The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien - Essay Example In the beginning, Bilbo Baggins is shown as the meekest of all creatures who uses to decline all of what ‎Gandalf is offering. He feels afraid and is very used to the comfortable atmosphere of his home ‎and village. Gandalf does not take no for an answer and even convinces the doubtful dwarves ‎that this is the man that will help them achieve what is rightfully theirs. His confidence in Bilbo is ‎perhaps what lights the spark in the little Hobbit who has serious understated self-esteem issues ‎even though he is revered in his community and often looked upon as the leader. ‎ ‎ There are numerous obstacles encountered throughout the journey, often life threatening or ‎involving intricate decision making. However, as Gandalf has placed Bilbo in charge of the ‎expedition, often the Hobbit finds himself in situations that he would not normally be brave ‎enough to face. Gandalf defines him, explores him, exposes him and ascends him. At a certain ‎part, Gandalf disappears leaving the dwarves and Bilbo unable to make even a small fire for them ‎to fight off the cold. Bilbo, feebly accepting to take responsibility, goes ahead and gets himself ‎and his group in trouble with three trolls. ... ?This does not hammer his confidence and it shows a steady side of him that slowly ?keeps on developing through the story. He steals a key from the trolls that later on help his group ?get to their layer. ? ? Unlike Bilbo’s confidence that slowly takes form Gandalf believes in him from the beginning. ?He says to the dwarves ‘Let’s have no more argument. I have chosen Mr. Baggins and that ought ?to be enough for you. If I say he is a burglar, a burglar he is, or will be when the time comes. ?There is a lot more in him than you guess, and a deal more than he has any idea of himself.’ (1: 104) It further embellishes Gandalf’s faith in his Hobbit friend. ? ? The old themes of heroism, loyalty and valour are pronounced in the shape of Bilbo Baggins. ?The central ideology lies in his discovery of himself. On the contrary, it is always Gandalf’s ?shadow that works on his heart, acting like a stimulant. There are still parts that beg to differ of ?Bil bo’s bravery. When they meet the all wise elves, the elves notice Bilbo’s gentle nature and ?reward swords of protection to Gandalf and the Thorin who is head of the dwarves. ?Conversely, Bilbo’s gentle nature is again revealed when he encounters the all famous Gollum. ?Whilst taking the ring that belonged to Gollum, his decision to kill the despised small mortal felt ?wrong when he was in his invisible state (while wearing the ring). It did not seem justified to him ?that he takes the life of Gollum unwarned, even though it was very obvious that his nemesis ?wanted to kill him. ? Bilbo Baggins is not a thief by occupation or by will. It is in fact Gandalf’s convincing that ?brings him onto a road where he begins to steal, not always by choice.