Quote:
|
To me the key words are "a truer understanding of his position in littleness and in greatness." For Tolkien, the goal was a deeper understanding of self, rather than a changing of that self.
|
Hmmmmm, we do seem to be at a bit of an impasse, here. But the very quote that you use to defend your case seems to bolster mine, as well.
How can you achieve a "deeper understanding of self" and not experience change? And Frodo had already started this transformation long before he left the shores of Middle-Earth. "You've grown, Halfling", "...an Elvish air"; many of those around Frodo commented on the fact that he had grown beyond his basic "Hobbitness". Now maybe this reflects the lack of understanding that most cultures shared concerning Hobbits. Only Gandalf seemed to appreciate the inate goodness of the people, and their place in Middle Earth.
But another aspect of being a Hobbit is showing a complete lack of curiosity about their origins and their "position in littleness and in greatness". It is this attitude that possibly led to Frodo's ostracism within the Shire, (though this was partly self-imposed.) Frodo had decided that "you can't go home again". The change had already taken place.
But it was incomplete. His journeys had left his with more questions than answers. It's as if he is only half-born, and is struggling like a butterfly half trapped in its cocoon. The transformation could only be completed if he left behind his origins and "moved on".
Now I'm not saying that he would not be a Hobbit. Of course he would. Just a different type of Hobbit. And as he learned and grew in wisdom and understanding, perhaps he could bring a different perspective to the ideas and conceits of the "wise Elves" as well. Perhaps the destruction of the Ring was only the first part of Frodo's mission.
[ October 17, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]