The Hobbit
An extreme notation of favorable traits characterizes heroism. Literature has been in the front line to outline features of a hero through character development. However, there comes a time when such characters are developed in a manner that beats the odds of defiance, bravery, and abundant power. Therefore, incredible little deeds for the common good of society can term a character as a hero. Consequently, authors shape their weak characters to take critical roles. The roles build the characters to accomplish missions in a heroism manner. This transformation can only be achieved by the characters’ change in behavior in the storyline journey. J.R.R. Tolkien’s fictional story, “The Hobbit,” develops the protagonist, Bilbo Baggins, who characterizes latent cunning, devotion, loyalty, and endurance to help him in his heroic and adequate journey to the Lonely Mountain.
Bilbo’s latent cunning is a quality that helps him to metamorphose. Being a weak character amidst other compelling and challenging situation does not make Bilbo an inferior. His quick thinking and cunning save him. He meets with a dangerous creature known as Gollum, who is glutinous, hence ready to devour Bilbo. Bilbo decides to steal time as they exchange riddles that will result in either Bilbo’s life or death. Bilbo wins by ultimately challenging Gollum with a riddle “What have I got in my pockets?” (78). Additionally, Bilbo wins over a deadlier creature than Gollum called Smaug. Bilbo reads the dragon’s intentions, and he knows he can win through riddles too. Through the use of latent cunning as Bilbo’s tactic to win against his enemies’ battles, he could have massively lost if sheer force was in use.
Courage is a key character trait in Bilbo to exhibit his classic strength. Despite the innate courage to move on with his journey, Bilbo emerges to be a typical hero. For instance, he courageous proves that he is not inferior before his troll companions. The author says, “Bilbo plucked up courage and put his little hand in William’s pocket” (36). Bilbo’s courage helps his companion.
Furthermore, his courage is seen when he cuts himself free to kill Mirkwood’s most wicked spider. Hence, saving himself and other dwarves. Moreover, Bilbo’s courage is evident in challenging Gollum and Smaug by initiating riddles that could easily result in death to him and his friends. A hero will use the available courage to win over turmoil. The courage that Bilbo takes is vital in the success of his dangerous journey.
Bilbo’s imminent loyalty to his companions serves an essential element of heroism. Bilbo has undying commitment and selfishness to help his friends while in the risky journey. He rescues the dwarves from numerous dangers they encounter with wicked and dangerous creatures. One of the most significant events where Bilbo’s loyalty is evident is when surrendering the Arkenstone. Bilbo responds to Bard’s betrayal query as “My dear Bard! I am merely trying to avoid trouble for all concerned” (272). Bilbo intends to save his friends. Loyalty is a hard trait that even a hero can fail to achieve. Bilbo proves that loyalty is more practical than words in commitment and selfishness for the wellbeing and goodness of companions.
In conclusion, Tolkien has successfully described a character who is more than a hero. The only available and little strength with Bilbo has helped him go on with his journey. People largely attribute the hero with mighty deeds. However, the author has gone against most of these perspectives regarding a hero by developing Bilbo as an exemplary and classic hero. Bilbo’s quick thinking and latent cunning intelligence, courage, and loyalty to dwarves have termed him as one of the most indisputable heroes. Nonetheless, even if people cannot do great things, they can do small things in a great way.