This Year's Model of Humanity

Hmm. I agree with this, although I understand why people say that Sam is the "real" hero of LOtR. Sam is a humble, simple soul who never thirsted for adventure (Bilbo) or hijinks (like Pippin and Merry)or any kind of life outside of the Shire, but he unhesitatingly takes on the burden of caring for Frodo. Unlike Merry and Pippin who have each other, Sam is not only alone in carrying Frodo, but he has to deal with the added burden of the treacherous Gollum and the shifting loyalities and depression plaguing Frodo. Sam never loses himself and never seems to be reluctant (unlike Aragorn) to shoulder his responsibilities. Not that Aragorn is a slacker, but I sense a reticence in him even at the end, up until Arwen shows up. In the end, Sam inherits the best of the world that the various races fought to protect from Sauron. Somehow, it feels like he is the biggest winner. Does that make sense? It feels like Sam is the person, we as the audience, are supposed to admire most and aspire to be. Aragorn and the elves are too high, Frodo too damaged, and Merry and Pippin weren't as challenged as Sam. Sam faces terrible challenges with few physical/emotional/experiential resources and yet has the most ideal ending. That's why he feels like the "real" hero in this group.