more and more distant as his quest moves forward. In the end Frodo leaves, gives the book to Sam and the story ends with Sam. I could talk about all of this for ages because there is so much to unpack.
Anyway, thanks for spreading some love for Frodo!
YES. THANK YOU.
Even though we use the names of Aragorn and Gandalf (among others) as tropes/archetypes, every single character in The Lord of the Rings is nuanced. I just finished a reread in the winter, and before it I thought that all the characters were stale and that the battles were the only good parts. Spoilers for LOTR, of course.
I was wrong. Every character has conflict and changes. Aragorn questions his leadership skills and later had the beautiful argument with Eowyn (in which Tolkien wanted us to side with Eowyn). Gandalf knows he must not be tempted by the Ring because he too is not perfect.
Frodo is under constant torture. Tolkien said that Gollum should be the character in the story who inspires the most pity. The Ring drains the bearer in every conceivable way and begs him constantly to put it on. The older I get, the more I understand Frodo, and the more I love him. His failure to destroy the ring is not a detriment to his character; it is a warning to us all.
Gandalfs charactristic at the start that he valued the hobbits enoying life and peace and valued that a lot. and that he trusted the hobbits becaus bilbo already. He is maybe a tricksert/angel mentor but him enoying the shire alone makes him nuanced. And being betrayed, is hard.
Imagine having someone kept whispering to you to distrust and despair contantly, while you are hungry thirsty and vitality sapped. I think the only personality that you could afford at that point is your perseverence.
Also, fighting the urge to get corrupted by the ring and the ring having a free will of its own while becoming a more and more heavier and tiring attribute to Frodo. Respect to my little hobbit🙌🏼
I don't mind that the film made him so emotionally weak and passive, it makes sense for a gentle character in that situation and it's nice to see a male protagonist in that sort of role
As someone who first read these books while dealing with severe depression, I always really latched onto Frodo. He's so optimistic at first and although the struggles with the ring are not specifically at the foreground of the narrative, through Frodo's decline we see its influence.
Idk, I think Sam is great, but for me he lacks the nuance that Frodo has.
This. As a teen, I never cared for Frodo. I liked Legolas because I was a shallow teenager. Lol. But when I experienced being deep in the bog of depression, I understood Frodo more and he became my favorite character in LOTR. I would personally find it offensive when people make fun of his struggles because I saw myself so much in him.
Frodo went through the most hardship out of all of the Fellowship, ever more than Boromir.
A fate worse then death.
Yes, but he did get to go to the uttermost west in the end. I wonder what that was like?
He had to go there, bcause he couldnt continue his life and needed recovery from be it the rings mntal toll or him being poisoned. He didnt go there because he wanted to, he had to.
Id like to defend that boromir statement
Sure, for the events of the story, Frodo definitely goes through a lot more than Boromir, seeing as Boromir dies so early. But I hardly would compare a young hobbit who lived his life prior to this relaxing in a peaceful community for the majority of his life, as worse than a Gondorian captain commanding troops for what was likely years against the building forces of Mordor in what must have felt like a hopeless war that your people were likely pressuring you to win, as the heir to the stewardship, essentially making you the prince and leader of the kingdom. Im thinking Frodo entered that council assuming he was done and in generally high spirits while Boromir entered it a war-weary soldier desperately looking for any definable path towards a peaceful future.
People really tend to forget how strong Frodo had to be to resist Sauron for so long.
People hate on what they don't understand. Frodo was one of the best protagonists imo.
I wasn't even aware Frodo needed defending. But thank you for another interesting video.
More than 75% of the fandom thinks he's useless. It's usually Sam fans, but dafaq.
Sam's amazing-ness and relatability kind of overshadow Frodo; plus, no one really appreciates the struggles of the Responsible One who's willing to take on the tasks no one else wants. It's easier to admire the more palpable contributions of Sam, Merry, and Pippin, but the quiet, determined, start-to-finish folks are the ones who actually keep the world running.
I think that is the beauty of rereading books, finding things you didn’t see the first time
When my dad was in college he took a class on Don Quixote. The professor told the class that you should read the book at least 3 times in your life. In your youth the old man is funny. In middle age, you start to see where he is coming from. In old age he is not funny any more.
