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Gandalf as the Guide Archetype

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Gandalf as a “the Guide” What is Gandalf’s Archetype? The dictionary defines it as "the original pattern or model from which all things of same kind are copied or on which they are based; a model or first form; prototype." J.R.R Tolkien's "The Hobbit" is a story of growth that centers on Bilbo Baggins a Hobbit who is perfectly happy in his Hobbit hole eating, drinking and smoking. Everything in Bilbo’s life is as he likes it, until the day that Gandalf the Grey strolls into his life and although Bilbo doesn't know it Gandalf is his Guide. The Archetype of "The Guide" points the hero in the direction he is destined to go. Gandalf is the one who chooses Bilbo as the 14th and luckiest member of the party making the trek …show more content…

Finally the Bilbo that Gandalf has been talking about the whole story has emerged. Gandalf always gives off the impression that he knows everything before it happens. Just by speaking with Bilbo he knew that there was an underlying power that Bilbo didn't even know what was there. Gandalf seems to take a special interest to Bilbo that he doesn't have for any of the dwarves. He doesn't even speak to Fili and Kili or any of the dwarves except for Thorin of course and I'm sure he wouldn't try to go back for any of them if they were left behind in a goblin cave. But he was very adamant that they go back for Bilbo even calling him his friend. Gandalf was trained by some of the strongest Valar or gods and he considers the tiniest of creatures a Hobbit his friend. Gandalf and Bilbo share an unspoken bond. Gandalf was trained by the Valar to aid the people of middle-earth in the fight against evil, for over 2000 years, Gandalf worked most faithfully against the rising powers of evil in Middle-earth. Gandalf has never showed a real interest in the treasure that was awaiting them at the end of the journey. He was more interested in the growth of Bilbo as a hero and the goblin cave is a perfect example. While the Dwarves are only concerned with moving on to there gold, He is insistent that they go back for Bilbo. Why would he do that? Why would someone who just fought is way out of those caves barely escaping with his

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