Legal Loopholes and Ethical Dilemmas in The Hobbit: Bilbo Baggins and the Arkenstone

The fantastical world of The Hobbit offers readers and viewers a rich tapestry of adventure, magic, and moral quandaries. At the center of these adventures lies the character of Bilbo Baggins, often caught between the realms of good and mischief. One such instance that poses both legal and ethical questions is the pivotal scene where Bilbo Baggins appropriates the Arkenstone, a significant jewel in the treasure hoard.

Bilbo Baggins and the Arkenstone: A Technical but Ethical "Loophole"

Bilbo initially takes the Arkenstone, a gleaming jewel that Thorin especially desires, claiming it as his rightful share under their contract. This contractual agreement stipulates a distribution of the treasure, with Bilbo's share amounting to 1/14 of the treasure as a Burglar. However, this arrangement only specifies the inclusion of various treasures and not each individual item. Thus, Bilbo’s act of taking the Arkenstone is not altogether unjustified in a legal sense.

One must consider the intentions behind Bilbo's actions. In a strict interpretation of the contract, it appears Bilbo was exploiting a loophole that was neither explicitly forbidden nor required. This is a nuanced point, as many contracts in the real world contain ambiguous language that can be interpreted in multiple ways. In this context, Bilbo seems to have acted within this ambiguity to his advantage, which, while not theft, certainly touches on unresolved ethical questions.

Thorin's Perspective: A Matter of Pride and Ethics

From Thorin's perspective, the acquisition of the Arkenstone goes against his personal code of honor and his desire to keep the treasure intact. Thorin’s insistence that Bilbo return the Arkenstone echoes the expectations of what a true hero would do — restore the rightful share of the treasure. However, Thorin's insistence can also be seen as self-serving, as he values the Arkenstone above the peace that harmony with Bilbo could bring.

The Arkenstone holds great significance in Elven culture as a representation of a lost past and a symbol of the elves' grief and sadness. By taking it, Bilbo inadvertently adds to a complex web of cultural and emotional attachments held by the characters. Thorin, deeply entrenched in the history and personal history with the Arkenstone, values it more than a mere mortal share of treasure.

An Ethical Dilemma: Negotiating Between Law and Morality

The situation in The Hobbit presents a classic ethical dilemma: adhering to a contract versus upholding one's own values. Bilbo's actions are technically permissible according to the contract, yet his selfish behavior raises questions about the fairness of this arrangement and the integrity of the contract itself.

In a broader sense, this dilemma mirrors real-life scenarios where individuals or groups must decide between obeying a rule or adhering to their own moral code. This is a theme that resurfaces in many narratives, reinforcing the importance of the reader’s or viewer's moral compass in evaluating actions and intentions.

The ability to see both sides of the issue is crucial in understanding the complexities of the situation. Bilbo's subsequent attempts to balance his ethical obligations with his legal rights add depth to his character and offer insights into the moral fabric of Middle-earth.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the ethical and legal issues surrounding Bilbo Baggins' appropriation of the Arkenstone in The Hobbit highlight the sometimes difficult balance between one's personal values and contractual obligations. While Bilbo's actions were technically within the bounds of the contract, they still speak to the broader themes of honor, morality, and the nuanced nature of agreements and personal values. This complex scenario serves to enrich the narrative and invites readers to consider the moral implications of their choices and actions.

Further Reading Recommendations

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien The Hobbit Appendices by J.R.R. Tolkien Peter Jackson's Film Series Adaptations

Keywords

Bilbo Baggins Arkenstone The Hobbit contractual loophole ethical dilemma