I think this view is true if any great literature. Your view of the characters and story change based on your own life experience. I think that is what you are experiencing. You are at a different point now than when you first read it which allows you to view it from a new perspective. You have lived more. As Frodo put it, you are not the same person now as when you started.
Wonderful video!
but why is this comment so beautiful 😭😭
So true.
Interesting. I'm about to try reading Don Quixote myself. I wonder what it says about our culture that he is (in the general public's mind) seen as the crazy old fool who attacks windmills.
@@LindyLime In the musical Man of La Mancha there is a beautiful quote that addresses this very idea. I don’t have the direct quote right now so I will paraphrase. Basically, one of the characters poses the question as to who is the crazy one - the one who sees and accepts the world as it really is (including all of the brutal cruelty that man is capable of) or the one who sees the world as it should be.
Just something to consider as you attempt this masterpiece of literature. Good luck!
@@crazysingergirl5777 thank you, I love that thought. And bringing it back to Tolkien I think that very idea is what sets him apart from modern writers of "grimdark" fantasy.
Tbh I think this is a sort of "without evil good cannot exist" sort of thing. Meaning:
A lot of people tend to throw away Frodo because they like Sam so much. But, it's precisely because of Frodo's differences that Sam's strengths come to light. If they were both the same type of person, they'd both be much more forgettable.
Frodo is one of many protagonists in Lord of the Rings trilogy. His arc is more mental and emotional than what is common. When you add Sam and Gollum, you have an interesting psychological profile of man's ultimate failure of being "good" on his own. Which is why we need God. Frodo had the ultimate best friend AND the embodiment of the cost of failure right there (Gollum) in front of him, and he's completely aware of the Ring's sway over even "good intentions "...and he still is not strong enough to put the Ring aside. And yet, the reader is fully aware that Frodo is stronger than most. And THAT tells us a great deal.
I literally just recently made a video called ‘In Defense of Frodo Baggins’ haha. Not complaining, the more love for that hobbit the better, I say...
Hey! I hadn't seen your video, so sorry for the overlap, that wasn't intentional at all. I have you in the description of my video now so I hope that will drive more people to yours as well!
We forget that Isildor, a man who fought on a battlefield against the power of the ring, was overcome in a single day. What Frodo did is nothing short of incredible. If he was able to just toss the ring in at the end, it would have undermined all his struggle up until that point.
One important difference between book Frodo and film Frodo
In the film version of FOTR, Arwen saves Frodo from the Ring Wraiths.
In book version, Frodo faces them down himself and tells them he won’t surrender the ring to them
Book Frodo is a better protagonist because he has better character choice and narrative
As someone who has not seen the movie nor read the books. This is the first time that I am actually intrigued to read it. I find it so special when we find a book that impacts the reader on a different / deeper level each read.
I just finished lotr (like two days ago) and well, he is my second favourite character…I mean, he was a boy of 33(since hobbits age different) and carrying a ring of power was too much of a burden for a boy of that age…He also went though so much…I loved his courage, and his calm mindedness in times of panic (compared to other hobbit, as well as other character). While everyone was panicking, Frodo would be thinking calmly. He did have his moments of doubts, but that just shows his human-ness. The fact that the nearer he was to barad dur, the heavier it became, and he could not even stand when they were at the foot of the mountain…that got me…Shire is also precious for Frodo, and the fact that his adventures had made him mature enough to know when it was time to leave…I really like Frodo...
Frodo was 51 by the end of the story..
@@hognelarsenrhme1703 I know. But he was given the ring when he was 33.
@@hamsa9925 Just like with Bilbo it didn't have that much of an impact on him before they fled from the Shire
@@hognelarsenrhme1703 yes, but the burden starts to act extremely slowly since then. That is why he doesn’t seem to age much. He looks 33 even at 50. So the ring has been acting, but subtly
@@hamsa9925 There are no mentions about that however
Frodo proved his heroism when he flew Serenity to Corsucant and found the elder wand, using it to defeat Khan, claiming the title of Timelord...
What?
I am so impressed, yet so angry
I LOVE Frodo! I love his courage, compassion, and selflessness. This video highlighted some of my favorite aspects of The Lord of the Rings.
