The Hobbit Questions and Answers
The Hobbit
Character deaths in The Hobbit
Several notable characters die in The Hobbit. Thorin Oakenshield, the leader of the dwarves, perishes in the Battle of the Five Armies. His nephews, Fili and Kili, also die in the same battle while...
The Hobbit
Bilbo Baggins's Character Development in The Hobbit
In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins undergoes significant character development from a comfort-loving hobbit to a brave adventurer. Initially, Bilbo is depicted as a conventional hobbit,...
The Hobbit
Bilbo's self-introduction to Smaug
In The Hobbit, Bilbo introduces himself to Smaug using a series of riddles and titles. He calls himself "Barrel-rider," "Luckwearer," "Web-cutter," "Stinging Fly," "Ring-winner," "Clue-finder," and...
The Hobbit
What are some similes in J. R. R. Tolkein's The Hobbit?
In The Hobbit, J. R. R. Tolkien uses similes to create vivid imagery. Bilbo Baggins' home has a “perfectly round door like a porthole” and a “tube-shaped hall like a tunnel.” Hobbits move silently...
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What are the major conflicts in The Hobbit?
The major conflicts in The Hobbit include external conflicts such as the dwarves and Bilbo versus Smaug, as well as encounters with spiders, trolls, goblins, Gollum, wargs, and adverse weather....
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Important symbols in The Hobbit
Important symbols in The Hobbit include the Arkenstone, representing Thorin's greed and desire for power; the One Ring, symbolizing corruption and the struggle for control; and Sting, Bilbo's sword,...
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Gandalf's Departure in The Hobbit
Gandalf leaves Thorin and the company in The Hobbit to allow Bilbo to grow as a hero, as Gandalf's presence often meant instant rescue. His absence forces Bilbo to face challenges alone, such as the...
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How does Bilbo reveal Smaug's weak spot in The Hobbit?
Bilbo reveals Smaug's weak spot by flattering the dragon into showing off his belly. In chapter 12 of The Hobbit, Bilbo uses praise to make Smaug feel invincible, prompting the dragon to roll over...
The Hobbit
Bilbo's Choice to Give the Arkenstone to Bard and the Elves and Men
In The Hobbit, Bilbo gives the Arkenstone to Bard and the Elves to help negotiate peace and prevent war between dwarves, men, and elves. Thorin's obsession with the Arkenstone and his greed threaten...
The Hobbit
What would be a good thesis for J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit?
A strong thesis for The Hobbit should present an argument, such as analyzing a character or theme. For instance, "Although Bilbo is not initially an ideal hero character, he absolutely becomes worthy...
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What causes the change in Bilbo's relationship with Thorin during the Mountain's siege in The Hobbit?
Understanding the source of this change helps us to understand the nature of hobbits. We have seen that although Bilbo is a Hobbit, he certainly has a propensity for adventure and a desire to...
The Hobbit
In The Hobbit, does Bilbo's decision to adventure stem from disliking being called cowardly or his Tookish instincts?
Bilbo's decision to go on the adventure is not due to a "fear of being thought cowardly." Rather, Bilbo has something of the Tookish spirit in him, and the dwarves' song about the glories of their...
The Hobbit
How are the runes translated on the map in The Hobbit?
In The Hobbit, the runes on Thror's map provide a crucial clue for entering the Lonely Mountain, where Smaug guards the dwarven treasure. The translation of the runes reads: "Five feet high the door...
The Hobbit
Bilbo's Rescue of the Dwarves in The Hobbit
Bilbo rescues the dwarves in The Hobbit using his wit and the magical ring he found. He first saves them from giant spiders by distracting the creatures and freeing the dwarves from webs. Later, he...
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The dwarves' changing attitude toward Bilbo after the spider attack in The Hobbit
After the spider attack in The Hobbit, the dwarves' attitude toward Bilbo changes significantly. They gain a newfound respect for him, recognizing his bravery and resourcefulness in rescuing them....
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What are the terms of Bilbo's contract in The Hobbit?
Bilbo's contract with the dwarves outlines that he will receive up to one-fourth of the total profits upon successful completion of the quest, with all travel and potential funeral expenses covered....
