Escape In J. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit

Escape through Wonder “Sometimes we need fantasy to survive reality” (Unknown). Humans as a species have become captivated by stories and subsequently have become the storytelling animal. We look to stories to find meaning to our lives and as a way to understand the reality we face every day, as a means of enjoyment and as an integral part of our existence. Published in 1937, J.R.R Tolkien’s The Hobbit tells the story of an unlikely hero, a hobbit by the name of Bilbo Baggins as he sets out on an adventure with thirteen dwarves to recover a lost treasure guarded by the dragon Smaug. This beloved classic has defined the high fantasy genre and provided an escape from reality for many of its readers. Tolkien effectively uses the tone of wonder

J.R.R Tolkien creates this sense of belonging through his implementation of so many wonderfully divers and loveable races that live in Middle-Earth. Since each race differs from the rest, it allows all readers, no matter their background, to find a character they can identify with. From Elves to Dwarves, readers can find a place where they fit in and feel accepted; “ Good books and characters help you feel understood” (Vero). Every race in Middle-Earth has a place and by immersing the reader in his fantasy world by generating a sense of belonging amongst his characters, Tolkien effectively creates an escape (Tolkien). The author also uses the tone of wonder to evoke a sense of awe and admiration towards The Hobbit’s protagonist, Bilbo Baggins. This Halfling is the novel’s most relatable and loveable character and therefore helps engage the reader all the more and makes them feel at home in Middle-Earth. Bilbo is a Picaro, an unlikely hero who goes on this amazing adventure and accomplishes impossible feats. This iconic character evokes a sense of belonging from the reader as he is painted with a tone of wonder and readers can see a reflection of themselves in him. Baggins is a curious hobbit who does not see how truly valuable and brave he is; “We identify with Bilbo because he is an unlikely hero and he surprises us with his bravery on the quest. We see him grow as a person and transform into a hero as he tries to help his friends. He shows us that we can do the impossible and that to be a hero, you don’t have to look like the Hulk” (Vero). Bilbo hence lures readers into Middle-Earth by giving them the impression to be on the quest with him (Tolkien). This familiarity with the Picaro enhances the reader’s ability to relate with the character and