This was great. The movies do Frodo a disservice because they can’t show the internal fight Frodo fought every minute of everyday. He won that fight up until the last moment, but even in his failure at the end his decision to save and try to redeem Gollum meant that Gollum was there at the end to, however unwillingly, play his role in destroying the Ring.
The real disservice the movie does to Frodo is that it makes him Aragorn's sidekick, instead of the main character.
@@michaelsommers2356 I'm not sure I agree, but that is something to think about. I'm not sure that I agree that Frodo is the solo main character.
@@michaelsommers2356 Ehh I feel like they do a pretty good job of potraying how Frodo feels about him in the books.
@@BookishTexan Tolkien's introduction, quoted in the video, makes it clear that the book is the story of the hobbits' part in the war. They hobbits, collectively, are central to the story; I don't think there is a single scene in which no hobbit appears (note how the account of the final battle ends when the hobbits lose consciousness). Frodo is the leader of the hobbits; the others only go because he is going. Also, the book purports to be a translation of Frodo's account of the war. I think it is clear that he is the main character. That does not mean that he is the only character, or that he is the only important character, but he is, at the very least, first among equals.
@@EcopiuM It isn't about Frodo's feelings. Aragorn is king, and Frodo is loyal to him, but that does not make Aragorn the main character.
I'm so glad you made this video. I had the same shift in how I view Frodo. I have known this story, first through the movies at 8 years old and then through the books in middle school, for so long and for most of that time, I found Frodo to be a disappointing protagonist. But a few years ago at the age of about 20, I revisited the story and realized the same thing you did. Frodo had to deal with a LOT of physical and emotional trauma throughout the whole story. It doesn't make him a disappointing protagonist for him to need support and for him to not be able to fully accomplish the task without the Fellowship. That's a very human and realistic thing to have in a fantasy story and I appreciate that so much now.
I agree. Frodo was a protector from start to finish, whatever his (in)capabilities. He was also one of the few who actually grasped the magnitude of the task ahead and I think that buried his personality somewhat. I love the scene in Chapter Three where he is talking to Gildor and comes back with that amazing retort about elvish advice. And in the same scene, Gildor sees that he is thinking of dodging his friends at Crickhollow and says 'go soon' and 'do not go alone'. It's a shame the movies missed his bravery in the barrow too, his first thought was to save his companions. And that wonderful scene at the Ford of Bruinen when Frodo is on Glorfindel's horse and brandishes his sword and orders the Ringwraiths to go back where they came from. Astounding bravery. His strength of character comes through again at the foot of Amon Hen when they're all debating which way to go and they think Frodo can't decide, but Frodo knows all along there is no decision, he's just determined to save Sam and the others and leave them behind and he is grieving about that. There are even more examples in the later books. I liked the movies but Frodo was not served well by them. Nor was Merry by the way. I have strong feelings about the character assassination of Merry Brandybuck.
I love Frodo, especially in the Scouring of the Shire chapters. As you mentioned, he has been changed, wounded physically and spiritually, to the point where he cannot be at peace in the Shire anymore. However, he also changed in that he gained so much wisdom and empathy. I love that while Merry, Pippin, and Sam have now become strong hobbit warriors who lead the charge against Sharkey's men, Frodo just wants peace. He doesn't draw his sword, takes no offence to insults or attacks against him, and makes sure the other Hobbits don't slay those who have surrendered in the battles for the Shire. Even Saruman recognizes how Frodo has changed when he stops Sam from killing him. While his friends dismay at how all the Hobbits hold them up as heroes and give little respect to Frodo, who they know saved them all, Frodo doesn't care about that either. He'd rather the hobbits just enjoy the small world of peace they have in the Shire, as he gave up so much of himself to keep it that way.
I didn't know Frodo needed defending. I admire this character, he volunteered for a very hard task, the road before was bound to change him. He was "fortunate" to have great support to keep going. Thanks for always putting up great content!
