The Homosexual Interpretation of Tolkien's Bachelors: A Critical Analysis

There is no definitive evidence to suggest that J.R.R. Tolkien wrote Bilbo and Frodo as homosexual characters. In Tolkien's works, particularly in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, the themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice are central to the narratives, especially in the bond between Frodo and Samwise Gamgee, which has been interpreted by some as a profound platonic friendship.

Contextual Background and Author's Intentions

While readers and scholars may explore various interpretations of characters and relationships in literature, it is important to ground those interpretations in the context of the author's intentions and the cultural background of the time. Tolkien himself was a devout Christian, and his writings often reflect his beliefs and values. His works primarily focus on adventure, heroism, and the struggle between good and evil rather than exploring themes of sexual orientation.

Relevance of Bachelors in Tolkein's World

As a high-key homosexual myself, my perspective is as follows:

Hobbit society is very home- and family-centered, and any adult male hobbit with a wife and family would be as hard to dislodge from the Shire as an old oak stump. Bilbo could go There and Back Again because he was a childless bachelor who had outlived his youth.

Bilbo adopted Frodo because his youthful adventures by hobbit standards had rendered him unsuited for the uxorious life. Meriadoc (Merry) and Peregrin (Pippin) were affluent young bachelors who could go on an adventure without neglecting their families. Sam accompanied Frodo out of personal attachment, much like an officer's batman in WWI, and a longing for adventure.

After their return to the Shire, Merry, Pippin, and Sam all married and raised families, while Bilbo and Frodo remained bachelors, specifically because their exposure to the Ring had blighted their lives in irreparable ways. Travel to Tol Eressea and a peaceful death was the most they could hope for, and what they were granted. In Tolkien's Middle-earth, marriage, family, and domesticity are the norm; celibacy is an aberration.

Interpretation of Homoeroticism in Tolkien’s Works

Frodo and Sam do seem to have a sort of homoerotic relationship, but I believe it is rather because Tolkien had been through the war and knew about the close relationship needed between soldiers in that context. Sam is Frodo's batman, a term used in the military for a personal attendant responsible for the commander's well-being, including logistics and personal necessities. In the context of The Lord of the Rings, Sam plays a similar role for Frodo, ensuring his safety and providing the support he needs.

While some readers may find a deeper homoerotic subtext, it is crucial to remember the historical and cultural context in which these stories were written. Tolkien's primary focus was on the emotional and moral journeys of his characters, rather than exploring themes of sexual orientation. The interpretations that emphasize the homoerotic relationship should be considered within the broader narrative themes of the work, such as companionship, sacrifice, and loyalty.

Ultimately, the interpretation of characters and relationships in literature, particularly when they involve themes of sexuality, requires a careful balance between personal and cultural contexts. By examining the author's intentions and the broader thematic context of the work, we can gain a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the stories we love.