LMST 345_Topic: The Heroic Journey_The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

LMST 345
Topic: The Heroic Journey
Read: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The hero's journey,  is the common narrative archetype seen in many examples of literature. The hero is usually an evolving character who sets out on some type of adventure, and finds themselves being mentally transformed by a victorious and life changing experience. J.R.R. Tolkie’s novel, The Hobbit, is a prime example for readers to get a clear idea of what a literary heroic journey is. In the story, the main character Bilbo Baggins (a hobbit) is probably the last person that readers expect to rise to the occasion due to his originally, introverted personality; but contrary to initial assumptions, the audience is able to watch his character overcome every stage of the heroic journey, and eventually develop into someone who is fearless and more confident in themselves and their actions.  

By comparing direct quotes from different chapters of the novel, the audience can have an idea of how Bilbo’s character evolved over the course of the book.  “I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it’s very difficult to find anyone” (Tolkien p. 6). This quote is from early on in the book, where Gandalf first asks Bilbo to accompany him on a risky adventure to repossess lost treasure. “We don’t want any adventures here, thank you” (Tolkien p. 6), but Bilbo eventually agrees to step outside his comfort zone and help lead the way. This is an example of the first two stages, in contrast to the end when the journey is over. The reader notices a change in his character, as he comes across as more confident.