Examples Of Archetype In The Hobbit

In The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien challenges the traditional epic hero archetype ingrained in classic characters like Odysseus from Homer’s, The Odyssey. Following trials eliciting his hidden heroic qualities, Bilbo pursues the initiate hero archetype. Contrastingly, Odysseus follows the traditional epic hero archetype and does not depend on events from the plot to draw out these qualities. His preexisting fame for his god-like quick thinking strikes fear and respect in the hearts of others, whereas Bilbo gains the respect of his friends as gradually as his skills build up. Later in the story, he betrays his friend, whereas Odysseus stays true to the traditional epic hero archetype by staying loyal to his crewmates. The differences in characteristics

The initiate hero’s archetype is when the protagonist must undergo a transforming quest filled with trials to draw out their heroic qualities inside. Because they are born with supernatural powers, traditional epic heroes do not need events to draw out their heroic characteristics. Before Gandalf’s arrival, Bilbo has a simple, relaxed lifestyle of smoking rings and enjoying the outdoors. Nothing about him stands out; his innocent simplicity makes him relatable to the audience. Moreover, his relatability is cardinal because the reader must feel an emotional connection with the initiate hero. When Gandalf invites him on a quest to help the dwarves seek revenge on Smaug, the evil dragon who takes over the Misty Mountains, Bilbo tells him he “[doesn’t] want any adventures,” (Tolkien, 5). His initial refusal to answer the call to adventure shows he is timorous before his transition in character. Following the trials presented by the quest, Bilbo’s character grows as gradually as his skills in burglary do. Born with god-like abilities, Odysseus hence follows the epic hero archetype. While his crew stresses over their lives after being caught by the Cyclops, Odysseus quickly thinks of a plan and gets the Cyclops drunk. When the

When Bilbo first attempts to steal from the trolls, he fails miserably as the troll turns around “and [grabs] Bilbo by the neck, before he could duck,” (Tolkien, ___). Subsequently to his failure, the dwarves scold him and temporarily hold a grudge against him for his incompetence. As Bilbo finds more opportunities to practice his burglary, he improves his skills, and the dwarves gain respect for him accordingly. Adversely, after she transforms them into pigs, Odysseus tries convincing the goddess Circe to return his crewmates, but instead of keeping up a fight, Circe immediately surrenders. Crying, Circe hugs his knees in fear, realizing “[he has] a mind in [him] no magic can enchant!” deducting, “[he] must be Odysseus, [the] man of twists and turns,” (11). Instantaneously, Circe disregards the fact that she is a powerful goddess skilled in magic and submits herself to the mercy of Odysseus. Unlike Bilbo, who has to persevere to earn the respect of others, Odysseus’ foes already fear him because of his reputation. Challenging the traditional idea of the hero, Tolkien makes Bilbo work to earn the respect of