Frodo is the average Briton on the eve of the First World War, happily living in the countryside, listening to his uncle tell stories of his adventures during a career in the military, when suddenly Frodo hears that war has broken out. He doesn't want to go to war, but his sense of duty is strong and so, although he doesn't really know what he's signing up to, he signs up anyway. He goes to war (with a few friends from home) and the first platoon he's put into is his own little fellowship, they look after him, and the older more experienced ones share some wisdom with him. As the war goes on they lose their first member of their fellowship, it hits them hard, the reality of war sinking in for those that are new to it. The war starts to have other effects too, Frodo sees first hand an experienced soldier lose his mind. Shortly afterwards their numbers reduce more as a second member of the fellowship is lost, and the remainder are separated to make up numbers elsewhere, the only person from the fellowship that's still with Frodo at this point is Sam. As the war goes on Frodo's personality changes, the war weighs heavily on him, he's no longer the happy boy at Bilbos Birthday party, he's more introverted, gloomy, he can't remember home, and all but gives in to despair, the only thing that keeps him going is his friend Sam, who's been by his side during the whole war (saving his life at least once) and who reminds him what they're fighting for. There is a moment when this overwhelms Frodo, he nearly throws his life away, but Sam pulls him back from the edge. Eventually the war ends, and a huge sense of relief washes over Frodo, he's exhausted physically and emotionally, but its over. After the war their original fellowship is reunited, and a happy reunion it is; one member that Frodo had seen fall and given up for dead is there and he can't believe his eyes, although he's delighted by the news. They say goodbye to the fellowship, and the four friends that joined up together travel home, very different people to the four friends that left for war. Once they've settled back into their home lives Frodo writes his memoirs, but the words tell of something Frodo is struggling with inside; PTSD: "How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on, when in your heart, you begin to understand...there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep, that have taken hold". I'll leave it to your own interpretation as to whether Frodo takes his own life at the end.
Frodo is a fantastic character, and a wonderful tribute to those that served during that war.
I always felt Frodo's mercy for Smeagol was based in his hope for redemption for himself. He knew what the ring was doing to him.
Frodo was one of my favorites for most of my growing up reading these books. And I was a little confused to find out that most of my friends who also read them ranked him as one of the worst characters. I had an argument in high school with a friend about it, and they stated that he was such a weak character he never would never have even gotten out of the Shire without Sam. My English teacher, who was amusedly listening in, explained that the characters who can't achieve their goal or defeat the big evil without their friends are the most important ones. They're the ones that teach us that we can't face our conflicts without our own people backing us up, that the heroic is not accomplished on our own but in community. That really stuck with me.
I've re-read this series over 10 times now, it hits different every time. It's almost like a fantastical Bible, you pick up something new every time. It is rare that a book does this. Plus, the prose is fantastic!
I was talking to myself trying to remember the line about Bilbo's mercy, and it ultimately leading to success when you brought it up. Yes! It actually feels like a very important part of the story
I think Frodo is a more realistic hero character. I was surprised how much I enjoyed it on a reread.
I do feel like Frodo is too unappreciated, considering everything he went through to save Middle Earth.
I've never understood the hate on Frodo. He's so over-attacked.
Thanks! Frodo has always been one of my great loves, so I'm happy that you see the strength in him too now 😊❤
His strength is of another kind than we usually see... his ability to not be taken over by the ring...it is not the strength to rule, lead, fight great battles or kick butt... it is the strength of NOT wanting these things. The strength of not wanting power, of finding joy in small things, the strength of loving a peaceful, quite life, but loving it fiercely enough (!) to match willpower with Sauron himself...
I have always found that quite amazing! ❤
You made me tear up 🤧
Frodo is definitely my favorite character from this story and this got me so emotional because I don't hear this kind of opinion enough.
I haven't read this on the comments (and maybe no one else cares), but it is very curious how Frodo reflects a lots of essentials and profound humans traits. For instance, his love for the little pleasures of an ordinary liffe. His love for his family, friends and neighbors. But also his weaknesses. His feeling of being so little, so unprepared for the big tasks we have to face in life. And it is because of these traits that their virtues are so heroic and so relatables. His humility, his bravery, his mercy, his love... We have to be more like Frodo (and Sam, of course). And finally (and sorry for my catholicism but it is stronger than me), it is very interesting how the journey of Frodo carrying the ring reflects the journey of Christ, carrying the cross for our salvation, on a task that he didn't want to acomplish ("father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not as I will but as you will"). This is why there are so many studies on Tolkien's works, because they reflects his beliefs in a very deep way.
