The Hobbit Study Guide ~KEY

*Chapter 1: "An Unexpected Party"*

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*Chapter 2: "Roast Mutton"*

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Who are Bilbo's visitors the next day? What does Bilbo feel about them?

13 dwarves. The hobbit feels irritated and annoyed by them, yet interested in what they have to say.

What will Bilbo's role be in the quest planned by the dwarves?

A buglar. He is the lucky number in the adventure.

What does Gandalf "give" Bilbo?

Adventure

What plan does Bilbo carry out? Why does he do this? What does the decision reveal about his character?

After taking Bombur's watch duty, Bilbo climbs down the wall and proceeds to the enemy camp. There he presents Bard with the Arkenstone. Bilbo has carefully analyzed the situation and knows that Thorin's avarice and pride are the root of the problem. He knows that since Thorin wants the Arkenstone more than anything., it will be a powerful bargaining chip for Bard. The hobbit's action increased the chance of averting armed combat and ending the standoff.

How do the travelers get the door open at last?

An old thrush reminds Bilbo of Elrond's advise about the thrush knocking. When the thrush trills, a piece of the rock on the door flakes off and a keyhole is revealed.

What news does Balin bring of the land of the Mountain?

Balin says the land is prosperous and at peace. Lake-town has been rebuilt, and a new Master now rules (the other died while fleeing with some of the dragon's gold). Dale has been rebuilt too and the valleys are alive and rich again.

What are Bard's arguments for claiming a share of Thorin's treasure? How does Thorin react to Bard's arguments?

Bard argues that he killed Smaug, which allowed the dwarves to regain the treasure. Plus, the men of Esgaroth helped the dwarves when they needed assistance, and now the situation is reserved. Bard also points out that not all of the treasure belongs to the dwarves. Mingled in with the riches are valuables which belonged to the men of Dale. Thorin rejects bard's arguments. He says he intends to repay the Lake-men for their assistance. However, he adds, " 'But nothing will we give, not even a lof's worth, under threat of force.'"

Who is Bard of Esgaroth? How is he able to kill Smaug?

Bard is a captain of archers and a descendant of the Lord of Dale, Girion. He is known for his strength and bravery. He is the first to warn of Smaug approaching. Bard courageously fights on to the last moment and aims carefully to bring down the dragon. He is aided by the thrush who informs Bard of the bare spot in Smaug's armor, allowing Bard to kill the dragon.

What noble gestures do Bard and Elvenking make at Thorin's burial?

Bard places the Arkenstone on Thorin and the Elvenkind adds Orcist.

Why would Bard make a better leader than the Master?

Bard's bravery and leadership skills are apparent not only in his battle with Smaug. After the battle he shows concern for the welfare of the citizens and does not display the selfish instincts typical of the Master. Moreover, with his organizational talents, Bard is actually able to set up housing and protection for the helpless citizens. And it is his messengers who bring lifesaving help from the outside. Bard's selfless, brave, and effective action make him a vivid contrast to the Master and an inspiring leader.

What further aid does Beorn offer the travelers to set them on their way?

Beorn gives them supplies, bows and arrows, and horses. Equally important, he offers them advice about their route through Mirkwood. He particularly stresses that they should not leave the path.

Who is Beorn? Describe his appearance, lifestyle, and personality.

Beorn is a skin-changer who is sometimes bear, sometimes man. In his man shape, he is very large, muscular, and has a thick black beard and hair. Gandalf believes Beorn is a descendant of the first human race who came from the Misty Mountains. Beorn lives in a huge wooden house and keeps cattle and horses. However, his diet is vegetarian, primarily cream and honey (produced by his huge bees). Gandalf warns that Beorn has a violent temper, though he can be kind.

Why does Beorn verify for himself Gandalf's story? What lesson might this give Bilbo?

Beorn knows that one key to survival is being very careful. Blindly trusting strangers is a foolish proposition anywhere, but most particularly at the edge of the dangerous forest Mirkwood. Bilbo learns from this experience. He has left a comfortable trusting world and traveled to a land minded with perils. Through observation and experience, Bilbo is gaining a valuable education in survival techniques.

