In J. R.R. Tolkien’s world, the Undying Lands, known as Valinor, are typically reserved for immortal beings. However, The Lord of the Rings includes notable exceptions, as seen with the journeys of Frodo and Bilbo Baggins. The poignant conclusion of The Return of the King depicts both former Ring-bearers setting sail for the Undying Lands alongside Gandalf, leaving Middle-earth behind. Though Samwise Gamgee follows them later, raising curiosity about the absence of Merry and Pippin, who also displayed bravery during the War of the Ring.
It’s important to understand that not every act of heroism guarantees access to Valinor. Even Aragorn, who played a crucial role in the saga, does not embark on this journey after the events of The Lord of the Rings. Legolas, an Elf, ventures to Valinor as is customary for his kin, while Gimli earns his place through his deep friendship with Legolas. The circumstances surrounding the Hobbit’s entry into the Undying Lands are unique, which clarifies why Merry and Pippin do not share the same fate as Frodo and Sam.
Frodo’s Journey to Valinor
The Significance of Frodo as a Ring-bearer
Despite being inaccessible to most mortals, Frodo and Bilbo find passage to Valinor due to their status as Ring-bearers. This title, borne by both Hobbits, is fraught with great responsibility and personal sacrifice. The lingering effects of the One Ring’s burden compel Frodo to seek solace beyond Middle-earth, as he grapples with the profound trauma caused by his experience. The Undying Lands offer a tranquil refuge for those like Frodo, who have endured immense suffering.
Frodo’s departure represents more than just leaving; it signifies a necessary journey toward healing. His passage to Valinor is a well-deserved conclusion to his arduous journey, even if tinged with melancholy. He isn’t the sole Hobbit destined for the Undying Lands, as Sam follows after a time.
Sam’s Journey to the Undying Lands
Sam’s Unique Status as a Ring-bearer
According to J. R.R. Tolkien’s appendices, Samwise Gamgee also sails to the Undying Lands after Frodo and Bilbo, albeit his departure occurs after the passing of his beloved wife Rosie. Upon returning to the Shire, Sam leads a fulfilling life, marrying Rosie, raising a family, and eventually serving as the mayor. His journey to Valinor transpires in the 61st year of the Fourth Age, marking a significant emotional transition after he has spent a meaningful life at home.
Though Sam did not wield the One Ring for long, he too is considered a Ring-bearer, having taken the burden briefly following a perilous encounter with Shelob. His short time with the Ring is, fortunately, not marked by the same temptation that plagued Frodo. Instead, Sam’s unwavering character and the life he builds afterward show how much the Ring did not claim him, leading to his eventual journey to the Undying Lands.
Merry & Pippin: Their Paths After the War
The Reality of Not Being Ring-bearers
While Merry and Pippin endure their struggles during the War of the Ring, their experiences do not compel them to pursue a life in the Undying Lands. Unlike Frodo and Sam, they never bore the One Ring, which influences their paths significantly. Their journey diverges as they are captured by Orcs rather than joining Frodo on the mission to Mordor. Despite their pivotal contributions to the fight against Sauron, the absence of the Ring’s burden allows them to move forward more easily than Frodo and Sam.
Hence, Merry and Pippin, free from the trauma of being Ring-bearers, have little incentive to seek refuge in Valinor; they return to their lives in the Shire, moving on in ways Frodo and Sam cannot.
The Futures of Merry & Pippin After the War
Both Hobbits Step into Leadership Roles
The film adaptations of The Lord of the Rings diverge from Tolkien’s original narrative by omitting the Scouring of the Shire. Regardless, Merry and Pippin’s homecoming leads to fulfilling lives. Following Frodo’s departure to the Undying Lands, Merry immerses himself in literature, recording his adventures from the War of the Ring and eventually becoming the eighth Master of Buckland, which allows him further opportunities for exploration and leadership.
Pippin’s subsequent life takes a different trajectory, yet remains significant. Upon his father’s passing, he assumes the role of Thain of the Shire, guiding its governance and military affairs. Moreover, Pippin continues to travel, fostering connections beyond the Shire’s borders—a remarkable feat for Hobbits, particularly before their experiences chronicled in The Lord of the Rings. The fates of Merry and Pippin highlight the various paths available to characters in Middle-earth, illustrating that heroism can manifest in countless forms, even as it does not extend to entry into the Undying Lands.
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