Bilbo's Transformation In The Hobbit

' "I [Bilbo Baggins] come from under the hills, and under the hills and over the hills my paths led. And through the air,. I am he that walks unseen." ' (Tolkien 258). Bilbo Baggins is the widely known hero of The Hobbit. His transformation into a hero was a difficult journey, and his evolution came from multiple different sources. The importance of social pressure for an individual to reach their full potential is one theme explored in The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, as the peer pressure from the dwarves causes Bilbo to join the journey, the expectations as a burglar push Bilbo in unfamiliar and challenging ways, and the growing sense of responsibility for the group of dwarves that Bilbo feels influences his decisions and actions.

Firstly,
Through their expectations of Bilbo, the dwarves pressure him into facing stressful situations alone, and these foreign experiences allow Bilbo to evolve in skills and personality. Firstly, Bilbo's progression in skills as a burglar is evident through the increasing trust from the dwarves - specifically Thorin - as read in the story. "Very well then," said Thorin, "supposing the burglar-expert gives us some ideas or suggestions." He turned with mock-politeness to Bilbo' (Tolkien 27). 'For Thorin had taken heart again hearing how the hobbit had rescued his companions from the spiders. Mr. Invisible Baggins (of whom he [Thorin] began to have a very high opinion indeed).and they [the dwarves] all trusted Bilbo' (Tolkien 204). Moreover, Bilbo feels that these expectations as a burglar place him in a role where he must step up, which places him in uncomfortable situations that allow him to grow in character and confidence. Bilbo feels that he cannot let the dwarves down and must try to achieve the task at hand, even if practically impossible, with his rudimentary skill set. In difficult situations, he is expected to help the dwarves escape trouble, evolving his character as he must persevere, think in new ways, and grow in courage. After hearing all of this Bilbo ought to have done something at once. Either he should have gone back quietly and warned his friends
One clear example is when Bilbo gives the Arkenstone to Bard to help achieve peace. '"This is the Arkenstone of Thrain," said Bilbo, "the Heart of the Mountain; and it is also the heart of Thorin. He values it above a river of gold. I give it to you. It will aid you in bargaining"' (Tolkien 314). I gave it [the Arkenstone] to them!" squeaked Bilbo" (Tolkien 318). This demonstrates Bilbo's sense of responsibility for the group, as he sacrifices his effort and his friendship with Thorin for peace between the dwarves and the Lake-men. It is a clear contrast to the beginning of the book, as Bilbo would likely take the easy way out, showcasing how he evolves into a more selfless character. It also shows that he feels responsible not only for the outcome of the dwarves but for honesty to his friends, as he could have chosen not to admit his action and stay in the background of the bargaining between Thorin and Bard. This proves his evolving personality, prioritizing peace and the group's interests over his own. The sense of responsibility Bilbo feels for the outcome of the dwarves influences many of his actions, including sacrificing his safety or values for the whole group, which grows his