What disturbing warning does Beorn give the travelers?

Beorn warns his guests not to venture outside the house during the night. The warning seems valid, for Bilbo wakes up two nights in a row to the frightening sound of an animal growling and scuffling outside.

What disturbance does Bilbo find at home?

Bilbo arrives at the tail end of an auction of his goods. Since Bilbo has been gone for so long, he has finally been declared dead. Fortunately, Bilbo is able to buy back most of his goods and evict his kin, the Sackville-Bagginses, from his home.

What serious flaw in his escape plan suddenly occurs to Bilbo at the last minute? How does he cope?

Bilbo doesn't plan a way of escape for himself. In desperation, he grabs at the last barrel as it rolls out the trapdoor and into the water. He manages to straddle the barrel and bob along in the water with the others.

Why does Bilbo give the Elvenking a gift at their parting?

Bilbo feels guilty about his thievery in the days when the dwarves were imprisoned in the Elvenking's dungeon. The hobbit was trying to make amends by giving the gift.

What does Bilbo find as he investigates the treasure hoard alone? What does he do with this object, and how does he justify his actions?

Bilbo finds the Arkenstone. He is dazzled by the gem and pockets it. He justifies his action to himself by recalling the dwarves' words that he could pick his own share of the treasure. However, Biblo realizes that the offer probably doesn't include the Arkenstone.

What "turning point" in Bilbo's career occurs soon after he regains consciousness?

Bilbo finds the tiny ring on the floor in the cave.

What disaster occurs at the trolls' camp?

Bilbo gets caught trying to pick-pocket one of the trolls; and soon the dwarves get captured and are tied up in a bag for their supper.

What does Bilbo learn from eavesdropping on the conversation of the raftsmen?

Bilbo hears that the land has changed by growing wilder and less accessible. The only way to reach the Lonely Mountain is by the river route.

What reputation does Bilbo find he had upon his return?

Bilbo is regarded with suspicion and even derision by most hobbits. His strange visitors (elves and dwarves, as well as Gandalf), along with his weird tales, are frowned upon by the stay-at-home hobbits.

What is Bilbo's assignment when the dwarves spot a fire? What does Bilbo discover at the fire site?

Bilbo is sent to investigate what is there. He finds 3 trolls.

What are Bilbo's feelings as he and his friends set off for Lonely Mountain?

Bilbo is very discouraged. He can't forget his sight of Lonely Mountain or the threat of the dragon.

What does Bilbo learn about Gandalf's activities at Elrond's house?

Bilbo learns that while he was on his travels with the dwarves, Gandalf met in council with other wizards and lore masters. The group decided to take action against the Necromancer and succeeded in driving the sorcerer out of Mirkwood.

Who does Bilbo meet by the subterranean lake? What is this creature like?

Bilbo meet Gollum, "a small slimy creature" with huge pale eyes. Gollum lives by himself, eating fish and goblins. He calls himself and his ring "my precious".

What is Bilbo's rescue plan? How do the dwarves respond to his idea?

Bilbo plans to hide the dwarves in the empty wine barrels the elves send floating down the river. The dwarves complain, but agree to the plan as there is not much hope to escape any other way.

Some years after his return, what project does Bilbo plan to undertake?

Bilbo plans to write his memoirs. He considers the title, "There and Back Again." The careful reader may note with amusement that this is the subtitle of The Hobbit.

What is Bilbo's role in the battle?

Bilbo quickly puts on his ring when the battle begins and stays on the sidelines. Despite his other talents, Bilbo is not a warrior.

Why doesn't Bilbo kill Gollum when he has the chance? What does Bilbo do instead to escape Gollum?

Bilbo rejects the chance to stab Gollum, feeling it wouldn't be a fair fight, since he is invisible. He also pities Gollum for leading a pathetic, unimaginably lonely existence. Instead of attacking Gollum, Bilbo makes a tremendous leap straight over him and speeds off through the tunnel. The gambit takes great courage and determination, and a new side of the homely hobbit emerges.

