Reflecting on my preconceived notions, I have found myself much more interested in this book than I originally expected. I have found that The Hobbit does not display a strongly influential grotesque "boy" nature that I assumed. Instead, I was more interested in the character building that Tolkien developed. Not only was the plot adventurous and climatic, but it was also intertwined with various and unique characters. Aside from the variety of dwarves, goblins, elves, and other creatures, each character had specific qualities that either drew me into their character or caused me to have resistance toward the character. For example, I was quite drawn to the wizard when he stood up for his friend and choice, while the other dwarves were ridiculing Mr. Baggins. This instance in the chapter "Out of the Frying- Pan Into the Fire" emphasized Gandalf's values for me therefore drawing me into his character. I viewed this showing as loyalty but I suppose it could also be seen as stubborn, refusing to admit to a mistake on his part. In contrast, my opinion of the dwarves as a whole wavered and sometimes caused a feeling of resistance. It seems as though every instance that brings strife causes the dwarves to quickly turn to a chaotic state of blame, complaints, and bickering. For example in the chapter "Barrels Out of Bond", the dwarves are forced to trust Bilbo but only after hesitation due to fear of being "bruised and battered to pieces, and drowned". Bilbo is constantly having to force plans upon the dwarves, which really surprised me in regards to Bilbo's character.
The dynamic character of Bilbo that Tolkien built progressively occurred but was spurred on with the loss of their leader Gandalf. Personally, I did not expect a change this drastic, as it Bilbo has transformed to be not only a leader, but an honest and brave one. The moment that shockingly stood out to me the most occurred when Bilbo volunteered to see the dragon in the chapter "Inside Information". From this moment on, I realized the deep change from the prim and proper hobbit that was first introduced.
I have found that The Hobbit does not display a strongly influential grotesque "boy" nature that I assumed.
ReplyDeleteWow-that's quite a statement! What do you mean by this?
I'm interested in your reaction to the dwarves. Is there anything significant for the reader about the portrayal of the dwarves' character? Do we learn a lesson from the dwarves?
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ReplyDeleteAfter finishing the book, I think I may have to reconsider the absence of a grotesque manner. For the most part, the fantasy was not focused on the gory battles, and sickly creatures. I was most interested in the other imagery focused on nature and description of characters.
ReplyDeleteMy reaction to the dwarves was more skeptical as I hesitated to trust them as a reader but also did not jump to resist them. The dwarves' greedy character was significant to the overall focus of values in the book. I think the lesson that is reinforced is the universal warning to not indulge the materialistic world rather to treasure and prioritize our principals based on deeper values.