What a lovely video!
Frodo is my personal favorite character from LOTR. I reread the book for the first time in six years, and I loved him even more. He’s wise, gentle, kind, learned (for a Hobbit), humble, and deeply moral. I think it’s unique that Tolkien chose to “tear him apart” as a hero instead of making him like Sam, who went from glory to glory. I really like Sam, and though I acknowledge Tolkien’s words that he’s the chief hero of the story, I will always like Frodo best. Frodo didn’t fail, according to Tolkien. He went as far as he could, which was all that was expected of him. Frodo slowly succumbed to the lure and the torment of the Ring. He became more isolated, stern, and almost went mad. He felt hopeless at the end, but he kept putting one foot in front of the other. That interested me and moved me. No other hero in LOTR gave it all up only to endure such a magnitude of pain and such little honor. When he returned from saving the Shire, he struggled with feelings of guilt, the temptation to desire the ring again, a kind of physical and emotional PTSD, and isolation. So he left to be healed and to die in peace.
I personally don’t hate movie Frodo, but I agree that Peter Jackson did a grave disservice to his character. He’s too victimized. I think Peter Jackson wanted people to feel bad for him, but it honestly made him come off as weak and annoying.
Frodo has always been my favourite character, but for long I wasn't sure why. But than I randomly opened the book - it was the scouring of the Shire. Frodo spares Saurman, and he says to Frodo this; "You have grown, hobbit. You have become wise and cruel." And this. *this*
As a huge fan of Tolkien and a huge fan of this channel, I wholeheartedly agree! My channel is all about the deep lore of the Lord of the Rings (and Tolkien's other writings), and I think you hit the nail on the head about Frodo's compassion and pity for Gollum being central to his character.
I think one of the biggest differences between Frodo in the book and the movies, is that he's so young in the movies. I'm pretty sure Elijah Wood was only 18 when he got the role. Frodo is 52 when he sets out on his quest to Mordor. Frodo in the book isn't a passive young guy, he's a wise and respected Hobbit in his prime. He's the leader of the four, and the one you'd want bearing the ring.
Which is also really significant in his relationship with Sam. In the movies, Sam is portrayed as an avuncular father-like figure, but in the book Frodo is the older wiser one. Sam is his younger, poorer, working class, gardener/manservant. I say that with an abundance of love for Sam, but he'd be the first to agree that Frodo is the more respectable Hobbit.
And the de-ageing of Frodo also affects Pippin's character. Because if in the movie Frodo is the youngest Hobbit, then Pippin isn't the youngest Hobbit. And of course in the book, Pippin is very much the youngest Hobbit. That's central to his character. He's from an even wealthier and more privileged family than the Bagginses, and one day he could grow up to live an even fancier life than Frodo's (he's next in line to be Thain of the Shire). But when Pippin leaves it all behind and sets off with his cousin Frodo, in the book, he's not even officially an adult. Hobbits don't 'come of age' until they're 33!
None of this is to throw shade on Elijah Wood, but book Frodo is an entirely different kind of protagonist, and he deserves a lot of love!
I really enjoy your videos, and loved your thoughts on the quiet dignity of Frodo. Reading Lord of the Rings is such a joy, and I'm super excited that you're choosing to spend more time revisiting the awe-inspiring world of Tolkien. Enjoy! ☺️
I had a strangely similar experience with Frodo because I watched the films before reading the books, and I would agree that his book character is much stronger. He has the integrity of an ordinary person trying their best to do what's right, even if they have to put so much more effort in than the more natural leaders like Aragorn.
Frodo was always meant to carry the ring, but not to destroy it. And I love it!
Thanks for the inspiration 😀 going to start rereading LOTR now.
One of the strong points of the movies was Ian McKellen as Gandalf. The look he gives when Frodo takes on the quest of the ring was a perfect reflection of Gandalf's characterization.
Thank you for this! Frodo has always been my favorite character in The Lord of the Rings. I really identify with him. It's nice to see some Frodo appreciation.