What plan does Bilbo propose when the dwarves discover that the door is blocked? What does Bilbo's proposal and his execution of that plan reveal about him?

Bilbo suggests that all the dwarves come with him into the dragon's lair. The only way out is through the lair and they are not sure if the dragon is even there. Bilbo offers the plan with logic and calm courage. This is in contrast to his previous behavior of being flustered in tight situations. He leads the dwarves through the tunnel and offers warnings/guidance, which demonstrates his courage.

In what way does the journey get off to a bad start for Bilbo? What do his concerns about the journey indicate about Bilbo's character?

Bilbo went off late and without his things (particularly his handkerchief); his lack of knowledge and experience makes him naive.

How does the attitude of the dwarves change after Bilbo rejoins them?

Bilbo, who has been wearing a ring up to this point, suddenly materializes in the midst of his friends. The fact that he could sneak up on them undetected impressed the dwarves—especially Balin, who was on guard duty. When they hear the details (minus the ring) of how Bilbo escaped from Gollum and the goblins, their respect grows even more.

What effect do the capitalized warnings ("MUST NOT" and "DON"T LEAVE THE PATH!") from Gandalf and Beorn have on the reader?

By this point in the novel, we are becoming familiar with Tolkien's technique. The warnings now serve a double purpose. They alert us to the threat of danger should the dwarves and Bilbo stray from the path. Also, the strong suspicion is planted that the group will probably ignore the warnings. The foreshadowing is stronger to us than it is to the characters. The dwarves and Bilbo are still at the point of acting on impulse rather than in a mature, logical fashion. Not only can we guess that they will stray from the path, but we also know they will pay for that error.

How does Dain, the new dwarf king, dispose of the treasure?

Dain realizes that the division of the treasure among the survivors of the original company is not practical or fair. He honors the demands of the Lake-men and gives a fourteenth of the treasure to Bard. Dain offers to richly reward Bilbo, but the hobbit refuses.

Who is Elrond? How does he help the company?

Elrond is an elf-lord, he gives them supplies and advice on the journey.

What two allies unexpectedly join the battle on the side of the elves, men and dwarves?

First, Thoring and his companions join the battle, boldly attacking the goblins. Then the eagles arrive and assist.

Who is Gandalf? What seems to be Bilbo's opinion of him?

Gandalf is a wizard. Bilbo seems to admire him with his works.

How are Bilbo and the dwarves rescued? What lesson does Bilbo learn from Gandalf's method of rescue?

Gandalf mimic's the trolls' voices' so that they argue with each other. While they are distracted, daylight shone and they quickly turned to stone with the wizard's trickery. Bilbo learns that it's possible to win with cleverness instead of violence.

What does Gollum propose to Bilbo? How does fair play figure in that proposal?

Gollum and Bilbo agree to test each other with riddles. If Gollum wins, he gets to eat Bilbo. If Bilbo wins, Gollum will show him the way out of the cave. Bilbo asks an unfair question and the end of the game causing Gollum to lose; the question was unfair, but Bilbo demands fair repayment.

What additional treasure does Bilbo accrue on the way home?

He and Gandalf stop off near the trolls' cave and retrieve the gold they buried there. They divide the treasure equally.

How well does Bilbo do with his first opportunity to help the company?

He did very poorly.

Why is Elvenking angry with the dwarves?

He feels the dwarves are trespassing in his area and accuses them of harassing his people and stirring up the spiders. Elvenkind is also angry because the dwarves refuse to reveal their plans.

What is Bilbo's chief thought after he steals the cup? What does this thought reveal about his character?

He has been trying to prove his worth to the dwarves during the trip. He thinks, "I've done it! This will show them!" Though he cares about his friends, his thoughts show that he has a desire to triumph over them and prove their thoughts of him are unfair.

What are Bilbo's feelings for his hobbit-hole home, Bag-End?

He is very fond of it, and has everything he needs there, plus comfort.

What forebodings does Gandalf have as the company sets out from Rivendell?

He knows how dangerous and evil the adventure is.

What time of year does Bilbo return home? Why is this appropriate?

He returns at the same time of year as when he left - spring. This completes the yearly cycle and ends his adventure on a symbolically positive note.

