Bilbo's Transformation in The Hobbit Essay

Peace through Understanding

Peace can be achieved through the power of love not through the love of power.. This is what the fantasy novel, The Hobbit, which is written by J.R.R. Tolkien is about. Bilbo, the main character of the story, portrays an ordinary hobbit who eventually becomes the hero loved by everybody. Throughout the story, he undergoes challenges and develops his character. In the end, he uses his wit and slyness.

Now I amburglar indeed! (pg. 257). That is what Bilbo says when he picks up the Arkenstone that he finds on top of the pile of treasure. In the beginning of the novel many, if not all, disagrees that Bilbo is suited to be in the position of a burglar. Bilbo feels that way, too. He felt that he is unworthy and unsuited to fit the position. But now as he holds up the Arkenstone he is able to prove to himself that truly he has become a burglar. This represents slyness because he is going behind Thorins and the other dwarves back by having the Arkenstone and also not saying anything to them.

But I suppose I must tell the dwarves about it---some time. They did say I could pick and choose my own share; and I think I would choose this, if they took all the rest! (pg. 257). This shows uneasiness because what he is doing will put him into a lot of trouble if they will find out. He knows that Thorin is looking for it and wants it, although he shakes off the worries and puts it in his pocket.

This is the Arkenstone of Thrain, the Heart of the Mountain; and the heart of Thorin. He values it above a river of gold. I give it to you, it will aid you in your bargaining (pg. 294). Bilbo goes into the enemy territory and gives the Arkenstone to them. Now this truly depicts slyness. But the reason for his being sly is more for a good reason- peace. Thorin, being a selfish dwarf, will never part with his treasure, but he had to part with some of his treasure because of the Arkenstone, which he values most.

Throughout the scene Bilbo represents slyness. He goes behind his fellow companions to the enemies side. It appears to be a wrong move but it came out to be the better action needed to be taken. He uses his wits and his heart to overcome this challenge, and he passes it with flying colors. Peace is better achieved by understanding rather than violence. The real difference in mankind is not between Jews and Arabs, nor between Protestants and Catholics, but rather between those who want peace and those who would destroy it. In the story, it is the difference between Bilbo and Thorin.