Examples Of Heroism In The Hobbit

To further investigate Bilbo Baggins as a hero, first the term hero must be defined. In literary works, heroes have classical been defined by their noble birth or high status in society. Most commonly, these characters are male, exhibit mythic strength and prowess on the battlefield, and have already been established by their own people or country as a heroic figure (Nagy 33). Yet this type of reputation is not the case with the race of hobbits. A hobbit is not a warrior nor does a hobbit appear to possess the makings of a hero. As Tolkien said in a 1964 interview, “[Hobbits] are just rustic English people, made small in size because it reflects the small reach of their imagination.” (Carpenter 180). To a degree, this statement is to be true,
This mindset can be exemplified by Bilbo and Gandalf’s encounter in which the Bilbo states that “[hobbits] are plain quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner!” (Tolkien 6). Hobbits do not lack the potential for courage per se, but rather lack ambition and do not feel the need to exploit themselves in hopes of treasure or glory as they are much better satisfied with a good meal. The race of hobbits, as a whole, appear to have no overarching goal in life other than to carry out the simple lifestyle they are born into sheltered within the borders of the Shire (Glenn 21). Despite what Tolkien has said in regards about Hobbits being rustic and unimaginative, he presents his audience with Bilbo Baggins, a descendent of the well-respected Bagginses and the more adventurous and unpredictable Tooks. At first it appears that Bilbo agrees with Tolkien’s sentiments about the nature of hobbits but the Took part of him is not wholly satisfied with the homely lifestyle led by hobbits. This, and his size, make him a prime candidate for Gandalf to pick to accompany the dwarves on the quest to reclaim the mountain. With a nudge from out his door by Gandalf, Bilbo sets off on his adventure in a manner that is typical of a hero (Green 41). He is seeking to prove himself after being discredited by the dwarves as looking “more like a grocer than a burglar.” Among other things Bilbo has also set out on the promise of having a share of the treasure as mentioned in the contract, fame and wealth are motivators before he comes to be friends with the company of