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In The Hobbit, what abilities and skills does Bilbo possess?
Bilbo Baggins possesses several skills and abilities that make him an effective member of the Dwarves' expedition. His small stature and quiet movement make him a natural burglar, while his...
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What advice does Beorn give for the journey through Mirkwood in The Hobbit?
Beorn advises the group traveling through Mirkwood to avoid drinking or bathing in the enchanted stream that causes deep sleep and to always stay on the path to avoid getting lost. This advice is...
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In The Hobbit's first chapter, does Bilbo ask Gandalf to go on an adventure?
In the first chapter, Bilbo does not explicitly ask Gandalf to go on an adventure. Instead, Gandalf cleverly interprets Bilbo's polite excitement about Gandalf's past adventures as a request for one....
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Why does Gandalf say Bilbo is as fierce as a dragon in a pinch?
Gandalf says Bilbo is as fierce as a dragon in a pinch to reassure the dwarves of Bilbo's hidden potential and courage. Gandalf, knowledgeable about hobbits and a keen judge of character, believes in...
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What are four events that change Bilbo's feelings in The Hobbit?
Bilbo Baggins undergoes significant changes in his character throughout the story. One pivotal event is when he rescues the dwarves from spiders in Chapter 8, showcasing his independence and...
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Why do the dwarves gather at Bilbo Baggins' house in The Hobbit?
Gandalf comes to the home of Bilbo Baggins to convince Bilbo to join the dwarves on their trip to Lonely Mountain to defeat Smaug the dragon. He chooses Bilbo because he believes that he has...
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What is Thorin's plan in the first chapter of The Hobbit?
Thorin's plan in the first chapter involves reclaiming the lost kingdom of the Lonely Mountain and its vast treasures from the dragon Smaug. As the rightful heir, he intends to use a secret entrance...
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What moral lessons can be inferred from The Hobbit and how do they relate to human life?
Bilbo's near betrayal of the dwarves, and his disobeying of Gandalf's instructions are clear examples of an individual acting for the good of all characters. This shows Bilbo's moral courage and has...
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What differentiates the Tookses from the Bagginses in The Hobbit?
The Tooks and Bagginses are distinguished by their attitudes toward adventure. The Bagginses are seen as respectable and predictable, embodying a life without surprises or adventures, which aligns...
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Fantasy and Fairy Tale Elements in The Hobbit
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is rich with fantasy and fairy tale elements that create a captivating world. Fantasy elements include mythical creatures like hobbits, dwarves, goblins, and dragons, as...
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What does Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit look like?
Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit, is about three feet tall, without a beard, and has brown, curly hair and brown eyes. Initially, he is stout but becomes leaner and more muscular by the end of his journey....
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What happens to Bilbo during his first burglary attempt in The Hobbit?
Bilbo's first attempt at burglarizing is to investigate a fire in the woods. He fails in his attempt to pick a troll's pocket and is captured.
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Is The Hobbit for children and The Lord of the Rings for adults?
The Hobbit is often considered more accessible for children due to its lighter tone and simpler reading level, while The Lord of the Rings is seen as more complex, appealing to adults. However,...
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What causes the door to appear in The Hobbit and why didn't the dwarves predict this?
The secret door appears when a thrush knocks and the last light of Durin's Day reveals the keyhole, as decoded from moon letters by Elrond. The dwarves couldn't predict this event because the...
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In chapters 16-19 of The Hobbit, what does Bilbo lose?
In chapters 16-19, Bilbo loses his respectability among the hobbits. Upon returning home, he finds his possessions being auctioned off as he was presumed dead. Although he recovers most of his...
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How is Bilbo's share of treasure determined according to Thorin in The Hobbit?
Bilbo's share of the treasure in The Hobbit is determined by a contract signed by Thorin, which promises him "cash on delivery, up to and not exceeding one fourteenth of total profits (if any);"...
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Can you provide an example of Bilbo showing compassion for the Elves in The Hobbit?
Bilbo shows compassion for the Elves in chapter 9 when he returns the Wood-elf guard's key ring after freeing the Dwarves from their cells. He does this in order to spare the guard even worse trouble...
