What Are the Great Friendships in Literature?

1. The Epic Companions: Frodo and Sam (The Lord of the Rings)

J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" presents perhaps one of the most iconic friendships in literature: that of Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee. Their bond transcends mere companionship; it is a deep, unwavering loyalty forged in the fires of adversity. Frodo, the ring-bearer, is tasked with the perilous journey to Mordor to destroy the One Ring, and Sam, his gardener, insists on accompanying him, becoming his protector, confidant, and unwavering support.

• Unwavering Loyalty: Sam's loyalty to Frodo is absolute. He faces countless dangers, endures hardship and hunger, and never wavers in his commitment to his friend. Even when Frodo succumbs to the Ring's influence, Sam remains steadfast, reminding him of their purpose and helping him carry on.
• Emotional Support: The journey to Mordor is not just a physical one; it is a psychological and emotional ordeal. Sam provides Frodo with the emotional support he needs to keep going, offering words of encouragement, sharing memories of home, and reminding him of the good that still exists in the world.
• Complementary Personalities: Frodo and Sam are not equals in social standing or experience, but their differences complement each other. Frodo's gentle nature and burden of responsibility are balanced by Sam's practicality, resilience, and unwavering optimism.

2. The Inseparable Duo: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson (Sherlock Holmes series)

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson are the epitome of the detective duo. Their friendship is built on mutual respect and admiration, despite their contrasting personalities. Holmes, the brilliant but eccentric detective, relies on Watson's groundedness and practicality, while Watson is fascinated by Holmes's deductive genius.

• Intellectual Stimulation: Holmes's extraordinary intellect requires a sounding board, and Watson provides that role perfectly. Watson's presence allows Holmes to articulate his thoughts, test his theories, and explain his deductions, which in turn helps Holmes to refine his thinking.
• Balance and Stability: Holmes's intense focus and unconventional lifestyle often lead him to neglect his basic needs. Watson, as his friend and roommate, provides a sense of balance and stability in his life, ensuring that he eats, sleeps, and maintains some semblance of normalcy.
• Chronicler and Narrator: Watson's role as the narrator of the Sherlock Holmes stories is crucial to the reader's understanding of Holmes's brilliance. Watson's perspective as an ordinary man allows the reader to appreciate the extraordinary nature of Holmes's deductions.

3. The Childhood Bond: Scout and Jem (To Kill a Mockingbird)

Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" portrays the innocent yet profound friendship between siblings Scout and Jem Finch. Growing up in the racially charged South, they navigate the complexities of prejudice and injustice together, their bond strengthening through shared experiences and mutual support.

• Shared Experiences: Scout and Jem's childhood is marked by significant events that shape their understanding of the world, such as the trial of Tom Robinson. These shared experiences create a strong bond between them, as they learn and grow together.
• Mutual Protection: As children, Scout and Jem often face threats and challenges, both physical and emotional. They protect each other from bullies, console each other during difficult times, and provide a sense of security in an uncertain world.
• Evolution of Understanding: As they grow older, Scout and Jem's understanding of the world evolves. They learn about prejudice, injustice, and the complexities of human nature. Their friendship provides a safe space for them to discuss these issues and make sense of the world around them.

4. The Unlikely Pair: Lennie and George (Of Mice and Men)

John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men" tells the poignant story of Lennie and George, two migrant workers who dream of owning a farm together. Their friendship is an unlikely one, with the intellectually disabled Lennie relying on George for guidance and protection. Despite the challenges, their bond is one of deep affection and mutual dependence.

• Mutual Dependence: Lennie's mental limitations make him dependent on George for survival. George takes care of Lennie, protects him from harm, and guides him through life. In return, Lennie provides George with companionship and a sense of purpose.
• Shared Dream: Lennie and George share a dream of owning a farm where they can live off the land and be their own bosses. This shared dream gives them hope and motivates them to keep working, despite the hardships they face.
• Tragic Ending: Despite their strong bond, Lennie and George's friendship is ultimately tragic. Lennie's unintentional actions lead to his death, leaving George alone and heartbroken.

5. The Empowering Alliance: Elizabeth Bennet and Charlotte Lucas (Pride and Prejudice)

Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" showcases the contrasting yet enduring friendship between Elizabeth Bennet and Charlotte Lucas. While their personalities and priorities differ, their bond is rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

• Differing Views on Marriage: Elizabeth and Charlotte have different views on marriage. Elizabeth seeks a love match, while Charlotte prioritizes security and social standing. Despite these differences, they respect each other's choices and maintain their friendship.
• Honest Counsel: Elizabeth and Charlotte provide each other with honest counsel, even when it is difficult to hear. They offer different perspectives on situations and help each other to see things more clearly.
• Enduring Bond: Despite their differences and the challenges they face, Elizabeth and Charlotte's friendship endures. Their bond is a testament to the power of understanding and acceptance.

6. The Magical Trio: Harry, Ron, and Hermione (Harry Potter series)

J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series presents a beloved trio: Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger. Their friendship blossoms amidst the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where they face dark forces and personal struggles together.

• Complementary Skills: Harry, Ron, and Hermione each bring unique skills and strengths to their friendship. Harry's courage and leadership, Ron's humor and loyalty, and Hermione's intelligence and resourcefulness create a well-rounded team.
• Shared Adventures: Their time at Hogwarts is filled with adventures, from battling trolls to facing Lord Voldemort. These shared experiences forge a strong bond between them, as they rely on each other for support and protection.
• Growth and Maturity: Over the course of the series, Harry, Ron, and Hermione grow and mature together. They learn from their mistakes, overcome personal challenges, and emerge as strong and capable individuals.

7. The Comforting Companions: Pooh and Piglet (Winnie-the-Pooh)

A.A. Milne's "Winnie-the-Pooh" offers a heartwarming portrayal of friendship through the characters of Pooh and Piglet. Their gentle and innocent bond reflects the simple joys of companionship and the importance of being there for each other.

• Simple Pleasures: Pooh and Piglet find joy in simple things, like taking walks in the Hundred Acre Wood, sharing honey, and spending time together. Their friendship is a reminder to appreciate the small moments in life.
• Mutual Support: Pooh and Piglet offer each other unwavering support, especially when one of them is feeling anxious or afraid. Their presence provides comfort and reassurance.
• Acceptance and Understanding: Pooh and Piglet accept each other for who they are, flaws and all. Their friendship is based on mutual understanding and acceptance.

The Enduring Power of Literary Friendships

These are just a few examples of the many great friendships in literature. These bonds, in all their diversity, remind us of the importance of human connection, the power of loyalty and support, and the enduring value of true friendship. They offer us comfort, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By exploring these literary friendships, we gain insight into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact they have on our lives.