Plot Summary of The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" is a beloved fantasy adventure that takes readers on an epic journey through Middle-earth. Let's dive into the key events that make up this thrilling tale!
The Unexpected Party
Our story begins with Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving hobbit who's about to have his world turned upside down.
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit-hole, and that means comfort."Note
This opening line sets the stage for Bilbo's cozy life and the dramatic contrast that's about to unfold.
Gandalf the wizard arrives at Bilbo's door, marking him with a secret sign. Soon after, a group of thirteen dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield, show up at Bilbo's home. They're on a quest to reclaim their homeland, the Lonely Mountain, from the dragon Smaug. Despite his initial reluctance, Bilbo is swept up in the adventure as the group's designated "burglar."
The Journey Begins
As our motley crew sets out, they face a series of challenges:
- Trolls: The group encounters three trolls who capture them. Bilbo stalls for time until Gandalf arrives and turns the trolls to stone in the sunlight.
- Rivendell: They seek refuge with the elves, where Elrond helps decipher their map.
- The Misty Mountains: Here, they face goblins and Bilbo gets separated from the group.
Riddles in the Dark
In the depths of the mountain, Bilbo stumbles upon a magical ring and meets the creature Gollum.
"What have I got in my pocket?" Bilbo asked aloud. He was talking to himself, but Gollum thought it was a riddle, and he was frightfully upset.
This famous riddle game leads to Bilbo escaping with the ring, which grants him invisibility. This chapter is crucial not just for "The Hobbit," but for setting up the entire "Lord of the Rings" saga.