What is significant about Bilbo's question "Is that *The* Mountain?"

He thinks they have already made it to the Lonely Mountain and that their journey is over, when in reality, it's still the very beginning and many dangers are still ahead.

How does Bilbo rescue the dwarves? How do dwarves act towards Bilbo after the escape of the spiders?

He uses the ring to throw stones at the spiders without them seeing him. He lures the spiders away from the dwarves by taunting them through insulting songs.

How does Bilbo feel about the increasing load of responsibility for the dwarves?

He wishes Gandalf was around to help. Sometimes he loses hope and often longs for his home. However, Bilbo becomes determined when he creates the recuse plan.

In what small way does Bilbo manage to prevent a total disaster in the cave?

He yells to wake everyone up before there was serious trouble with the goblins.

Of what importance is the italicized "behind the mountains" at the beginning of Chapter 6?

Here Tolken expects his readers to check the map. Bilbo has emerged on the other side dangerous Misty Mountains. The adventure with the goblins led the travelers to a kind of short cut.

How does the author make use of imagery to describe Mirkwood? What mood is created by that imagery?

Here the author is at his descriptive best. His use of sensory imagery is very effective in this chapter. He describes the weird noises and far off laughter and contrasts them with the disturbing silence. He mentions the suffocation, the terrible thirst and hunger, and the chill the group suffers. He counters the intense darkness with the glow of eerie eyes that watch the travelers. And he offers the smells of the unapproachable elf feast as a tantalizing frustration for Bilbo and the dwarves.

What example of foreshadowing is evident early in Chapter 7?

Here we discover that the eagles will return later in the book and that there will be an enormous conflict known as the Batlle of Five Armies. The Hobbit is filled with foreshadowing—some subtle, some obvious. This is an example of foreshadowing at its most obvious.

Why does Bilbo agree to join the dwarves on their adventure? (not on test)

His Tookish side takes over when he suddenly realizes what he is missing out on the morning when the dwarves left.

What are hobbits?

Hobbits are a good natured people, about half our height, and smaller than the bearded dwarves. They tend to be fat, and have large hairy feet.

Why does Bilbo conceal from his friends his discovery of the ring?

In an almost childish way, Bilbo may think of the ring as a mere gimmick—something he could use to trick them again. On a more mature level, however, he may be learning that there are times the hobbit will eventually be able to make his intelligent plans in a Gandalf-like manner.

What are Thorin's last words? Why are they important?

In his dying moments, he apologizes to Bilbo for his words at the Front Gate. He admits that the world would be better if more people valued food, cheer and song instead of material wealth.

Describe Bilbo's farewell to the dwarves

On both sides, emotions run high. Bilbo bids farewell to all the survivors of the original company. Bilbo offers his home to all to visit.

Why is the raven pessimistic, despite news that Dain and an army of five hundred dwarves are close to Dale?

Roac feels that the approach of the dwarf army will only bring about a disastrous battle. He points out that even if Dain's troops can make it through the army of elves and men, winter will soon descend. Then the dwarves will be imprisoned in Lonely Mountains without food.

Why does Tolkien postpone the news of Smaug's death until Chapter 14?

Smaug is killed while the dwarves are exploring his lair. If Tolkein would have told us of the death of Smaug the suspense and tension would not be there.

What has Smaug guessed about Bilbo's mission? What still puzzles the dragon?

Smaug knows that Bilbo is a thief working with the dwarves. Bilbo's description of "barrel-rider" leads the dragon to believe that Lake-town is involved in the scheme. Smaug is still puzzled at what Bilbo is since Bilbo is wearing the ring and Smaug has never sniffed a hobbit before.

How does Smaug describe himself to Bilbo?

Smaug uses figurative language to convey the sense of power and terror he possesses.

What finally caused the dwarves to step into Smaug's den?

Startled by a bat, Bilbo drops his torch. He calls for help since the cave is totally dark. The dwarves set out to rescue the hobbit.

What function to the plot is served by the raven, Roac?

