Bilbo Baggins Path of Self Definition The Hobbit, by J.R.R Tolkien, takes us through the adventures of an unsuspecting hobbit whose meager size was far from proportional to the adventures he would experience. This hobbit goes by the name of Bilbo Baggins. Hobbits, by nature, do not tend to be outgoing and venturesome whether it be due to pure inclination, or pressure from their fellow hobbits to maintain a respectable way about themselves that is achieved by leading a mundane life. Despite this inherent desire, assisted by his new experiences and companions, Bilbo was eventually able to break free from the conventional life of a hobbit and define himself as an individual. Bilbo’s journey of self-definition was propelled by his adventure, his …show more content…
In the beginning, Bilbo was entirely opposed to the idea of an adventure and turned his head at any suggestion of it saying “Sorry! I don't want any adventures, thank you.” (Tolkien 6). However, after the troop, sent by Gandalf, started showing up at his residence, he had hardly any choice but to accept the challenge and assume his role as their appointed burglar. Throughout their perilous journey to defeat Smaug, the group faced countless trials from troll encounters to confronting bloodthirsty spiders. Yet, through it all, little Bilbo pulled through and ensured not only his own safety but also the well-being of each member of his company. With this, Bilbo started to see the potential for greatness that existed inside of him that remained unseen in his previous, ordinary, …show more content…
Not only was Gandalf the one who set Bilbo on the quest, but he also gave him the confidence to partake in it by believing in him even when Bilbo himself didn’t have faith in his abilities. When the dwarfs in the group were skeptical of his suitability for the position of their burglar, Gandalf was quick to assure them that “There is a lot more in him than you guess, and a deal more than he has any idea of himself.” (Tolkien 19). For Bilbo, Gandalf’s assurance started to plant the seed of self-confidence within him. Gandalf served as a mentor for Bilbo and provided him with the opportunity that would develop self-assurance and teach him to take a chance on adventure, redefining how he viewed such