Frodo’s the obvious pick, but Aragorn’s side of the story in 'The End of the Third Age' is just as compelling. While Frodo’s battling the Ring’s influence, Aragorn’s stepping into his role as king, leading armies against Sauron to distract him from the real threat. It’s this epic, strategic move that shows how interconnected all the characters are. His journey from ranger to ruler adds this grand, mythic layer to the finale. The way Tolkien weaves these threads together—Frodo’s personal torment and Aragorn’s destiny—makes the ending hit so much harder.
The main character in 'The End of the Third Age' is undoubtedly Frodo Baggins, though calling him the 'sole' protagonist feels a bit reductive. This is the final stretch of 'The Lord of the Rings,' where Frodo’s journey to Mount Doom becomes almost unbearably intense. What’s fascinating is how his character arc shifts from hopeful determination to sheer desperation—his willpower eroded by the Ring’s influence. It’s heartbreaking to watch Samwise Gamgee, his loyal friend, essentially carry the emotional and physical weight when Frodo can’t anymore.
Tolkien’s genius lies in how he balances Frodo’s fragility with Sam’s quiet heroism. The story isn’t just about one hero; it’s about the resilience of friendship under impossible pressure. Gollum’s role also can’ be ignored—he’s a twisted mirror of Frodo’s fate, making the climax even more tragic. I still get chills thinking about Frodo’s final, conflicted moment at the Cracks of Doom.
Gollum’s just as central as Frodo in this part of the story, if you think about it. Without him, the Ring never would’ve been destroyed. He’s this pitiful, horrifying figure who’s both villain and victim. Tolkien doesn’t let you write him off as just a monster—you see the shreds of Smeagol, this broken creature who might’ve been saved under different circumstances. His obsession with the Ring mirrors Frodo’s struggle, but without any of the nobility. It’s a brilliant, dark contrast. The way he ultimately fulfills the prophecy by accident... it’s this weird, tragic irony that sticks with me long after reading.
If you ask me, Samwise Gamgee steals the spotlight in 'The End of the Third Age.' Sure, Frodo’s the Ring-bearer, but Sam’s the heart of the story. He’s the one who refuses to give up, even when everything seems hopeless. Remember that scene where he carries Frodo up Mount Doom? Pure heroism. Tolkien could’ve made this a typical 'chosen one' tale, but instead, he gave us a gardener who proves ordinary people can do extraordinary things. Sam’s love for Frodo and his simple, unwavering courage make him the true MVP for me.
2026-02-25 09:31:42
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What really gets me is how Tolkien doesn’t shy away from the cost of victory. Frodo’s trauma lingers, and his inability to stay in the Shire speaks volumes about the scars war leaves. Yet, life goes on—Sam plants trees, Merry and Pippin grow into leaders, and the world moves forward. It’s a reminder that even in victory, some wounds don’t heal, and that’s okay. The ending lingers with you long after you close the book.
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