The introduction of Roac is an exposition device, permitting the dwarves to discover some very vital news. Through the raven, the company learns the story of Smaug's demise. They also hear of the approach of the men and elves. Finally, Roac's ravens allow the dwarves to summon their kinsmen to the defense of the old stronghold and its treasure.

Why do the company's spirits droop at the beginning of Chapter 11?

The landscape becomes gloomy and depressing. Dark birds follow them. Winter is coming and the signs of the old desolation brought by the dragon are evident everywhere.

What sort of leader is the Master of Lake-town?

The master is more cynical and devious than his people. He reluctantly gives hospitality to the dwarves and does not believe they will be successful with the dragon.

What happens to Bilbo and the dwarves as they try to find the path again?

The questers are captured by Wood-elf troops.

How do the other dwarves feel about Bilbo's banishment?

The ret of the dwarves do not protest Thorin's decision and, in fact, remain silent. Yet Tolkein notes, "More than one of the dwarves in their hearts felt shame and pity at his going."

What is so remarkable about Lake-town? Why do the people of Lake-town treat the dwarves so well?

The town is built on the surface of the water atop huge piles of trees. The people are brave, remaining in their homes despite the threat of the nearby dragon.

What is odd about dinner Beorn offers his guest?

The travelers are served by animals who bring in light and seats, set the table and present the food. The table itself is a little strange, being so low—probably for the sake of the animals.

Why do the travelers decide to leave the path? What happens when they try to carry out the plan?

The travelers are starving and see fires in the distance; they hope to find food. They approach the fire and see elves drinking and eating, but when they try to join them, darkness

What further discouragements do the adventurers face after they finally find the door?

Their tools are useless in opening the door.

What sort of creatures do the goblins appear to be?

They are small mountain-like creatures that are ugly and rough.

What mistakes do the dwarves make early in Chapter 4?

They camped inside a cave; they didn't check it thoroughly to make sure it was safe.

What startling discovery do the dwarves make about Thorin? What has been Thorin's fate?

They discover that Thorin is not with them. Thorin has been captured by the Wood-elves.

What unexpected windfall do the travelers reap from their adventure?

They find gold, food, and weapons from the troll cave.

What old wrong do the dwarves wish to right? How is their quest defined?

They wish to go to Lonely Mountain and retrieve their lost treasures by Smaug who is still very much alive

How does Thorin react to the discovery that the Arkenstone is now in the hand of his enemies?

Thorin is first dumbfounded. Then, when Bilbo admits his role, he is furious with the hobbit. The dwarf kind orders Bilbo to leave, even threatening injury to him.

What threat does Thorin make regarding the Arkenstone?

Thorin says the gem is priceless to him and he desires it more than anything else in the treasure. He threatens, "I will be avenged on anyone who finds it and withholds it."

Why is Bilbo's journey back through the Wild so much safer than his journey out?

Though Bilbo does have adventures on the way back, he is never in grave danger. Accompanied by Beorn and Gandalf, he is well protected. Almost all of the goblins and Wargs have been rooted out, so there are fewer threates to Bilbo's safety.

How do the elves react to the news of Lake-town's destruction?

Through his own messengers, the Elvenking learns of the commotion at Lake-town. He sets out in force for the Mountain, believing a war to be brewing. A messenger from bard meets them halfway, with a request for help. The Elvenking quickly responds, sending goods ahead of water. Then he leaves some of his troops in Lake-town to help rebuild shelters.

Why does Tolkien not give Bilbo a role to play in the Battle of the Five Armies?

Tolkien may have been trying to say that individuals can be master of their fate up to a point, but sometimes forces beyond control shape destiny. Bilbo has matured and progressed with his character development as far as he can. In the grand scheme of things, he is still just a hobbit.

How does Tolkein create suspense in his description of the dragon?

Tolkien reveals details about the dragon little by little. Drawing out the information about Smaug creates greater suspense than telling all information at one time.

What are the trolls like? What impression do they create?

Trolls are rude, mean, and violent. They create a scary and intimidating mood.

How are the Wood-elves different from other elves? What further information does Tolkien reveal about the relationship of elves and dwarves?

