How Frodo's Relationship with Sam Changed After the Lord of the Rings

The journey from the Shire to Mordor and back again transformed not only Frodo Baggins but also his loyal friend Samwise Gamgee. The deep bond between them reached new heights during the quest, and Frodo's heart remained with his faithful friend even after the struggles and privations of the wars ended. Their relationship changed in profound ways, reflecting the trust, love, and respect that grew between them, as seen in the sadly unfounded hope of Frodo returning to the Undying Lands with Sam.

Sam's Initial Concerns

Sam's initial loyalty and service to Frodo were well-established. When Frodo informed him that he would have to leave the Shire for the dangerous journey to Mount Doom, Sam stood by his side, entrusting the cherished Red Book of Westmarch to his daughter Elanor, and committed to seeing his master to the end. The red book symbolizes the history, folk, and lore of the Shire, and Sam’s trust in Elanor reflects the importance of preserving this heritage for generations to come.

Once Sam accepted the grim reality of Frodo’s departure, he faced a formidable challenge: getting Frodo to the place of his destiny. Sam is a modest and humble character, always hesitant to take praise or command, especially from Frodo. This was evident during the trials in the Shire when Frodo barely managed to restore order and respect. Sam, on the other hand, played a crucial role in holding the Shire together and preventing it from descending into chaos, much like the non-magical methods used by Gandalf to save the West Kingdom from Sauron's influence.

Frodo's Caring and Nurturing Nature

Frodo, despite being burdened with the weight of the Ring, remained acutely aware of Sam’s feelings and welfare. He recognized Sam's worthiness as a worthy heir and did not hesitate to acknowledge Sam's importance. It is noteworthy that Frodo designated Sam as his heir, a gesture that goes far beyond mere familial duty—it was a profound statement of how much Frodo valued Sam as a friend and servant. This act of making Sam an heir conveyed the depth of their friendship and the trust Frodo placed in Sam.

Even after their return, Frodo continued to reassure Sam about his well-being. It is suggested that their relationship became even more intimate, primarily because of the silence and emptiness Frodo felt in the Shire. This solitude was a direct result of Sauron's dismissal and the Shire's lack of respect for Frodo, unlike the reverence accorded to the Hobbit princes. Frodo, being a more humble and kind-hearted individual, could see how Sam truly appreciated and valued him, though he might not see it as Sam did.

The Legend of the Undying Lands

It is often speculated that Frodo harbored a secret hope, a wish to return to the Old Forest and the Hobbiton surroundings with Sam. This was the very refuge from which they had set out on their perilous journey. However, this legend is more hoopla than a well-established fact, and the reality of Frodo's return journey was far more difficult and grim.

The trip back from Mount Doom was fraught with trials and traps, and both Frodo and Sam found themselves on the cusp of death more than once. Their friendship was tested in the harshest of conditions, and it was in such dire situations that the true depth of their bond became vividly apparent. Ultimately, it was Sam who cared for Frodo, guided him, and rebuilt his spirit, making their return possible.

Conclusion

In the aftermath of the War of the Ring, Frodo's relationship with Sam was both symbolic and defining. The trust, love, and respect that bonded them together made an indelible mark on their destinies, showing that sometimes, the most enduring alliances are forged in the crucible of adversity. Their journey is a testament to the strength of their friendship, and their final bond, while not as idyllic as some might imagine, remains a powerful reflection of their unwavering loyalty to each other.