1) Gandalf says that "the power of Saruman is still less than fear makes it." How can this be so? How does fear magnify an adversary or a problem?
2) What does Bilbo give to Frodo on the day before the Company sets out? Why might it be important that Frodo possess these gifts? In what ways do these gifts turn out to be important?
3) How would you interpret what Frodo and Sam see in the Mirror of Galadriel? What do the scenes seen by each have to do with what may be or what is to be? In what ways might the mirror be "dangerous as a guide to deeds," and what might happen if it were used as a guide?
4) Do you think it is right that The Fellowship of the Ring ends with Frodo and Sam setting off alone "on the last stage of the Quest"? Why or why not? How have Frodo and Sam grown since we first met them?
2) What does Bilbo give to Frodo on the day before the Company sets out? Why might it be important that Frodo possess these gifts? In what ways do these gifts turn out to be important?
3) How would you interpret what Frodo and Sam see in the Mirror of Galadriel? What do the scenes seen by each have to do with what may be or what is to be? In what ways might the mirror be "dangerous as a guide to deeds," and what might happen if it were used as a guide?
4) Do you think it is right that The Fellowship of the Ring ends with Frodo and Sam setting off alone "on the last stage of the Quest"? Why or why not? How have Frodo and Sam grown since we first met them?
5) Overall thoughts?