Wood-elves are good people, but they are not as wise as other elves. In the past, elves and dwarves have clashed and even went to war. The tension is still remembered by both parties and the Wood-elves treat Thorin with some hostility.

What do Bilbo's final words to Smaug show about his character development?

Success breeds confidence, and confidence sometimes leads to arrogance. Biblo's final words are sassy causing an angry reaction from the dragon. The burn from the dragon serves as a reminder that there are dangers of overconfidence.

What is the travelers' destination?

The Lonely Mountain in the east.

How does the Master further prove to be a poor leader in this chapter?

The Master does not help in the fight against Smaug. Indeed, he is only interested in saving himself during the attack. Then, after the attack, he diverts the crowd's desire to depose him in the favor of Bard by turning their opinion against the dwarves. They, so claims the Master, are the real cause of the present troubles. His diversion proving successful, the Master settles back to selfishly fill his own needs, seeking food and shelter. He ignores the plight of the sick, wounded, and homeless. The final proof of the Master's weak leadership abilities is his decisions not go to the Mountain. He prefers to remain safely behind.

Who are Bilbo's ancestors? What conflict might this ancestry create for Bilbo?

The Tooks on his mother's side and the Baggins on his father's side. The Tooks are adventurous, but the Baggins are not, and the very different personalities of the two can make Bilbo torn with himself.

What is "the frying-pan" the party lands in after their escape from the goblins? Why is this danger more serious than the goblin threat?

The Wargs, or evil wolves, attack the travelers. Bilbo realizes that even his magic ring will be of no use against the Wargs. The wolves do not need to see to track their victims.

What stops the battle between the dwarves and the force of men and elves?

The approach of the evil goblin and Warg army forces the dwarves to quickly reconcile their differences with the elves and men and join together against a common foe.

What is the Arkenstone?

The beautiful white gem at the heart of the Lonely Mountain. It is the treasure in Smaug's lair that Thorin and the dwarves value highly.

What does Bilbo's decision to return to the dwarves after giving up the Arkenstone demonstrate?

The decision reflects two strengths in Bilbo's character. It proves his loyalty and his willingness to take responsibility for his actions.

What does Bilbo overhear when he sneaks up on the dwarves' camp?

The dwarves and Gandalf are debating about rescuing the hobbit when Bilbo finds them. The dwarves are reluctant to return to the goblin caves to seek the hobbit. Indeed, they consider their burglar to be a burden. But Gandalf angrily defends Bilbo. He reminds them once again that before everything is said and done, the hobbit will be very important to them. Bilbo also overhears how the others managed their escape. With their sword, Gandalf and Thorin fought off the goblins. At some point in the battle, the Great Goblin was killed. Then, under the cover of the blinding fireworks, Gandalf led the dwarves to the goblins' "back door" and out into safety.

How does the treasure affect the various members of the company?

The dwarves are caught up in the "bewitchment of the hoard". They are so consumed with the treasure, they forget their fear of Smaug. However, Bilbo is not as taken with the treasure as the dwarves.

What preparations do the dwarves make after they hear news of the approaching men and elves?

The dwarves fortify the Front Gate, repair the road, and alter the river bed to make a pool. They also round up three ponies that escaped the dragon. Since the ponies are still carrying bundles of supplies, the company now has food for several weeks.

How does elfin behavior contrast with what is known about dwarves thus far?

The elves have a love for life, while the dwarves are more practical and serious.

What might Gandalf's return signify?

The fact that Gandalf reappears indicates that upcoming events will grow to proportions beyond the influence of the hobbit. Bilbo has done all he can do for the dwarves.

Why does Tolkien describe Bilbo's final steps down the tunnel as "the bravest thing he ever did"?

The fear of the unknown is often worse than the known. Bilbo knows he is about to encounter Smaug, but he doesn't know what to expect. Still, he continues on into the tunnel.

Why do the travelers leave the Front Gate? Where do they decide to make camp?

The group decides it would be unwise to camp on Smaug's "front step". The dragon uses the Front Gate as an entrance. They move on to an old lookout post at the southwest corner of the mountain.