hobbit

.
 * // The Hobbit //**
 * by J.R.R. Tolkien **

** Week One: Characters ** ** Group Leader: ** Jesse Rittner **Bilbo Baggins** is a hobbit who lives in Hobbiton. He doesn't like adventures because he is a hobbit. However, he has some adventurous spirit because his mother's side of the family (the Took side) was more daring and bold. Bilbo's journey begins once he is recruited as a burglar for the dwarves. However, he loves his comfortable life and is not yet a hero or adventurer. We find Bilbo to be a bit whiny and annoying, but we do like him because we can relate to him.
 * Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 **


 * Gandalf** is a very respectable wizard that Bilbo knows for his legendary fireworks and from other tales. Gandalf seems to serve as a deus ex machina since he always appears when the protagonists are in trouble and saves them. He is the one who drags Bilbo into the adventure. We think that he is an interesting character because he is a mysterious wizard.


 * Thorin Oakenshield** is the leader of the other twelve dwarves. His grandfather, Thror, had his dwarf treasure stolen by Smaug the Dragon. Bilbo is recruited during Thorin's quest to retrieve this treasure.


 * William** is the leader of two other trolls who were camping in a forest. He catches Bilbo trying to steal his wallet. William wants to eat Bilbo and the dwarves. However, he is turned to stone at sunrise (along with the other trolls) after being distracted by Gandalf's voice. His cave held two one-of-a-kind goblin-slaying swords: Glamdring and Orcrist.


 * Elrond** is the leader of the elves in Rivendell. He can read the runes on the swords that the dwarves find, and he also translates a map for them.

** Quotation Finder: ** Paul Vaynshteyn The next day he had almost forgotten about Gandalf. He did not remember things very well, unless he put them down on his Engagement Tablet: like this: Gandalf Tea Wednesday. Yesterday he had been too flustered to do anything of the kind. (Tolkien 6)
 * The Great Goblin** is the leader of the goblins. He and all other goblins hate the world. The Great Goblin lives in Misty Mountain caves and tries to kill Bilbo and the dwarves. However, Gandalf kills the Great Goblin using once of the two swords that the goblins hate and call Beater and Biter. We don't particularly like the goblins because they are the villains.

"Well, I should say that you ought to go East and have a look round. After all there is the Side-door, and dragons must sleep sometimes, I suppose. If you sit on the door-step long enough, I daresay you will think of something." (Tolkien 26)

"And please don't cook me, kind sirs! I am a good cook myself, and cook better than I cook, if you see what I mean. I'll cook beautifully for you, a perfectly beautiful breakfast for you, if only you won't have me for supper." (Tolkien 37)

"You are come to the very edge of the Wild, as some of you may know. Hidden somewhere ahead of us is the fair valley of Rivendell where Elrond lives in the Last Homely House. I sent a message by my friends, and we are expected." (Tolkien 46)

"Smash them! Beat them! Bite them! Gnash them! Take them away to the dark holes full of snakes and never let them see the light again!" (Tolkien 64) ** Key Questioner: ** Brad Mailander Bilbo's Call to Adventure is when Gandalf appears. Gandalf tells Bilbo to join him on an adventure and will not take "no" for an answer. However, Bilbo still tries to refuse this calling.
 * Using the Monomyth Cycle, what is Bilbo's Call to Adventure?**

Gandalf wants Bilbo to be a burglar because he knows how to manipulate Bilbo and knows how to properly convince Bilbo to do anything. Gandalf thinks that Bilbo has potential since Bilbo has some adventurous Took blood in him.
 * Why do you think Gandalf wants Bilbo to be a burglar?**

We think that Bilbo was stupid to try to steal from the trolls. This is not a smart idea since it is Bilbo's first time being a burglar. He should have started off with a smaller and less dangerous thievery first.
 * How do you feel about Bilbo trying to stealing from the trolls?**

The goblins do not abduct Gandalf because Bilbo wakes up and screams after having a nightmare. This shout wakes Gandalf up, so he is able to get away from the goblins before they make it through the passage that appears in the cave.
 * In Chapter 4, why do you think the goblins do not abduct Gandalf?**

Based on our knowledge of //The Lord of the Rings//, we think that Smeagol (Gollum) might make an appearance soon. Bilbo will probably see the Ring for the first time and continue to develop into a legitimate hero. ** Key Questioner 2: ** Hari Shah We think that Norwegian myths had some influence on Tolkien while he was writing //The Hobbit//. The names Thror an Thorin are highly reminiscent of the Norse god of thunder, Thor. So far, the story reads almost like a piece of mythology, too. However, Tolkien could have just as easily pulled the names out of thin air.
 * After reading the end of Chapter 4 (in which Bilbo is knocked unconscious), what do you think will happen next?**
 * Tolkien brings names like Thror and Thorin into his writing. Do you think that Norwegian myths were a big influence on him while writing //The Hobbit//?**

Tolkien had no choice but to allow Bilbo to develop as a character if he wanted the plot to be interesting. The story would be boring if Bilbo was a hero from the very beginning. Tolkien saw an opportunity to write about Bilbo's growth into a hero, so he took it. The main focus of //The Hobbit// seems to be changing a common person into a hero, showing that things can be more than meets the eye.
 * Why do you think that Tolkien wanted to transform Bilbo from a simple hobbit trying to keep to his own business into an adventurer?**

