What strikes me most about The Hobbit is the characterization that Tolkien created. Throughout the book, Tolkien shapes and builds the fantasy through the characters that we grow to either trust or resist. The most surprising aspect of this characterization is the dynamic essence that plays a key role to the overall theme of greed and lesson learned in the book. The fantasy also seems to focus on the common theme of the treasure lying within the journey, not the destination. Through complete transformations, the qualities gained are evident by the end of the journey. The two main focuses that played out a dynamic characterization are Bilbo, the protagonist, and Thorin.
In the beginning of the novel, Bilbo's character is plainly stated as proper and therefore a fitting Bagginses, with a rich and respected reputation. He is a careful host and greets his company with respect as well as provides hospitality whether it is convenient for him or not. This is seen as he is overwhelmed with the "adventure" that Gandalf shockingly brings right to his doorstep. In the first glimpse of a defiance in Bilbo, he accepts the adventure in order to prove them wrong and that he is worthy of being a burglar. As the adventure progresses, Bilbo continues to straggle behind and hide in the protective shadows of Gandalf. As he is faced not only with the challenges that lie ahead of them- battles, hunger, and forlornness, but also with the challenges of proving himself to the dwarves, Bilbo slowly progresses to gain a bold leadership identity that becomes the heart of the fantasy. Tolkien does not present this change in an ambiguous manner, but rather openly states that the dwarves now look to Bilbo for ideas, plans, and security. It seems as though no one else would have stepped up in Gandalf's absence when the group was faced with hardship. Bilbo even takes a humble outlook, and selflessly looks to resolve issues. He does this in an outstanding fashion in the end of the book- first not taking credit for finding the dragon's weak spot (or for that matter not taking credit for all the heroic actions he performed), and secondly sacrificing himself to save a bloody war by giving the stone over the Bard.
In contrast, Thorin experiences a much different transformation and seems to take a much greater deal of lessons out to reach this enlightened perspective. From the start of the fantasy, Thorin, like most dwarves, is greedy, stubborn, and proud. As Gandalf guides the dwarves and the hobbit around, Thorin leads the dwarves in complaints and is quick to criticize others while refusing to admit to his own mistake. He is particularly critical of Bilbo and Gandalf's choice to bring him. The weak leadership of Thorin is quickly seen at the absence of Gandalf. In the first and faintest sign of troubles Thorin is helpless to maintain order amongst the group that spirals into a chaotic quarrel of blame and frenzy. Even towards the end of the story, Thorins leadership is not appealing, as he angrily throws over Bilbo at the trading of his stone. Gandalf points this out as Thorin's greed is emphasized and it is apparent that his gold is more important to him than the value of loyalty, friendship, or trust. However, the change in Thorin is seen as he may recognizes the strong character of Bilbo. His change is best seen some of his final words as he states that he is going where "gold and silver are of little worth" and "If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world." Although Thorin is buried with his treasured stone, it is apparent that the journey imposed on him new values.
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