Frodo's Fate

The Lord of the Rings

Frodo's journey transforms him, and he ultimately finds peace in the West.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Burden of the RingThe Burden of the Ring
The Burden of the Ring The Growing Weight As Frodo approaches Mordor, the Ring's weight increases both physically and mentally. He becomes more withdrawn and weary. The Wound from the Morgul-knife Frodo suffers from the wound given by the Witch-king on Weathertop. It never fully heals and causes him pain on anniversaries. The Psychological Strain The Ring's influence corrupts his heart, making him possessive and distrustful. He struggles to resist its power.
The Destruction of the RingThe Destruction of the Ring
The Destruction of the Ring The Final Claim At the Sammath Naur, Frodo is unable to destroy the Ring. He claims it for himself, showing that the quest fails by his own will. The Intervention of Gollum Gollum attacks Frodo, biting off his finger and taking the Ring. He falls into the fire, destroying both himself and the Ring. The Aftermath Frodo loses a finger but is freed from the Ring's grip. He is hailed as a hero but feels deeply wounded.
The Healing and DepartureThe Healing and Departure
The Healing and Departure The Return to the Shire Frodo returns to the Shire but finds no peace. He is troubled by his memories and the pain from his wounds. The Gift of Passage Arwen, understanding his suffering, offers him a place on the ship to the West. Frodo accepts, hoping to find healing. The Last Journey Frodo, Bilbo, Elrond, Galadriel, and Gandalf depart from the Grey Havens. Frodo sails into the Uttermost West, leaving Middle-earth behind.
Throughout the quest, T.A. 3018–3019
March 25, T.A. 3019
After the War, T.A. 3019–3021