A DEFINITION OF HOBBITS

Created by Tolkien, hobbits are a people who are about half the size of human beings. Tolkien describes them as fond of good, plain food and gardens or farmland; they are also fat, good- natured, cheerful, and content to lead lives that are unexciting and lacking in adventure. They have a simple sense of humor and a liking for an uncomplicated, easy-going life. Tolkien likened hobbits to the ordinary people of rural England: "the Hobbits are just rustic English people, made small in size because it reflects the generally small reach of their imagination, not the small reach of their courage or latent power." As The Hobbit progresses, the reader, through Bilbo, learns just how much a hobbit can do, especially when put into tight situations. It is important to note that Bilbo Baggins is "the" hobbit, not "a" Hobbit, and as such is a representative of the entire race of hobbits.

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