J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit has been captivating readers for over 80 years. It is a story of adventure, danger, and self-discovery that has enthralled both children and adults alike.
The book introduces us to a hobbit named Bilbo Baggins, who embarks on a journey with a group of dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. Along the way, Bilbo undergoes a transformation from a timid, unadventurous hobbit to a courageous, resourceful hero. The story is a classic that will continue to enchant readers for generations to come.
You do not have to read the entire book if you don’t have time. This book review provides an overview of everything you can learn from it.
Let’s get started without further ado.
In this Siddhartha book review, I’m going to cover the following topics:
Table of Contents
Book Summary
The Journey Begins: A Reluctant Hero Sets Out
The Hobbit opens with the introduction of the main character, Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is content with his quiet, uneventful life in the Shire. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when Gandalf the wizard appears at his door, looking for someone to join him on an adventure. Despite his initial reluctance, Bilbo eventually agrees to accompany Gandalf and a group of dwarves on their quest to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug.
Throughout the book, we see Bilbo struggle with his newfound role as a burglar, and his fear of danger and uncertainty. However, as the story progresses, Bilbo grows increasingly confident and resourceful, relying on his wit and courage to overcome the many challenges he faces.
Along the way, Bilbo encounters a variety of fantastical creatures, from trolls and goblins to giant spiders and dragons. These encounters are both thrilling and dangerous, and each one tests Bilbo’s mettle and helps him grow as a character.
The Heart of the Mountain: The Arkenstone
One of the central objects in The Hobbit is the Arkenstone, a gem that is described as the Heart of the Mountain. It is this treasure that Thorin, the leader of the dwarves, seeks to reclaim from Smaug. However, when Bilbo discovers the Arkenstone in Smaug’s hoard, he realizes that it could be used as a bargaining chip to avoid a war between the dwarves, elves, and men.
Bilbo’s decision to give the Arkenstone to the elves, against Thorin’s wishes, is a pivotal moment in the story. It demonstrates Bilbo’s growing sense of morality and his willingness to do what is right, even if it means going against his friends. The Arkenstone is a symbol of the greed and selfishness that has consumed Thorin, and Bilbo’s actions help to restore a sense of balance and justice to the situation.
The Battle of Five Armies: A Fierce Conflict and a Tragic Loss
The climax of the story is the Battle of Five Armies, a fierce conflict that takes place between the dwarves, elves, men, goblins, and Wargs. The battle is both thrilling and heartbreaking, as many of the characters we have grown to love are killed in the fighting.
Bilbo’s role in the battle is relatively small, but it is still significant. He uses his wits to help the dwarves and his allies, and his bravery and resourcefulness are instrumental in the ultimate victory over the goblins and Wargs.
However, the victory comes at a great cost. Thorin, the proud and stubborn dwarf leader, is mortally wounded in the fighting. Bilbo’s final conversation with Thorin is a moving moment that demonstrates the growth and maturity of both characters. Thorin acknowledges that Bilbo has proven himself to be a true friend and a courageous ally, and Bilbo weeps for the loss of a dear companion.
Themes
The Hobbit is an excellent work of fiction by J.R.R. Tolkien that is characterized by several themes. One of the significant themes is that of courage, bravery, and heroism.
Throughout the story, Bilbo, the hobbit protagonist, demonstrates remarkable bravery and courage. Bilbo, who is generally considered timid, cautious, and not adventurous, goes on an adventure with the dwarves and Gandalf.
Despite the many dangers he faces, Bilbo manages to come out on top through his wit, cunning, and bravery. Additionally, Bilbo’s evolution from a simple hobbit into a heroic character is evident throughout the book.
Another critical theme in The Hobbit is that of greed and the perils it poses. The dwarves’ love for treasure leads them to pursue Smaug’s hoard, which ultimately results in a war. Even Thorin, who initially sets out to claim his family’s rightful inheritance, becomes consumed by greed, leading to his downfall. Tolkien portrays greed as a vice that corrupts individuals and leads them to make irrational decisions.
Lastly, remember the theme of the power of friendship and camaraderie in “The Hobbit”. Bilbo, the dwarves, and Gandalf come from different backgrounds and species but form a strong bond that helps them on their journey.
Bilbo risks his life to save the dwarves, and they, in turn, are loyal to him. Even after the conflict and misunderstanding between them, the book ends with Thorin acknowledging Bilbo’s courage and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of valuing friendship and camaraderie.
Writing Style
Tolkien’s writing style in The Hobbit is one of the most remarkable aspects of the book. The author’s use of language is vivid, descriptive, and engaging. The book’s prose is written in a straightforward and easy-to-read style that makes it accessible to readers of all ages. Tolkien’s descriptions of the various landscapes and creatures in Middle-earth are captivating, making it easy for readers to imagine the world he created.
The author also employs humor throughout the book. For instance, the opening chapter of the book humorously describes hobbits as “little people, about half our height.” The humor helps to lighten the mood in the book and makes it an enjoyable read.
Praise
1. World-Building and Imagination
Tolkien’s ability to create an entire world with its own history, mythology, and languages is truly remarkable. He brings to life a rich and vivid fantasy world that is unlike anything else in literature.
From the Shire to the Lonely Mountain to the dark depths of Mirkwood, every detail of Middle-earth is carefully crafted to make it feel like a real place. His use of descriptive language and attention to detail in describing the landscapes, creatures, and characters transports readers to this fantastical world.
2. Character Development
Another strong aspect of The Hobbit is the development of its characters, especially Bilbo. Bilbo’s transformation from a timid, comfort-seeking hobbit to a brave, resourceful adventurer is compelling and inspiring.
The other characters, especially the dwarves, are also given their own distinct personalities and backstories, which make them more relatable and memorable. Tolkien’s ability to create complex characters with depth and nuance is one of the reasons why The Hobbit has remained a beloved classic for generations.
Criticism
1. Pacing
One of the drawbacks of The Hobbit is its uneven pacing. While some parts of the book are action-packed and exciting, other sections can feel slow and tedious. The journey through Mirkwood, for example, seems to drag on for too long, and some of the scenes in the book feel like filler. The pacing issue is especially noticeable when compared to The Lord of the Rings, where Tolkien masterfully balances the action and the slower, more introspective moments.
2. Lack of Diversity
Another criticism of The Hobbit is its lack of diversity in characters. With the exception of Gandalf, who is a wizard, all of the characters in the book are male and white. While this may be a reflection of the time period in which the book was written, it is still disappointing to see such a lack of representation in a modern classic.
The fantasy genre has come a long way in terms of diversity since the publication of The Hobbit, and this book’s lack of representation may feel exclusionary to some readers.
Conclusion
The Hobbit is an excellent work of fiction that has stood the test of time. Tolkien’s use of language, the depth of his characters, and the vividly imagined world of Middle-earth make it a timeless classic.
The themes of courage, greed, and friendship make it a book that is still relevant today. The Hobbit is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fantasy or adventure novels.
