Identity In The Hobbit

Identity is simply knowing who you are as an individual. Without it, the world would be a sphere scattered full of individuals without names, without addresses, and without any sort of communication devices. Identification does not appear on the surface the instant we are born, rather, it takes years of experience and nurturing to emerge. Development of identity occurs when everything we’ve ever known is removed from us. In both The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien and Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis, main characters Bilbo and Ransom leave their home against their will, but eventually return with a greater sense of identity and self-actualization.
In The Hobbit, Bilbo is put through many situations where it is apparent that he is the last string of leadership left among the group of dwarves and himself. In these situations, his unknown abilities emerge when he is forced to accomplish tasks he would’ve never considered possible. Throughout this process, his identity emerges as he proves not only to others, but also himself that he is a valuable leader among the group. In the end of chapter seven Gandalf has enough courage in Bilbo to

leave him charge of the dwarves as they enter into the woods alone. He verifies to the dwarves, “-I am sending Mr. Baggins with you. I have told you before that he has more about him that you guess, and you will find that out before long.” (135) The initial boost of confidence from Gandalf helps Bilbo take initiative and lead the dwarves and eventually discovers his abilities throughout the struggles of it.
In Out of the Silent Planet, Ransom is kidnapped early in the plot.

The author likely uses this as a foil to compare to his self-actualization and well being at the end of the story. For example, Ransom goes from being kidnapped with completely no power in his own hands to developing communication skills with those on the planet of malacandra around him. Throughout this process, he is faced with multiple experiences that challenge his personal values and social norms of his home planet of thulcandra. In the text, Ransom is faced with the challenge of killing the hnakra. He claims that this is his step that helps him to find acceptance among the other hrossa. However, this step is major because it not only helps him fit in with the group of hrossa, it also shows himself the potential that he has and helps him to build his own

identity.
In real life their are many incidences where identity has a possibility of being developed. I believe that at some point throughout every individual’s lifetime, they face a challenge that helps them become identified with themselves. It is a grand moment that is never forgotten because of the way character is built through hardships. From a personal experience, my identity became clear to me when I was introduced to varsity athletics. Without athletics at a high level I don't think I ever would’ve understood the work ethic and determination it takes to help achieve goals in the future.
Ultimately, every individual is faced with challenges that help them find their true identity that is hiding within, but everyone’s is revealed at a different time in their life. Just as Ransom and Bilbo experienced their identities being built through hardships, the same can be said when referencing the general individual in society.