Name: __________________________________________________ Date: ____________ Class: ______
The Hobbit
Chapter 1 Questions
Please answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper. Your answers should be in-depth,
and fully supported by examples and commentary.
1. In the introductory chapter, Tolkien presents the reader with an original world, pre-populated with its
own history, culture, society, geography, and mythos. However, the world of Middle Earth (as it would
be called in The Lord of the Rings series) shares a great many things with our own world. Though all of
the beings besides Gandalf in the first chapter are fantasy creatures, we can relate to them through
their human qualities and mannerisms. Discuss at least three ways Tolkien makes his characters
uniquely human, and why you think he does this.
2. The dragon trope in literature usually expresses a sense of greed and passion. Consider the
justification of the dwarves for embarking on a journey to reclaim long lost gold. In which ways are the
dwarves and the dragons similar? How do they differ? Since the dwarves are imbued with a
considerable number of human traits, what might Tolkien be saying about the nature of mankind?
3. Bilbo feels daring and excited by Gandalf's request for him to accompany the group on this adventure.
How are these feelings atypical for a hobbit? He claims that it is his "Took side" coming out; what does
this mean?