This book is a bit different from other fantasy literature because it seems more like a retelling of some piece of genuine history than just an impossible work of fantasy. The setting is completely developed and is more like mythology or history than just a children's book.
 * How do you think that this book is different from other fantasy literature?**

This book has influenced society by sparking the writing of //The Lord of the Rings//. That series has been and still is a cultural phenomenon. It even has a cult following, and most people know about it, even if they never read it. Tolkien's world (which was created in //The Hobbit//) is referenced by many different types of media.
 * How do you think this book has influenced society since its publication?**

So far, the book follows the Monomyth Cycle completely. Bilbo receives his Call to Adventure when Gandalf asks him to become a burglar. However, Bilbo shows a Refusal of the Call by saying that he hates adventure. Nevertheless, Bilbo is soon dragged into the adventure anyway; his Crossing the Threshold into a new world begins the moment he leaves his home in Hobbiton with the dwarves. Bilbo enters the Belly of the Whale when he is caught by the trolls; he becomes injured and is almost eaten at this time. Bilbo's Road of Trials continues when he meets the elves in Rivendell and the goblins in the Misty Mountain cave. On this journey, Gandalf often serves as Bilbo's supernatural aid. ** Group Summarizer: ** Aimee Galinski Everyone read the novel up to the necessary point and completed their roles. The first thing our group considered were the characters who are present in the novel thus far; our response can be seen above. Next, we discussed selected quotations from the novel. We mentioned how odd it is for the hero of this story to be someone like Bilbo Baggins. Bilbo cannot even remember simple things, yet he is expected to be a vital part of Thorin's team; Bilbo becomes flustered by a visit from Gandalf, and now he is expected to become a skillful burglar and recover a treasure from Smaug the Dragon. However, Bilbo does show some potential when he develops a game plan for the dwarves to use when they reach the dragon's cave. Still, even if it does later prove to be practical, his simple solution of sitting and waiting because "dragons must sleep sometimes" seems more humorous than anything else at this time. Bilbo's attempt to save his own life when the trolls threaten to eat him is comical as well. Gandalf' shows great foresight and talent when he contacts the elves in Riverdell to gather supplies for the dwarves. However, this action once again brings up the idea of Gandalf being a sort of deus ex machina. Finally, the Great Goblin's violent speech and the other goblin's immediate agreement brings up something interesting. Why is every goblin, without exception, evil? For that matter, why does it seem that every elf, without exception, is good? If every member of a specific race of creatures naturally has identical morals, do any of them really have a choice in what they do or how they act? Could Tolkien be making a reference to racism or something else in his society? After finishing these conversations about the quotations, our group answered the key questions, which can be seen above.
 * How does the book relate to the Monomyth Cycle so far?**

A few other things about the book stood out for our group. Jesse, Aimee, and Brad wondered why the first chapter is the longest but has the least amount of action or plot development in it. Some group members felt that this chapter is a bit boring since Tolkien takes away from furthering the plot by being too descriptive at times. Even though these descriptions bring the world to life, some of them seem unnecessary. However, everyone agreed that the story is becoming more intriguing and exciting now. The fact that everything seems to be too coincidental is also a bit annoying. For instance, Gandalf always disappears and then just so happens to reappear in time to save the dwarves, the defeated trolls just so happen to have the two special goblin-slaying swords that the dwarves need soon afterward, and Eldron is capable of reading a map for the dwarves because the moon just so happens to be in the right position in the sky.

** Week Two: Language ** ** Group Leader: ** Aimee Galinski The Hobbit is most likely written around a seventh grade reading level because it does not use too many complex words and the vocabulary itself is pretty basic. Tolkien also often creates his own words and names. The narrative is simple, straight-forward, and matter-of-fact. The writing style is similar to that of a folk tale or fairy tale, so it has the feel of an older work of literature. Tolkien. The author uses a lot of imagery and many descriptions throughout the novel because Tolkien aims to develop an entire world with its unique geography. When speaking, each of the characters have their own unique voice, dialect, and personality as well. The Hobbit seems to be aimed toward children and teenagers, but adults can find the novel enjoyable as well. ** Quotation Finder: ** Jesse Rittner He guessed as well as he could, and crawled along for a good way, till suddenly his hand met what felt like a tiny ring of cold metal lying on the floor of the tunnel. It was a turning point in his career, but he did not know it. He put the ring in his pocket almost without thinking; certainly it didn’t seem of any particular use at the moment. (Tolkien 76)
 * Chapters 5, 6, and 7 **

[Bilbo] knew, of course, that the riddle-game was sacred and of immense antiquity, and even wicked creatures were afraid to cheat when they played at it. […] And after all that last question had not been a genuine riddle according to the ancient laws. (Tolkien 88)

Then Gandalf climbed to the top of his tree. The sudden splendour flashed from his wand like lightning, as he got ready to spring down from on high right among the spears of the goblins. That would have been the end of him, though he would probably have killed many of them as he came hurtling down like a thunderbolt. But he never leaped. Just at that moment, the Lord of the Eagles swept down from above, seized him in his talons, and was gone. (Tolkien 117)

