The One Ring, the most powerful and sinister ring forged by the Dark Lord Sauron, plays an integral role in J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy novel The Lord of the Rings. But who exactly bears this ominous ring that rules them all on its perilous journey to be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee share the role of ring bearer, with Frodo being the initial bearer tasked with the quest, and Sam supporting and protecting Frodo for much of the journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we will trace the history of the One Ring and follow its passage down through the ages until it ultimately meets its demise alongside its maker in the heart of Mordor.
The Forging of the One Ring
In the vast and mystical world of Middle-earth, the creation of the One Ring marked a pivotal moment in its history. This legendary artifact, often referred to as the “One Ring to rule them all,” was forged by the Dark Lord Sauron in the fires of Mount Doom.
The story of the One Ring’s creation is shrouded in darkness and treachery, intertwining the fate of Middle-earth with the ambitions of its malevolent creator.
Sauron Creates the Rings of Power
Long before the forging of the One Ring, Sauron, a powerful Maia and servant of the Dark Lord Morgoth, sought to dominate Middle-earth. In an attempt to corrupt and control the other races, Sauron deceived the Elves and Dwarves, convincing them to create Rings of Power.
Little did they know that Sauron had secretly forged the most powerful ring of all, the One Ring, which would enable him to control the bearers of the other rings.
The forging of the Rings of Power was not a noble endeavor. Sauron infused his dark magic and malice into each ring, ensuring that their wearers would ultimately fall under his sway. However, the Elves were able to resist the allure of Sauron’s control, and three rings were hidden away.
These rings would later play a crucial role in the war against the Dark Lord.
The One Ring’s Powers and Purpose
The power of the One Ring was immense and insidious. It granted its bearer the power of invisibility, but at a great cost. The ring also had a corrupting influence, slowly consuming the bearer’s soul and binding them to Sauron’s will.
This was why it was crucial for the One Ring to be destroyed, as it represented the ultimate source of Sauron’s power and control over Middle-earth.
The purpose of the One Ring was clear: it was the key to Sauron’s dominion over all the other Rings of Power. As long as the One Ring existed, Sauron’s influence would continue to grow, and his dark reign would remain unchallenged.
Its destruction, however, would mean the downfall of Sauron and the liberation of Middle-earth from his tyrannical grip.
The War of the Last Alliance
The creation of the One Ring eventually led to the War of the Last Alliance, a monumental conflict that determined the fate of Middle-earth. Realizing the threat posed by Sauron and his Ring, the Elves and Men united in a final stand against the Dark Lord.
Led by Elendil, the High King of Gondor, and Gil-galad, the High King of the Elves, they formed the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.
The war was long and arduous, with countless lives lost on both sides. Ultimately, it was Isildur, son of Elendil, who dealt the decisive blow. In a moment of desperation, Isildur cut the One Ring from Sauron’s hand, ending his reign of terror.
However, instead of destroying the ring, Isildur succumbed to its temptation and kept it for himself, ultimately leading to further conflict and the start of a new chapter in the history of Middle-earth.
The forging of the One Ring and its subsequent journey through the ages is a captivating tale of power, corruption, and the struggle for freedom. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition and the importance of making the right choices, even in the face of overwhelming temptation.
The Ring Passes Down through the Ages
Isildur Claims the Ring
Centuries ago, during the Second Age of Middle-earth, the powerful Dark Lord Sauron created the One Ring to rule over all other rings. However, the ring was taken from him by Isildur, a mighty warrior and the last king of Gondor.
Isildur claimed the ring as his own, believing that it would grant him great power and protection.
The Ring Betrays Isildur
Unfortunately, Isildur’s belief in the ring’s power proved to be his downfall. The ring had a corrupting influence, and it slowly began to consume Isildur’s mind, tempting him with its promises of power.
In the end, it was the ring that betrayed Isildur, leading to his death and the loss of the ring for many years.
Gollum Finds the Ring
After Isildur’s demise, the One Ring was lost for centuries, until it was discovered by a creature named Gollum. Gollum, once a hobbit-like creature named Sméagol, was consumed by the ring’s power and became its obsessive guardian.
He took the ring to a deep cave in the Misty Mountains, where he lived in isolation for hundreds of years.
Bilbo Finds the Ring
Fast forward to the events of “The Hobbit,” where Bilbo Baggins, a simple hobbit from the Shire, stumbled upon Gollum’s cave and found the ring. Unbeknownst to Bilbo at the time, the ring had the power to make its wearer invisible.
This discovery would set in motion a chain of events that would ultimately lead to the epic quest portrayed in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
For more information about the history of the One Ring and its significance in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, you can visit The Tolkien Society.
Frodo Inherits the Burden of the Ring
Gandalf Learns the Ring’s Identity
It all began when the wise wizard Gandalf discovered the true identity of the mysterious ring that had been in the possession of Bilbo Baggins, Frodo’s uncle. Gandalf, through his extensive research and knowledge, came to realize that this ring was none other than the One Ring, the most powerful and dangerous artifact ever created by the Dark Lord Sauron.
This revelation marked the beginning of Frodo’s journey as the ring bearer, as he would inherit the burden of carrying and destroying the ring to save Middle-earth from the clutches of evil.
Frodo Leaves the Shire
With the weight of the world now on his shoulders, Frodo made the difficult decision to leave the comfort and safety of his beloved Shire. Accompanied by his loyal friend Samwise Gamgee and a small group of other hobbits, he embarked on the perilous quest to destroy the ring in the fires of Mount Doom.
