A-Z Characters & Transformation: Sam, Of Course

Sam from Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is another character who may not, on the surface, appear to transform. He remains steadfastly loyal and despite his momentary banishment in the movie, he never truly leaves Frodo's side. His personality remains steadfast, practical, virtuous, realistic--wonderful qualities that culminate in his decision to carry Frodo up part of Mount Doom. Some readers consider him the more heroic of the two since he never caves.

I don't agree since I think the burden Frodo carries is by necessity doomed to corrupt him. His heroism lies in choices made BEFORE the trek to Mount Doom, and in his remarkable endurance to keep stepping forward. He is the Fisher King. 

I also think that although the book culminates with Sam's decision at Mount Doom, his history--as written down by Tolkien--makes clear that Sam at the end is not the same Sam at the beginning. The journey did change him or, perhaps, crystallized those qualities that make him a capable and fair leader. He is voted as Mayor in the Shire up until he departs, in his elder years, for the Grey Havens. 

Sam is touched by grace in the same way as Frodo. Unlike with some of the other members of the Fellowship, he doesn't change direction or waffle over a decision or obviously gain experience--yet he comes out a hobbit who could not be anything but changed.  

Tolkien knew how to write heroism in everyday life.