But all night [Bilbo] dreamed of his own house and wandered in his sleep into all his different rooms looking for something that he could not find nor remember what it looked like. (Tolkien 122)

“I always meant to see you all safe (if possible) over the mountains, said the wizard, ‘and now by good management and good luck I have done it. Indeed we are now a good deal further east than I ever meant to come with you, for after all this is not my adventure. I may look in on it again before it is all over, but in the meanwhile I have some other pressing business to attend to.” (Tolkien 125) ** Key Questioner: ** Paul Vaynshteyn Bilbo intends to go back into the goblin's cave, which he just barely managed to escape, if he cannot find Gandalf and the dwarves in the mountains. Bilbo's thoughts seem quite brave because he believes that he might be capable of rescuing them if he uses the power of The Ring.
 * What does Bilbo Baggins intend to do if he is unable to find Gandalf and the dwarves?**

**How might you use the power of The Ring if you possessed it?** If we possessed the power of The Ring, we would all do different things. However, most of these things would not be considered "good" things to do. We'd scare people by making them think that we were ghosts, mess around with people's heads, spy on people, or try to commit the perfect crime.

Bilbo eventually renames his sword after he manages to defeat a strong opponent and save himself and his friends from death. After this, Bilbo feels as if he is finally becoming a hero and an adventurer. The two legendary goblin-killing swords (Glamdring and Orcrist) already possess important names; by naming his own sword, Bilbo shows that he believes that he is courageous enough to succeed and become as great the original wielders of those swords.
 * What is the significance in Bilbo renaming his sword "Sting"?**

No, we would not look forward to going into Mirkwood. Mirkwood is dark and scary, and there is no knowing what enemies await inside of that forest. Things have been getting progressively more difficult for Bilbo and the others, and now they no longer have Gandalf to protect them.
 * Would you, in Bilbo's position, look forward to going into Mirkwood?**

Despite helping Bilbo and the others, Beorn does not seem very likable. He is very strange because he lives all along in a forest with many animals that are like family to him; he is also rumored to be able to transform into a bear. He does not trust anyone, and he kills a warg and a goblin on his quest to determine if Gandalf's story is true. He is violent and creepy, too; to make sure that Bilbo and the others do not steal the ponies that he lent to them, Beorn stalks after them while they travel to Mirkwood**.** ** Key Questioner 2: ** Brad Mailander Gollum refers to both himself and The Ring as "my precious." This shows the bond between Gollum and The Ring. Since Gollum lives all alone underground in the dark, he really has nothing but The Ring. Even though The Ring controls him, he still needs it in his life; therefore, he finds it to be something of great importance and worthy of being called precious.
 * What do you think of Beorn?**
 * Why do you think Gollum refers The Ring as his “precious”?**

The Ring is a double-edged sword. It may seem like something amazing and incredible since it grants its user the power of invisibility, but it is also overpowering and eventually gains control of its wearer. Therefore, it actually symbolizes evil and desire; it represents the darkness that is present in people's hearts.
 * What do you think The Ring symbolizes?**

Yes, luck plays a major role throughout the story. Gandalf always appears just in time to save the day, Bilbo just happens to find The Ring and have it slip onto his finger when he needs it, the Eagles fly overhead and save Bilbo at the right moment, and Gandalf happens to be friends with the generally-unlikable Beorn. Too many things seem to work out despite being left to chance.
 * Do you think luck plays an important role?**

Gandalf must always leave Bilbo and the dwarves because he is like a father-figure to them. Gandalf helps everyone out in the beginning and teaches them how to be adventurers. Later on, he must leave Bilbo and the dwarves because he actually has other matters to attend to; he believes that the others are capable and trained enough to handle everything on their own. Of course, that does not mean that he will not reappear later on if he is needed.
 * Why do you think Gandalf must leave Bilbo and the dwarves?**

Things will probably get progressively worse after Bilbo and the dwarves pass through Mirkwood. This is likely because the quests seem to be getting harder, and the tone of the novel is getting darker. Bilbo will continue his journey and become more of a hero, and Gandalf will come back at the right moment when Bilbo and the dwarves need him most. ** Group Summarizer: ** Hari Shah The book is moving along slowly, but there is still some action. Today, we discussed the fact that Gandalf is like a God or a parent because, when Gandalf is with the dwarves and Bilbo, they are all much happier and there is generally a more cheerful tone in the book. However, when Gandalf leaves, Bilbo and the dwarves encounter trolls, Gollum, and even the wolf-like creatures called wargs. Also, when Gandalf is with the others, danger seems to be warded away, and the group even meets new, friendly people. We started to wonder where Gandalf would go, but then we alluded to the //Lord of the Rings// trilogy to find the answer; Gandalf has a superior that he takes council from - the White Wizard, Saruman. We wondered if Gandalf is also keeping his other connections around Middle-earth alive; it seemed to us that Gandalf knows everyone in the world, even the weird creatures in Mirkwood. We also discussed that luck has a major role in the novel so far. Bilbo is lost in the Misty Mountains, but then he stumbles upon The Ring and finds his way out of the cave. Even more notably, when Bilbo wants to leave and is fleeing from Gollum, Bilbo falls down and The Ring suddenly slips onto his finger; this allows Bilbo to trick Gollum into leading him out of the mountain. Then, just as Bilbo is thinking about turning back and returning to the Misty Mountain caves to rescue his friends, he suddenly heard Gandalf's voice and finds his companions. Next, when the group is in danger after leaving the cave due to the appearance of the wargs, the Eagle Lord suddenly sends his eagles to save them. Finally, when the group is stuck in the woods without food, they are able to get help from Beorn, who Gandalf just so happens to know about.
 * What do you think will happen once Bilbo and the dwarves pass through Mirkwood?**

