Fantasy Book Club discussion

While Tolkien has written a ripping adventure tale, the narrative also functions (as all good narratives do) at many deeper levels.

I think the novel at one level as can be seen clearly as a morality tale and commentary on greed. As a morality tale, the contrast between the success of Bilbo and failure of Thorin sends a clear message regarding Tolkien’s ideas about the effects of greed upon the individual. Thorin, although strong and determined is nevertheless undermined by his desire for material wealth, which impedes his judgement and his ability to lead. Bilbo, on the other hand, while tempted, is protected by his ‘spiritual’ wealth – kindness, generosity, honour and loyalty. Interestingly, the novel appears to suggest that ‘minor’ transgressions, such as stealing and lying, are null and void when the ultimate aim of the transgressor is to these higher attributes.

Tolkien’s general commentary on greed can be seen in the contrast between time-honoured craftsmanship and connection to the land as represented by Bilbo and the Shire, where traditional values, order and productivity are valued, as opposed to the gathering of wealth for wealth’s sake as represented by the Dwarfs and Smaug. A study of the groups of characters also suggests that those focused on materialism (the trolls, goblins, the Men of the Lake, and Dwarfs) are less satisfied/peaceful than those who work in concert with nature (the elves of Rivendell and Beorn).

Tolkien’s novel provides an insight into his respect/desire for a return to traditional English culture, which is synonymous with Hobbitary, and a warning against the ravenous appetites of post-capitalism. Such a lots of work for such a ‘little’ tale :)

In a way shouldn't all children's stories teach lessons like this? If we can't learn from what we read, and then apply those lessons in our life we would be retrogressing. Of course we may not learn the lesson that the author wanted for us, we may come up with something else, even if the lesson is to never leave home and go on an adventure (someone might learn that, maybe?).

Tolkien would have seen a lot of changes in his life. The world went from a agriculturally based society to an industrial one. If I had lived in an ideal world without factories and the mess that comes with them, I think I would want that simple life back. Sometimes I envy the Amish people who have gone back to that life of simplicity.

The Hobbits life really does seem idyllic, in the Hobbit and the LOTR. I'm glad that there are those out there who can remind us that greed and materialism doesn't make you happy.

Greed seems to be a major theme to the story.

Even in the end Bilbo only has two small chests of gold and silver, yet he had been offered greater treasures. He cares little for its value and spends it on his friends and relatives. Compared to the dwarves who were very greedy and inconsiderate, Bilbo is very good hearted.

This shows the contrast between Bilbo and the dwarves and how each were motivated and reacted in situations from the heart of their true desire. It is not wealth that is the problem, but the way the heart desires it without thought for others. Maybe it was Tolkien's way of showing 'the love of money is the root of all evil.'

Greed is indeed integral. But I also think there is another lesson that most fail to notice. Perhaps it was not what Tolkien intended, but I think it is a vital lesson: sticktoitiveness (Yes, I made that word up). :)

What I mean to say is that Bilbo could have chickened out a lot. He could have given up. He could have left others (who had gotten themselves into their own messes) to their fates. But he didn't. He stuck to his word. Perhaps I only see this because I myself put such a high value on promises and keeping one's word. But I feel that teaching people that you have to back up your promises with action is a valuable and oft-forgotten lesson today.

I think the lesson is buried into the story so well that people will get it even if they don't think about it. That is a masterful use of plot.

Sticktoitiveness is actually a word in use, as I found it in the dictionary. It is true what you say. Bilbo stuck to his word and it was not about the reward. For someone so humble and meek it was a worthy achivement to finally succeed in his task. A good lesson for life.

I see yet another lesson for children (and grown-ups as well): no matter how small you are, you can accomplish great things. But sometimes it takes a little push to get started.

I really like the way we discover these lessons. They're not given or imposed in the story, it's just there if we want to find them.
No preaching, just a story talking to us.

I love how Tolkien teaches his lessons like this. C.S. Lewis is much more blatant.

JJ wrote: "Sticktoitiveness is actually a word in use, as I found it in the dictionary. It is true what you say. Bilbo stuck to his word and it was not about the reward. For someone so humble and meek it was ..."

That is awesome! I had no idea it was a real word. I have been using it for years. That makes my inner grammar Nazi feel so much better! :D

I think it has become accepted by dint of common usage. I find it unpleasantly cutesy, but maybe that's because I usually heard it used by teachers, camp counselors, et al condescending adults.

Miriam wrote: "I think it has become accepted by dint of common usage. I find it unpleasantly cutesy, but maybe that's because I usually heard it used by teachers, camp counselors, et al condescending adults."

Really? I only ever hear it in hockey discussions lol. Not that I'm a hockey freak of anything.. not I. ;)