The analysis of the various characteristics of Sam and Frodo in this thread is both complex and enlightening, and has certainly broadened my awareness of both figures [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
I would venture to say that, despite the development in Sam's 'wisdom' throughout the narrative, as elucidated above, the traditional master-servant relationship as idealised by Tolkien is still at the heart of their relationship, and Sam's pivotal (and no less heroic) role at the climax of the story. Tolkien creates a dynamic between the two that allows for both inequality and intimacy, and where Sam is neither demeaned nor diminished by his role or the willing acceptance of it.
On a more general level this is arguably an area where Tolkien's works can be subjected to criticism - for their nostalgic rendering of rigid hierarchies - where true kings are born such (not made), and radiate that nobility by virtue of birth, or where races (or perhaps tribes) are universally differentiated by degrees of 'baseness' or 'bearing'. In my view this aspect IS certainly present, but subtly so, and requires a certain level of extrapolation in order to make the critical point.
The positive side of this argument, however, is perhaps best exemplified by Sam and Frodo, and to a lesser extent by the fealty of Pippin and Merry to Denethor and Theoden respectively. Both the "secondary" hobbits exhibit the utmost honour and conscientiousness in their conception of duty, which seems one of the most highly developed hobbit social mores. And Sam goes even further in his unswerving devotion to, and love for, Frodo. When all else fails, it is this devotion and commitment that brings Frodo both in and out of Mount Doom. Indeed, in the end there is not even a conscious 'selflessness' in Sam's actions - it is a dogged, almost instinctive persistence.
From this, surely it is impossible to see how a romanticised concept of duty (even more than loyalty) could not be something central to Tolkien's notion of heroism, and whilst 'duty' is a contentious issue in the modern world, with all our acute political antenna and culture of 'self-actualisation' (or it's evil twin 'instant-gratification' [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] ), in LotR it is at once the most humble and noble of virtues.
This context to Sam and Frodo's relationship remains to the end, with the pathos of Sam standing at the Grey Havens watching Frodo depart, truly a very touching scene. Naturally it is Frodo who must bear the deep scars of their ordeal, and Frodo who must first depart to a more elevated and mysterious plane. Whereas, Sam arguably receives the greater reward for his lesser wisdom, able to cultivate land and family in abundance and contentment. You could mischievously suggest some tenuous colonial allusions here, but I'll save the paternalist critique for now [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Again, the insights into both figures in this thread have been fascinating and eloquently put. My compliments [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
Peace.
[ May 28, 2002: Message edited by: Kalessin ]
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