Frodo's Decision: Why He Refuses to Donate Bilbo's Mithril Coat in 'The Fellowship of the Ring'

In J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series ldquo;The Lord of the Ringsrdquo;, many iconic events and character decisions hold significant importance. One such pivotal moment occurs when Bilbo Baggins hands over his mithril coat to his adopted nephew, Frodo Baggins, in ldquo;The Fellowship of the Ringrdquo;. This act of kindness serves not only as a profound gesture of trust and love but also impacts Frodorsquo;s journey and ultimate fate in a profound way. This article delves into why Frodo initially hesitates to donate the mithril coat and his subsequent plans, drawing from the narrative and the importance of the coat within the world of Middle-earth.

Understanding the Mithril Coat

The mithril coat, a gift from the elven smith Deagol and later from Bilbo Baggins to Frodo, is one of the most valuable and formidable items in Middle-earth. Crafted from mithril, a precious metal that is light, durable, and exceptionally strong, this coat is designed for formidable protection. Its unique properties are showcased when it saves Bilborsquo;s life in ldquo;The Hobbitrdquo; during the conflict with the goblin Overlord in the Misty Mountains. The coatrsquo;s shattering of the goblinrsquo;s sword Durinrsquo;s Bane, which pierces Frodorsquo;s innocuous sweater, is a testament to its protective abilities.

Frodo's Initial Hesitation

Upon discovering that his beloved uncle had left him the mithril coat, Frodo initially grappled with the idea of accepting it. This hesitation stems from several factors that reflect Frodorsquo;s character. One reason is Frodorsquo;s desire to honor Bilborsquo;s memory in a way that aligns with his new life and responsibilities. Details of how Frodo feels about the coat after his unclersquo;s departure, such as the emotions of sadness, gratitude, and a slight reluctance to fully embrace the legacy Bilbo has left behind, are poignantly illustrated in the text. Frodo has grown up in the sheltered world of the Shire, far removed from the dangers he is now about to face. The thought of carrying Bilborsquo;s coat and the responsibilities that come with it can be overwhelming and disruptive to his newfound sense of self.

Frodo's Plan and its Significance

Despite his initial hesitation, Frodo eventually accepts the mithril coat because he understands its importance in both the immediate and long-term context of his journey. The coat is not merely a symbol of Bilborsquo;s legacy; it is a tangible representation of protection in a dangerous and hostile environment. In ldquo;The Fellowship of the Ringrdquo;, Frodo is tasked with the perilous mission to destroy the One Ring, an odyssey that will take him through numerous physical and metaphorical trials. The mithril coat plays a crucial role in safeguarding his body and life, realities he must face during his solitary exploration of Mordor and Mount Doom. It provides Frodo with a crucial layer of defense, enabling him to traverse the landscapes riddled with peril without the constant risk of being pierced by sharp or pointed objects, a common peril for hobbits given their light armor of untanned leather.

Concluding Thoughts

The mithril coat, a symbol of both familial love and epic protection, embodies the journey of trust, courage, and self-discovery that Frodo embarks upon. Frodorsquo;s decision to carry it is a testament to his resolve to merge the legacy of his beloved uncle with his own heroism. This choice and the protection it offers highlight the narrative themes of heritage, responsibility, and the unyielding spirit of the individual in the face of overwhelming evil. Understanding the significance of the mithril coat not only provides a deeper insight into the character of Frodo but also enriches the readerrsquo;s appreciation of Tolkienrsquo;s world and its intricate and multifaceted canvas.