The Lord of the Rings, #1
The Fellowship of the Ring
by J. R. R. Tolkien
Contents
CHAPTER 2: THE COUNCIL OF ELROND
Overview
At Elrond’s council, news from across Middle-earth converges: Sauron seeks the Ring, Gollum has escaped, and Saruman has betrayed the Wise. The One Ring’s history and identity are proven, Aragorn’s lineage is revealed, and debate ends with a grave resolve: the Ring must be taken to Mordor and destroyed. Frodo volunteers, and Sam is appointed to accompany him.
Summary
At dawn in Rivendell, Frodo, with Sam, meets Gandalf and Bilbo before a bell summons them to the Council of Elrond. Representatives gather: Elrond, Gandalf, Glorfindel, Elves of Imladris, Glóin with his son Gimli, Legolas from Mirkwood, and Boromir of Gondor. Elrond introduces Frodo and calls for open counsel.
Glóin recounts Dwarven unease, Balin’s venture to Moria and subsequent silence, and a Mordor messenger who offered rings and Moria in exchange for news of a hobbit and a “little ring,” proving Sauron’s designs. Elrond narrates the Rings’ forging, the Last Alliance, and Isildur taking the Ring. Boromir describes Gondor’s hard war, a prophetic dream of “Isildur’s Bane” and “the Sword that was Broken,” prompting Aragorn to reveal himself as Isildur’s heir. Frodo displays the Ring; Bilbo recites his verse affirming Aragorn’s destiny.
Bilbo tells the true tale of finding the Ring; Frodo recounts his flight and the Black Riders. Prompted by Galdor, Gandalf supplies proofs: Isildur’s scroll, the fiery inscription, and Gollum’s story, revealing Sauron now knows the Ring was in the Shire. News worsens when Legolas announces Gollum’s escape during an Orc attack in Mirkwood.
Gandalf then recounts Radagast’s warning, his journey to Isengard, and Saruman’s betrayal and attempt to enlist him to seize the Ring. Imprisoned atop Orthanc, Gandalf is rescued by Gwaihir, gains Shadowfax in Rohan, and rides north, skirmishing with the Nazgûl and reaching Rivendell just before Frodo.
The Council debates the Ring’s fate: Tom Bombadil cannot guard it; the Sea would only delay evil; using the Ring would corrupt even the Wise. Elrond concludes the only hope is to take the Ring to Mordor and unmake it. After a tense silence, Frodo offers to bear the Ring “though I do not know the way.” Elrond accepts his choice and designates Sam to go with him.
Who Appears
- Frodo BagginsRing-bearer; recounts his journey; shows the Ring; ultimately volunteers to take it to Mordor.
- GandalfProvides proofs the Ring is the One; reveals Saruman’s treachery and his own captivity and rescue.
- ElrondHosts the council; recounts Ring lore; steers debate to destroy the Ring; affirms Frodo’s choice.
- BoromirEnvoy of Gondor; reports war and a prophetic dream; questions using the Ring; meets Aragorn.
- Aragorn (Strider)Reveals lineage as Isildur’s heir; presents the broken sword; recounts capturing Gollum.
- Bilbo BagginsTells the true story of winning the Ring; recites verse about Aragorn; offers, but is refused, the task.
- LegolasMessenger from Mirkwood; announces Gollum’s escape after an Orc attack.
- GlóinReports Dwarven troubles, Balin’s fate unknown, and Sauron’s emissary’s offers and threats.
- Samwise GamgeeQuietly attends; bursts out to ensure Frodo won’t go alone; appointed to accompany him.
- Galdor of the HavensPresses for proofs; questions options like the Sea; shapes the council’s inquiry.
- GlorfindelArgues Bombadil cannot keep the Ring and that only destruction ends the threat.
- ErestorCounsellor who frames the choice between hiding the Ring and destroying it.
- SarumanRevealed as traitor seeking the Ring; imprisons Gandalf and arms Isengard.
- Gollum (Sméagol)His history helps prove the Ring’s identity; has escaped Elven custody.
- RadagastWarns Gandalf of the Nazgûl and carries messages, unwittingly aiding Saruman’s plot.
- Gwaihir the WindlordGreat Eagle who rescues Gandalf from Orthanc.