Examples Of Bilbo Archetype

Dustin Hon

Mrs. Borihane

English Honors 1

15 February 2023

Bilbo’s Archetype What is an archetypal hero? An archetypal hero is a protagonist who endeavors daunting challenges and accomplishing remarkable feats of valor, bravery, and virtue. In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, the characterization of Bilbo Baggins both challenges and reinforces the traditional archetype of the hero in various ways. Bilbo’s unconventional heroism challenges traditional hero archetypes by perceiving as an ordinary and unadventerous hobbit while also reinforcing the archetype with selflessness and emphasizing empathy over physical strength. Bilbo’s character challenges the traditional archetype of the hero by presenting Bilbo as an unlikely protagonist while Odysseus

Bilbo is confronted by Gollum in the goblin caves. Bilbo wielded a dagger which he “thrusted [it] infront of him” (Tolkien 34). Gollum lacked weapons giving Bilbo the greater advantage but because Bilbo sympathized with Gollum, he decided to spare Gollum’s life and negotiating peace with the enemy rather than engaging in violence. Rather than killing Gollum, Bilbo embraces the irregular heroic quality of empathy. Bilbo develops a sense of affinity for the dwarves and their quest after seeing their “fierce and jealous love, the desire of the hearts of dwarves'' (Tolkien 8), which drives his aspirations to aid them rather than seeking glory for himself. This withdrawal from the traditional hero who seeks fame and glory, offers a refreshing perspective of the definition of a hero. Similarly, Odysseus possesses qualities similar to Bilbo. However, in The Odyssey by Homer translated by Robert Fagles, Odysseus’ heroism is based on several qualities and actions. Odysseus is known for his cleverness and ability to think on his feet. When Odysseus and his men were trapped inside Polyphemus, the cyclops' cave, Odysseus devised a plan to blind the monster and escape. He convinced Polyphemus that Odysseus' name was “Nobody - so my mother and father call me ' (Fagles 223). Odysseus’ smart interactions with Polyphemus demonstrates his ability to

Bilbo embodies this traditional feature of a hero risking his life multiple times to help his companions. Although faced with many challenges, he never gives up even in the face of great danger. Bilbo has reach the climax of his journey leading him to confront Smaug the dragon. Despite saving the dwarves multiple times, he still continues with his original assignment appointing “[himself to] go and have a peep at once and get it over” (Tolkien 96). Bilbo is chosen as the burglar and continues to fulfill his job. He could have bailed and ran away the first chance he had but rather he stayed and assisted the dwarves in their quest. Not only did Bilbo help the dwarves in one of their last acts, he also saves his companions from being held hostage by the Elvenking. Bilbo risked his own life and “did not wish to desert the dwarves'' (Tolkien 80). Bilbo is selfless and willing to risk his life to save his friends, even when the odds are against him. He put himself in harm’s way to rescue them. Bilbo Baggins embodies the heroic archetype of selflessness by putting others' needs before his own. Similarly, Odysseus posses alike qualities as Bilbo. When Odysseus and his men land on the island of the Lotus Eaters, they are given a plant that makes them forget their homes and families. However, Odysseus realizes the danger of staying on the island and takes it upon