Student Question
What does the red light reveal in The Hobbit, and who investigates it?
As Bilbo and the dwarves make their way through the trees in pitch dark, they suddenly see a red light shining very brightly up ahead through the tree trunks.
Quick answer:
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 initially hesitant and fearful, Bilbo attempts to pick the trolls' pockets, which results in a conflict where he and the dwarves are captured. They are eventually saved by Gandalf's intervention, marking their first perilous encounter.
After much debate and argument, the dwarves decide to send Bilbo to determine the nature of the light. He is chosen for his supposed occupation-a burglar. He has Gandalf to thank for this new job, since that is the reason the dwarves accepted him on their journey in the first place. But this is the first time that he realizes it may actually get him into a tight spot as well, perhaps even prove dangerous.
For, what is revealed by the light is one of his biggest fears: trolls. He hesitates, wishing he were home, but he also knows that in order to be considered a true burglar, he'll have to prove himself one. So, he decides to pick the trolls' pockets. this leads to a terrible fight, in which all the dwarves are captured and tied in sacks. It is only through Gandalf's help that escape this first perilous adventure.
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