Hope in Despair

The persistent hope that endures in the darkest times, exemplified by characters like Sam and Gandalf.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Hope in the Shire

Hope in the Shire The Comfort of Home Frodo and Sam think of the Shire as a source of hope. They desire to return to its peace. The Song of the Elves In the dark times, the Elves' songs remind them of beauty and hope. Gandalf's Reassurance Gandalf often tells Frodo to have hope, even when things seem impossible.

Hope in the Darkest Moments

Hope in the Darkest Moments Sam's Vision of the Star In Mordor, Sam sees a star and feels hope. He realizes the Shadow is only a passing thing. The Steadfastness of the Captains Aragorn and Gandalf lead the march to the Black Gate, hoping that Frodo will succeed. They sacrifice themselves for that hope. The Arrival of the Eagles When all seems lost, the Eagles arrive, bringing hope and rescue.

The Triumph of Hope

The Triumph of Hope The Destruction of the Ring The Ring is destroyed, and hope is realized. The Free Peoples rejoice. The New Beginning The Fourth Age begins with hope for peace and prosperity. The hobbits return to the Shire to rebuild. The Legacy of Hope The story teaches that even in the darkest hour, hope can lead to victory.

Before the quest, T.A. 3018

During the War of the Ring

March 25, T.A. 3019, and after