Should have read classics discussion

Have fun reading or rereading this awesome fantasy classic!

I might have to reread this one! I still need to see the first movie.

I was surprised when I re-read this book that it really IS a children's story. I think because of the length (and the Lord of the Rings), I'd always considered it to be a teenage/adult book. This time I noticed the great care taken to not be too scary, and the simplicity of the plot compared to the Lord of the Rings. Still, more complex things are hinted at behind the scenes (and I think the movie took full advantage of that, probably so they could justify THREE full length movies for a relatively short book).

Interesting observation Suzanne. Honestly, I thought it was a bit riduculous yet entrepreneurial to draw The Hobbit into three movies!

As I was reading some interesting discussion questions on this book I thought this one would be good to ponder over as I reread the story:

How do you think Tolkien views the relationship between heroism and the simple life?

On the surface I think I already have a good answer but thought it would be fun to pay closer attention to see how Tolkien reveals his perspective.

What a good question. I feel like the message I get from Tolkien is that the simple life is perhaps the most heroic. Although the books contain adventure, war, etc., the very greatest deeds are done by hobbits who really only want to get back to simple lives. What do you think?

I like the idea of the reluctant hero. The hobbits in this book and TLOTR, all just want to go home, yet, they do what they must do to get the job done. These books also remind people that just because a person does not look imposing, they can still do great things. I watched the movie this last weekend and it was interesting to see the variation from the parts of the book that I have read.
What do you think about the dwarfs and dragons obsession with gold?

I'm so glad that I reread this book. I forgot completely about the bear man, Beorn and his friendly animals. I laughed at the description of the dogs walking on their hind legs and serving dinner to the group. The spiders in Mirkwood remind you of Shelob in the last ring book-yuck.

What does everyone think of the character Gollum?
He is an interesting one. He is another bridge between The Hobbit and TLOTR and twice he is saved by pity. Does he deserve to be pitied? Or does his actions nullify any pity?

Suzanne wrote: "What a good question. I feel like the message I get from Tolkien is that the simple life is perhaps the most heroic. Although the books contain adventure, war, etc., the very greatest deeds are do..."
I wonder if it also has to do with the hobbits overall personality or worldview. They don't seem to be motivated by power or conquering lands. They just want to live a peaceful life. Can someone sustain the power of the ring only because of his purity of heart? Was that what allowed Bilbo to handle the ring and even with that was Bilbo really left unscathed by the power of the ring? In the Wikipedia explanation on the Hobbit it says the Bilbo "found that he had traded respectability for experience and wisdom." Do you agree?

Lisa wrote: "What does everyone think of the character Gollum?
He is an interesting one. He is another bridge between The Hobbit and TLOTR and twice he is saved by pity. Does he deserve to be pitied? Or do..."

The interactions between Bilbo and Gollum as well as Frodo and Gollum are some of my favorite parts of the books. I love the part with Bilbo, Gollum, and the riddles. Interesting question about the idea of pitying Gollum...yes, I do feel sorry for him to an extent. I guess you have to ask what Tolkien is using his character for. Is it to demonstrate the demise, corruption, and devastation that power or evilness can have on a person? Is Gollum's life suppose to serve as a warning? I found myself wanting to know about what really happened to him. And I also found that at times I pitied Gollum, liked him, was annoyed by him, etc... By LOTR I really started to relate to Frodo's feelings towards him. I think that you want to have empathy toward him and even hope for his ability to be restored back to "normal" but you also have to be leary of him, knowing that he may be motivated to kill for the ring. Gollum's internal torment is painful to watch for sure.

Love it! I can't wait to read this book to my children. :)