** Week Three: Mood and Tone **
 * Chapters 8, 9, and 10 **

Hari Shah **Fear** is apparent when Bilbo starts his journey and feels afraid of the outside world and wants to go back to his home. It is also seen when Bilbo is about to be killed by the trolls, when the group is in the Misty Mountain caves and attacked by goblins, and when Bilbo encounters Gollum. Fear is also evident when Bilbo and the dwarves enter Mirkwood and become lost, when they are attacked by spiders, when the dwarves think that they have been trapped by the Wood Elves forever, and when the dwarves are traveling down the river in wine barrels.
 * Group Leader: **


 * Perseverance** is apparent because Bilbo never gives up. Even though siuations are often bad, especially after Gandalf disappears, the dwarves and Bilbo go on. Bilbo helps the dwarves escape from the Misty Mountain caves, despite being in dangerous enemy territory. Even though the team is tired and hungry, they continue to move through Mirkwood. Bilbo helps the dwarves escape from the waves of attacking spiders, even though he is just a single hobbit. The team leaves the comfort of Lake Town to continue their quest for treasure, even though they are treated like kings in the town.


 * Pride** is apparent as Bilbo continues to grow into a hero and an adventurer. He renames his sword Sting and confidently saves the dwarves from the spiders and Wood Elves. He is also pleased with his idea to hide in the wine barrels to reach Lake Town.

** Quotation Finder: ** Aimee Galinski Somehow the killing of a giant spider, all alone by himself in the dark without the help of a wizard or the dwarves or anyone else, made a great difference to Mr. Baggins. He felt a different person, and much fiercer and bolder in spite of an empty stomach as he wiped his sword on the grass and put it back into its sheath.
 * Joy** is apparent once Bilbo and the dwarves reach a temporary safe-haven in Lake Town. They are hailed as true adventurers there and are granted food and rest before continuing on their journey.

"I will give you a name," he said to it, "and I shall call you Sting." (Tolkien 170)

In the end he made as good a guess as he could at the direction from which the cries for help had come in the night - and by luck (he was born with a good share of it) he guessed more or less right, as you will see. (Tolkien 170)

The feasting people were Wood-elves, of course. These are not wicked folk. If they have a fault it is in distrust of strangers. Though their magic was strong, even in those days they were wary. [...] Still elves they were and remain, and that is Good People. (Tolkien 182)

...The barrels floated on the stream, bobbing along, until they were carried by the current to a place far down the river where the bank jutted out, near to the very eastern edge of Mirkwood. There they were collected and tied together and floated back to Lake Town, which stood close to the point where Forest River flowed into the Long Lake. (Tolkien 192)

The King beneath the mountains, The King of carven stone, The lord of silver fountains Shall come into his own! His crown shall be upholden, His harp shall be restrung, His halls shall echo golden To songs of yore re-sung. The woods shall wave on mountains And grass beneath the sun; His wealth shall flow in fountains And the rivers golden run. The streams shall run in gladness, The lakes shall shine and burn, All sorrow fail and sadness At the Mountain-king's return! (Tolkien 215) ** Key Questioner: ** Jesse Rittner Yes, the magic Ring often made events seem anticlimactic because the reader constantly expects Bilbo and the dwarves to win since they have such a great advantage. In fact, the hope that the protagonists will succeed has been replaced with the hope they will fail, just to end the predictability of the storyline. The Ring makes Bilbo almost invincible, and it is very easy for Bilbo to elude his enemies. However, Bilbo does not necessarily need The Ring to be successful in battle.
 * Do you think that the magic Ring made the battle with the spiders and the escape from the Wood Elves anticlimactic because it gave Bilbo such an advantage?**

Yes, the continuous luck detracts from the excitement of the story. There is a constant sense that everything will work out for the protagonists and absolutely nothing bad will happen. Even when they are captured by the Wood Elves, it turns out to be a good thing; the river that they escape through is the only way out of the forest. There just simply is not a sense of excitement or suspense. There really is no climax to the confrontation; the reader can pretty much predict the outcome. Even when something seems like it will go wrong, it does not. However, if something bad does happen, it will be all the more the exciting.
 * Do you think the protagonists’ constant luck (Bilbo finding the dwarves after the spiders kidnap them, the butler and chief guard drinking the wine and falling asleep, the guards not checking the weighted barrels, etc.) detracts from the excitement of the story?**