Haven’t even started the video yet, but I still consider Frodo one of my favorite characters. For me, he’s tangible, relatable, and idk I just love him 😂🙈
The movies probably made him seem more unlikable than in the books; I rewatched them recently and he is just in constant need of being saved from something, and generally sad and miserable the rest of the time. On the other hand, the movies also make it clear that it's not his fault, but the influence of the ring. Given how quickly the ring turns characters like Boromir and even Sam (in the movie, I don't remember if it had a hold on him in the books the brief moment he held it), there's also an element of heroism in how he's been able to carry it for as long as he did. I honestly just feel bad for him - it's like watching someone die slowly, ending with him leaving because he just didn't have anything left in him anymore. He's a tragic character.
Frodo appreciation makes me so happy!! ^_^ He is genuinely such a phenomenal character and I love him so dearly!!
Love this! Frodo is such an underrated character! Can't wait to reread The Lord of The Rings myself! Love your videos!
Lusting for a video dedicated to the true hero of Middle Earth. The one.. the only: Farmer Maggot
Thanks for not saying Tom Bombadil.
*Love* the video Merphy! I was always struck by a letter Tolkien had written to a reader explaining Frodo's fall to temptation at the end being to show that he was still fallible. His point was precisely to show that Frodo isn't superhuman, but a relatable protagonist.
As you said, his earlier mercy to Gollum then comes into play for his mission be fulfilled. It's a testament to the weight of the same mission that Frodo couldn't do it on his own and remains marked by the experience.
I need to get over here more often. You're on of the best booktubers.
For all the things Fantasy authors take from Tolkien they cant recreate a Frodo like Main Character. Most MCs in fantasy are more like Aragorn than Frodo. Having a completely normal imperfect non combative main character save the world is the best every man story in my opinion.
_"Most MCs in fantasy are more like Aragorn than Frodo."_
I think a lot of readers, including Peter Jackson, think that Aragorn is the hero of the novel. Hence the many complaints that the Scouring of the Shire is anti-climactic. They don't realize that the novel is the story of the hobbits, not the men, and that the Scouring of the Shire _is_ the climax.
My Tolkien appreciation levels are so high right now.
I just started listening to LOTR on audiobook! Did you know the narrator actually sings all the songs? It really adds a lot to the story, but on the down side, I literally had the dang Tom Bombadil song stuck in my head for three days.
Frodo's predicament was even worse than you described: as ring-bearer he was aware of hidden physical and spiritual forces within the world. Which is why he beheld the vision of Galadriel when she expressed her desire and ambitions for the one ring, it is also why in the land of Mordor he becomes physically and spiritually crushed because he can sense Sauron's spiritual power which shapes the land, forces the orcs to keep fighting on and actively blocks out the sunlight.
Mordor is a hell created by one being and though Sauron did not have his eye on Frodo, his spiritual essence tormented Frodo and Frodo could perceive this thanks to the ring- which grew heavier and heavier the closer it got to its master.
In fact Frodo did not fail at all because no one could willingly destroy the ring: man, the elves even the Maiar (Gandalf is one of them), all would be corrupted and fall. Which is why Gandalf pronounces that he has doomed Frodo and condemned Frodo to either: death, capture and becoming a lesser Wraith, or worse- mastering the ring and becoming truly evil (very unlikely though).
So not only was Frodo walking through actual hell, he was doomed to a task that appeared certain to fail and only luck, sheer coincidence or the will of Eru enabled victory.
I am so grateful you made this video!! Thank you!! The amount of people on UA-cam who misunderstand Frodo makes me so sad. Another interesting video you would love is Tolkien Philosophy: Why couldn't Frodo destroy the One Ring? It's really interesting to learn that Tolkien made the rings power such that NO ONE has the mental power to overcome the ring while in mount doom. But Frodo was pure and willing enough to get it there, with help, because of the mental torture he was going through he needed Sam's help. But Sam couldn't have carried the ring himself because the result, at best, would have been the same in the end. Tolkien was going for "sometimes the only thing that can destroy evil is evil itself".
