What are the reasons why Frodo doesn't use the Eagles

One of the most debated topics among J.R.R. Tolkien enthusiasts is why Frodo, the protagonist of “The Lord of the Rings,” doesn’t simply use the Eagles to reach his destination instead of embarking on a perilous journey on foot. While there is no concrete answer to this question, several factors can shed light on why Frodo doesn’t opt for the seemingly safer and quicker option.

One crucial aspect is the role of the Eagles in Middle-earth. In Tolkien’s world, the Eagles are majestic creatures led by Gwaihir, the Lord of the Eagles. They are not mere transportation vehicles but are considered to be free creatures with their own will and intentions. The Eagles’ primary role is to be guardians and protectors, not personal taxis. Their intervention in the events of Middle-earth is selective, only intervening when it aligns with their goals or when there is an imminent threat to the world itself.

Another factor to consider is the nature of Frodo’s quest. Frodo’s mission is not solely to reach Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring; it is also about ensuring the destruction of Sauron and the restoration of peace and balance in Middle-earth. Entrusting the task of delivering the Ring to the Eagles would disregard the fellowship, the diversity of its members, and the extensive sacrifices made to protect Frodo on his journey. The quest serves a greater purpose beyond Frodo’s individual mission, symbolizing the power of unity and fellowship against evil.

Furthermore, the power of the One Ring cannot be underestimated. The Ring has a corrupting influence on its bearer, and it is essential for Frodo to resist its temptation throughout his journey. Flying on the back of the Eagles, where the Ring could potentially have been lost or fallen into the wrong hands, would be a highly risky proposition. Frodo, being aware of the Ring’s power, understands that each step he takes on foot is another step away from its corrupting influence.

Additionally, the Eagles’ purpose is not to remove obstacles and challenges from the path of the protagonist. Overcoming adversity is a central theme in Tolkien’s work, and Frodo’s trek through Middle-earth is a test of his character, growth, and determination. Facing the perils of the journey head-on allows Frodo to develop as a hero, acquiring strength, courage, and resilience to overcome obstacles. The Eagles, acting as a sort of deus ex machina, would undermine Frodo’s personal growth and diminish the significance of his triumphs.

Lastly, on a practical note, the Eagles are not readily available for a long period of time. Their appearances in “The Lord of the Rings” are relatively brief and often coincide with significant turning points in the narrative. It is plausible to assume that even if Frodo had called upon the Eagles for assistance, they might not have been able to accommodate him immediately or for the entire duration of his journey.

In conclusion, the reasons why Frodo doesn’t use the Eagles in his quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat Sauron are multifaceted. From the role of the Eagles as guardians rather than mere transportation, to the symbolic importance of the fellowship and the personal growth of the protagonist, to the risks associated with the Ring’s corrupting power, it becomes apparent that the decision made by Frodo and Tolkien to pursue the treacherous path on foot is not without sound reasoning. Ultimately, it is through this perilous journey that Frodo becomes the hero capable of accomplishing his mission and embodying the values of Tolkien’s richly woven world of Middle-earth.