Tolkien potentially excluded Gandalf's adventures for two reasons. One, Gandalf’s story is irrelevant because //The Hobbit// only follows the adventures of Bilbo. Two, Tolkein could want to keep the reader interested and make him want to read the other books in the series.
 * Why do you think J.R.R. Tolkein chose not to include what Gandalf was doing in the story? “[Gandalf] was in fact finishing his other business (which does not come into this tale)” (Tolkein 206).**

The Master of Lake Town is doubtful because he feels that it is far more likely that the dwarves and Bilbo are simply escapees trying to flee from the Wood Elves than the story of them being descendants from a dwarf out of a legend.
 * Why do you think the Master of Lake Town is unwilling to believe that Thorin is actually the descendant of Thror, or even that there had ever been a King under the Mountain?**

From our knowledge of //The Lord of the Rings//, we know that Bilbo does in fact return to his home with The Ring, but the fate of the dwarves is unknown; perhaps they do not return. If they do survive, it seems fairly impossible for them to return with the treasure through Mirkwood and across the Misty Mountains. Instead, perhaps they will find some alternative route; perhaps, with the aid of Gandalf, they will be able to find their way back. However, if the dwarves do not survive, then maybe Bilbo will find his way back alone. ** Key Questioner 2: ** Paul Vaynshteyn Bilbo tells the dwarves about The Ring because it is a powerful weapon. Bilbo needs to share this information because he has to tell the dwarves about his plan to distract the spiders while being invisible; the dwarves would either be killed or be extremely suspicious if he did not tell them about The Ring.
 * How do you think the protagonists will return to the other side of the Misty Mountains with the treasure (if they get it)?**
 * Why does Bilbo tell the dwarves about The Ring?**

There is tension between the Wood Elves and dwarves because the two races just do not mix. The Wood Elves claim that the dwarves stole their treasure in the distant past; however, the dwarves claim that they were only taking payment for work that they performed but the elves refused to pay.
 * Why is there such tension between the Wood Elves and dwarves?**

The king imprisons the dwarves because they will not tell him why they are passing through his kingdom. Thorin already seems suspicious since he lies and refuses to tell the king why he is there. The king also thinks that the dwarves are enemies because he mistakenly believes that the dwarves were attacking the Wood Elves in the forest, even though the dwarves were only trying to get help. The king thinks that they might just be there to steal his treasure.
 * Why does the King of the Wood Elves imprison the dwarves?**

Thorin will not tell the king that he is trying to steal Smaug's treasure because he does not trust the king. Thorin thinks that the king will try to take the treasure from him; the Wood Elves might demand a percentage of the treasure in order to let the dwarves pass through Mirkwood. The treasure is already split up into fourteen equal shares among Bilbo and the dwarves; splitting up the treasure anymore will take even more wealth away from the protagonists.
 * Why won't Thorin tell the King of the Wood Elves what his objectives are?**

Bilbo no longer feels bad about stealing; in fact, it is nothing more than a common event for him now. However, Bilbo has really only stolen things out of necessity, such as when he needs food. ** Group Summarizer: ** Brad Mailander The major topic that we brought up was that luck is a major factor in //The Hobbit//. It seems that, throughout the book, luck always plays an important role. We have come to the conclusion that luck makes the book a bit anti-climatic because, when there is a bad situation happening in the book, we know that something random will happen to benefit Bilbo and the dwarves - something will come up to save their lives and help them out of the situation.
 * How does Bilbo feel about stealing?**

After that discussion, we then also talked about Gandalf possibly knowing that Bilbo has The Ring. In previous chapters, when Gandalf asks where Bilbo has been, Bilbo is very skeptical about telling the truth; in the end, Bilbo doesn’t tell Gandalf about finding The Ring. This is a reason why we believe that Gandalf eventually left Bilbo and the dwarves; Gandalf now knows that Bilbo will be able to protect himself with The Ring.

We also discussed how certain creatures have a stereotype to them. For example, all trolls and goblins happen to have a bad personality, while elves and dwarves all have a good personality. Even though both the elves and dwarves have a naturally good personality, we talked about how there is a major conflict between both the elves and dwarves due to greed. This is shown when the dwarves will not reveal where they and Bilbo are going because they do not want anyone else stealing the treasure.

** Week Four: Themes and Images **
 * Chapters 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 **

Brad Mailander
 * Group Leader: **
 * Luck** is a theme because everything always seems to work out for Bilbo and the dwarves. No real harm ever seems to come to them because something always happens to save them. For instance, the only reason Smaug dies and the dwarves can get their treasure is because Bard is capable of understanding the language of the thrush that overhears Bilbo say the location of Smaug's weakness.


 * The making of a hero** is another theme because Bilbo begins as nothing more than a hobbit, a common person. However, he slowly changes into someone more courageous and capable. He becomes a brave leader who can protect the dwarves and make important decisions. Bilbo begins to take matters into his own hands and become something much greater. This is even true when Bilbo steals the Arkenstone from the dwarves in an attempt at peacekeeping.


 * Race and character** is a theme because each race has specific innate personality characteristics, which creates a distinct separation between good and evil.


 * Wisdom and knowledge** is a theme that Tolkien uses a lot. For instance, the riddle translated for Bilbo and his companions by Elrond of Rivendell is solved by Bilbo as he sits outside of Smaug's lair. There are also riddling competitions between Bilbo and Gollum, and Bilbo and Smaug. Bilbo must also show his own intelligence when trying to free the dwarves from the Wood Elves and when trying to prevent war.


