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Who Is Bilbo Baggins A Hero

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According to (Bob Riley) “Hard times don't create heroes. It is during the hard times when the 'hero' within us is revealed.” In J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”, these ideas draw attention to the fact that, he who becomes the hero, is often discovered through defeating opponents, when light is shed upon his inner hero and bravery. These thoughts are evident in the interactions of Tolkien’s protagonist (in “The Hobbit”), Bilbo, and his character development throughout the story. Bilbo starts off as a timid little hobbit, living a comfortable and stable life. When he is faced with the task of retrieving the dwarves’ treasure from Smaug, the dragon, he must overcome his fears in order to achieve the ultimate goal. Tolkien demonstrates the effect of antagonists on Bilbo …show more content…

Bilbo Baggins’ character begins to evolve when he is obliged to face emotional obstacles, his encounter with Gandalf and the dwarves, in particular. “’Don’t be a fool, Bilbo Baggins!’ he said to himself, ‘thinking of dragons and all that outlandish nonsense at your age!’… he began to feel that adventures were not so bad after all.” (Tolkien 34-37). The hobbit seems to be conflicted after being offered the chance to join Gandalf and company on their quest. Following his refusal, he ended up going on the adventure and began to adapt to it. The effect of his decision transforms Bilbo into a slightly more brave and heroic version of himself. Similarly, he must overcome yet another challenge during an experience with Gollum. Gollum challenges Baggins to a game for the hobbit’s freedom and Baggins’ is able to outsmart the creature by himself and escape (Tolkien 92-105). Bilbo was unaccompanied when he encountered Gollum, and managed to triumph. Thus meaning that Baggins’ inner hero is emerging

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