The Scouring of the Shire
The Lord of the RingsThe hobbits return to find the Shire under Saruman's control and lead a rebellion to free it.
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Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Bearing strength in each eventdecreasingThe Return to the Shire
The Return to the Shire
The Unexpected News
On the way home, the hobbits learn that the Shire is in trouble. Barliman Butterbur at Bree tells them of ruffians and a Chief.
The Change in the Land
They find the Shire transformed: trees cut down, new ugly houses, and a general air of oppression. The Brandywine Bridge is blocked.
The Feeling of Unease
The hobbits are shocked and angered. They decide to confront the Chief and restore order.
The Battle of Bywater
The Battle of Bywater
The Rising of the Hobbits
Merry and Pippin rally the hobbits and lead an attack on the ruffians. The battle is short but fierce.
The Defeat of the Ruffians
The hobbits, armed with their experience from the war, defeat the ruffians. The Battle of Bywater is the last battle of the War of the Ring.
The Liberation of the Shire
With the ruffians defeated, the hobbits free the prisoners and restore the Shire. Saruman is found and dealt with.
The Death of Saruman
The Death of Saruman
The Confrontation at Bag End
Frodo finds Saruman at Bag End, accompanied by Wormtongue. Saruman taunts Frodo, but Frodo offers him mercy.
The Murder of Saruman
Wormtongue, goaded by Saruman, stabs him in the back. Saruman dies, and his spirit dissipates.
The End of Evil
With Saruman's death, the last evil in the Shire is removed. The hobbits begin the work of rebuilding their home.
October 30, T.A. 3019
November 3, T.A. 3019
November 3, T.A. 3019
