Summary

As Book VI begins in Chapter 1: “The Tower of Cirith Ungol,” the narrative returns to Sam and Frodo. They are still in the Tower of Cirith Ungol in Mordor. Sam knows he has to rescue Frodo. He turns and makes his way through the tunnel behind him.

Sam puts on the Ring and feels the physical weight of the Ring’s power. He hears the sound of fighting in the tower. Sam takes off the Ring and approaches the main gate of Cirith Ungol. His love for Frodo allows him to shake off those thoughts. He is convinced he is too much of a plain Hobbit and humble gardener to be able to control the Ring.

Sam stops helplessly in front of the gate, under the influence of the Two Towers who forbid entrance into Cirith Ungol. Sam pulls the phial of Galadriel out...