Review: The Fellowship of the Ring – Book 1, Chapter 3: "Three Is Company"
Introduction
"Three Is Company," the third chapter of The Fellowship of the Ring, serves as the true beginning of Frodo’s journey beyond the familiar comforts of the Shire. While the previous chapter, The Shadow of the Past, introduced the dark history of the One Ring and its looming dangers, this chapter shifts the story from exposition to action. Frodo, now burdened with the knowledge of the Ring’s peril, prepares to leave his home in Bag End, embarking on a journey that will change his life forever.
This chapter marks a significant tonal shift. While there is still a sense of adventure and curiosity, the first hints of danger and the weight of responsibility begin to take shape. It is here that Frodo makes his first major decision—leaving the Shire to protect his home and his people, even though he does not yet fully understand the vast consequences of his choice.
Through this chapter, Tolkien masterfully builds tension by introducing the first tangible signs of the forces hunting the Ring, namely the mysterious Black Riders. At the same time, the inclusion of Sam Gamgee and Pippin Took as Frodo’s traveling companions injects warmth, camaraderie, and a necessary contrast to the growing sense of dread.
Structure and Narrative Flow
The chapter follows a clear progression, transitioning smoothly from quiet planning to the first steps of the journey:
Frodo’s Decision and Departure – The chapter begins with Frodo contemplating his departure from the Shire. To avoid suspicion, he publicly announces that he is moving to a new home in Crickhollow, a small village in Buckland, on the edge of the Shire. This deception serves to mask his true intentions—leaving the Shire entirely to keep the Ring away from danger.
Sam and Pippin Join the Journey – Sam, Frodo’s loyal servant and friend, is firmly committed to accompanying him, while Pippin, the lighthearted Took, is also eager to join. Their presence softens the gravity of Frodo’s burden, emphasizing the importance of friendship in the face of looming danger.
The First Encounter with the Black Riders – As the three set off on their journey, they quickly realize they are not alone. Strange and menacing figures—later revealed to be Sauron’s Ringwraiths—are already searching for them. Their eerie presence transforms what could have been a simple departure into a tense and suspenseful flight.
A Narrow Escape and an Eerie Pause – The tension escalates when the travelers hear a distant Black Rider sniffing the air, as if tracking their scent. However, before disaster strikes, they are momentarily saved by an unexpected encounter with a group of elves led by Gildor Inglorion. This meeting brings a brief sense of safety and provides important foreshadowing for Frodo’s role in the greater struggle against Sauron.
The chapter ends with Frodo and his companions spending the night with the elves, gaining a moment of respite before continuing their perilous journey.
Themes and Symbolism
The Call to Adventure and the Hero’s First Step
This chapter is a classic representation of the "Call to Adventure" in Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey structure. Frodo, having received Gandalf’s warning in the previous chapter, now takes his first decisive step into the unknown. His choice to leave is not made lightly—he hesitates, recognizing that he is leaving behind everything he has ever known. Yet, he pushes forward, setting the foundation for his development as a hero.
Friendship and Loyalty
Sam and Pippin’s presence reinforces a central theme of The Lord of the Rings: the power of friendship. Frodo does not embark on this journey alone; he is immediately supported by his friends, who, despite not fully understanding the weight of his burden, remain by his side. Sam’s unwavering dedication, in particular, foreshadows the critical role he will play throughout the story.
The Encroaching Shadow
The introduction of the Black Riders is one of the most significant moments in this chapter. Unlike the distant, almost mythological threat of Sauron, the Ringwraiths bring immediate and tangible danger. Their unsettling presence—their silent, eerie pursuit, and their unnatural ability to track their prey—creates a growing sense of unease. This marks a turning point where the dangers Frodo faces shift from theoretical to real.
Light vs. Darkness
Tolkien masterfully contrasts light and darkness in this chapter. The presence of the Black Riders symbolizes the growing influence of evil, while the intervention of the elves provides a moment of peace and safety. The elves, bathed in starlight, represent the wisdom and beauty of an ancient world, a world that is slowly fading but still willing to guide those who oppose the darkness. Gildor’s words to Frodo hint at the importance of his journey, reinforcing that even the smallest actions can shape the fate of Middle-earth.
Character Development
Frodo Baggins
Frodo continues to evolve as a character in this chapter. Though hesitant about leaving, his sense of duty ultimately outweighs his fear. Unlike Bilbo, who left the Shire in The Hobbit with a sense of reluctant adventure, Frodo departs knowing he is stepping into danger. His courage is subtle but evident, marking the beginning of his transformation from an ordinary hobbit into the Ring-bearer.
Samwise Gamgee
Sam’s character is further reinforced as the loyal companion. He is not merely a servant to Frodo; he is a true friend who will stand by him no matter what. His excitement at meeting the elves highlights his childlike wonder, but beneath that wonder is an unshakable resolve to protect Frodo. This moment foreshadows his crucial role as Frodo’s protector throughout the journey.
Pippin Took
Pippin is still in the early stages of his development. At this point, he serves as comic relief, providing levity in contrast to the growing tension. However, his willingness to follow Frodo hints at the courage he will develop as the story progresses.
Gildor Inglorion and the Elves
Gildor and his company introduce the elves as mysterious, wise beings who are aware of the greater struggles of Middle-earth. Though they do not intervene directly, their presence serves as a reminder that forces beyond the Shire are already watching and guiding Frodo’s path. Gildor’s cryptic warnings further emphasize that Frodo’s quest is far greater than he realizes.
Significance to the Overall Story
"Three Is Company" is a crucial chapter because it marks the true beginning of Frodo’s journey. It transforms the story from one of exposition into one of movement and danger. The introduction of the Black Riders raises the stakes, making it clear that Frodo’s journey will not be easy. The presence of the elves offers an early glimpse of the wider world beyond the Shire and hints at the guidance Frodo will receive throughout his quest.
Additionally, this chapter reinforces the importance of friendship, a theme that will define the The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Frodo does not begin his journey alone—he is supported by those who care about him. This idea will be further expanded upon as the Fellowship of the Ring is formed later in the book.
Conclusion
"Three Is Company" is a masterfully written chapter that balances tension, adventure, and world-building. It transitions the narrative from a peaceful existence in the Shire to the dangers that lie ahead, while also introducing crucial themes such as loyalty, courage, and the ever-growing shadow of Sauron’s forces. The introduction of the Black Riders immediately escalates the stakes, making it clear that Frodo is being hunted. However, the warmth of Sam and Pippin’s friendship and the wisdom of the elves provide hope, reminding us that even in the darkest times, light still exists.
This chapter serves as an essential stepping stone in The Fellowship of the Ring, marking the first true step into the unknown. As Frodo, Sam, and Pippin move further from home, the adventure truly begins—one that will shape the fate of Middle-earth.
- Hits: 53