Haven't read the books yet (I know) but this is how I saw Frodo's character from the movies as well. Sam and Frodo were both incredibly self sacrificing, good people and great heroes - just in slightly different ways. Frodo had to carry the mental burden, the burden of literal evil - while Sam was the one carrying the emotional and physical burden of getting his friend to the place where they could destroy evil. Both Sam and Frodo were loyal to the cause: protecting the Shire and all things good. They needed each other. I think they both needed to be there to represent different aspects of true bravery, which I am sure Tolkien experienced and saw in WW1. Real heroes are not really the big muscle types who are in it for fame, gold, half a kingdom, parades and medals - but rather the small, quiet people who does something because it's the right thing to do. Even if they risk their lives or have to deal with lasting physical and emotional scars. I think Tolkien made the right choice when he showed that it was easier for Sam to return to the Shire than for Frodo. Those who have seen and experienced true evil won't be the same.
Yes ! He is my absolute favourite Lotr character !
I love Frodo and I'm always sad when he is not appreciated, so I loved watching this video :)
I believe that LOTR is better enjoyed when read slowly, and with every reread you find the world even more immersive. I reread it earlier this year for the fourth time, and it was a beautiful experience, as always!
I also underestimated frodo for so long. Gandalf was to afraid to touch the ring for fear of the corruption and galadriel feared what she'd do with the power and even when offered couldn't take it. Frodo carried it for so long the strength that must've taken Im glad I can appreciate him more now
I love the character of Frodo so much! He’s one of my favorites in LOTR. I feel so bad for Frodo and everything he went through. He was such a strong Hobbit. I think there was a reason he was specifically chosen to carry the Ring and not anyone else. I feel like people who don’t like him don’t fully understand the point of his transformation. People often say that he is a whiny character, especially in terms of the movies, but I’ve always seen his change as what the Ring is doing to him. He can’t help it. The Ring affected him so much throughout the story. I feel so sad for him by the end! He carried such a heavy burden. It changed him forever.
Didn't need to be crying at 10am and yet here I am
So here’s a confession: I’ve never been able to finish reading LotR. It makes me feel like such a bad fantasy fan, but I’ve tried every few years since I was maybe 11 and just couldn’t get through the writing style. However, I’m due for another try. One of the reasons I struggled with it was because I could never connect to Frodo. He felt, to me, like a passive, empty shell. And when I brought that up to a friend who’s a huge LotR fan, she said “yeah that’s the point, I like him because he’s so passive” which just…wasn’t encouraging.
This video gave me a new perspective on Frodo, and hopefully it’ll get me all the way through on this attempt so that I can finally say I’m a real fantasy reader who’s read and enjoyed LotR!
Man the experience of reading LOTR for the first time as a teenager was really something else. No other piece of literature has made me feel so uplifted since then. Tolkien really created something magical. Even in my 30s If I feel overly stressed or anxious I go back to the middle earth and feel strangely calms me down. Maybe not as potently as the first time but still...
Have you tried children of Hurin yet ? It’s quite a bit darker but I still liked it.
I always loved Frodo the most, actually, precisely because he's the most grounded and relatable and stoic character in the entire tome; for me he symbolises the daily struggle of humanity.
Great to see some LOTR content from you. Never hesitate to make LOTR content. There are plenty of “deep lore” channels that are awesome, but we also need perspectives from those not quite so steeped in it. And there can never be too much content.
I did myself recently do a very similar video about Frodo’s journey and why he is indeed a hero. Not nearly as well put together as yours though. Love seeing this from you, and so happy you are rereading LOTR again.
-T
Thank you for making this video!!! I have been defending Frodo since I fell in love with this story in my teens & it's so frustrating how much people hate on him. :( This video was cathartic!
Frodo's percieved lack of personality, I always thought was because of the burden of the ring and the toll that this responsibility takes on his psyche and emotions. Good on you to come around on Frodo 👍
Watching this video and seeing few people going thru LotR makes me want to reread also. I loved Andy Serkis’ narration of the Hobbit last month. Hope to start Fellowship this month?
My family: (hates Frodo) Sam is the true hero!
Me: ...did you not understand that Frodo literally sacrificed his soul?
And Frodo knew, since Rivendell, that he would sacrifice his life. Yeah he technically didn't die, but the person he was did. There's no doubt that Sam, Merry, and Pippin all have PTSD and major trauma from the journey, but Frodo basically sacrificed his soul. Willingly.
