25 Years Later, Frodo’s Best Lord of the Ring Quote Proves He’s the Ultimate Fantasy Hero

Frodo’s line, “I wish the ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened,” captures the burden and vulnerability at the heart of his journey in The Lord of the Rings. The article argues that this early moment helps explain why Frodo is a compelling hero: he does not seek adventure, but accepts a duty that could protect all of Middle-earth.

Frodo speaks to Gandalf in the Mines of Moria, after the Fellowship’s route over the Misty Mountains is blocked. Raised in the peaceful Shire, he and the other hobbits are unprepared for the dangers beyond it; yet the Ring’s influence threatens anyone who carries it, even allies such as Aragorn. The article frames Frodo’s task as one he would never have chosen, made bearable in part by Sam’s support.