This decision was not taken lightly, as Frodo knew that his journey would be filled with danger, hardship, and sacrifice. Nevertheless, his determination and courage prevailed, and he set off on an adventure that would change his life forever.
The Fellowship is Formed
As Frodo continued his journey, he soon found himself joined by a diverse group of individuals who became known as the Fellowship of the Ring. This fellowship consisted of representatives from various races and backgrounds, each bringing their unique skills and strengths to aid Frodo in his quest.
From the wise and powerful Gandalf to the brave and skilled Aragorn, this fellowship became a symbol of unity and hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. Together, they faced numerous challenges and encountered both allies and enemies along the way, forming strong bonds of friendship and loyalty.
The story of Frodo’s journey as the ring bearer in “The Lord of the Rings” is a testament to the power of determination, sacrifice, and the strength of friendship. It reminds us that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, individuals can rise above their own limitations and make a difference.
Frodo’s story continues to captivate readers and viewers alike, as it serves as a timeless reminder that even the smallest of individuals can change the course of history.
Samwise the Brave Becomes a Ring Bearer
Throughout J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy trilogy, “The Lord of the Rings,” one character stands out as a shining example of loyalty, courage, and unwavering determination. Samwise Gamgee, Frodo Baggins’ faithful companion, proves himself to be more than just a sidekick.
In the darkest of times, Sam steps up to become a Ring Bearer, carrying the burden of the One Ring and playing a pivotal role in the quest to destroy it.
Frodo and Sam Cross Mordor
As Frodo and Sam journey through the treacherous land of Mordor, their friendship and loyalty are tested to the extreme. With each step, the weight of the Ring becomes more unbearable, both physically and mentally.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Sam remains by Frodo’s side, providing unwavering support and encouragement. Together, they navigate the dangers of Mount Doom, facing off against Orcs, giant spiders, and the ever-looming presence of Sauron’s forces.
Sam Briefly Bears the Ring
In a pivotal moment, Frodo succumbs to the power of the Ring and is unable to continue the journey. It is at this critical juncture that Sam, driven by his love for Frodo and his unyielding determination, takes on the burden of the Ring.
With the weight of the world on his shoulders, Sam shows an incredible strength of character as he resists the allure of the Ring and carries it closer to its ultimate destruction.
Through this act, Sam proves himself to be not only a loyal friend but also a brave and selfless hero. He demonstrates the strength to resist the corrupting power of the Ring, a feat that few others could achieve.
Sam’s unwavering loyalty and courage shine through as he takes on the responsibility that Frodo can no longer bear.
Gollum Reclaims the Ring
Just as Sam seems poised to fulfill his role as the true Ring Bearer, Gollum, a creature corrupted by the Ring’s influence, reappears. In a desperate struggle, Gollum manages to regain possession of the Ring from Sam.
This momentary setback showcases the complexity of Sam’s journey and the challenges he faces as he fights to fulfill his duty.
Although Sam’s time as the Ring Bearer is brief, it is a testament to his character and unwavering dedication. Sam’s role in the quest to destroy the Ring is crucial, and without his bravery and resilience, Frodo’s mission would have been in vain.
Samwise Gamgee, the unlikely hero, proves that even the smallest and most humble individuals can rise to greatness when faced with insurmountable challenges.
The One Ring is Destroyed
In the epic conclusion to J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece, “The Lord of the Rings,” the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance as the One Ring is finally destroyed. This pivotal moment in the story marks the end of an era and sets the stage for the triumph of good over evil.
Gollum and the Ring Perish in Mount Doom
The journey to destroy the One Ring reaches its climax in the fiery depths of Mount Doom. Gollum, consumed by his obsession with the Ring, plays a crucial role in its destruction. In a desperate struggle with Frodo Baggins, the Ring slips from Gollum’s grasp and falls into the molten lava, taking both Gollum and the Ring with it.
This momentous event brings an end to the Ring’s corrupting influence and ensures that it can never be used for evil again.
Sauron is Defeated
With the destruction of the One Ring, the Dark Lord Sauron is dealt a fatal blow. The power that fueled his tyranny and domination over Middle-earth is shattered, leaving him vulnerable and weakened. This decisive victory paves the way for the forces of good to rally together and ultimately triumph over the forces of darkness.
The Reign of the Ring Comes to an End
For centuries, the One Ring has been a symbol of power and control. Its destruction signifies the end of an era marked by greed, corruption, and the lust for power. As the Ring is destroyed, the hold it had over the hearts and minds of those who sought to possess it is broken.
The reign of the Ring comes to an end, and a new era of peace and prosperity can begin for the peoples of Middle-earth.
Conclusion
As we have seen, the fate of the One Ring from its fiery forging to its ultimate destruction is a complex tale involving rings, hobbits, kings, wizards and creatures of all kinds. While Frodo Baggins bore the dreadful weight as Ring Bearer for much of the journey, his faithful friend Samwise Gamgee proved integral by briefly bearing the Ring himself and supporting Frodo through enormous hardship.
Only by the courage and loyalty of these two small hobbits was the Quest of the Ring fulfilled at last. Their success removed the terrible threat of Sauron and ended the Third Age of Middle Earth on a triumphant, if bittersweet note.
And so concludes the legendary saga of the One Ring that ruled them all.