 * Smaug** is an image for greed because he is a dragon that hoards all of his treasure. He is willing to kill anyone who even thinks about taking a single coin from his trove.


 * The dwarves (especially Thorin)** are symbols for the corruption of greed. Although they have always valued treasure, they become consumed by their desire for wealth when they finally see Smaug's treasure trove. After this, they refuse to help anyone or give any of these riches away; they will not even aid the humans of Lake Town, who had their entire town destroyed due to the dwarves bothering Smaug.


 * Gandalf** is a symbol for hope because he always appears when he is needed most. He saves the lives of Bilbo and the other dwarves quite a few times. He also shows up by the Lonely Mountain when Bilbo hands the Arkenstone over to Bard and the Wood Elves; here, Gandalf encourages Bilbo by telling him that things might be able to end differently due to Bilbo's influence.


 * The Ring** is a symbol of power, evil, and corruption. Gollum becomes so obsessed with The Ring's power that he is willing to kill Bilbo in order to get it back. Bilbo often uses The Ring's power of invisibility, but he has not yet been consumed by it.

** Quotation Finder: ** Hari Shah It was a weary journey, and a quiet and stealthy one. There was no laughter or song or sounds of harps, and the pride and hopes which had stirred in their hearts at the singing of old songs by the lake died away to a plodding gloom. (Tolkien 190)
 * The named swords** are symbols for heroism. Just like King Arthur had the legendary sword Excalibur, Bilbo has Sting, Thorin has Orcrist, and Gandalf has Glamdring. Thorin and Gandalf are set-up as heroes from the start of the novel; however, Bilbo only earns a name for his sword after battling the spiders in Mirkwood.

Dwarves are not heroes, but calculating folk with a great idea of the value of money; some are tricky and treacherous and pretty bad lots; some are not, but are decent enough people like Thorin and Company, if you don't expect too much. (Tolkien 202)

"Well thief! I smell you and feel your air. I hear your breath. Come along! Help yourself again, there is plenty and to spare!" (Tolkien 209)

Suddenly out of the dark [an old thrush] fluttered to [Bard's] shoulder. [...] "Wait! Wait!" it said to him. "The moon is rising. Look for the hollow of the left breast as [Smaug] flies and turns above you!" (Tolkien 236) ** Key Questioner ** Aimee Galinski **Bilbo has already shown his heroism and done great things in Mirkwood, and it is foreshadowed that he will also play a role in the upcoming war. Despite these accomplishments, Tolkien considers Bilbo's decision to enter Smaug's lair to be "the bravest thing he ever did" and calls it Bilbo's "real battle" (Tolkien 233). Why is this moment so important?** This is so important for Bilbo because he does it alone; he knows that something bad awaits him in the darkness of the cave, but he still perseveres. More importantly, Bilbo chooses to use this opportunity to fulfill his job as a burglar. Unlike in other circumstances (such as when he is captured by the spiders) Bilbo is not forced to help out; he has a choice in the situation, which allows him to truly show his own bravery.

Some of Smaug's characteristics are what we expected, while other features are not. Smaug is greedy, ferocious, angry, and powerful to the extent of being nearly invincible. He also knows all of his treasure, even down to the smallest coin. This is what we expected based on traditional dragons. However, we did not expect other details about Smaug. For instance, he is surprisingly smart, eloquent, and civilized. He can speak in the human tongue, and he loves riddles. Smaug is even capable of manipulating Bilbo's feelings toward the dwarves by making Bilbo distrust them.
 * Is Smaug similar to what you expected Tolkien's dragon to be? Why or why not?**

No, the human beings do not have the same limitations; they seem to be capable of having completely different personalities. These people behave like people in real life do; they can be good or bad. For instance, the Master of Esgaroth is greedy and fearful. He only cares about himself and abandons his people in order to escape from Smaug's wrath. On the other hand, Bard of Dale is kind, brave, and loyal. He cares about the well-fare of the people and is even willing to die for them.
 * The races of creatures that Tolkien creates all have specific inherent natures (for instance, all elves are good, all goblins are bad, and all dwarves are greedy). Do the human beings in //The Hobbit// have the same limitations, or do they seem to have more freedom in making individual choices? Explain.**

Greed causes the dwarves to change from heroes to villains. They become obsessed with the treasure and are completely consumed by their lust for wealth. As a result, they are unwilling to talk to the people of Lake Town or compensate the people for their losses. Some people in real life might be affected in this way. Greed does change people, but (in most cases) this change is not nearly to the extent that it is in the novel.
 * Greed has a profound effect on the dwarves, especially Thorin. How does greed affect the dwarves' personalities? Do you think that greed has as drastic an effect on people in real life?**

