Sam Gamgee - A Role Model to All

Prompt: Describe a character in fiction, an historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science, etc.) that has had an influence on you, and explain that influence.

I first read The Lord of the Rings in its entirety over the course of my fourth and fifth grade years. Naturally, being that young, I did not understand all that happened during the story, but the overall plotline was clear enough. On my second reading, this time in sixth and seventh grade, the details and intricacies of the novel were more apparent, as would be expected. Over the past several years, I have of course also seen Peter Jackson's version of Tolkein's masterpiece, which I view as a believable illustration of many of the novel's themes and emotions. Of the many admirable and memorable characters that Tolkein has created in his classic of good versus evil, for me, one stands out above the rest - Samwise Gamgee. The hobbit reflects the devotion, adaptability to changing circumstances, and determination that I would like to see in myself.

Sam's devotion and sense of duty in the protection and accompaniment of his friend, Frodo, cannot be questioned; he will never let Frodo out of his sight. He also demonstrates uncanny adaptability in his adjustments to new environments and conflicts throughout the story, all this in light of the fact that he has never before ventured far out of Hobbiton, much less the Shire. In the conclusion, Sam proves that Frodo is not the only hobbit with unusual strength in his carrying of the One Ring and Frodo in the ascent of Mount Doom. In this passage, Sam's focus and determination to stay the course are quite remarkable.