J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, first published in 1937, is a book that has captivated readers for decades with its blend of adventure, fantasy, and exploration. At first glance, it’s the story of Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant hobbit who gets swept up in a quest that leads him to aid in reclaiming treasure from the cunning dragon, Smaug. Looking past this, it’s a journey through Middle-Earth and into the heart of a character. This character, Bilbo, starts off as unassuming and ends up far braver and more resourceful than he ever imagined. Let’s take a closer look into The Hobbit, shall we?
The Call to Adventure
The story begins in the quiet land of the Shire, where Bilbo lives a comfortable and homely life. By comfortable, I mean free from the dangers and excitements of the wider world beyond the Shire. All Bilbo has ever known has been his home there, and so this is where the reader first meets him. He is a creature of habit and routine, one who does not step out of his safe, predictable life. When Gandalf the wizard knocks on Bilbo’s door, along with a group of dwarves, inviting him on an adventure, Bilbo’s immediate response is one of reluctance. He is happy and safe in his little hill-based home, without wanting to leave.
But, as in all great stories, Bilbo’s world is turned upside down. He is drawn into a journey that no Hobbit would have ever dreamed of experiencing! This adventure, which surely any other Hobbit would have refused, catalyzes Bilbo’s personal growth. It’s a reminder that our greatest journeys and experiences in life sometimes begin when we step outside our comfort zones. See you later, home in the hill!
Challenges Galore
As Bilbo’s journey unfolds, he encounters numerous challenges that test his courage, wit, and loyalty. Whether he’s outsmarting goblins in the Misty Mountains, navigating the perilous forests of Mirkwood, or facing the mighty dragon Smaug, Bilbo is constantly facing challenges! Yet, repeatedly, he rises to the occasion, often using cleverness and resourcefulness to overcome obstacles. This is the complete opposite of his fellow travelers; they use brute strength or sheer bravery. His journey is a testament to the idea that courage isn’t about the absence of fear but the ability to act in spite of it.
One of the most significant moments of Bilbo’s life happens when Bilbo encounters Gollum and the one ring. In this moment, he faces a moral dilemma that, though seemingly small, has far-reaching consequences. The encounter with Gollum marks a turning point; it is here that he truly understands the weight of his actions and the impact they can have. This is where he realizes how much more is and has been going on outside of his quiet, peaceful life.
The Development of Bilbo Baggins
The real heart of The Hobbit lies in the transformation of Bilbo Baggins. At the beginning of our story, he is a humble yet somewhat timid hobbit, content to live his quiet life as it has always been. By the end of the story, he has faced dragons, battled goblins, and outwitted numerous foes! This is a complete change of character, literally! Bilbo’s journey mirrors the universal human experience of growth, showing that we are all capable of more than we think, especially when outside our comfort zone.
The Return Home
After all the trials and tribulations of his adventure, Bilbo returns to the Shire. Once back home, he finds that time has passed, yet the world he left behind has remained unchanged. Despite this, he realizes that he is not the same Hobbit who left months ago. The experiences he’s had, the friends he’s made, and the lessons he’s learned have transformed him. He’s no longer just the quiet, mundane hobbit who values comfort above all else. He has discovered that there’s more to life than simple pleasures; there’s a world full of wonder, danger, and possibility.
The Hobbit – A Story for All Ages
Ultimately, The Hobbit is a story about the journey—both the physical and internal- journey of discovery. It’s a tale of adventure, but more importantly, it’s a tale of how we grow through our experiences and the impact of our choices. Bilbo’s journey is a reminder that every challenge and every moment of doubt can lead to growth and transformation. Through Tolkien’s vivid world and unforgettable characters, The Hobbit inspires readers to embrace their adventures, big or small, and find what else they can do in life outside of their normalcy. It’s a book that invites us all to ask: what kind of journey will we embark on, and what kind of person will we become along the way?