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Comparing and contrasting the epic hero tradition in Tolkien's The Hobbit and Beowulf
Both The Hobbit and Beowulf feature epic heroes, but they differ in their journeys and characteristics. Bilbo Baggins is an unlikely hero who grows into his role, relying on wit and courage, while...
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How do Bilbo Baggins's actions reveal his strengths or weaknesses in The Hobbit?
Bilbo Baggins's actions in The Hobbit highlight both strengths and weaknesses. His adaptability and cleverness are evident when he uses the ring and his sword, "Sting," to defeat spiders in Mirkwood....
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How does Gandalf trick the trolls in The Hobbit?
Gandalf tricks Bilbo into wanting to go on an adventure by twisting his own words around and invoking his Took ancestry. The dwarves contribute by singing stimulating songs about journeys to distant...
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In The Hobbit, can you find a quote where Bilbo expresses his desire for adventure?
Bilbo Baggins initially resists the idea of adventure due to the conservative nature of the Shire and his Baggins heritage, which values respectability over adventure. However, his Took side, known...
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What is the biblical perspective in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit?
The biblical perspective in The Hobbit includes themes of the battle between good and evil, the use of unlikely individuals for great purposes, and the concept of destiny versus chance. These align...
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Why is The Hobbit considered a fantasy genre?
The Hobbit is considered a fantasy genre because it features elements that defy natural laws, such as talking animals, magical races, and mythical creatures. It is set in a fictitious world...
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Bilbo Baggins' feelings during his adventure in The Hobbit
During his adventure in The Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins experiences a range of emotions, including fear, excitement, and homesickness. Initially reluctant and apprehensive, he gradually gains confidence...
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How does fear aid Bilbo in The Hobbit and how does he change after the Misty Mountains?
Fear aids Bilbo by compelling him to confront challenges and grow throughout his journey. Initially, Bilbo is averse to adventure, but his fear prompts him to act bravely, such as when he faces...
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Who is Roac in The Hobbit and why is he important to the dwarves?
Roac, a decrepit old raven and son of Carc, is crucial to the dwarves in The Hobbit because he brings them news of Smaug's death and warns them about the lake-men seeking compensation for their...
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What event allowed Thorin to fit the key into the keyhole and what prophecy foretold this?
The event that allowed Thorin to fit the key into the keyhole was the setting sun on Durin's Day, when a thrush knocked on the stone, revealing the keyhole. This moment was foretold by the prophecy...
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How do the protagonists Bilbo from "The Hobbit" and Odysseus from "The Odyssey" compare and contrast in terms of...
Both are heroes with the same goal, which is to return home. Odysseus returns home to Penelope and his son Telemachus after spending 10 years on a journey so he can be reunited with them. Bilbo...
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Character traits of Bard and Gandalf in The Hobbit
Bard is brave, responsible, and a natural leader, exemplified by his heroic slaying of Smaug and his role in rallying the people of Lake-town. Gandalf is wise, powerful, and enigmatic, often...
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What indicates that Thorin is the leader of the dwarves in The Hobbit?
Thorin is depicted as the leader of the dwarves through his superior attire, such as a light blue hood with a silver tassel and a golden belt, and his choice of wine over tea or beer. His unwavering...
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In The Hobbit, who is Elrond and how does he assist the company?
Elrond is the elven Lord of Rivendell and plays a crucial role in assisting the company by offering them rest and providing vital information. He is described as wise and venerable, and he helps the...
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Which European nationalities are symbolized by the races in The Hobbit?
Tolkien rejected allegorical interpretations of his works, including any direct symbolism of European nationalities in "The Hobbit." The book emphasizes the artificiality of racial divides and the...
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In which part of The Hobbit is Bilbo most challenged?
Bilbo is most challenged in Chapter 12 when he enters Smaug's lair alone. This moment is described as requiring the greatest courage from him, as he faces the dragon by himself. The narrator...
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Why are birds important after Smaug's death? What is "dragon-sickness"?
After Smaug's death, two types of birds appear: carrion birds to feast on his remains, and thrushes and finches marking nature's return to the mountain, which had been lifeless under Smaug's reign....