The Hobbit Questions on Bilbo Baggins
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 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....
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
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
What skills does Bilbo exhibit when dealing with Gollum?
Bilbo exhibits several key skills when dealing with Gollum, including bravery, resilience, and adaptability. He maintains his composure in a frightening situation, uses traditional knowledge to solve...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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....
The Hobbit
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...
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...
The Hobbit
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....
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...
The Hobbit
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....
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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....
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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
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...
The Hobbit
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....
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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...
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
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...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
In chapters 7-9 of The Hobbit, which parts of Bilbo's escape plan depend on luck and intelligence?
Bilbo's escape plan relies on both luck and intelligence. His intelligence is evident as he uses his magic ring of invisibility to remain undetected and cleverly devises a plan for the dwarves'...
The Hobbit
Why does Gandalf choose Bilbo for the quest and who decides Bilbo's participation?
Gandalf chooses Bilbo for the quest, asserting that Bilbo has untapped potential, despite initial skepticism from others. Gandalf's decision is pivotal, as he marks Bilbo's door to identify him as a...
The Hobbit
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...
The Hobbit
Who is Bilbo Baggins and what are typical hobbit characteristics?
Bilbo Baggins is a central character in J.R.R. Tolkien's works, known for his adventurous journey in The Hobbit. Typical hobbit characteristics include a love for comfort, nature, and simple living....
The Hobbit
How does The Hobbit compare to the hero's journey archetype?
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien mirrors the hero's journey archetype, featuring Bilbo Baggins as an ordinary hero called to adventure by Gandalf. Initially reluctant, Bilbo is compelled to embark on...
The Hobbit
In The Hobbit, what name does Bilbo give his sword and why?
Bilbo names his sword "Sting" after killing a giant spider in Mirkwood, marking a significant personal victory and transformation. This act demonstrates his bravery and ability to act for the common...
The Hobbit
How do characters from The Hobbit demonstrate creativity, empathy, curiosity, initiative, and multidisciplinary...
In The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien, the characteristics of creativity, empathy, curiosity, and initiative are demonstrated by Bilbo Baggins, the titular character. Gandalf the wizard most ably...
The Hobbit
In The Hobbit, what are the "call to adventure" and "meeting the mentor" stages?
In "The Hobbit," the "call to adventure" occurs when Gandalf the wizard asks Bilbo Baggins to join a quest as a burglar, which Bilbo initially rejects. However, Gandalf ensures Bilbo's involvement by...
The Hobbit
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);"...
The Hobbit
In J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, what distinguishes Gandalf from Bilbo?
Gandalf and Bilbo are distinguished by their roles and characteristics in Tolkien's Middle-earth. Gandalf is a powerful wizard, akin to Merlin, known as Gandalf the Grey, and plays a significant role...
The Hobbit
How do Bilbo's and the dwarves' reactions to Rivendell differ?
Bilbo enjoys Rivendell and appreciates the elves' knowledge and stories, despite being slightly intimidated by them. In contrast, the dwarves are uneasy due to historical tensions with the elves and...
The Hobbit
In The Hobbit, how did Bilbo resist temptation to pursue temperance?
Bilbo resists various temptations by remaining loyal to his companions and committed to the quest, despite longing for the comfort of his home in the Shire. He also overcomes the allure of the...
The Hobbit
Do individuals in The Hobbit have control over their character development, or are they influenced by factors like...
The question of nature versus nurture is one that has no clear-cut answer. It is a large topic that probably deserves its own essay, but here are a few points: (1) We don't really know how much of...
The Hobbit
Why are the spider incidents important in The Hobbit?
The spider incidents in "The Hobbit" are crucial because they demonstrate Bilbo's growth in self-confidence and capability. During the encounter in Mirkwood, the dwarves are incapacitated by the...
The Hobbit
When does the turning point occur in The Hobbit?
In The Hobbit, the turning point of the story occurs when Bilbo rescues his companions from the spiders and is then accepted by the dwarves as a valuable member of their company. In addition, the...
The Hobbit
How do the trolls capture Bilbo in "The Hobbit"?
Bilbo is captured by trolls early in the journey when he is sent to investigate a light during a storm. The group is already in low spirits after losing supplies and nearly drowning. Bilbo attempts...
The Hobbit
Who rescues Gandalf, Bilbo, Thorin, and the dwarves from the wargs and goblins in The Hobbit?
Gandalf, Bilbo, Thorin, and the dwarves are rescued by the Lord of the Eagles and the Great Eagles of Arda from the goblins and Wargs in The Hobbit. As the group hides in trees set on fire by the...
The Hobbit
How does Bilbo Baggins remain unchanged by the end of The Hobbit?
Bilbo Baggins remains fundamentally unchanged by the end of The Hobbit in that his inherent adventurous nature, derived from his Took ancestry, is simply uncovered rather than developed. Throughout...
The Hobbit
What indicates Bilbo's fondness for visitors in The Hobbit?
Bilbo's fondness for visitors in The Hobbit is indicated by his hospitality and readiness to entertain guests. He welcomes Gandalf to smoke a pipe and later invites him for tea, showing his sociable...
The Hobbit
Why is finding the ring a "turning point" in Bilbo's career?
Finding the ring is a turning point for Bilbo because it marks a shift in his self-perception and capabilities. Previously, Bilbo felt out of place and lacked confidence, but acquiring the ring gives...
The Hobbit
Was it Bilbo's fault that Smaug destroyed Lake Town in The Hobbit?
Smaug's attack on Lake Town in The Hobbit can be indirectly linked to Bilbo, as his conversation with Smaug, where he refers to himself as "Barrel-Rider," leads the dragon to suspect Lake-men's...
The Hobbit
What does the red light reveal in The Hobbit, and who investigates it?
The red light in "The Hobbit" reveals the presence of trolls. Bilbo Baggins is chosen by the dwarves to investigate it due to his role as a "burglar," a position Gandalf assigned him. Although...
The Hobbit
What does the quote "what on earth did i invite him to tea for!" reveal about Bilbo in The Hobbit?
The quote "what on earth did I invite him to tea for!" highlights Bilbo Baggins' internal conflict between his adventurous Took side and his cautious Baggins side. It reveals his hesitation and...