Bilbo's decision to steal the Arkenstone is an act of greed; Bilbo sees something wonderful in Smaug's pile of treasure and takes it because he is angry at the dwarves for constantly putting his life in danger. However, his decision to hand the stone over is an act of courage, albeit a non-traditional one. Bilbo considers his choices and makes a decision that he thinks will benefit everyone; the only reason he hands the Arkenstone over is to prevent war through peacemaking. In addition, Bilbo still remains in the company of the dwarves and does not simply defect to join the elves. ** Key Questioner 2: ** Jesse Rittner **Do you like how J.R.R. Tolkien presents the solution for getting into the secret passage all the way back in Chapter 3? Did you remember the clue? “‘Stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks,’ read Elrond, ‘and the setting sun with the last light of Durin’s Day will shine upon the key-hole’” (Tolkien 60).** No, we do not like how Tolkien does this because Tolkien does not repeat the clue when Bilbo remembers it. We did not remember the clue at all, so we were confused by Bilbo's sudden epiphany in front of the cave. This also seems out of character for Tolkien because he usually describes everything in detail, yet he just briefly goes over something this important.
 * Do you think that Bilbo's decision to steal the Arkenstone and hand it over to the Elvenking and Bard is just another act of courage and heroism, or is Bilbo now less respectable due to his betrayal of the dwarves? Explain.**

Some of us think Smaug is right because the dwarves are being corrupted by greed; there is absolutely no way they will give Bilbo his dues because they want all of the wealth for themselves. Other members of our group think that the dwarves will give Bilbo a fair share because he has done so much to help them; they have already given him valuable mithril armor, so they should repay him the rest of his share, too. Whether or not Bilbo will be physically able to take his treasure home, however, is a different story.
 * Do you think that Smaug is right when he says that the dwarves are not going to give Bilbo a fair share of the treasure, or is he just trying to turn Bilbo against the dwarves?**

We are more on the side of the people of Lake Town. The townspeople do deserve reparations, especially since their town is only destroyed due to the dwarves and Bilbo bothering Smaug. However, we also feel that the dwarves have the right to not give them money. Although it would be morally wrong to not give away some of the treasure to the people who have been injured, the dwarves are not bound to do so.
 * Who do you side with in the dispute: the dwarves or the people of Lake Town? Why?**

Yes, we feel that Bilbo should have stolen the Arkenstone and given it to Bard because Bilbo is trying to end the dispute between the humans, Wood Elves, and dwarves. Although Bilbo has stolen the Arkenstone, the ends would justify the means if his theft prevents war.
 * Do you think that Bilbo should have stolen the Arkenstone and given it to Bard? Why or why not?**

We think that Gandalf will be a peacemaker. He will help to end the greed that is consuming everyone's lives Paul Vaynshteyn NOTE: Paul did not post his summary for this week. However, he claims to have written it. Aside from this, everyone else performed their roles, and the discussion was productive.
 * What role, if any, do you think Gandalf will play in the dispute, now that he has returned?**
 * Group Summarizer: **

** Week Five: Response ** ** Chapters 17, 18, and 19 ** ** Group Leader: ** Paul Vaynshteyn Even though //The Hobbit// is a bit boring and verbose in the beginning, it definitely improves and becomes much more excited as the plot progresses. As a result, we generally enjoyed the novel. We would recommend this book to peers because we feel that it definitely has literary value due since it is a classic. In addition, it is also an amusing read that would be appreciated by young adults; it is an interesting mixture of humor and adventure, with a few darker moments thrown in. The writing style is also completely different from that of the //Lord of the Rings// trilogy; the style of writing is less dry and definitely more appealing. Although there are other fairy tales with similar themes, no other book can really be compared to this novel because //The Hobbit// creates an entirely new world; the extent of Middle Earth's development is unlike anything that is usually seen in most other stories for young adults. Our opinions on whether or not the book should be included in the school curriculum is divided. Some people feel that the book should be considered because it is unique and entertaining; it is a great example of the Monomyth Cycle, and it would fit perfectly into either the Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Technology course or the Children's Literature course. Other group members feel that the book should not be considered for the curriculum because that would detract from the novel's value; usually, any book that is forced upon readers is viewed negatively. ** Quotation Finder: ** Brad Mailander “We are sent from Dain son of Nain,” they said when questioned. “We are hastening to our Kinsmen in the Mountain, since we learn that the kingdom of old is renewed. But who are you that sit in the plain as foes before defended walls?” (Tolkien 279)

Messengers have passed to and fro between all their cities, colonies and strongholds; for they resolved now to win the dominion of the North. (Tolkien 282)

The most dreadful of all Bilbo’s experiences, and the one which at the time he hated most - which is to say it was the one he was most proud of, and most fond of recalling long afterwards, although he was quite unimportant in it. Actually I may say he put on his ring early in the business and vanished from sight, if not from all danger. (Tolkien 283)

“Well I never! Alive after all - I am glad! I began to wonder if even your luck would see you through! A terrible business, and it nearly was disastrous. But other news can wait. Come!” (Tolkien 289)

“There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” (Tolkien 293) ** Key Questioner: ** Hari Shah Thorin tries to stall the trade for the Arkenstone because he wants his cousin, Dain, and his army of dwarves to arrive first. Dain could help kill the elves and humans, which would allow the dwarves to keep all of the treasure for themselves.
 * Why does Thorin try to stall the trade for the Arkenstone?**

