Chapter Two eases us into the wider world of Middle-earth. As the title would suggest, it expands on the theme of history established in the prologue, and we see how the dark happenings in Frodo’s time were set into motion long ago. We at last have answers to some of the questions we’ve had about the Ring, and a clear reason to leave the Shire. Yes, this chapter is mostly an exposition dump, but it manages to pick up the story’s momentum rather than slow it down.
Crucially, this chapter serves as our first real introduction to Frodo and Sam. There’s a clear difference in class between them which Tolkien emphasizes in their manner of speaking, and thus far nothing about the framing of their master/servant relationship suggests we’re meant to be critical of the hobbits’ social structure. But the groundwork has been laid to show that they are fundamentally equals, and each has had a chance to display admirable qualities.
Frodo is naturally frightened by everything he learns here about the Ring, and this is likely what leads to his harsh judgment of Gollum, who played a critical role in his inheritance of it. But his willingness to venture out from the Shire into unknown dangers shows his true bravery and his love for the people and world around him. He is very much an everyman, but shows the potential for real heroism.
Sam’s dialogue often comes across as bumbling, but we see through his conversation with Ted Sandyman at The Green Dragon that he seeks out knowledge of other races and understands, as much as any hobbit can, the significance of the Elves passing into the West. He is remarkably observant and thoughtful, mindful that there is a whole world that lies outside the Shire.
These are ordinary, good people, easy to like and easy to see ourselves in. And now that we’ve properly met our heroes and been given our quest, we’re ready to set out on the adventure.
favorite quote
All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.
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