Fredegar Bolger and the Hidden Role in The Fellowship of the Ring

Fredegar Bolger, a Hobbit from the Eastfarthing, plays a crucial but often overlooked role in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring. This article explores how Fredegar's actions and character contribute to the wider narrative of the novel.

The Role of Fredegar Bolger

Fredegar Bolger is a significant character, particularly in connection with Frodo Baggins and his preparations to leave the Shire. Fredegar is a member of the Took family, which is closely related to the Baggins family, making him a distant relative of Merry and Pippin.

Preparation and Conspiracy

Fredegar Bolger was not just a regular member of Frodo's Shire community; he was an integral part of the secret plan to conceal Frodo's departure. His task was to create the appearance of life in Frodo's house in Crickhollow, ensuring that it looked as if Frodo and his relatives (the Bagginses) still resided there. This was a critical operation designed to divert the attention of any potential spies or enemy forces.

The Attack on Crickhollow

The night Frodo left, three Nazg?l (Black Riders) attacked Frodo's house in Crickhollow. Despite the fear and chaos, Fredegar Bolger managed to remain calm and objective. Recognizing the situation for what it was, he quickly realized the Nazg?l were on the hunt for information or a potential threat to the Shire.

In a moment of bravery and quick thinking, Fredegar Bolger used his knowledge of the local environment to evade the Nazg?l. He used the horn of his household, a traditional method of signaling danger in Buckland, to alert the people of Crickhollow and the surrounding areas. His actions were crucial in alerting the Shire to the impending danger, giving Frodo and his companions time to disappear undetected.

Strategic Retreat and Legacy

The Nazg?l, having realized that the house was empty, decided to retreat. This tactical retreat allowed Frodo and his companions to escape unnoticed, fitting perfectly into their plan to leave the Shire undetected. The Nazg?l, however, did not leave without recognizing the value of the information gathered from the raid, and the attack on Crickhollow set off a chain of events that would lead to greater conflicts within the Shire.

Lessons and Impact

Fredegar Bolger's actions in saving the Shire from the Nazg?l demonstrate the importance of vigilance, quick thinking, and the willingness to take decisive action in the face of danger. His story is a powerful reminder of the decisive impact a single individual can have on the larger narrative of a work of literature.

Summary and Conclusion

In conclusion, Fredegar Bolger's role in The Fellowship of the Ring is a subtle yet significant part of the story. His actions at Crickhollow not only saved Frodo and his companions from immediate danger but also contributed to the larger tapestry of events that would unfold in Middle-earth. This cooperation between characters from different backgrounds highlights the interconnectedness of the fictional world and underscores the importance of individual heroism.

Fredegar Bolger's story serves as an example of how even small characters can have a profound impact on the outcome of a story. By examining his role, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of Tolkien's world and the depth of his characters.

Keywords: Fredegar Bolger, The Fellowship of the Ring, Hobbit