Bilbo is avoiding the battle because he is afraid. The battles that he goes through throughout the book are of much smaller scales than the final battle that he tries to hide from. In addition, Bilbo actually has a choice in getting involved in this battle; he is not forced into it by obligation or necessity like he is during other complications.
 * Why do you think that Bilbo is avoiding the major battle, even though he has proven his courage and strength throughout his adventure?**

Yes, we think that Tolkien's ending is a bit anti-climatic. The climax of the story (the Battle of Five Armies) is only briefly described because Bilbo is unconscious during most of it. Also, after the final battle, the story comes to a rather abrupt end; Bilbo just travels home and goes back to his own life.
 * Do you think Tolkien's ending is anti-climactic?**

Bilbo keeps the treasure that he is given because he earned these riches. Bilbo has done something great, and the treasure represent his adventure and the memories that he will always keep. ** Key Questioner 2: ** Aimee Galinski This abrupt change seems reasonable because of the idea of good versus evil. This theme is often seen throughout the novel due to the distinctions made between different characters' races. As a result, this new conflict is much more important than just greed.
 * Bilbo will not leave his home in Bag End for a while, so why does he keep the coins and treasure that he is given if he will never use them?**
 * When the goblins and wargs attack, the previously-fighting dwarves, elves, and humans all quickly become allies. Why does such an abrupt change seem reasonable in Tolkien's universe?**

Yes, the deaths of Thorin, Fili, and Kili are surprising because, before then, everything worked out perfectly for the group. There deaths added to the story since it showed that the protagonists were not really infallible. Thorin's death also allows Thorin to realize that the world would be a better place if people valued food and cheer and song above wealth and gold. However, Fili and Kili's deaths served less of a purpose.
 * Are the deaths of Thorin, Fili, and Kili surprising to you? Do you think that their deaths add or subtract to the story? Explain.**

This fight means so much to Bilbo because he is a part of something big, something that is greater than himself. He is involved in it, at least to some extent, so he feels as if he has helped bring about change in the world. Bilbo likes being able to gloat about something this important, even has not really done anything during this fight.
 * During the Battle of Five Armies, Bilbo is knocked unconscious and remains in such a state for the majority of the war. However, Tolkien says that Bilbo most enjoys telling stories about this fight. Why does this fight mean so much to Bilbo when he is not even awake through most of it?**

Yes, this is a good ending. Bilbo says that his Took side is tired, so his Baggins side has to take over. Despite this, Bilbo has not not completely reverted back to his previous self; he has still changed a bit (the other hobbits view him as strange, and he receives visits from elves and dwarves). As a result, this ending gives Bilbo closure. In addition, this conclusion also stays true to the Monomyth Cycle, and it sets up the scene for The Lord of the Ring triology.
 * When Bilbo returns to his home at Bag End, he pretty much just continues to live his life from where he left off one year ago. Do you think that it is a good idea to end the story with Bilbo nearly coming full-circle in terms of character development?**

No, viewing Bilbo's adventure this way does not make Tolkien's use of coincidences more acceptable. Prophesy still makes things too easy for Bilbo and the others and serves as a deus ex machina, so it is not really all that different from luck; prophesy is just acting as an excuse for the luck. However, this idea is interesting because it brings up the idea of fate versus free will. ** Group Summarizer: ** Jesse Rittner The first thing our group did was answer the discussion questions for the week. Then, we discussed the quotes that Brad had selected. For the first quote, we discussed the unique style of speaking that the dwarves use and how each race seems to have its own style. We also found humor in the constant use of similar names, like "Dain" and "Nain," or "Thorin" and "Thrain." For the second quote, we discussed how, even though the humans and elves were fighting against the dwarves, all three groups banded together to fight a common enemy - the orcs. For the third quote, we discussed how Bilbo is a braggart and also how //The Hobbit//, and //The Lord of the Rings// could be related to World War II. We also agreed that the hobbits could be viewed as Americans - comfortable in their Shire, not wanting to meddle in the affairs of the rest of Middle Earth (isolationism). For the fourth quote, we discussed how Tolkien may have had his tongue in cheek when he refers to the constant luck that Bilbo has during the story. For the last quote, we discussed how this is the true resolution of the story: Thorin regrets his greed. He finally rejects material goods (hoarded gold) for the simple pleasures in life. We then answered Hari and Aimee's discussion questions. Finally, we each said what our favorite part of the book was. Brad's favorite part was when Bilbo first finds the ring and then escapes the mountains by sneakily following Gollum. Aimee enjoyed when Bilbo and Gollum ask each other riddles. Paul's favorite part was the first chapter because it thoroughly introduces the reader to all the characters in the book. Hari liked the Battle of Five Armies because it is the climax of the novel. Jesse's favorite part was when Bilbo frees the dwarves from the spiders because this is the first time Bilbo truly does anything heroic.
 * At the end of the novel, Gandalf comments to Bilbo, "Surely you don't disbelieve the prophecies, because you had a hand in bringing them about yourself? You don't really suppose, do you, that all your adventures and escapes were managed by mere luck, just for your sole benefit? [...] You are only quite a little fellow in a wide world after all!" (Tolkien 330). Does viewing Bilbo's adventure as fulfillment of a prophesy, rather than a sequence of lucky breaks, make Tolkien's excessive use of coincidences seem more acceptable? Why or why not?**