An Important Lesson I Learned from Frodo Baggins by Brandon
Brandon's entry into Varsity Tutor's October 2025 scholarship contest
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An Important Lesson I Learned from Frodo Baggins by Brandon - October 2025 Scholarship Essay
Fictional characters often teach us powerful lessons about courage, responsibility, and perseverance. One character who left a strong impression on me is Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Frodo isn't a typical hero, he's not strong, famous, or a skilled fighter. He's just a simple hobbit who is given a nearly impossible task. Through his journey, Frodo taught me that even ordinary people can carry great burdens and make a difference if they have courage and determination.
Frodo lives a peaceful life in the Shire, far away from danger and war. His life changes when he inherits the one Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The ring is extremely powerful and dangerous, and if it falls into the wrong hands, it could destroy the world. Instead of running from the responsibility, Frodo bravely volunteers to carry the Ring to Mount Doom, the only place it can be destroyed. This is the first moment where Frodo shows true courage. He doesn't have special powers or armies behind him, but he accepts the challenge anyway.
The biggest lesson I learned from Frodo is that you don't have to be extraordinary to do something meaningful. Frodo isn't chosen because he's power, he's chosen because he has a good heart and is willing to try. Along his journey, he faces countless dangers like dark creatures, betrayal, exhaustion, and the constant temptation of the Ring itself. There are many times when he wants to give up, but he keeps moving forward. This taught me that real strength isn't about being fearless; it's about pushing on even when things seem impossible.
Another important lesson from Frodo is about the weight of responsibility. Carrying the Ring takes a huge toll on him mentally and physically. It isolates him and tests his character. Even though he struggles, he never lets go of his mission. In real life, we all face challenges that feel overwhelming at times whether it's personal struggles, family responsibilities, or standing up for something important. Frodo's journey shows that even when the burden is heavy, staying focused on your purpose matters.
Frodo's story also shows the power of friendship and support. He doesn't complete his journey alone. Characters like Sam, Aragon, and Gandalf help him along the way. Sam, in particular, stands by Frodo through everything, even carrying him up Mount Doom when Frodo can't go any further. This part of the story taught me that while personal courage is important, it's okay to lean on others when times are hard. No one accomplishes great things completely on their own.
I picked Frodo Baggins because he taught me that even the smallest person can change the world. His courage, perseverance, and acceptance of responsibility inspire me to face challenges in my own life with determination. He proves that you don't need to be powerful or perfect to make a difference you just need to take the first step and keep going, no matter how hard the journey gets.