How Is The Hobbit Still So Good After 87 years?
Follow Bilbo Baggins as he journeys through the pages of this beloved children’s book.
“In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.” — J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
When Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit from the Shire who loves good food, cozy fires, and quiet days, finds a wizard on his doorstep, he has no idea that he’s about to be swept into the one thing he tries to avoid — an adventure.
The wizard, Gandalf, introduces Bilbo to a band of dwarves who have been driven out of their kingdom under the Lonely Mountain by a gold-hoarding dragon. Now, the dwarves are determined to reclaim their home, and they need Bilbo’s help. Together, Bilbo and the dwarves journey through underground orc cities, enchanted forests, and elven kingdoms. Despite the many challenges they face, they never turn back. However, when Bilbo, Gandalf, and the dwarves finally reach the Lonely Mountain, they are unprepared for the dangers that await them.
The Hobbit is one of the most beloved children’s novels ever published, and there are several reasons why it continues to capture the hearts of readers:
1. Beloved Characters:
The Hobbit introduces us to some of the most iconic characters in fantasy history. Bilbo Baggins, the peaceful hobbit who gets pulled into an adventure, and Gandalf, the wise and mysterious wizard, are characters who are loved by readers of all ages and their personalities, growth, and archetypes are enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
2. Timeless Themes:
The Hobbit masterfully explores classic themes such as the “unsuspecting main character gets shoved into an adventure” and the “epic quest to defeat a dragon”. It has set the standard for countless stories that use similar themes. Bilbo’s journey from a timid hobbit to a brave adventurer is a timeless tale of courage, friendship, and personal growth.
3. Writing Style:
Written as a children’s book, Tolkien’s The Hobbit combines whimsy and adventure without, in the slightest, being overly simplistic. His method of writing makes a perfect balance, making the book enjoyable for young readers and adults. This writing style is one of the key factors that led to the book being a big success amongst all age groups.
“So comes snow after fire, and even dragons have their endings.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
The Hobbit was Tolkien’s first book set in the world of Middle-earth, and its success was pivotal not only for the author but also for the future of fantasy literature. Fortunately for Tolkien and his countless fans, the book was a massive hit.
The Hobbit remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers, young and old, with its famous(and infamous) characters, engaging plot, and masterful storytelling. Its success not only established Tolkien as a master of fantasy but also laid the foundation for the expansive world of Middle-earth, setting the stage for The Lord of the Rings and many other stories.
So, whether you’re revisiting the adventures of Bilbo Baggins or discovering them for the first time, The Hobbit will always remind us that even the smallest of us can change the course of the future.