I'm always up for Merphy talking about Tolkien :3
Wholeheartedly agree with everything you said!
Ps. I love those last words of Frodo about how sometimes you have to sacrifice
PSS. So glad you are also in the team of LotR constant re-readers
Saw the title, clicked, immediatley liked. Now to actually watch the video lol... all i know is poor Frodo is incredibly underrated by most book fans, and even moreso by movie-only fans lol
Oh, so glad you're doing this! I probably know far too much about Middle Earth, but it's nice to simply share the love and hear your thoughts without going into deep lore.
I am so glad to hear you say this. I remember when you said you had only read LOTR once and was on your second time, and some things you said made me think, well, you didn't quite "get it," and that you were a Johnny-come-lately Harry Potter fan. No offense, it's just what I thought. I re-read LOTR this summer, and this time, I really felt what Frodo went through, all the way to the end. While Merry and Pippin also had challenges, theirs was more of a classic adventure, while Frodo basically sacrificed his whole life. The fact that they were all four little Hobbits is crucial and central to Tolkien's story. I noticed that anytime there is a Hobbit around, the story is always from his perspective. There's only one significant section where the story is from Aragorn's, when he, Legalos and Gimli are hunting for Merry and Pippin. That's why I'm very critical of the movies and how it taints people's understanding of the story, even as you say. The Hobbits get such short thrift in the movies, when they're supposed to be the central characters! Anyway, love your channel, you're awesome!
I think it took Frodo a lot of courage to ask Gollum to be their guide to Mordor and try be a little nice to him. Frodo is my favorite character I love him so much. You should make a video on Legolas Greenleaf.
These days I always get so sceptical when people say Sam is the true hero of the book - not because I have anything against this statement; I really really like the original idea behind how this every day man who's not special by destiny (like aragorn) nor by choice (like frodo) carried the team or whatever. But so many people seem to be saying this simply because they think Frodo didn't do anything, rather than having an thorough appreciation and understanding of both characters, and then having an opinion on which they prefer/relate more to/admire/idek. And that ends up being such an insult to BOTH characters, tbh. So I'm so happy that these discussions about Frodo is happening
So many people hate Frodo because he wasn't a fighter at the end.
Merphy: h-
Me: QUEEN
Yass, I started rereading the silmarillion for the forth time
Silmarillion is awesome! #silmarilliongang
@@stargift Ikr. It's hard to get through but once you got used to it is amazing. (I'm getting through the Túrin part. Ouch)
Agreed. The first time is a bit confusing; it shoves a lot of names and worldbuilding at you pretty quickly. The second time you're like ooooohhhh that's what it was all about. And then every successive time it just makes more sense and is really cool and makes you really appreciate JRR Tolkien's work. And Christopher's. Going though all that was no easy task.
I SO MUCH agree with everything you said in here. I can talk about LOTR for hours and why I love every character because I see the purpose and Tolkien's careful crafting.
Also about a disservice in a movie I think that the greatest victims are Merry and Pippin. In a movie they are just troublemakers, who happened to be a part of this adventure because of a pure accident. I like that they kept their happiness and humor, but why in part one they're so stupid, while in books Merry and Pippin are funny, but mostly Merry is a very loyal friend, he's so inteligent and Pippin's main characteristics are being kindhearted and clever. I really don't know why their personalities has been changed so much.
And yeah, maybe I'm just nagging because Pippin is my favorite character in LOTR, but well, deal with it 😂
This was a great video. One that really reminded me how the hobbits, and Frodo in particular, are the deep connection to humanity for the reader. Sam is us at our best; noble and self-sacrificing and loyal to the end. Frodo is us most other days: comfortable where we are, but having to venture out into the dark now and again to make sure the things we care about are taken care of, and struggling often along the way.
I’m deeply excited to share in your slow-burn journey through Middle Earth. It is always a pleasure to walk with someone else through the story that made me fall in love with storytelling.
For recipe reasons, Frodo might be a bad protagonist. But for chef reasons-Tolkien being the chef who served up one of the most delicious creations of all time-Frodo was perfect.