The Quest For A Hero

Lord of the Rings poses a very similar question to Paradise Lost - - - Who is the HERO? After examining the film, I feel there are four possible candidates that could be given this title. They are: Frodo, Sam, Gandolf, and Aragon; each of these characters influence the outcome of the epic in some way. Similarly, they all have flaws but are able to triumph over evil. Frodo is the one who ultimately destroys the ring; however I strongly feel that without the help of Sam, this deed would have never been done. Sam also motivates Frodo to keep going and looks after him as though he is his father. He is very responsible and even saves Frodo’s life on more than one occasion. Gandolf is definitely a godly force who helps all of the characters throughout the story and has wisdom that surpasses all. Furthermore Aragon is able to defeat the Orks once he convinces the decease army to fight in order to free their spirits. He then becomes king and ruler. Every character mentioned has contributed to the triumph over evil and undertaken a tremendous journey. However, it is still unclear to me who deserves the title of epic hero.