Loyalty and service. These two messages are clearly displayed in The Hobbit. J.R.R. Tolkien utilizes symbolism to bring meaning to this fantasy world and allow the reader to infer what is to come next, setting the stage for the characters’ next actions. Tolkien uses the ring, Bilbo and Gandalf to show loyalty and service through the book and create a sense of faithfulness towards others such as Gandalf and the dwarves. Early on in the novel, Bilbo’s ring represents his service to the dwarves and people in The Hobbit. While some may argue that the ring represents power and Bilbo coming to terms with himself as an adventurer, they forget that in the text it says “‘What is our burglar doing for us? Since he has got an invisible ring, and ought to be a specially excellent performer now, I am beginning to think he might go through the front gate and spy things out a bit!’ Bilbo heard this… ‘Good gracious!’... It is always poor me that has to get them out of their difficulties, at least since the wizard left.’” Throughout this whole ordeal, the ring was with him. It represented his willingness to serve the dwarves and get them out of …show more content…
The text says “...all the while a very uncomfortable thought was growing inside him…He had just made up his mind that it was his duty, and that he must turn back.” This quote shows Bilbo in his travels. He makes the executive decision to turn back for his friends, proving his loyalty. To add onto this, the tunnels in which he was turning back in were “horrible” however, Bilbo knew that his companions were much more valuable than gold, wealth and riches. He also made it apparent that the contact was not of importance to him which influenced his decision to turn back for them. He could've easily left them and gotten a head start on reaching Smaug, but, none of that mattered to Bilbo, the journey with others was valued more than