WEEK 6: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien (6)

The hobbit, precursor to the Lord of the Rings truly is a classic. It is short (unlike the movies, am I right?), yet packed with action, courage and adventure. What I want to discuss here is the importance of the theme of “Home”. Even from the very beginning you have the stark contrast between the lives of the dwarves and Bilbo. On one hand you have a life with nothing else but adventure and freedom, on the other, you have the calm and relaxing nature of the mundane. However, both are missing something that to them, seems incredibly important. The dwarves seek that stability back, as it is demanding to live without a home. Whereas the hobbit eventually became tired of his boring and repetitive lifestyle. 


What’s interesting is the fact that what brings them together is the sheer yet familiar contrast of their ambitions. The dwarves want what Bilbo has, the same way Bilbo desires what they have. This thus makes you realize that unlike the typical Hobbit philosophy, it is important to balance the mundane with excitement. As a matter of fact, there is a limit to everything. You simply can’t become only satiated through non-stop adventure or pleasure-full activities, for when the moment arises where your health, or any other factors hinders your opportunities, you will be destroyed by the sudden change in lifestyle. One can’t take anything for granted, and this is what Bilbo realized as Gandalf came through the Shire. Only, it was the other way around for him, as he realises that, while he will always be able to relax at home, this opportunity might be his only one. Thus grabbing it allows him to satisfy a part of him, and coming back to his warm bed after a successful change allows a greater sense of accomplishment.

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