The Lord Of The Rings presents a deeply challenging journey, one of the most gripping in all of fiction. This journey truly started with the formation of The Fellowship Of The Ring. Frodo, the young Hobbit, had been burdened with carrying the dangerous One Ring for quite some time. He only learned of its peril through the warnings of Gandalf and the pursuit of the Nazghul. Regrettably, Frodo's hardships would only intensify once the fellowship assembled.
The original fellowship consisted of Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Merry and Pippin, Gimli, Legolas, Boromir, Gandalf, and Aragorn, under the guidance of Lord Elrond of Rivendell. This formidable group had the potential to achieve even greater feats, but as devoted fans of The Lord Of The Rings are aware, the fellowship tragically disbanded shortly after its creation.
What Was The Fellowship’s Journey?
The Hobbits had been on their journey for some time before the fellowship officially started their journey from Rivendell. Just a few months later, their ultimate goal was achieved as they destroyed the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom, ending Sauron’s reign of terror. Although the fellowship had the freedom to choose their route, the only place where the magical ring could be destroyed was Mount Doom.
Initially, they faced the challenges of the Misty Mountains in their adventure. However, prompted by Frodo, they made the decision to proceed through the Mines of Moria. This choice proved to be a mistake, resulting in the loss of Gandalf as he fought against the fearsome Balrog residing in the depths of Moria. Afterward, the group made a stop in Lothlorien before eventually being separated and forced to go their separate ways at Amon Hen.
With the fellowship disbanded, Frodo and Sam persevered in their mission to cast the ring into the treacherous depths of Mount Doom. Their arduous journey took them through the perilous Dead Marshes, the treacherous Shelob's Lair, and ultimately to the heart of Mordor itself, where they would finally reach their ultimate destination. It would be a harrowing path, fraught with danger and sacrifice. Despite Frodo's eventual succumbing to the corrupting power of the ring, fortune smiled upon them as Gollum, driven by his twisted desire, attacked Frodo, inadvertently leading to the ring's destruction.
How Powerful Was The One Ring?
In order to fully grasp the dangers faced by the fellowship during their treacherous journey and the eventual dissolution of their group, it is crucial to comprehend the immense power held within the One Ring. Forged within the fiery depths of Mount Doom by the malevolent Sauron, this ring possessed extraordinary magical capabilities and was imbued with the very essence of its creator. Although wielding the ring bestowed immense strength and the ability to vanish from sight, it ultimately proved to be corruptive in nature and perpetually subservient to its true master.
The immense power of the ring deterred even the likes of Gandalf and Aragorn from attempting to wield it. It is plausible that the ring's influence intensified as it neared its master, as Frodo resisted its power until the very end of his journey in Mount Doom. The ring's most perilous aspect was that it corrupted anyone, regardless of their strength or race, transforming them into a malicious version of themselves and ultimately seeking out the most formidable wielder.
The One Ring likely possessed a plethora of powers, but only a few were openly observed. It was designed to subjugate those who possessed the other Rings of Power. If Sauron's plan had succeeded without any complications, the master manipulator would have effortlessly conquered all of Middle Earth, with very few individuals capable of opposing him.
Why The Fellowship Had To Go Their Separate Ways
Towards the end of The Fellowship Of The Ring, Frodo realizes that he must persevere with the mission of destroying the One Ring, although the reasons for his decision may not be immediately apparent. While the novels provide more explicit explanations, one can infer the underlying motives by closely observing Frodo's actions in the first film. The Hobbit, being considerate of others, wishes to protect his loved ones from harm while also fulfilling his destiny to eradicate the power of the One Ring.
Even prior to the confrontation at Amon Hen, Frodo becomes increasingly aware of the corrupting influence of the One Ring, thanks to the experiences involving Boromir, Gollum, and even Bilbo Baggins. Boromir's prolonged interaction with the ring atop the Misty Mountain, Gollum's relentless pursuit of it over the years, and Bilbo's almost violent attachment to it upon parting are all glimpses into the malevolent hold the artifact has. It was inevitable that the ring would begin to infect those around Frodo, eventually leading to some form of violence.
While not as severe as it could have been, Boromir eventually succumbed to the ring's temptation and tried to seize it from Frodo. It was evident that the ring's corrupting power influenced this decision. Witnessing the devastating effects the ring had on his loved ones, Frodo recognized the need to bear the burden alone, preventing his companions from succumbing to the same dark desires for the ring. Despite Aragorn's refusal to take the ring, Frodo understood that he had to part ways with the group, and fortunately, Aragorn comprehended this as well.
Due to the inherent resistance of Hobbits to the ring's influence compared to other races, it was logical for Frodo and Sam to continue their journey independently while the fellowship engaged Sauron in the fierce battles across Middle Earth.
The Lord Of The Rings is available on Amazon Prime Video.