The Nature of a Hero in J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Hobbit' and the Allegory of Bilbo Baggins

When examining the nature of a hero in J.R.R. Tolkien's ‘The Hobbit’, one cannot help but be deeply moved by the journey of Bilbo Baggins. Through his actions and decisions, Bilbo Baggins embodies the quintessential qualities of a hero, captivating readers with his courage, wit, and unwavering principles.

Key Actions and Their Implications

Bilbo's actions throughout the journey are nothing short of heroic. Let's delve into some of the pivotal moments and analyze the underlying traits that define him as a hero:

Joining the Company

Bilbo's decision to join the dwarves' expedition is driven by a combination of curiosity, compassion, and a desire for new experiences. This act of joining a dangerous quest showcases his courage and a willingness to step out of his comfort zone, which are hallmarks of a true hero.

Rescuing Dwarves from Trolls and Confronting Gollum

During the troll encounter, Bilbo's compassion and loyalty are evident. His courage is further tested when he faces Gollum, wherein his wit and creativity play a pivotal role. He navigates the riddle game, showcasing a fair yet strategic approach. Ultimately, his act of compassion and empathy towards Gollum at the end of their confrontation highlights his deeper nature as a hero.

The Spider Battle and Freeing Dwarves from the Elven Dungeon

The spider battle is a stark example of Bilbo's growing initiative and creativity. By using his preexisting skills, he devises ingenious tactics, demonstrating his cleverness and bravery. Additionally, his ability to turn invisible and rescue the dwarves from certain doom exemplifies his practical thinking and heroism. Similarly, freeing the dwarves from the elven dungeon showcases his creativity, loyalty, and courage as he devises a clever plan to escape while showing pity to their captor.

Scouting Out Smaug and Averting War

When Bilbo scouts out Smaug, he repeats the riddling technique, displaying boldness and an understanding of the beast. His next action to steal from Smaug and taunt him highlights his cunning and fearlessness. Bilbo’s decision to avert the looming war shows his practicality and empathy. He realizes that the treasure was not worth the suffering of all parties involved, demonstrating his ability to see beyond immediate desires and conflicts.

Taking the Arkenstone and Stopping the War

Bilbo's actions towards the end of the story are particularly poignant. In the Book version, his taking of the Arkenstone serves as a bargaining piece, while in the film, he initially aims to help Thorin regain his heritage. Regardless, his scheme to bring peace and cooperation between the dwarves, elves, and men is a testament to his heroism and principles, far surpassing those of Thorin, Thranduil, and Bard. His foresight and the scheme to make everyone benefit highlight his wisdom and a true hero's ability to think for the greater good.

'The Hero's Journey' in Bilbo Baggins

Bilbo's journey is a classic example of a hero's arc. He discovers within himself the ability to help others and face danger for their sake. Throughout his adventure, Bilbo transforms from a reluctant hero to a true hero, deciding to prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain. His growth culminates in a masterful display of courage, compassion, and wisdom, emphasizing the essence of heroic traits as embodied by Bilbo Baggins.

J.R.R. Tolkien's Vision of a Hero

J.R.R. Tolkien had a deep love for the underdog who never gives up, especially in the face of overwhelming obstacles. From this, we can deduce that his conception of a hero encompasses several key traits:

Good-natured and down-to-earth Honest and reliable Hard-working and loyal to kith and kin Brave but without ostentation Not inclined to give up Capable of perseverance A lover of music and storytelling Sharp-witted and commonsensical Prudent and sympathetic Capable of solving riddles and problems

Bilbo Baggins perfectly embodies these traits, becoming a beacon of hope and strength in a world filled with conflict and danger. His journey not only serves as a story of heroism but also as a timeless tale of personal growth and the transformative power of goodwill and courage.